Game of Reflections

The forest was drowning in an oppressive silence. The space itself seemed to shrink, trapping Scarlet in a place where every breath was imbued with a premonition of trouble. The air pressed against her shoulders, as if invisible hands were trying to press her into the ground. The shotgun, usually so familiar and reliable, felt heavy, like it was becoming a useless piece of iron. Her eyes prowled the gloomy silhouettes of the trees, searching for movement, but only encountered darkness. - Where are you? - she whispered under her breath, barely containing the tremor in her voice. Her words dissolved into silence. Only a faint rustle behind her made her turn around sharply. She froze, feeling a cold fear rising inside. And the silence broke. A flash of light blinded her, and the rumble of the explosion drove pain into her ears. The ground shook, knocking her off balance. Scarlet collapsed to one knee, managing to cover herself with her hand from the deafening heat. When she looked up, the world around her looked different. Alienated. A figure emerged from the puffs of thick smoke. Tall, unnaturally elongated, with skin as shiny as polished metal, colored an ominous shade of blue. The creature's eyes blazed with a scarlet light, devoid of any warmth. In its hands it clutched two blades, thin and flexible, like the fangs of a beast ready to tear into its prey. - Come on, bitch! - Scarlet shouted, her voice breaking into a croak. She tried to cover her fear with anger, but her heart was already racing in her chest, making the blood pound in her temples.The creature moved silently forward. Its movements were swift, like a predator who knows no doubt or fear. With each step, the distance between them shrank, turning seconds into an agonizing eternity. Scarlet cursed, gripped the weapon tighter, and pulled the trigger, almost on reflex. The rumble of gunfire cut through the night. The bullet tore through space, heading straight for the creature. But it didn't slow down. Not for a moment. Instead, the smile - sinister, stretched to the limits of human anatomy - grew wider. Something inside her shivered. - Achorna! - burst from her throat as the realization came with belated clarity: there was no more time. A golden glow flashed around her, outlining the fragile dome of the magical barrier. In the same instant, the demoness collapsed against it with fury. The impact was crushing. The ground shook, cracks scattered across the stones, and the smell of ozone hung in the air. The barrier held, but the cracks in its surface began to creep, as if the magic itself wasn't strong enough to withstand the creature's assault. The creature did not retreat. Its claws slid through the protective shell with a sickening gnash, making Scarlet flinch at every sound. - Hold on, I'm coming," came the voice in her earpiece, steady but tinged with tension. - Hurry up! - she blurted out, trying not to scream.The barrier was suddenly gone. No warning, no chance. Scarlet barely had time to push back and roll to the side, avoiding the deadly blow. The creature's blades sank into the ground where she had been only moments before. She raised the shotgun and fired. The rumble of gunfire echoed through the forest, sending the lurking birds scurrying into the sky in fear. The bullet slammed into the creature's chest, knocking it back a step. But that wasn't enough. It straightened, its eyes burning scarlet light into the space around it. Behind it came a whistling sound, faint, almost musical. Before Scarlet could turn around, the demoness froze, and then, like a puppet with its strings cut, collapsed to the ground. Scarlet, breathing heavily, turned around. A dark masked man emerged from the shadows of the trees, the nickname "Sato" displayed above his head. His step was unhurried, even lazy. The dagger in his hand glistened with drops of thick, black, tar-like blood. - You're late," she breathed, brushing away a strand of hair from her face, sticking to her sweaty forehead. - What, did you decide to give me some action? Sato squinted, his lips stretching into a grin. - You know I love to watch you get away with it. His voice was light, almost mocking, but there was something warm in his eyes. Scarlet stepped closer to him, feeling the tension finally let go. She touched his shoulder gently, removing his mask, the warmth of his presence replacing the fear. - 'Next time, warn me,' she said softly, her voice like the rustling of leaves. Sato leaned in, his grin growing wider. - Next time, stay out of the way. - His arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer. Their lips met. The kiss was brief, but filled with silent understanding. The silence was broken by a voice on the speakers: - Hey, lovebirds! If you're done with the melodrama, we have a lord here! Sato grinned, letting her go. - Time to get to work," he tossed, putting his dagger away in its sheath. Scarlet snorted, checking her weapon. - With a guy like you, I forget we're even on a mission.Sato only snorted, stepping forward as if he hadn't heard her words. But the expression on his face-the faintest smile-said he'd heard everything.Sato looked back, a slight, almost lazy smile lighting up his face. He made a brief gesture with his hand, waving off someone's sarcastic comments that came through the speakers again. - Shall we? Scarlet squinted, adjusting the gun belt on her shoulder. - Only if you've got my back again. He smirked again, nonchalantly pulling out his daggers. The blades, covered in dark blood, glinted in the light of the magical barrier that shook in the distance. - Do you doubt it? Her lips trembled in an answering chuckle, but she said nothing. Instead, she pulled out the jammed shell casing, and decided that his self-assurance was even to the point right now. In the clearing, the battle had begun. The magical barrier of the allied tank enveloped the enemy group, holding them inside like fish in a net. Sato moved between the enemies with terrifying speed, his daggers flashing like lightning, striking with precision and deadly force. Each of his blows was a dance, perfectly timed and cold, without a single unnecessary movement. - On the left! Sniper! - Scarlet shouted, her voice cutting through the noise of the battle. She fired, the weapon clattering, sending the enemy into the dust. - Saw that, thanks! - he replied, rolling to the side. His movements were fluid, like a beast's, and his eyes were cold and focused. The sound of the muffled click of the gun discharging made her heart clench for a moment. - Damn it, cover me! - She screamed, frantically inserting new cartridges. Sato didn't even turn around. His hand flung forward, and the dagger flew through the air, turning into a silver comet. The blade struck the target with a precision worthy of legend. - You have three seconds! - he threw over his shoulder, his voice calm, as if he had no doubts about what was happening. As the enemies began to retreat, defeated and tormented, Sato turned to her and nodded. - Are we sure we can take down the throne now? - Scarlet exhaled, rising to her feet. Her shoulders were shaking from the exertion, and the rifle felt as heavy as if it weighed a ton. Sato bent over, pulling the daggers from the bodies of his enemies. The thick, dark blood on their surfaces seemed to have a life of its own, casting an ominous purple glow. - If you don't pull another stunt, yes," he said confidently, his voice mocking but his gaze serious. - I'll try... - Scarlet muttered, brushing a strand of hair away from her face. She slowly wiped the sweat from her forehead, feeling the viscous adrenaline still rushing through her veins as if her body refused to recognize that the danger was over. Her fingers gripped the gun tighter. The muscles, hardened by countless battles, still did their job despite the trembling. She straightened, slung the shotgun on her shoulder, and looked around the battlefield. Sato was looking at her, his gaze calm, but there was something in the depths of his scarlet eyes that Scarlet couldn't make out. - Let's go," he said quietly, nodding toward the forest where the remaining enemy forces had retreated. - There's still a lot of work ahead.Scarlet nodded. The fatigue was killing her, but there was no turning back. The Cito-Alpha team left their enemies no chance. There was confidence in their every move, and a certain calmness, but not the euphoria of imminent victory. It was an advantage from which bitterness remained. Their enemies were dead, but with them went all hope, not just fear of losing, they were going to their deaths to drag with them whatever they could, weakening the forces of Sitho-Alpha. This was no ordinary battle - it was a final act of desperation, met with a hardness that made veins freeze.On the horizon, as if from the darkness itself, the Lord materialized. His silhouette, majestic and terrifying, cut through the evening mist. This centaur-like creature had an intimidating appearance. Its torso was covered with black, charred skin that shimmered with a sinister red glow, reminiscent of red-hot metal. In place of his face was a gaping skull with a pulsing bloody glow emanating from its eye sockets. His massive hands clutched a giant axe, the blade of which seemed too large even for such a monster. Its shaft was engraved with runes that glowed dark red, emitting waves of sinister energy. Its every movement was accompanied by a low rumble that seemed to press on the ears of those around it. The Lord was not just an ally, he was the embodiment of fear and death. His heavy footsteps echoed thickly across the map, like the strikes of a bell heralding the beginning of the end. Allied creeps marched in their wake, the blinding beams from their amplified attacks cutting through the dusk. Scarlet glared at this approaching monster, but even it inspired less terror than the prospect of making a wrong move. 12,000 gold. The numbers sparkled like sparks in the dark forest, but Scarlet couldn't focus on them. They had no meaning. Gold was just numbers. It was just a tool, and it wasn't the most important thing right now. Right now, everything depended on how they played the game, how they chose the moment to attack. - Everybody ready? This is our moment, don't screw it up," Sato's voice cut through the silence, becoming something completely ordinary and tense at the same time. His voice was cold, but there wasn't an ounce of doubt in it. It was resolute, like a chopping blade ready to slice through the very air, tearing through everything in its path. Scarlet nodded, though Sato couldn't see her. She knew this was not the moment to hesitate. They stood on the brink, every moment could be decisive. The unknown on the other end of the map, one mistake and this entire army would collapse into nothing. Her hand clutched the weapon, her fingers turning white, but she didn't allow herself to be weak. Even as the storm of emotions raged inside, even as her thoughts raced in panic, she knew one thing: "I will not fail." It was her only salvation-her strength, her determination to be the one who never gave up. - That's it, let's go," she said quietly to herself, forcing her steps to be decisive despite the weight that pressed on her chest. And so, the attack began. She felt the world around her grow more tense with every movement she made. Screams, gunshots, magic spells - everything blended into one tyranny of sounds. But the focus was only on the Lord. He wasn't just an ally. He was the conclusion of the entire tournament, the decision that could change everything. This moment was not for hesitation. No matter how hard it was, no matter how much her soul screamed with the imminent victory, Scarlet knew: they had to be strong now. It was the only way they could win. The first shot shook the air, its sound so loud that the forest itself seemed to fall silent, as if listening to the burst. The allied tanks rushed to the attack, their armor and weapons merging into a single power, with each movement bringing victory closer. The enemies tried to break out of the trap, but not before the mage, who was the last hope for their team, disappeared as if he had never existed. A new rumble followed as Scarlet clenched her rifle. Her fingers worked automatically, reloading the weapon, but her mind was already far away from the battle. Everything that was happening felt like it was in slow motion. She didn't even notice how everything around her disappeared in a burst of light as the allies, coherent as clockwork, carried their victory. The enemies' tower collapsed under their blows, like a fragile sandcastle being carried to pieces. And then, the word they had all been waiting for appeared on the screen. "VICTORY." It flickered, and then slowly filled the screen like a wall collapsing over their minds. But for Scarlet, the word wasn't as vivid and exciting as expected. She stood in the middle of the ruins, echoes of a shattered virtual reality. In her hands, a useless weapon that now felt as heavy as stone. Drops of sweat dripped slowly from her fingers, but despite her fatigue, there was an almost empty silence. Scarlet exhaled, her eyes closed, and she finally allowed herself to relax a little. - Good job," Sato said, his voice no longer coldly commanding, but somehow more human, tinged with warmth. Something she hadn't expected. It was more than just an acknowledgement. She smiled slowly. That moment when all the weight of the battle was gone, and her body finally felt like it could leave the tension behind. But her mind was still ready for a new challenge, for the next opponent that was sure to appear. Training doesn't end with one victory. But now... now she allowed herself to savor it. The moment was too short to spend it in thought. Sato stood before her, his avatar like the epitome of perfection shining against the virtual ruins. Every detail of his appearance had been thought out: the light, airy armor, the dark cloak that reflected the light of the moon, and the Kevlar mask that concealed his face, making him even more mysterious. This image was not just a strength, but a symbol, a reminder that he was a master capable of victory, invisible and elusive as the wind itself. - You did it. You were magnificent, my lady," his words were full of respect, sincerity, something that was rare for a man who always kept his distance. He was the leader, her commander, and now, after the victory, his words seemed even more important than any of the successes she had achieved. She nodded silently, but her heart sang with joy nonetheless, realizing that this wasn't just winning a tournament. It was more than that. Every difficulty, every moment of doubt, every fear and uncertainty that had plagued her for the past few hours was now gone, dissolved into this dazzling moment. Golden letters flashed on the screen, announcing them as the winners of the tournament, and that moment took her to a state of almost meditative calm. Winners. This victory had everything in it: labor, sweat, pain, but also incredible joy. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, allowing herself to sink into silence for a moment. No more battles, no more threats. Just the moment she deserved.- So, champion, shall we rest? - Sato's voice was soft, almost a whisper. It no longer had the usual confidence of a leader in control. It was the voice of someone as tired as she was, but also someone who knew that victory was not just a result, but something far more valuable. Scarlet grinned, glancing up at him. Her virtual face, though it couldn't display her entire inner smile, nevertheless expressed the slight weariness hidden beneath the surface. - Rest? Since when was that on your schedule? - Her tone was playful, almost cheerful, but Sato remained silent. His figure remained still, there was something in his gaze. He wasn't just standing there, he was considering something important. He took off his mask. With that gesture, he showed her not just his face, but his vulnerability like never before. His gaze became sincere, and his voice, when he spoke, was filled with an unexpected softness. - Seriously, you deserve a vacation. We all did. But you... You weren't just good in this match. You were exceptional. We couldn't have won without you. Her heart skipped a beat when those words reached her. All the tension she'd been holding in melted away and she felt a warmth spill into her chest. It wasn't just a confession, it was something much more. Sato's words were still echoing in her head, but now there was a slight, subtle irony in their sound, as if they were back to normal after those tense minutes. Scarlet could feel her heart calming down. Everything seemed to be back to normal, but that was enough. She was herself again. - Thank you, Sato," she repeated, her voice softer. Scarlet glanced at her weapon, dimming in the light of the screen. The character couldn't have been more alive, but she knew: it was just an image, hiding her own experiences behind it. Experiences that were real. - You were incredible, too. You always had been. The silence became something deeper and clearer. The music of the battle was no longer playing in her ears, and the messages on the screen, as in previous moments, became the background. Congratulations, statistics, advertisements, it all seemed unimportant now. Why would it matter if they had just won, if they had just been through this hell, fighting to the last man? At this moment, when time seemed to stop, a familiar voice sounded. - Hey, aren't you guys stuck in a romantic scene there? - laughed the allied tank, not shying away from making jokes even through the microphone filters. - Leave them Kujime, those two deserve a rest," the mage's voice rang out, and there was a new relaxedness in it despite his usual aloofness. Sato, hearing them, smiled. A smile that didn't slide across his exterior, but permeated an inner sense of ease. - Okay, okay. Scarlet, round up the group. We've got one more mission. - Another? - she raised an eyebrow, but there was a touch of playfulness in her voice. Maybe it was a trace of tension finally giving way to relaxation. - To celebrate, of course. The best in Bathsheba shouldn't sit idle, right? - Sato said the words with such ease that even her tired body felt a rush of light joy. Scarlet laughed, and that laugh was like a breath of fresh air. After all those hard minutes of battle, adrenaline and focus, that laughter was a release, a reminder that there would always be another moment of joy ahead to lift the weight off their shoulders.A gift arrived in the inventory, a trophy, a goblet that shone against their avatars, seemed a true symbol of their labor. She knew Sato was taking it all seriously, perhaps even too seriously. To him, Virsal was more than just a game. It was a battlefield, capable of giving meaning that was lacking in real life. - Do you think we can stay on top? - She asked, adjusting her equipment. Her voice sounded calm, but there was anxiety in her gaze. - Not only hold on," Sato answered confidently, turning to her. His avatar, with the slight reflections of golden light, looked almost like the ideal of a hero. - We'll make sure we can't be forgotten. - That almost sounds like a threat," Scarlet smiled, adjusting her armor. - Not a threat," he paused, his voice softer, "a promise. Their allies, slowly moving away, gave out short congratulations and laughed as they discussed their next moves. But Sato and Scarlet lingered. - We've done it again, for the 7th time, haven't we? - she said quietly, her gaze lingering on the cup. - Eight times sweetie, you don't think that's it, do you? - Sato corrected, his voice unaccustomedly warm. - What do you mean? - Scarlet frowned, her avatar turning slightly, reflecting her wariness. - 'All these cups are great, of course, but,' he replied simply, clutching his dagger in his hands as if he still needed to defend himself in the safe zone as well. - I want a season title for us, for both of us. Scarlet felt her cheeks begin to burn, something the observant Sato noticed. - You do realize how difficult that is, don't you? It's everyone's dream, it's not like we're going to get very far there." She tried to dismiss it, but her voice trembled, "But I'll do my best. Sato smiled, his real personality showing through the mask of a flawless leader for a second. - If you think so, then we're perfect for each other. You work to win, and I make it real. At this point, virtual reality really stopped being just a game. Virsal, developed in 2056, was more than just a virtual reality - it was a living, breathing world that combined artistic beauty and mathematical precision. Here, each player became part of something more than just battles or quests. It was a game for those who sought a challenge, eager to prove that their skill surpassed any system, algorithm or rule. The system of freedom of choice became the main principle of the game. No one could hide behind money or exploiting the weaknesses of mechanics. There were no shortcuts. You want to get strong, you train. You want to win, think. You want to be a legend, take risks. Every element was imbued with the deep philosophy of its creator. The brilliant scientist, developer, billionaire Satoru Marucho, who was behind the birth of this miracle, once said: "A game should be a challenge, not entertainment. If you're not willing to challenge yourself, you're not worthy of its beauty." Under this philosophy, the entirety of Wirsal was built. There was no easy path to victory here. Every decision a player made, from their choice of build to their interactions with others, affected their path. Mistakes were punished immediately, but also provided valuable lessons. The world of the game had a life of its own. Day was replaced by night, seasons flowed smoothly from one to another, and players felt as if they were really in another dimension. Even NPCs seemed alive: their reactions to the players' actions changed, they could be disappointed, angry or delighted, turning each quest into a unique story. Balance and fairness. It was these two words that defined the heart of the game. There was no such thing as an imba in Bathsheba. Even the strongest player could be defeated by someone who could adapt better and think a few steps ahead. Each ability had its weaknesses, each play style could be challenged by another. It was more than a battle of characters - it was a battle of wits. But what was most impressive was how Satoru Marucho managed to incorporate something into the game that gamers described with one word: soul. Every detail - from the soft flutter of grass in the wind to the grandiose sound of a sword hitting armor - spoke to the fact that the creator put not only knowledge, but also heart into his creation. Marucho, being a man who always looked to the future, strived to create not just a game, but a new world accessible to everyone. His visionary approach to the development of Virsal was not only about aesthetics and gameplay balance, but also about creating an environment where everyone could feel like a full participant in virtual reality. He was also well aware that the real world was not always fair. People with disabilities, whom society often leaves on the sidelines, could finally find equality in its game. Therefore, Marucho took care of the implementation of a unique adaptation system that allowed the blind, deaf, and even people with limited mobility to immerse themselves in the virtual world just like any other player. A sophisticated sound system was developed for the blind, which transformed the visual elements of the game into auditory signals. Spatial sounds and voice prompts created a complete picture of the world around them. These players could "see" the world through sound—the forest whispered in their ears, rivers rang in their minds, and the footsteps of an approaching opponent echoed alarmingly. Deaf players, on the other hand, relied on an extensive system of vibrations and tactile feedback. Their avatars perceived the world through the smallest fluctuations — from the rustle of grass underfoot to explosions in battles. Every pulse was transmitted through their devices, allowing them to literally feel the game with their skin. But the most revolutionary solution was for those who, for various reasons, were confined to wheelchairs or lost the ability to move. Marucho personally insisted that such players could experience the full range of motion sensations through their avatars. Even those who had never walked could run, jump, and even fly in Beersheba, enjoying the freedom that reality could not offer them. These technologies have made Virsal not just a game, but a portal to a new life. For many people with disabilities, this has become a chance to feel like equals, able to participate in battles, build castles, and make friends. However, Marucho went even further. A separate initiative was created in the game, where each player could voluntarily help the adaptation of newcomers with disabilities. This has become not just a technical solution, but a powerful social movement within the game.Players who had previously been skeptical about such initiatives quickly realized their importance. Many of those who first tried to help such people adapt said that it was no less a discovery for them than the world of Wirsal itself. "You have no idea what it's like to see a person walking as their avatar for the first time. They're smiling, and it's a real miracle," one of the volunteers recalled. Marucho wanted Virsal to be more than just a game. And he did it. His idea inspired millions and proved that the virtual world can be more just than the real one. Virsal became a place where dreams became reality, and reality, with all its problems, disappeared for a while. A world where everyone could find their own purpose. A world where the game was becoming something much bigger. The realization of unrealized desires gave her endless authority in the eyes of the players. But no matter how perfect the game was, deep down everyone understood that nothing lasts forever. Even Wirsal, created with love and skill, depended on servers, on the human will to maintain this virtual paradise. For the players, it was a world where dreams came true, but they couldn't completely ignore the shadow of reality either. "Virsal lives as long as people believe in him," she thought, clenching her hand into a fist. For the player, it wasn't just a world. It was a shelter. A virtual armor that was worn not only on your character, but also on yourself. The player could be anyone: a brave warrior, a shrewd strategist, or just part of a team that understood the player. Back in the game, no one judged for the mistakes of the past, for weaknesses, for doubts. The ability to be yourself, as you always wanted to be, was perhaps one of the main reasons for the popularity of the game. But the question wouldn't let her go. What if this world disappears? She remembered Sato's words after their victory.: — This is just the beginning. Perhaps he saw the future differently. Perhaps, for him, the game was nothing more than a challenge, a step on the way to some other peak. But for Scarlet, Wirsal has become something more.These thoughts didn't make her any weaker. They only strengthened the resolve. If this world were to disappear one day, she would remain the one who fought to the last. She will leave a mark — not only in ratings or statistics, but also in the hearts of those who were nearby. In the meantime, Wirsal continued to live. Monsters roamed the dense forests, merchants exchanged goods in busy markets, and guilds made plans to conquer new territories. Somewhere among them, the laughter of the allies and the clink of weapons could be heard. The world was not standing still. And even if he disappears, the memory of him will remain. Wirsal was eternal. As long as there was at least one player who believed in him. Meanwhile, a couple of hours passed, and the Allies stopped to celebrate their victory at the local St. Patrick's Tavern. Sato was sitting at a table in the corner of the tavern with his arms crossed and his head slightly tilted. He tried to hide his anxiety, but it was still visible in his eyes. Scarlet didn't look the same as always. Even though her face remained calm, he could sense that something was wrong. She was... another "Is everything okay?" Sato asked, raising an eyebrow. His voice was warm, but there was a slight note of concern in it, which was rare. He was usually reserved and reserved, but in her presence everything changed. Scarlet didn't answer right away, but put her glass down on the table. In her hands was the beer glass they had started the evening with. Usually, Scarlet greeted such moments with jokes, laughing and enjoying the company, but now. "It's okay," her voice sounded flat, like an automatic repetition of a phrase, as if she wanted to believe it herself. Sato couldn't figure out what was wrong with her. Everything seemed to be the same, but he could feel the tension. Sato was watching her closely, not hiding his wariness. He knew her like the back of his hand, knew how she was always full of energy, how her laughter and wit never left her. But today... Something was wrong. Scarlet sat across from him, her hands gripping the glass so that her fingers turned white, and her eyes, which used to radiate confidence, were now some kind of hidden shadow. He sighed, and it was so soft that only she could hear it. "That's not why you came, is it?" Sato asked, his words direct but gentle, as if he was trying to understand her. He wasn't just a colleague or a friend, he was the one who tried to sort her out even when she was trying to hide her thoughts. Scarlet looked down for a moment, and her lips twitched slightly, but she didn't respond. It was weird. Normally, she would have retorted right away, made a joke, laughing at herself, or at least answered in her usual style. Instead, her hand slowly lowered to the table, leaving the glass. At that moment, Sato felt the air in the room become thicker, and he could almost feel them both being pulled into some invisible circle of silence. —You know you can't lie to me,— Sato continued, his tone becoming more confident.Scarlet looked up, and although she didn't say a word, her gaze was full of hidden emotion, as if she was struggling with some kind of internal conflict. And at that moment, Sato understood. It wasn't about what was happening in the game, not about wins, not about competitions. It was something more that was pulling her down, something she clearly didn't want to talk about. "It's okay,— she repeated, but now her voice was almost empty, as if the words had lost their power. Sato wasn't ready to back down. He wasn't the type to just give up. He glanced at her face first, then said: —Why don't you tell me what's really going on, Scarlet?" She sighed silently, her gaze became a little softer, but something was hidden in her eyes. "Not now, Sato,— she whispered, but there was no lightness in her voice. Scarlet lifted her head slightly and looked at him, her eyes meeting his. There was a flicker of faint alarm in them, which she hastened to hide. She paused, as if about to say something, but changed her mind at the last moment. "I have to go anyway," she said softly, as if not wanting to burden him with her burden. There was no longing or joy in her words, just a certain heaviness that she herself tried not to notice. Sato felt something tighten inside him. . He grabbed her arm, keeping her from standing up. Fingers wrapped around her wrist, but they didn't squeeze too hard, just a light touch. He didn't know why, but at that moment he felt that if she left, something inside him would collapse. As if he had lost not just a character in the game, but something more important. "Don't you want to talk?" His voice was low, almost a whisper, as if he was afraid to break the moment. Scarlet tilted her head to the side, her face softened. She didn't say anything, but her gaze was full of something vague. Maybe pity, maybe regret. Sato continued to hold her hand, feeling its warmth, which was beginning to seem too fragile. "You do understand... I can't explain everything now, give me time," her words were like a light shadow in the room that stayed with him even when she was silent. Sato felt the air in the tavern become thicker, as if these words were hanging in the air, preventing him from moving on. He didn't know what exactly she was hiding, but he sensed that it was something important. Something that has nothing to do with wins or games, but permeates everything that happens in between. The words she didn't say were heavy, leaving him at a loss. —Okay, so be it,— his reply was quiet, almost inaudible. He didn't know what to add. All he wanted was for her to stay so she could share it, no matter what exactly was behind her silence. But there was more than just detachment in her gaze, more than just a determination to leave. He could feel her emotions being held back, her inner struggle gradually pulling her out of their small, cozy world. Sato squeezed her hand a little harder, but not so much that it became insistent. He wanted her to stay, but he didn't know how to make her feel that it was important."You know I'm here if you need me.".. His words trailed off as he realized how they sounded. He couldn't just say that everything would be fine, because he knew that sometimes words can't cover the gap. Scarlet looked at him again, and there was something in her eyes that he couldn't understand. Not regret, not pain, but rather something deeper, like dark water, in which danger is hidden. "It's not always that simple," she repeated, more confidently now. It was as if she wasn't talking to him, but to herself. "Sometimes.".. There are too many things for one person to handle. Sato felt his heart tighten. He wanted her to continue, to keep her mind open. But he knew that this time she would not give him the key to her pain. And at that moment, he realized that her detachment wasn't just a consequence of the game, it was part of what was happening in her real life. And that was something that Sato couldn't control. He released her hand, but only for a moment, giving her space but not letting her go too far. Sato froze as she turned around, her gaze meeting his again. There was a shadow of something indefinable in her eyes-maybe regret, maybe forgiveness, or maybe just the fact that they both understood that something important was left unspoken. There was silence in the air, as if time had stopped for a moment. Scarlet didn't take a step back. She just stood there, her figure illuminated by the dim light from the fire in the fireplace, and Sato felt a cold heaviness grip his heart. He wanted to say something, something that could hold her back, but the words stuck in his throat like a stone. "I'll be back, though, as always," she finally said, her voice low, almost lulling, but there was no previous confidence in it. It wasn't a promise, but rather an attempt to convince herself. Sato could only nod. He didn't know what to say. She was walking away, but her words left more questions than answers. He felt that there was not just a pause between them, but a whole chasm that was now impossible to just jump over. And although she was still a part of the game, a part of this world, Sato understood that it was more than just virtual reality. It concerned both of them. He knew her virtual identity, but he had no idea about the real one in the real world. She took a step towards the door, and the moment her figure almost disappeared behind it, he finally made up his mind. —Be careful," his voice was quiet, but there was genuine concern in it, which he did not hide. This was the last chance to say at least that much before it was too late.Scarlet nodded slightly without turning around and disappeared through the door. Sato remained sitting at the table, thinking that if she returned, they would no longer be the same as they had been before. There was too much that remained unspeakable, and it worried him. When the tavern door closed behind her, a strange chill swept through his mind. He looked at the computer screen, and the familiar "User logged out" sign flickered as a reminder that her image was disappearing from his world. The celebrations continued in the tavern. Some allies, not noticing what was happening, fell asleep on the floor, forgetting about the holiday. Sato remained sitting, absorbed in his own thoughts, as if he didn't know what he was feeling. Nothing seemed to have changed, but something in the air made him think. He tried to figure out what exactly it was, but it all remained too unclear, especially since the more he tried to figure it out, the more curious he became. When her image finally disappeared into the white light of the exit, Sato's expression changed. His eyes darkened, all the old innocence disappeared, and his lips twitched slightly in a barely noticeable smile. "Goodbye? You'll never get far from me, sweetheart," he thought, but it wasn't an expression of regret. It was a challenge. He turned back to his glass, his allies continued to make noise, but for Sato, this evening had already lost all value. There was another person sitting on the other side of the room in the real world. A young guy, about twenty years old, with tired eyes and dark bags under his eyes. He took off his headphones and looked at the screen, where Scarlet's avatar was still flickering in the game menu. He sighed, as if relieved, and then, with a barely noticeable laugh, he said: "Scarlet.".. I don't even know how you got used to this role. The time has come, right? He stretched and stood up, his body creaking pitifully, but the guy just grinned, continuing to look at the screen, where her avatar was still connected. There was something nagging inside, something elusive that wouldn't let go. "All of it... It's not as easy as it sounds," he said softly, as if to himself. The state of emptiness was familiar, but it came in a different way each time. Opening the refrigerator, the guy took out the juice, returned to the chair and sat down again. I turned on the replay recording of the finale. It wasn't particularly important to him. The match was over, but it bothered me. The important thing was the feeling inside that wouldn't let go. Emptiness. The light from the screen flooded the room like moonlight, only adding to the gloomy atmosphere. Rick, a skinny guy with an eternal mess on the table and a disheveled hairstyle, leaned back in his chair, as if trying to hide in its soft cushions. His fingers automatically reached out to his dark hair, smoothing it, but even this movement did not bring relief. The message was still blinking on the screen.: "You are logged out."—Ha,— he exhaled shortly, leaning back in his chair. — I'm already starting to forget my own name because of this game. Her lips parted in a faint smile, but she was more tired than happy. —Rick, Rick... I need to remind myself of who I really am," he muttered almost automatically, looking down at his hands, still clutching the mouse tightly, as if it were his only link to this world. Leaning back in his chair, Rick rubbed his eyes, but the tiredness did not disappear. How much time has passed? Weeks? Months? Everything got mixed up in one endless wait. Scarlet's voice, her habits, all became a part of him, almost indistinguishable from his own personality. It wasn't just a game. It was something else. —Exactly,— he said a little louder, as if trying to break out of his thoughts. "I'm tired of pretending to be a woman. I'm a man after all! - after thinking a bit, though, on the other hand, what kind of man is given so many buns? Ha-ha. He grinned, glancing at the screen where Scarlet's avatar was still glowing. Her perfect facial features, soft eyes, and confident posture against the background of her gaming profile gave off a strange feeling. Something between pride in her created image and mild annoyance. "Yes, Scarlet, you're good. How many people have you fooled with your pretty face? Skins, diamonds... How many naive players have you tricked by promising something that doesn't even exist? Rick liked to talk to himself a lot, he chuckled as he opened his inventory. Rare items, premium armor, and exclusive effects were all the result of his hard work. Or, more precisely, manipulation of other people's expectations and desires. Rick twirled the can of juice in his hand, then took a long drink, as if the gesture could bring back his sense of reality. "But that's too much, isn't it?" — he muttered, as if addressing the avatar on the screen. — People are willing to pay for attention, for a fictional image. And I... I became just another part of that illusion. Rick ran a hand over his face, wiping away the fatigue accumulated over the long hours spent in front of the monitor. His eyes burned from the light of the screen, and his thoughts were confused, but a sudden blink on the second monitor brought his attention back. He automatically clicked the mouse, opening a new notification. A name appeared on the screen that sent a chill down Rick's spine: "Rick_silen." It was his old account. His real image in virtual reality. The man is a murderer, the man he once was. A character whose name inspired respect and fear. This nickname had left its mark on the history of the game, but now it was abandoned, left in the past, like a forgotten chapter of his life. Rick held his breath, looking at the message. His hand hovered over the mouse for a moment. The message was simple and standard: "Return to the game and you will receive exclusive bonuses for your character!" Rick leaned back in his chair with an effort, staring at the screen. "Buns, then.".. He chuckled, but it sounded nervous.He even wondered what these bonuses were. Perhaps it was just another marketing ploy by the company to win back the players. However, there was something more behind the simple sentence. It was an invitation... Or a challenge? His gaze shifted to the other window, where the Scarlet game was still open. Snow—white hair, perfect features, light armor-everything looked perfect, but now it looked like a fake showcase. "You're my mask,— Rick said softly, looking at the screen with Scarlet. "And he was me." Rick looked back at the letter. His fingers hovered uncertainly over the keyboard. It was a temptation that was hard to give up. —Okay, that's enough. His voice was firm, but his lips twitched in a faint smile, betraying hesitation. — It's time to go back. Let's play for ourselves. Rick opened the account selection window, but his hand paused on the mouse for a moment. He felt a strange regret, as if he was losing something important. Scarlet wasn't just an image. She was his creation. Her strength, charisma, popularity—all this became a part of him, and he became a part of her. He leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. For a moment, the silence of the room seemed deafening. "Maybe I just like being someone else," he whispered, as if making a confession to himself. His voice was barely audible, as if he didn't want to say the words out loud. — To be someone who can pretend, lie... and still stay on top. Rick smiled, barely noticeably, but his gaze became firmer. "Let's see who I really am," he said, returning the cursor to the name "Rick_silen." "Or who I want to be this time." "Last game of the day," he muttered, already ready to press the account switch button. But somewhere deep inside I knew it was a lie. Today won't be the last time. His gaze accidentally fell on a small shiny object lying next to the keyboard. A voice synthesizer. A small device that was his secret and the key to creating the illusion. Rick reached out, pressed a button, and a quiet, almost imperceptible signal announced that the program was turned off. The artificial female voice that had convinced, manipulated, and charmed so many times faded away, giving way to absolute silence. "That's it, Scarlet,— he said in his real voice, low and slightly hoarse. "You won't be needed anymore today. He pushed the device to the edge of the table, as if trying to get it out of sight. But it didn't help. His gaze returned to the screen anyway, where Scarlet's avatar was flickering on another monitor. Her face, filled with soft confidence, looked straight at him. The smile seemed almost real, the eyes full of life. "And yet, how easy it is to deceive people," he laughed softly, feeling a strange mixture of pride, fatigue, and even shame. Even though he felt sorry for Satou in his heart Every memory of him speaking in that voice came back one after another. Rick remembered how many times he had honed his tone, chosen intonations, created images and speeches to sound like a real, confident girl. It was all a theater where he was the main actor, invisible to the audience. "Scarlet.".. — he whispered, as if addressing a living person. "You were perfect." So perfect that I almost believed it myself. — How many times have I told myself that this is just a game? — he said, looking at the dim reflection of his tired eyes in the screen. — But it's not just a game. This is an opportunity. The opportunity to become someone I've never been... or who I'll never be. Rick slowly switched accounts. Instead of Scarlet's sophisticated appearance, the stern face of his old avatar appeared on the screen: Rick_silen. The black cloak, the sharpened daggers, the scarred face—it all seemed so alien and far away that he barely recognized his character. "The real me, huh?" He smiled bitterly, running his fingers over the keyboard. But what does "real" mean? Rick shifted his gaze to the second monitor. Scarlet's avatar was still there, like a reminder. Her radiant smile and the confidence in her eyes cut him from the inside out. She was so alive that she seemed real. More real than he was. —Funny,— he whispered with a bitter laugh. — You have achieved something that I could not even dream of. He automatically reached for the voice synthesizer and picked it up. The cold metal felt unusually heavy, as if it held not just a device, but the key to its own double life. He stared at it for a moment, thinking, and then carefully placed it on the table. The synthesizer seemed to be waiting to be turned on again. "Maybe that's the whole me?" — he muttered, with a strangled laugh. — Hide behind a mask, use someone else's voice, receive rewards for a fictional life... It's not just a game. It's... me. "What if I've already forgotten who I really am?" "What is it?" he whispered, as if he was afraid to say it louder. He froze for a moment. Was there still a place for the real Rick, or was he consumed by Scarlet's illusion? No answer was given. Rick leaned back in his chair and smiled bitterly at the screen. The old profile looked pathetic. Worn-out armor textures, simple weapons, no sparkle, no charisma. Everything that once seemed significant now looked ridiculous against the background of luxurious modern avatars."Who the fuck is playing like that anymore?" He muttered, tapping his finger lightly on the mouse. He opened the inventory. Emptiness. A few basic skins, a couple of outdated bonuses, and old trophies that once seemed valuable. All this only emphasized its abandonment. —Fuck it, Silenus,— he chuckled. — You've really become something like a dinosaur. But it was this simplicity and angularity that somehow stirred something in his soul. He remembered the days when every step in the game was a real challenge. When skins for real money were a luxury, and victory was a reward for hours of work, not for tons of donations. He played fair in those days. Back then, he had not yet hidden behind someone else's voice and used other people's feelings for profit. It all happened because of Marucho's death and the subsequent change of leadership on the board of the corporation, which changed its previous policy towards Wirsal. —Okay, Silent,— he said aloud, as if trying to inspire himself. — Today we will try to remember what it feels like to be real. He clicked on the "Log in" button, and the server started loading. A slight feeling of excitement prickled in his chest. It seemed like it wasn't just entering the game, but returning to the past. The light from the screen reflected in his eyes, making them shine like a man who had found an old friend again. But even when the interface loaded, and Rick found himself in an old city filled with new faces, he felt a slight discomfort. It was as if he was being watched. No, not other players. It was Scarlet's shadow that seemed to be looking at him reproachfully. Her image was too vivid, too strong to just disappear. —Funny,— he muttered, looking around at his old avatar. "Even here, in my old skin, I can still feel her next to me. He sighed and took his first step into a game world full of contradictions. Quickly leaving the busy city streets, Silent headed for the portal, north of the city, which teleported players directly to the entrance of the goblin dungeon. After casting a spell, Silent disappeared into the bright light, arriving at the entrance to the dungeon, Silent jumped into it without hesitation, while messages about player victories in tournaments were coming in the notifications. The faint glow of crystals soldered into the stone walls barely dispelled the thick, oily darkness of the dungeon. The air was heavy, cold, and permeated with dampness, as if the stone itself was squeezing moisture out of itself. Every step was accompanied by a dull echo, which threateningly spread into the distance, reminding that this place had long forgotten about the presence of light or warmth. Silent froze at the entrance to the corridor, listening to the rustling. Somewhere far away, there was a hoarse growl, like the guttural sound of an awakening beast. The dim light of the torches cast flickering shadows that danced across the walls, like the shadows of the past come to life. Rick's fingers gripped the mouse tightly, and his heart began to beat faster in his chest. His character slowly moved forward, the blades flashing crimson, reflecting the faint light. The mechanics of the game were perfect — every rustle underfoot, every vibration of the earth was remotely transmitted through the speakers. The very walls of the dungeon seemed to be alive. It seemed as if black liquid was about to burst out of the porous cracks or an eye would appear, following Silen's every move. The wind, although weak, felt real — it stirred the flaps of the mantle, making the textures sway as if the player was in the real world. —Welcome back, Silen," he whispered, clutching the mouse as if it were the hilts of his daggers.There was movement in the shadows to the left. Silent, having reflexively activated the ability "Call of shadows", disappeared, leaving behind a barely noticeable smoke. A pair of massive goblins came out of hiding, their eyes glowing yellow, reflecting bloodlust. Their breathing was heavy and ragged, as if they were wheezing instead of breathing. One of them, armed with a huge axe, raised a weapon that shone with a jet-black luster. The interface suggested that his goal was to eliminate the main boss, the Thunder Lord, and collect an artifact that provided a powerful bonus to stealth and attack speed. Ordinary players didn't even dare to try to get it alone. But Rick knew that if he could pull off this solo, he would not only regain a sense of his former skill, but also remind everyone in the game who Silent was. In addition, it will significantly reduce the gap from other pro players. The character slipped into the shadows, almost merging with the surroundings. Rick tensed, listening for every sound. The ability to control Silence returned to him quickly, as if he had never left the game. The first group of enemies appeared around the corner—three thug guards with huge axes. Their level was much higher than his current one, but Rick just smiled maniacally. "Let's see if I still have my old skill," he muttered, activating the Shadow Strike ability. Silent disappeared into the haze and instantly appeared behind the first guard. The blade flashed with a crimson light before the opponent could raise his weapon. One is down. The others turned around, but it was too late. Silent slid like a shadow to the next enemy. His movements were fast and precise. A few seconds later, both guards collapsed to the ground. Rick felt his heart beat faster. Emotions overwhelmed him, just like in the good old days, when every victory seemed to mean something. "I still remember how to do it," he chuckled, wiping sweat from his forehead. Moving deeper into the dungeon, he came across traps and new enemies. Every fight was a challenge, but Rick didn't give up, with the corpses of hundreds of slashed goblins lying behind him. Soon, he found himself in front of a massive door that led to the main hall. The boss was waiting for him inside. "Well, Thunderlord," he said, holding his breath. — It's time to remind you why Silent was a legend. He activated all his powerups, drank 3 bottles of potions giving a +10% attack speed buff, and without hesitation, pushed open the heavy door. A bright electric glow flashed in the hall, and a giant monster appeared in front of him with a hammer that could smash him in one blow. This was the Thunder Lord, the legendary boss of the middle dungeon that every player dreamed of killing. His eyes glowed bright blue like lightning bolts, and the hammer he held seemed so massive that a single blow could wipe Silent off the face of the virtual world. With a booming growl, the monster stepped forward, and his every step vibrated in his headphones, as if Rick was not in a virtual world, but was in this gloomy dungeon in reality. The stones under the Lord's feet crumbled, scattering to the sides. Electric sparks ran across his armor, and the air around him crackled with tension. The other goblins parted as if afraid to approach their master. —Let's start the show," Rick said with a smile, preparing for the final battle. The light from the screen was the only source of illumination in the room, and Rick's face was illuminated by a triumphant glow. With fingers still trembling from the strain, he ran over the keys, closing the reward window. —That was powerful," he muttered, stretching his neck. His muscles ached from sitting for so long, but adrenaline was still pumping through his blood. On the screen, his character, Silent, stood at the epicenter of the destroyed boss hall. The fire flickered in the corners, slowly dying out, leaving a place of eerie silence. The hero's blades were still covered with crimson reflections, as if they were imbued with the energy of a defeated enemy. "You're still capable of surprise, old man,— Rick grinned, reaching for a bottle of water. However, among the awards screen, his gaze stopped on one item. It was a rare amulet, an enchanted crystal with a fiery red glow. The item was part of a kit that Rick had dreamed of a few years ago when he was playing this character. "Look at that... His voice was full of surprise and a touch of nostalgia. — Part of the old set. It's a sign, Silent. A sign that returning was the right decision. - He thoughtfully moved the cursor over the image of the amulet, peering into the smallest details. Memories flashed through his mind of how he had once hunted for this kit, how other players had contemptuously refused to help the "invisible Silent". Back then, he was a lonely player, and that loneliness became part of his image. "Looks like we're back in the game, at least for today," he finally said, pressing the Equip button.On the screen, Silent flickered with a new, bright light, and his blades shone even more powerfully. A light lit up inside Rick. There was something special about returning to his roots, to an old character who, like himself, did not give up. "Okay, let's see what awaits us next," he said defiantly, his fingers flicking over the keys again. It was starting to get light outside, but Rick wasn't bothered. He was in his element today.

© Marukuro Rafaello, 2024. All rights reserved.