Have you ever been too immersed in a dream that you, yourself, couldn't wake up even if you wanted to? Dreams tend to become so real that your brain subconsciously acknowledges it as your own reality rendering you unable to get out.

You would need to wait for that certain trigger that will eventually pull you out to reality. I believe that every dream comes with a certain trigger.

It can come in all shapes and sizes. Most of them are just too passive to notice. It could be a friend, a stranger you walk past by, a cat you saw before you cross the street, an apple, a feeling, a strange sound, or even just a single word, something that you would pass by and the next thing you know, you’re awake. You’re back in reality.

Heh. If only all triggers are that passive.

…

… …

… … … ...

All that stands between us and the sanctuary we’ve all been longing for are these fuckers that took away everything from us. Are you gonna let them humiliate your lives again?!

『No!』

They took away our homes... took away our loved ones… even our freedom! They ate us… Raped our daughters… enslaved our kind… crushed our very souls… and now, as we stand. They are even trying to take that little bit of humanity that’s left within us...

…

But little do they know that we will never break… and with every bit that they take away from us, we’ll take away a huge part of them. For every soul they took from us we will send a hundred of them to hell!

This is the moment of Truth people.

Show me your strength!

Show me your determination!

Show me your will to LIVE!

CHARGE!

...

… …

… … …

We need to breakthrough!

Maintain the frontlines! Cast the first batch of support spells now!

…

Clear!

Go. Go. Go.

William what the hell are you doing?!

I told you we got your back, just go all out and make a mess out there.

Just go crazy. We got you, kid.

...

… …

… … …

Shit! There’s too many of them!

We’re surrounded. We need to break through or else we’re all gonna die here.

Bombard them now!

...

… …

… … …

*BOOM!*

More are coming from behind!

Shit. They’re swarming us. We’re gonna be wiped out at this point.

Cable, Rex, Fisher! Save as many as possible. Provide Cover! We need to fucking push through.

...

Come here, kid. At this rate, all of us are gonna die down here. We will gather their attention and launch our last set of spells we can afford to create a diversion.

Now, I want you to lead all of the others and steamroll your way towards our goal. The sanctuary should be just a few blocks after we exit the tunnel.

Don’t worry. We can still-

Even though you’re strong, it wouldn’t make much of a difference. They already have us surrounded. The iron fortress we casted is about to break as well...

But...

Go and lead them out of this hell hole!

That doesn’t make sense. We still have a lot of--

Don’t you dare disobey orders now! We can handle this. Just go and save these people. We’ll catch up with you in no time.

*Thud*

Go on, kid. Even time couldn’t kill me what makes you think I’ll croak this time. Besides, Captain over here is gonna go all out. It would be a waste if this old man isn’t here to see it.

But…

Look just go. We’re running out of time already and you’re squabbling isn’t helping much either is it? Don’t crush everyone’s hope will ya?

I…

JUST GO!

...

… …

… … …

Keep it up. We’re about to exit the tunnel.

Move faster. The tunnel is about to collapse!

Wait, what’s that...

It’s a trap! Everyone STOP!

EVERYONE STO---

*BOOM!*

No!

...

… …

… … …

Mom! Dad! Are you both alright? Just hold on okay. I still have a few potions here. This should be enough to keep you both going.

Wha...wa...what are you doing?!

You know it’s not enough. Damn kid. When are you gonna grow up!

Just go honey. Remember that we always love you… *cough* *cough*

My wife… WHAT ARE YOU STANDING HERE FOR?! LEAD THEM TO THE SANCTUARY YOU STUPID PIECE OF SHIT!

Dad… I…

LEAVE NOW

Come on William. we need to go NOW!

GET AWAY FROM ME! I CAN STILL SAVE MY PARENTS! GET AWAY FROM ME! GET AWAY FROM MEeeeee.....

WILLIAM THIS IS NO TIME FOR DISCUSSION. WE ARE ALL GONNA DIE HERE IF WE DELAY ANY-...

*Splash!*

That son of a bitch almost sneaked out from behind. Come on!

COME ON!

…

… …

… … ...

The Refugee is just a few blocks as soon as we exit this tunnel. Everyone run straight ahead and don’t look back!

*Slash*

Keep going!

*Splash*

*Boom!*

…

… ...

We’re getting wiped out!

I know! JUST KEEP RUNNING AND TRY YOUR BEST TO STAY ALIVE!

*Boom!*

…

… …

… … ...

There’s the Shelter. Come on!

OPEN THE GATES QUICK!

HELP! HELP! PLEASE ANYONE HELP!

SOMEBODY OPEN THE GATES!

PLEASE! There are people down here...

*Slash*

Shit! They still caught up to us…

HOLD YOUR GROUND! HELP SHOULD BE COMING SOON!

We’re gonna be wiped out at this rate...

Just scream harder!

Help!

Please!

Anyone!

*Sob* *Sob* Please help…

*Screech!*

...

… ...

The gate is finally opening. Everyone come on!

We...

We made it…

*thud*

WE MADE I-

It’s not over yet! Quickly close the gates! Some of them might get inside!

Shit. Here they come. Prepare for battle.

There’s too many of them…

Are we gonna die just like this?

*BOOM!*

*Slash* *Slash* *Slash* *Slash* *Slash*

He wiped a third of them in just a single move…

Look! They’re finally retreating!

We’re saved!

Thank you so much, sir… Thank you… Thank you…

…

… …

… … … ...

No need to thank me, everyone… This is Sanctuary after all. ‘Grin’

I don’t like the feeling of this…

*Slash*

Everyone sa… sa-

ve… yourselves...

He’s a har...

vester...

...

Bingo!

…

…

… … ...

HAHAHAHAHAHA! YES!

THAT’S IT! THAT’S IT!!!!

Sacrifice more blood for this sanctuary that you people call.

HAHAHAHA! YE...--

Whoops. *Grin* You sure got guts kid.

What? Say something. OH DON’T BE SO SERIOUS YOU POOR CHILD. Do you think you can kill me with the toy you’re holding over there?

...

HERE! Let me help you.

*Stab!*

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

YES, THAT’S IT!

STAB ME! I SAID STAB ME!

*Stab!*

AGAIN!

AGAIN!

AGAIN!

HAHAHAHAHAHA!

*thud*

I don’t understand… *Sob* *Sob*

Why...

Please tell me...

Those people…

Everyone sacrificed themselves just so we could make it here…

EVERYONE!... Even my pare..nts…

Wha-ha.. Ha.. hy!…

*thud*

*Sob* *Sob*

Do you think that you’re the only one that lost somebody?! HAHAHAHA!!!!! HOW FUCKING NAIVE! You made it here, yet you’re far more blind than anyone that I’ve ever met.

It’s BECAUSE YOU’RE WEAK!

It’s because you’re too...

*SLAM*

fucking!

*SLAM*

weak!

*SLAM*

DO YOU THINK THAT YOU’RE THE ONLY ONE THAT HAS SACRIFICED A PART OF THEMSELVES TO GET THIS FAR?!

I HAVE SACRIFICED MY FRIENDS! MY PARENTS! MY WIFE MY CHILDREN

I HAVE SACRIFICED MY HUMANITY TO SURVIVE

DO YOU KNOW WHY?

HUH?! DO YOU KNOW WHY?!

*SLAM*

*SLAM*

*SLAM*

…

DO YOU KNOW WHY I’M FAR STRONGER THAN YOU ALL AND WHY ALL OF YOU ARE AT MY MERCY RIGHT NOW?

IT'S BECAUSE I DID EVERYTHING TO SURVIVE.

AND THAT’S WHY YOU… ALL OF YOU! ARE AT MY MERCY AND NOT ME.

EVEN IF I HAVE TO BECOME THE DEVIL.

EVEN IF MADNESS EATS ME ALIVE AS I DEVOUR MY WIFE AND CHILDREN. I WILL DO IT OVER AGAIN.

OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

Even if I have to kill your parents all over again. I WILL DO IT.

That’s right. Your parents, your relatives. Your friends. All of your fucking loved ones. ALL THE ONES THAT YOU HOLD DEAR.

*whisper*: Over and over again\, I will even do it in front of you if that’s what it’s gonna take.

!!!

*Stab*

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAH! THAT’S THE SPIRIT!

*SLAM*

*SLAM*

*SLAM*

HAHAHA OH, HOW LOVELY THE WORLD IS!

… …

… … ...

Ple...aa… see…

Just kill me…

Please…

KiLL YOU? OH NO NO NO! WE’VE ONLY JUST BEGUN!

No… please…

Please don't…

PLEASE I’m begging you...

NOOO-OOO-OOoo.....……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………….

………..

……………………………………..

………………………..

……………..

……..

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...

*Ring!*

*Ring!*

*Ring!*

...

And just like that, I woke up.

*Ring*

*Ring*

[Info] William Rivera, Human, Male, 22 years old.

I launched myself from the bed like a cannonball. Sweat dripping all over me as I tried to remember the nightmare I just watched myself. I sat there in a daze, shivering from time to time as I recalled all the blood and endless torture.

Apparently watching your parents, as well as hundreds of friends you haven’t even met yet die, did not even make it to the cut as a ‘Trigger’ in that nightmare of mine. Yep. I Eventually woke up after watching myself get decapitated then rebuilt over and over again. The pain somehow etched into my mind as if I really went through it all.

A fucking nightmare to start your day. Nice.

*Ring* *Ring* *Ring*

-Tap-

Turning off the alarm, I quickly made my bed and proceeded with my morning training. After doing some jogging and lifting weights, I then proceeded to do some boxing and taekwondo. Although I don’t go to matches anymore, I still practice everyday naively thinking that I might be able to use it someday.

It’s been a few years back then when I completely stopped my career as a fighter. The thought of having rules to follow when fighting someone was simply... unbearable for me. And I am by no means a sore loser. I haven’t even lost a single match yet. 13-0 baby. I mean imagine training every day for a month just to prepare for a fight and not being able to give and leverage everything you have.

Unable to cleanse the bad taste in my mouth, I eventually gave up and didn’t transition to the Pro League.

*Sigh* It’s a good thing virtual reality is coming up. Or else what would I be training for?

…

… …

By the time I got back from training my parents were already preparing for breakfast. My Mom, preparing the usual bacon and eggs on top of garlic rice. My dad, having coffee as he continuously scrolled down, viewing the news on his phone.

“So how was training?” My mom asked as she poured me a cup of coffee.

“Mom I told you long ago, I already stopped going to fighting matches. It’s been about two years already.”

“Just making sure. You know we don’t like seeing you hurt honey.”

“Nonsense. My son can take a beating. He’s the strongest person that I know. Second to his dad at very least” My dad grinned after finally chipping his bit on our morning conversation.

“Don’t get started with me on this again Joe. It’s because you encouraging him that he…- My mom bickered on but I didn’t have the chance to hear her as all of the warmth of they presented inevitably brought back the scene of my nightmare.

The scene where my parents died. Them, giving all that they have, even when they’re on the last steps of their doorsteps.

*Sigh*

I just hope they’ll be around forever. If not, at least just for a very very long... It took time before I realized that tears were already falling down on my left cheek. My parents, staring at me in silence.

...

“What’s the matter, dear?”

“Nothing… I… I’ll be right back…”

…

… …

… … …

[Location] Some Cafe in Makati, Philippines

[TV] “Well folks it seems that the World Government has done it again. Full immersion virtual reality---”

I know right Sheila? Who would’ve thought that virtual reality will come one in our lifetime?

I know right BURNS?! Who would’ve!!! It’s so amazing. Almost as amazing as the way you cut me off right!… [/TV]

…

… … …

[Info] Edizon Madrigal, Human, Male, 22 years old.

Edizon glanced at the TV before serving the coffee on the table.

“Guilty pleasure?”

“Yeah.”

I replied, eventually chuckling at my own approval. To be fair, the program I’m watching right now clearly isn’t your typical morning show. Sources are bad... lots of fake news... but it’s pure entertainment.

The Shiela and Burns morning show has been airing for seven years and the ratings are still as prime as ever. Apparently, Watching two awry folks who clearly hadn’t had their cup of coffee, bash each other while trying to deliver the morning news inevitably makes everyone's mornings a lot better. We continued watching for another fifteen minutes before finally resuming our conversation.

“I’m amused. This show is the living proof of concept of how evil humans are.” Edizon commented before taking a sip of coffee like he hadn’t said that humanity enjoys each other’s demise.

“If that’s true then calling you a demon would be an understatement then?” I replied before joining Edizon in celebrating our own version of ‘Humor’.

We have been best friends ever since childhood and although we excel in different fields, both of us are surely good at fighting. And when I say good at fighting, I mean tried and tested. Edizon is somehow a magnet for bad luck. And I mean Evil Luck. Believe it or not, I wasn’t really into fighting before, never have thrown a fist at someone nor have pushed someone just so I can get in line first. It is all because of this guy. I remember back then we would get into fights day in day out and we would always go home with bruises all over us.

All in all, we had a very colorful life. We played around like kings during high school and lived a ridiculously free life during college. Kept our circle pretty small. And aside from some rare people we accepted as real friends, we pretty much treated everyone as your ‘business as usual folks’.

Smiling at everyone while not giving a **** at all. Probably why we were a natural magnet to fights and gossips. But, who cares about them, anyway.

…

… ...

“Virtual reality...”

“I know right, Willia-”

“How dare you! Don’t you know that ‘Sheila’ is my favorite news reporter of all time?”

We laughed as we put an inevitable pause on our conversation.

“But yes... Who would’ve thought that we would actually experience it in our lifetime? I mean, it hasn’t even been 2 years since the project was launched and yet we’re already seeing results. You really can’t expect less from the World Government.” I mentioned as I examined the demo that was playing on the TV.

“Funny that statement would have been ironic if you said it 7 years ago.”

“Yeah, but they made it happen anyway.”

“Probably somewhere along the lines of delivering results and going overboard during the process.”

“...” We stared at each other as they realized that they both have been sidetracked from our initial topic. More importantly, we have gone through this topic dozens of times already. The history of the World Government has always been fascinating for everyone. Well… Ultimately it’s because joining all of the governing systems in the world shouldn’t be possible. Within a short amount of time at the very least. You know the scary thing about the whole topic is that we would always conclude in two different possibilities as to why the World Government came to be.

The first possibility being, the world, having a very powerful common enemy enough to cause our World leaders to feel threatened and band together

and the other possibility being is that a single organization is strong enough to subdue everyone. A single organization with absolute power to be precise.

…

… …

“Okay back to VR. What are our plans?” I glanced at Edizon after finishing the last bite of the Carrot cake he ordered a while ago.

“I’m still looking for good companies and pro guilds to invest in.”

“Won’t just investing in pro guilds would be the best choice? I mean, sure they can’t really fight that well now since the game will be in virtual reality. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they won’t learn how to fight. I don’t know for others but I learned to fight right after I got into an ‘actual fight’. And it hasn’t been any harder ever since.”

“I’m not talking about that. It should be equal for everyone as far as I’m concerned. Being smart does not necessarily mean you’ll be able to fight better nor being good at fights does not necessarily mean you have the advantage and will encounter more opportunities over everyone.

VR is another form of reality after all. It would even be rude to call it a game. And just like reality, having talent won’t necessarily mean that you’re going to be successful.

There’s also will power, luck, passion, interest, emotional quirks, and all skills in real life. If what the government says is true then all of that should have a direct equivalent in NOIM.”

“NOIM huh… I wonder why they named it like that… Wait why are you so invested in this again? I barely just skimmed through everything and it looks like you’ve read the whole damn book!”

“Well, apparently The world government stated that simulation space can only be bought by using ‘Origin Coins’ which is one of the main currencies in NOIM.”

“Wait what…” I almost choked himself after hearing Edizon’s last sentence. Simulation Spaces are the main reasons why Companies and Organizations are interested in virtual reality. Simulation spaces are where you can simulate everything without the need for the actual or ‘physical’ need of the materials needed. It can be used in medicine, agriculture, architecture. It can even be used to predict the future.

“You know, the world government even stated that you can even run world-scale simulations if you have enough Origin Coins.” Edizon paused briefly after saying his most important point.

“Well, no shit…”

“See. That’s why I keep telling you that you should watch ‘Normal’ news every now and then.”

“Can’t help it. My mornings will always be better with Sheila and Burns.”

*Chuckle*

…

… …

… … … ...

[Location] Reyes Residence, Pasig, Philippines

[Player] Alice Reyes, Human, Female, 21 years old.

Alice banged her head softly at the table after looking at her barely recognized self. My friend has been going to seminars as well as Job interviews since we graduated. But she hasn’t been able to get a call back not even after attending five of them.

With the consecutive failed job interviews depression eventually got to her. Knowing Alice she’ll continue to pity herself for another 30 minutes before returning to her usual self. The little girl is a lot stronger despite her clumsy appearance. She did graduate as a scholar after all...

...

… … ...

"Alice, sweety, you've been looking in the mirror for an hour already." Knowing Alice best, her Mom immediately approached when she saw the long face.

“Mom… I really am no good aren’t I?” Alice pouted as she subconsciously begged for assurance.

"See… That’s why I’ve been telling you to get good grades so it would be easier to..." Hearing this her mom started to berate her. Well, a bit softly this time at least. Let’s just say that her mom isn’t the best at consoling someone.

“Oh hush now the both of you.” Seeing the both of them about to enter a long conversation, Alice’s dad finally interjected. She then looked at Alice at put on a warm face.

“Alice, there’s no point brooding over something that’s already a fact. Now you little girl, what did I tell you about self-pity?”

“It will only make me feel like shit… hence it will only make things worse…”

“That’s my girl. Breakfast is already prepared downstairs.”

…

… ...

“Make sure you’re to get home before 10.” Alice’s mom spoke as she placed another bowl of rice on her plate. Clearly, she still hasn’t let go of the argument and is now in a foul mood because of it.

“I’m only gonna stop by at Edizon’s shop before going to the interview.”

seeing Alice pressured by her mom her father tried to cheer her up.

“You know what sweetie? just ditch the interview and take some time to enjoy with your friends. I heard the new virtual game or something is going live in a few hours. Why don’t you play around for a week or two? You've failed dozens of interviews, why hurt to fail one more. Till I met your mom of course.

“I have only failed four Dad!” Alice rolled her eyes upon hearing her dad’s comment.

“Nonsense. A job is a job whatever job it is. Besides we need all the financial help to pay off the bills. It’s about time we get that shower fixed.”

“And what gaming are you talking about again? Haven’t she ruined enough of her life already?

And you. And a shipping company? are you really that out of options?”

“Oh, would you cut her some slack Dear? You’re right it’s just a shipping company. There are hundreds of better companies out there.

On the plus side, Alice has already graduated so we don’t have to spend more money on tuition fees. I’m capable and I still have a job so why are you rushing her for?”

“And what about that trip to Hawaii you promised on our anniversary?”

“I… Let’s talk about that later. Point is, she hasn’t had a break ever since her final year at the university. It would be better if she enjoys herself for a bit. Otherwise, she would be burnt out before she even gets hired.”

“...”

“Just one week okay?”

“Thanks, mom. You're the best.” Alice kissed her mom’s cheek before she started brushing her teeth.

“I’ll be leaving now. Love you both.”

*Chuckle*

“You’re still as sweet as ever. Now make sure you have fun. Go make a boyfriend out of William while you’re at it.”

“Dad!”

“Oh, hush sweetie you two were so adorable when back then. You two were like the childhood sweethearts of the neighborhood am I right dear? eh? eh?

If only his parents were alive you two would have been arranged by now. He’s a smart and strong kid. With good grades and all.”

“True! Now Alice, instead of attending that interview why don’t you just SHIP yourself to William instead.” Seeing the irritated Alice. Her mom’s mood immediately brightened up as she joined teasing her.

*Chuckle*

“You know honey…”

“Lalala- lala” Alice mock singed just to mute out her parents. Her parents, however, didn’t mind it and even got more enthusiastic after seeing their already grownup daughter still getting irritated by something this trivial.

After a few minutes…

“Our little girl is all grown up isn’t she?”

“Makes me remember the time you bambooed her just to stop playing computer games.”

“Oh, Whatever you’re saying, Dear.”

“You’re being a bad girl again.”

“That’s right. What are you gonna do about it.”

“Oooh… Take me...”

...

“I’m still here Dad!”

“Oh! We thought you already left. Make sure to lock the door after you leave… We don’t want to get disturbed again~ wink”

“You guys are terrible. Argh!”

*Bang!*

…

… ...

… … …

[Player] Isabella Kingsman, Human, Female, 22 years old.

[Location] Manila Metro Rail Transit System - Makati Station, Philippines

“You’re late again.” Isabella looked at Alice as she raised an eyebrow.

“Oh come on Bella, it was only just fiv-”

“Just kidding. I also just arrived. I missed you so much!”

“Aww… I missed you too. Come here...--- Ouch!” Alice cried out as Isabella failed to control her own strength, she was lifted in the process as Isabella hugged her. It’s uncanny to see them like this since the two have only been apart for two weeks.

They took a bunch of photos before finally deciding to go call a cab after noticing that the crowd was already looking at them. It has been a normal occurrence for them as they were both uniquely beautiful.

Isabella has always been passionate about mixed martial arts which explains her exceptional strength. It also gives her an almost perfect form that complements how tall she is. Which looks good considering she has a pretty face and very plumpy breasts.

Meanwhile, Alice looks otherworldly cute with her smooth and almost snow-white complexion along with her perfect dark blonde short hair and pretty face making Alice fit the perfect description as a petite waifu of Otakus. After a few minutes, the two inevitably gathered the attention of some of the crowd.

Seeing the looks of the men around them. The two decided to call a cab before continuing their conversation.

...

“At this address, please. Just follow the pinned location on the map. It should just be around Area C If I’m not mistaken.” Alice said to the driver.

…

… ...

… … … ...

“That’s so sweet! It’s really nice that they still cuddle around like that despite their age.”

“Cuddle? They should cuddle when I’m not around... I haven’t even had a boyfriend! Bella, have you ever watched your parents **** **** in front of you?”

“...” *Ehem* Isabella’s face went red as she thought about what Alice mentioned.

“See!”

“Alright. It is a bit awkward. Wait, we got sidetracked- Where are we going again?” Isabella asked.

“To the coffee shop owned by Edizon.”

“Oh, that nice. They’ve talked about it a few times. I never actually thought that it was real...”

“Yeah me too. I mean they never actually mentioned anything else besides how great the place is. Look here, the building on the address doesn’t even say that there’s a coffee shop there!” Alice puffed as she pointed on her phone.

“We’ll eventually see if it’s real or not. So… You’ll be joining our guild right?” Isabella asked.

“I already told you, your family has already helped us enough. By the way, we’re here so that you and Edizon can get together. Otherwise, it would be weird if you see each other in a few years and you both are already in your own relationships. How tragic would that be… You know I’ll always be your number one supporter right?”

“Do you want me to punch you in the face?”

“No… But listen, listen. Think about it. Even your parents approve of him. And you happen to like him as well.”

“I don’t like him.” Isabella didn’t reply any further, but clearly, she was thinking about what Alice mentioned. With how large the fashion company Isabella’s parents were holding they would never give their only daughter with just anyone. She knew that her parents have high standards when it comes to anything that relates to their business. And although Edizon didn’t come from a hefty background, he was able to establish his own business and successfully branch out two more shops even before graduating.

Her father and mother would always mention how remarkable Edizon is but never really bothered to explain why.

‘I mean so what if he’s handsome and capable… That doesn’t mean I like him… He does like me though… Maybe I do like him...’

…

“Bella?”

“Sorry, I was thinking if I forgot something…”

“So… How’s job hunting lately. Did you get any followup interviews?” Isabella brushed off her thoughts. Changing the topic as soon as she can.

“No luck so far… ”

“How many interviews have you attended this week?”

“Four…”

“Four in a week. Wow… Well, that explains the eyebags...”

“I know!”

“Aww… Cheew up Awice. Don’t let depression get to you. Let’s see...

How about we go to a spa next weekend?”

“Your treat?!” Alice immediately glowed after hearing Isabella.

Isabella didn’t even roll her eyes after hearing Alice’s statement. Her best friend has been as shameless as ever. Alice would always reject financial assistance from her family but it’s always a different story when it’s from her own pocket. She ignored what she said and answered her initial question.

…

… ...

“All businesses really want to grab as much simulation space huh…” Alice muttered as she thought about the game. Alice has always been into games. She even got into the pro scene and played for two seasons only to quit at the end because she’s having a hard time maintaining her grades for her scholarship.

“Same for my parents. They are planning to have me build connections as well as establish a guild as soon as NOIM launches. Apparently, even the simulation space is useful for the fashion industry… How about you? How come you’ve never mentioned the game not even once.”

“Cause It’s a bit weird that the currency to buy virtual spaces can only be bought inside the game… Having that said, there will probably be a lot of political entities as well as huge organizations like your family that are gonna invest in the game itself.

Really different from all the other games we played. The power struggle will be just too… ugh. I don’t want to even think about it. I mean you know me. It’s either I play casual or I rise to the top. Hehe!” Alice finished with a smug on her face. Clearly boasting about her short-lived career in the pro scene.

“Smug… You should really just join my guild.”

“Nopey.”

“We’ll split the paperwork.”

“Your guild? You mean your parent’s guild. Hahaha, what do you mean split the paperwork? Knowing you, you wouldn’t even think of being inside the office signing paperwork when you can enjoy slaying dragons and stuffs.”

“To be serious, I’ve thought about it. Maybe it would be better if I just go get a real job. I mean my parents deserve a break. Life has really been hard for them.”

“You’re talking as if you’re gonna be earning millions as soon as you work. What can your puny accounting diploma get you?”

“Hmph. I never said I was gonna apply as an accountant…”

“Then what?”

“A model of course. Men all over the world will drool when they see me… Ouch!”

“Be serious will you. I’ve never thought of this before but fighting as your own way of living should be feasible now. And I mean big time!”

“You mean playing games?”

“I was going to say fighting… but… yeah, it should be the same.”

“See! That’s why I told you. It’s not as simple as fighting and stuff. What can we even do when you’re stuck in the office being a plumpy figurehead.”

“...” Isabella thought about what Alice said. Ignoring the comment as Alice tends to be more aggressive than usual when she’s wearing her game face on.

“Oh come on! Tell me you’re not excited by the idea of dungeon diving and slaying minions!”

“Well…”

“If it’s just martial arts I can help you enroll at the dojo…”

“Nope, I will never practice in real life. it’s exhausting and it hurts. I was gonna say, why don’t we ask Edizon and William to create a guild with us.”

“You do know that I can just ask my parents to hire someone to manage the guild right?”

“But you’ll still be a plumpy figurehead even then! What I’m saying is that you need to play independently from the Kingsman family and at the same time have a background that will help us travel the NOIM unhindered.

Also, my mom wouldn’t let me if it’s with your parents or your company. You guys have assisted us ever since… But if it’s those guys...”

“I see your point. First of all, say that I’m plumpy one more time and I’ll punch you in the face.

Second… The bottom line is that you need a stable income and I need freedom.”

“I mean technically, you are free and your parents aren’t that strict, but since we're playing this is game. You aren’t really free unless you’re strong enough and have a strong enough organization to back you up. So at some point, we’re gonna need to be able to stand on our own.” Alice finished confidently as she stated her mind based on experience.

“hmm…”

“That’s a lot of work. Why don’t we just join a strong guild that would let us do anything we want instead.” Isabella teased Alice as she noticed that her friend was already getting tired of mentioning obvious facts.

“Bella…”

“I was just kidding”

“Ugh… Sometimes you sound just like my parents.”

*giggle*

…

… … ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………