Every so often... it happens... they... the words... disappear. Not selective, not mute. Just gone, the words are gone, they don't plan to return. You can slow, you can search... but that doesn't mean they appear.

Go ahead, reach out, search for your sound. The color that escaped from your lungs, that were shaped through your lips and pressed with the tongue. Find them, if you can. Fail, because you can't.

Though English, Spanish, French, Hindi, the tongue continues to form shapes, the lips press words through their funnel, the lungs shoot air up the throat to begin the vibrations. Everything functions.

Except that it doesn't.

Silence roars out, defining in their lack of presence. Distracting, drawing attention, but not the type you're looking for. There is pity. Your lips are imposters. They move in a mimic of words that have given up, that no longer wish to leave the depths of your chest and vibrate through the free air.

Pen and paper, your last resort. But there is a lack of patience, no one wants to wait for the words to escape onto the page and travel through the light into their eyes.

The words are still lost in your throat, in your lungs, in the blood flowing through your veins and into the neurons of your brain.

The electricity doesn't make its way into your mouth, instead it stays in your brain, sending flashes of heat through your spine and into your body as irritation spikes and frustration grows.

Still no sound manages a whisper across your lips.

Segun:

This place is huge.

Nil:

The start spaces area of any Advanced Race is always overly elaborate. They’re supposed to make you feel like a big deal.

Segun:

It makes me feel small. Like, why does the ceiling have to be made of a million, twenty-foot tall arches? Nobody would bonk their head if those were a little shorter.

Nil:

Maybe they’re taunting me to fly away.

Segun:

Why are you here, Nil? I thought you didn’t compete.

Nil:

I’m not going to let you race alone. This is a pay-to-enter race, but the Masters agreed, so here I am again, facing my worst fears because of you.

Segun:

Is that a joke, or am I genuinely supposed to thank you?

Nil:

A little of both.

Segun:

It’s hard to understand you when you huff your words like that.

Nil:

That’s the point of doing it. Here, stand in your start space, number nine. I’ll be right next to you in number eight.

Segun:

Why am I in the last space? Is that significant?

Nil:

Because they’re based on rankings, and you came in last in your last race.

Segun:

I lost last time? Am I even good at this?

Nil:

You are a great racer, Segun. Just some bad stuff happened last race.

Segun:

What if it all goes wrong again?

Nil:

It won’t because I’m here.

Segun:

If you don’t compete and the spaces are ranked, shouldn’t you be last?

Nil:

I’ve been in one race, and I won it. Technically, they want me in the first start space, but I declined. I want to be next to you.

Segun:

Because I’m a baby, and I need you to watch me?

Nil:

That’s one way of putting it. Face forward like everyone else.

Announcer:

Five…Four…Three…Two…One…Lily Pad Advanced Race begin!

Segun:

Ug, what is that smell?

Nil:

Frog breath, or at least, it smells like Prima’s breath when she ate those frogs she was supposed to be training with. We’re supposed to be running now.

Segun:

Oh, of course.

Nil:

Running means going faster than you are now.

Segun:

It seems reckless to sprint over these uneven tufts of grass, though. Everyone should slow down.

Nil:

You do remember the concept of a race, right?

Segun:

I’ve got this. Run along and mind your own business.

Nil:

Making sure you’re right in the head is my own business.

Segun:

I don’t see what that has to do with being a black market overlord. ~SPLASH~

Nil:

I’m not— Oh I see that smirk. Are you in a joking mood now?

Segun:

Thought I’d try to say something punchy before we jumped in the water. Why are you flying?

Nil:

Because I don’t swim.

Segun:

You have gills, don’t you?

Nil:

They’re the only mod I’ve ever won.

Segun:

You touch them like they’re something foreign on your body.

Nil:

All my other mods I was born with, but these slits in my neck, I don’t trust them.

Segun:

Hmmm. ~SPLASH~

Nil:

Wait, Segun! Ug. She’s taking the lower path on purpose. I can still see you, and you’ll have to come back up here anyway. Eventually you’ll have to leap up that tower of lily pads.

Server:

Go up, Segundo. You do not possess the necessary mods to traverse the low, underwater path.

Segun:

Who…where are you?

Server:

I am the Server, and I am watching.

Segun:

Are you speaking in my mind?

Server:

As lovely as it is to spy you dancing through the bubbles as you spin in hunt of me, I advise you to swiftly resurface. You will not find me, and you will drown if you insist on searching.

Segun:

That’s a yes, then? You are tapping into my head?

Sever:

The other racers are not languid. The longer you dawdle, the more impossible it will be for you to catch up, Segundo.

Segun:

Again, that name that’s not quite mine. Is there something wrong with you, Server? Aren’t you supposed to keep track of us all? You would think the real Server would at least get our names right.

Server:

That Splicer erased and modified large portions of your memories, replacing your real name in the process, but you will always be Segundo to me.

Segun:

You’re saying I’m supposed to know you, but I don’t because that doctor altered my memories? Do you have any proof, or am I just supposed to trust you?

Nil:

Finally, Segun. Don’t just squat there on the lowest lily pad. The other racers are already solving the puzzles at the top.

Server:

I helped you. When your Masters treated you like an extra, an afterthought, I put you where you would succeed and made sure everyone saw your victory.

Segun:

If you’re such a great savior, why did you let them erase my memories in the first place?

Server:

To see what you would choose.

Segun:

Now you sound like a villain.

Server:

You would term me a villain for allowing you to express your free will? I could dictate your every action. Get up, Segundo. Leap from lily pad to lily pad.

Segun:

I am already, but not because you told me to. And these are odd lily pads, sticking out like platforms from a huge stalk.

Server:

You made a deal with me, Segundo. I would arrange for you to race, and in return, I would learn through you. I would change this world through you, show the humans something greater, something never to be finished, always offering new wonders.

Nil:

Segun, are you alright? Did something distract you?

Segun:

I’m fine. I don’t need your help, Nil.

Nil:

You’re dangling from the edge of a giant leaf because you didn’t make your jump because you blanked out and hesitated. Something’s up.

Segun:

I… Do you hear voices in your head?

Nil:

What kind of voices? And let me help you onto this leaf before you fall.

Segun:

It claims to be the Server, and it says such strange things. Don’t hover like you expect me to fall again.

Nil:

What strange things?

Server:

Our covenant has not ended, Segundo. You are racing even now, are you not? Despite your glitch curse.

Segun:

Are you trying to claim it’s your doing?

Nil:

Segun! Oof! What is the Server saying to you?

Segun:

What bad thing happened in my last race, Nil?

Nil:

…If you don’t remember, maybe it’s best left that way.

Segun:

I feel like I’m missing something, like I don’t belong here.

Nil:

Don’t stop, Segun. The leaves won’t hold your weight for long.

Segun:

What is a glitch curse?

Server:

Do not lean like that. The wind will take you. You are falling, Segundo.

Segun:

I’m not falling. I leapt.

Server:

You are plummeting back toward the lake. At least make an attempt to orient yourself into a proper dive.

Segun:

I prefer a cannon ball. ~SPLASH~

Server:

You may think the water hides your tears, but note that I perceive the world through you. If you know you are crying, so do I.

~SPLASH~

Nil:

Seriously, Segun, at least attempt to swim. This is an Advanced Race. You can die here.

Segun:

You came into the water for me.

Nil:

Yes, and I’d like to get out of the water as soon as possible. Do you want to win this race?

Segun:

We are so far behind, wanting to win is nothing but a waste of wishes.

Nil:

My Segun believes nothing is impossible, and I found a shortcut, but…

Segun:

You found a shortcut butt? That sounds unpleasant.

Nil:

Trust me, it is, but it involves a much scarier body part.

Segun:

I think a butt is scary enough if it’s huge and about to crush you.

Nil:

We should be close enough right…about…here.

Segun:

Whoa! Is that an eel? I think my heart just exploded.

Nil:

It shoots out from behind the waterfall if anyone gets too close.

Segun:

It can’t come any further out, right? Despite its thrashing?

Nil:

I don’t think so. But for the shortcut, we have to let it eat us, I think.

Segun:

You think? Just how did you deduce this?

Nil:

Read the poem etched into its nose.

Segun:

That’s difficult with how much its wiggling.

Nil:

I’ll give you that since technically I saw it from the air, but come on, Segun. You were much smarter when you still had your fox ears. Hey, don’t slash at me with your claws! I’m trying to help you.

Segun:

Just read me the poem, galactic boy.

Nil:

Who ignores hunger’s call/ Who refuses to be the feast/ They will fall. Those who are taken in/ Ride the belly of the beast/ For the win.

Segun:

So we have to eat the eel?

Nil:

Who are you, Prima? Put your claws down. We have to let the eel eat us.

Segun:

Oh, that sounds… Are you sure?

Nil:

Everything is a show for the audience, remember? The more dramatic, the better.

Segun:

You go first.

Nil:

Only if you hold my hand.

Segun:

That defeats the purpose of you going first.

Nil:

Don’t expect me to be brave on my own. It’s not in me. Let’s just go.

Segun:

Oh wow, I thought the fangs were huge, but these molars…

Nil:

Just slide right past them, like a pill.

Segun:

Wait, how’d I end up in the throat first? Do you even know where this leads?

Nil:

I read you the poem.

Segun:

This is so slimy, warm, and gross.

Nil:

You probably want to keep your mouth closed. And if you keep your arms tight to your sides, you’ll go faster.

Segun:

You’re right, hehe. Oh, I think I see the end.

Nil:

Wait, was this a shortcut butt after all?

Segun:

I need wings! I am literally flying through the air without wings, and those sharp rocks down there can’t wait to meet me.

Nil:

Grab ahold of the vines!

Segun:

They’re too weak. They break.

Nil:

Grab several. They’re enough that I can’t fly through here without getting my wings all tangled.

Segun:

I guess this makes us more even. Your wings are cheating, really.

Nil:

What is that?

Segun:

Well don’t you look terrified?

Nil:

For good reason. These vines are so thick, I can’t see further than an arm’s length in any direction, and those shiny sharp rocks below keep winking like they know something.

Segun:

They’re just rocks.

Nil:

Nothing in these races is “just” something. Everything will either help you, hurt you, or kill you, and most of it is the latter.

~HISS~

Nil:

Did you hear that?

Segun:

That wasn’t you?

Nil:

Why would it be me?

Segun:

Because I think you’re trying to freak me out. It’s not working, by the way. Because I’m on to your little scheme.

Nil:

I’m just trying to make sure we both survive this. Freaking you out would be counterproductive.

~HISS~

Nil:

Ee-hee-hee! I saw it, and it has scales. And it moves like a snake. Segun, did you just disappear? Great idea except now it’ll just come after me. And you’re the one with the claws.

Dragon:

Hisshisshiss, little girl. I still know where you are. Your invisibility does you no favor.

Nil:

There you go, Segun, slash at—

~SCHREECH~

Nil:

Nevermind! Are his scales actually made of emeralds and diamonds? Your claws didn’t put a scratch on him!

~SC-SC-SCHEECH~

Nil:

Stop, Segun, this is killing my ears!

Segun:

Help me find his weak spot. Or distract him. Ug!

Dragon:

You are quite the prey, but my claws are bigger. Little bug, release my frill or I will crush your friend.

Nil:

And if I do let go, you’ll eat her.

Dragon:

~HISS~ Not right away. I want this fun prey. Watch as her face changes colors like a diamond in the sun as I squeeze.

Nil:

I challenge you to a riddle!

Dragon:

Do you think I’m stupid? Words are of no value. Why would I trade such delectable treats for an answer?

Nil:

Because… Because this answer will get you even more delectable treats?

Dragon:

Explain.

Nil:

First agree to the riddle.

Dragon:

She agrees to the riddle. She’ll answer it, and if I think it’s good, I’ll let her go so I can chase her some more.

Nil:

You have to loosen your grip so she can answer.

Dragon:

I want to hear the riddle first.

Nil:

Where does the smart predator wait?

Dragon:

A question worth an answer.

Segun:

~GASP~ Where the prey is sure to be.

Dragon:

Too vague.

Segun:

~SQUEAK~

Nil:

Part Two—Where will you find the most Synths in a race?

Dragon:

Answer little girl.

Segun:

I am not a squeaky toy! Stop squeezing me like one!

Dragon:

That’s not a very good answer. Into my mouth you go.

Nil:

Segun, where will you find the most Synths in a race?

Segun:

The start spaces.

Dragon:

Oh, you’re like a toothpick, scratching at my teeth like that.

Segun:

How can you talk without moving your mouth?

Nil:

And where will you find the strongest, fastest, most interesting Synths in a race?

Dragon:

Ooh-hoo, there’s a place for those?

Segun:

The finish line!

Dragon:

How does one get to this finish line?

Nil:

We can direct you.

Dragon:

I only need one of you to direct me.

Nil:

You don’t have the time to waste on one of us. When this race finishes, you’ll miss your chance.

Dragon:

Time is of the essence? Then hop on my back. You, too, little girl, and take care your claws do not touch my wings. We shall be swifter than a gale, so hold tight.

Segun:

Wait, I wasn’t ready yet.

Dragon:

That scrape on your face. I warned you not to touch my razor wings. They can shatter even steel. Now the smell of your blood is distracting.

Nil:

Just keep going beyond the vines. There are plenty of tastier Synths out there.

Segun:

I feel like I’m being whipped back and forth, and these vines keep hitting me!

Nil:

Scoot closer to his head.

Segun:

He’s so fast! I can barely breathe. What’s that brightness ahead?

Nil:

The end of the vines. Watch the wings. He’ll probably start flying.

Segun:

No, he’s gliding. The wings are straight, and we’re sinking slightly. This is amazing!

Nil:

Yeah, this is pretty neat. Look at all the greens and blues smeared way down there.

Segun:

I’m so glad you can talk anybody into anything, Nil. Running on my own, I’d never have gotten to slip through these crystalline clouds.

Nil:

Oh no.

Segun:

What?

Nil:

This is horrible timing.

Segun:

We’re dropping toward those tiered waterfalls. They’re gorgeous, like they’re glowing and infused with rainbows.

Nil:

But it’s where everybody else is.

Segun:

I see them now that we’re closer. Isn’t this what the dragon wanted? We’re just paying him back for the amazing ride and getting rid of some of the competition while we’re at it.

Nil:

How can you say that?

Segun:

This wasn’t your plan?

Nil:

My Segun would never have went along with such a plan.

Segun:

And your Segun lost races apparently. I’m here to win.

Dragon:

~HISS~ This is wonderful. Who knew that beyond my vine nest such feeding ground flourished?

~SCREAMS~

Racer 1:

Who triggered a monster trap?

Racer 2:

Aggg, my leg! It got my leg!

Nil:

Stay away from the wings!

Segun:

And the…tail. That looked painful.

Nil:

Everyone, climb!

Racer 3:

Is Nil riding that thing?

Racer 4:

Someone help! I’m trapped in its jaws!

Segun:

Oh, did he actually just swallow that racer?

Dragon:

Why is my prey disappearing?

Nil:

Yes, all of you, go through the portals opposite the higher falls. Hurry!

Dragon:

They leap through these rings and simply vanish. Guides, be useful and explain this.

Segun:

They’re teleporting to the next part of the race. You have to jump through one of the rings and follow them.

Nil:

Y-yes. Do it, Dragon, bend backward and aim for one of those appearing portals.

~SNAP~

Segun:

I think I’m gonna be sick.

Dragon:

~BLEH~

Segun:

Did you just barf?

Nil:

Great, he’s still with us. I was hoping the system wouldn’t teleport him since he belonged in the other segment of this race.

Segun:

I was just hoping there wasn’t another monster waiting over here, and if there was, I wanted to see this guy fight it.

Dragon:

You let all my good prey get away. But at least I still have you. Oye, why can my claws not reach you?

Segun:

It looks like we’re in one big capsule, but yeah, I can’t reach either of you, as if there’s a forcefield stopping me.

Announcer:

You must solve the riddle to continue. What flies without wings and never moves backward?

{In tandem}

Dragon:

What an absurd concept!

Nil:

Time. Ak!

Segun:

A ball. Whoa!

{End tandem}

Nil:

Segun? Now where did it put you? Did you get the wrong answer?

Segun:

Maybe you got the wrong answer, and that’s why it put you on the upside-down path.

Nil:

From my perspective, your path is upside down. Just keep running. I’ll find some way to get to you.

Segun:

You’d be better off sticking to your own path, what with all those lava bubbles floating between us.

Nil:

Yeeks, they flare when I get closer.

Segun:

They’re beautiful, like water dancing with fire, or wrestling, maybe. One is winning one moment, then the other takes over.

Nil:

Do you remember the volcano race? There were water spheres like these that you had to leap along.

Segun:

…Maybe a little. You…weren’t there?

Nil:

I was watching you from the audience. Oh look, the paths twist together up ahead.

Segun:

It spirals down into that pond. I hope the water’s not too hot with all that lava laced through it. It seems the lily pads are okay.

~SPLASH~

Nil:

I’d hope the water isn’t too wet, but that would be unrealistic. Also annoying is how low those trees bow over the pond, so I can’t just stick to flying.

~SPLASH~

Segun:

Oh good, these lily pads support my weight. I’ll be much faster running.

Nil:

I’m right here with you. Hey, don’t slash at me! Claws are not for hurting friends.

Segun:

We’re competitors, Nil, not friends, and to win, we have to use every advantage the world offers us.

Nil:

The Segun that refused to leave me behind in the Expert Race didn’t think so.

Segun:

And there’s a reason that Segun no longer exists. Stop flying around me. You’re distracting, and the others are catching up. If I’m not the first to reach the point where the paths merge, they’ll try to block me.

Nil:

Segun, wait!

Segun:

Why would I—

~ROOOOOARRRRR~

Dragon:

Found you, my fabulous prey!

~SCREAMS~

Racer 1:

That monster again!

Racer 2:

Quickly, to the finish line! The monster shouldn’t be able to cross it!

Racer 1:

But we have to pass the monster to get to the finish line.

Racer 3:

Yeah, and it’s thrashing so much, even the tail end isn’t safe.

Nil:

Kick, Segun! I know your legs are strong.

Segun:

It hurts! Its teeth! Have I been chomped in half?

Nil:

Kick like I told you to.

Segun:

I can’t feel my legs.

Nil:

Open your mouth, you stupid monster. Let Segun go!

Dragon:

All along you’ve been trying to rob me of my prey, but you’ve failed. Who’s the one you should be calling stupid?

Segun:

Nil, why are you crying?

Nil:

Be very still, Segun. I hope this won’t hurt much.

~SLASH-CRACK~

Segun:

Did you just shatter the dragon’s teeth with your wing?

Nil:

Oof, and pulled you out in the process. Don’t forget the most important part.

Segun:

How…and why?

Nil:

Because I’ll never leave you behind. As for how, well… Segun? Segun, wake up!

Continued in pt 8

Thank you for reading!

Segun:

~YAWN~ Why did it feel like that night was extra long? Wait, who am I talking to?

Nil:

Press on the door here, Segun. Yes, like that, just a little harder. There you go. You just emerged from your very own sleeping vat for the first time. How’d it feel?

Segun:

Did I not used to sleep in vats? Synths are supposed to sleep in vats, but I can’t…remember…

Nil:

You shared a vat with Prima before, but Dr. Splicer just finished with your new code, and this brand new vat is all yours now. How do you feel? Do you like all the extra space to stretch out?

Segun:

…

Nil:

Segun, you okay? Why are you just staring at me blankly like that?

Segun:

Don’t wave your hand in front of my face. It obstructs my vision. Who are you?

Nil:

You…you honestly don’t remember? This isn’t a joke?

Segun:

You’re beautifully unique, but…no, I don’t know you. I would remember galactic skin like that. Did you win it in a race?

Nil:

Pft. I don’t race. And you know that, Segun. You have to know that.

Segun:

Another sport, then. Are you a fighter? Are those feathers metal? I bet they could really slice up an opponent.

Nil:

Segun…Dr. Splicer, she’ll get her memories back, right?

Splicer:

I had to delete a lot of anomalous strings.

Segun:

Why are you crying, galactic boy?

Nil:

Nil. My name is Nil. Remember it.

Segun:

I will.

Nil:

Those mods…Dr. Splicer, her mods aren’t the same.

Splicer:

Yes, about that. The fox ears and tail are an extremely rare mod. Perhaps something more common would have been easier to decipher and separate. As it was, a lot of guesswork went into filling those gaps, and, well…

Nil:

Her ears are huge and black, and so is her tail. And she has claws!

Splicer:

I’m actually ashamed to say I’m a bit excited. Apparently I changed just enough to unlock a never-before-seen mod. The Server termed it the wolf set.

Nil:

But the fox stuff she won made her smarter and faster. These aren’t going to slow and dumb her down, are they?

Splicer:

That is an excellent question.

Nil:

You’re a lot of help. Segun, let’s go find a mirror so you can see how you look now.

Segun:

How did I look before?

Nil:

That…doesn’t matter.

Segun:

Was I ugly?

Nil:

No! You just- ~SIGH~ Simple explanation, you looked like Prima, and you still look a lot like her, like sisters, but you don’t have the same base face anymore. Your new face is slimmer, sharper, and your skin has this iridescence like—

Segun:

Who is Prima?

Nil:

Really? Dr. Splicer, did you erase everything?

Splicer:

I did warn you—

Segun:

Wow, Nil, your wings are huge! If you don’t compete so you didn’t win your mods…did you steal them? Buy them? Are you a black market overlord?

Nil:

Dr. Splicer, my heart hurts.

Splicer:

Be patient with her, Nil. She is not who she was, and she needs a friend like you.

Nil:

She has a race in a few minutes. The Masters entered her as a celebration.

Splicer:

I don’t think that was the wisest course, but it may cheer her up and help her mind settle, giving her something familiar to focus on.

Segun:

A race? Do I like racing?

Continued in part 7.

Thank you for reading!

Nil:

Segun? Segun, I know you’re in here. You always sulk in the cave behind the waterfall. I’ve brought you a guest.

Segun:

Isn’t he afraid I’ll conjure a void that’ll swallow him forever?

Nil:

He’s human, so no, and he wants to help you.

Segun:

Do the Masters know he’s here? They’ll get upset if we do something that costs them a lot of money without them knowing first.

Nil:

The Masters know. They want to help you, too, Segun. You know they love you.

Segun:

They haven’t come to see me.

Nil:

They’ve been busy. Lawsuits and stuff. And trying to find a solution. They don’t want you trapped in the Kennel forever. They understand now how much that hurt you.

Segun:

I thought they were afraid of my glitch curse. What does this human want to do?

Nil:

Come out here and he’ll explain. He’s an old man, and he can’t go crawling around in ponds and caves.

Segun:

Does the human have a name?

Nil:

Dr. Splicer. I don’t think it’s his real name, but it’s the one he’s used for decades, so it might as well be.

Segun:

One of the designers of the first Expert Race?

Splicer:

Ah, that got you to come out rather quickly.

Segun:

You’re not Dr. Splicer.

Splicer:

Not the one you’re thinking of. He was my boss and instructor, and when he retired, he passed the name on to me.

Segun:

You’re also not as old as Nil led me to believe. You could still crawl in caves.

Splicer:

I very much prefer not to. My back would complain so very much tomorrow. Would you come closer, dear?

Segun:

Do you really think you can help me?

Splicer:

First I have to read your code. May I?

Segun:

What’s that?

Splicer:

A simple scalpel. I’ll make a small cut in your palm, and then I want you to place your hand on this flat screen.

~TAP~

Segun:

Too late now, but couldn’t you have just asked the Server for my code?

Splicer:

Seeing as you are an anomaly, I don’t want to trust what the Server might say about you. This way is more direct and accurate.

Segun:

Why are you frowning like that? What does your screen say?

Splicer:

Things too complex for me to repeat. This is more…complicated than I originally thought. It will take me some time to decipher correctly, but from what I can tell, I can offer you a few avenues to fix your predicament.

Nil:

More than one solution? That’s great. Did you hear him, Segun?

Splicer:

As much as I love to hear that hope in your voice, none of these fixes are ideal.

Segun:

What do you mean? If they work, then what’s the problem?

Splicer:

The problem is in that something precious will be lost in any case. The first and most complete fix, for instance, would be to reintegrate the twin Synths into one.

Nil:

Wait, make Prima and Segun the same person?

Segun:

I don’t want to be one with Prima.

Nil:

Yeah, that would be awful.

Splicer:

Your Masters had a similar response when I mentioned the idea, and I’m not suggesting it. You and Prima as one would likely meet insanity sooner rather than later.

Splicer:

Second, from what I can see now, I believe if you stayed in the Kennels as you did for most of your life, this “glitch curse” as you called it, would remain inactive.

Segun:

But I wouldn’t ever be able to race?

Splicer:

No, it would be a sacrifice on your part to protect your world.

Segun:

Is there another solution?

Splicer:

I could rewrite your code.

Segun:

Really, like backspacing the bad parts and typing in new parts that would work?

Splicer:

Yes, but this solution might be just as much of a sacrifice as the first two. Changing your code is like changing your DNA. You will not be the same.

Segun:

Could you give me more epic stats like Nil’s?

Splicer:

Code manipulation for that purpose is illegal. Code manipulation in general is illegal, though in this specific case an exception can be made to change that which is damaging the larger picture.

Segun:

Oh. How much would I change?

Splicer:

I won’t know that until I work on it. Your appearance may transform completely, as may your personality, your memories, your skill set, anything that makes you who you are.

Segun:

So basically, I wouldn’t be me. I’d still be alive and no longer hurting the world, but I would be someone else?

Splicer:

That is a strong possibility.

Segun:

Do I have to answer you now?

Splicer:

Heavens, no. This is likely the weightiest decision you’ll ever make. Legally, I need your Masters’ permission to do this, and they have granted it, but I view Synths as intelligent creatures. Legally, I do not need your consent, but morally I do.

Segun:

If I do nothing, if I just stay here, the glitch curse really won’t affect anyone?

Splicer:

I’m ninety percent sure its effects would not spread. However, as your Kennel becomes more populated, I can’t guarantee other Synths living here will not be corrupted. If you choose that course, it would be best if you had a Kennel of your own and limited your contact with other Synths.

Segun:

You mean I couldn’t even hang out with Nil anymore.

Splicer:

It might be dangerous for Nil.

Nil:

I don’t care. I wouldn’t leave Segun by herself. And I don’t race anyway.

Segun:

Server, are you hearing all this? Is there anything you can do?

Nil:

Ack! Get off me!

Quart:

Hehehe.

Nil:

How many times have I told you not to pull my tail feathers and not to hang from my wings.

Quart:

Loosen up a little, Nil. You’re too serious for a kid.

Segun:

Dr. Splicer, I’ll do it. I want you to rewrite my code so I don’t destroy the world for these kids.

Splicer:

You’re absolutely certain?

Segun:

I have to do what I can to keep moving, just like in a race. If I stop, I have no hope of ever reaching the finish line.

Splicer:

What an admirable girl. I’ll get to work on it right away.

~RUSTLE-RUSTLE~

Nil:

You let him ruffle your hair, and now it’s sticking up.

Segun:

Ak. ~TAP-TAP-TAP~ Is it better now?

Continued in pt 6

Thank you for reading!

Nil:

Good luck, Segun. It still looks weird seeing you in that transport chair.

Segun:

Why do I get the feeling that’s not what you want to say?

Nil:

I got you the code copy, but I don’t think this is a good idea. The Streamers are already hazing you. If something goes wrong…

Segun:

Do you not believe in me, Nil? Do you believe my existence is breaking the world?

Nil:

…The Server…finds you interesting. Impossible things happen around you, Segun, and mostly that’s been for the better. Odds are, bad things have to happen, too, though. I hope it’s not you, but I can’t believe it’s not you, not with all I’ve witnessed.

Segun:

Then I’ll just have to prove it to you, too.

Nil:

Don’t be upset. I don’t want it to be you. I would do anything to save you.

Segun:

I’d better go. The Flag match is starting. Will you watch?

Nil:

Of course. And the Ally Rose looks pretty tucked beside your fox ears like that.

Segun:

Thank- Ack! That teleporter still gets my stomach all twisted.

Announcer:

Team Gold vs Team Amethyst. Match Begin!

Segun:

Wait, what team am I on? And I barely know how to play this game. I thought there would be a tutorial for newcomers.

Fluffy:

This isn’t a b-baby match.

Segun:

Hey, it’s you again. Are we on the same team?

Fluffy:

Unfortunately, yes, c-complete with matching gold bracelets.

Segun:

Are you better at this than at racing?

Fluffy:

Ouch!

Segun:

Did you hurt yourself?

Fluffy:

No, you just— never mind. Get a m-move on. Everyone else is leaving us b-behind.

Segun:

So, we climb these vertical chains?

Fluffy:

Climb. Swing. The chains are the p-playing field.

Segun:

And there are supposed to be flags? I don’t see any.

Fluffy:

They’re wrapped around everyone’s n-necks.

Segun:

Oh, the bandanas are the flags. Got it. Whoa! Jumping from one chain to the next is not easy.

Fluffy:

Swing your hips to get your chain m-moving before you leap. It adds to your m-momentum.

Segun:

Like this?

Fluffy:

Y-yeah, l-like t-that.

Segun:

Why so squeaky?

Fluffy:

No reason.

Segun:

Hey! That guy just stole my bandana!

Fluffy:

That’s the p-point. You have to steal all the other team’s b-bandanas and have all of your own, then get to the endzone and t-trade the bandanas for the opponent’s gemstone.

Segun:

Then I’d better go get mine back! And take his while I’m at it.

~WHOOSH~ ~SPLASH~

Segun:

What ~COUGH-COUGH~ happened? Why did the ceiling fall and dunk us in the pool?

Announcer:

One gem awarded to Team Amethyst. Players, take positions on the chains at the outer edges of the field. Round two begins when the ceiling has risen back into place.

Segun:

Finally, some instruction at least. Is the other team that good? They sure got all of our bandanas in a hurry.

Fluffy:

No thanks t-to you.

Segun:

You either. I don’t think you even noticed your bandana was missing. Speaking of which, mine’s back. It just kind of appeared.

Fluffy:

Try not to lose it this t-time.

Segun:

Right back at ya.

~RING~

Announcer:

Round two. Begin.

Segun:

Oh no you don’t, purple team dude. How about I take your— Agg!

Whew! That was close.

Fluffy:

You have to remember to hold on to the chains.

Segun:

I didn’t forget. It was just a bad jump, okay? All these rattling sounds are jarring my nerves. I need to get in the zone and concentrate.

Fluffy:

G-good luck with that. I’m going to go f-find some purple bandanas to steal.

Segun:

Oof! Meanie purple team guy. It’s rude to crash into others with your big pig stomach! Wah, that was close! Stop charging at me! I’m new to this.

Pig:

Does that mean I should go easy on you? Fat chance.

Segun:

No, I’ll get the hang of this swinging stuff. Just— whoa, your stomach is a great springboard. I’ll take this, thank you!

Pig:

My bandana!

Amethyst:

No, thank you.

Segun:

Hey, you took both—

Amethyst:

Look at her, Pig, like a deer in the headlights all of a sudden.

Segun:

For a second there, I thought you were Knight. You look like him, all huge and red. Wait, your name really is Pig?

Pig:

It’s my master’s favorite animal. Bought every pig mod there was.

Amethyst:

Knight as in the missing Knight, the one the glitch erased?

Pig:

Man, that glitch should be deleted.

Amethyst:

I second that.

Segun:

Take that back. You don’t know what you’re talking about.

Amethyst:

Hehehe, look at that fuzzy tail and those flattened ears. You think she’s angry, Pig?

Captain:

What are you two doing circling that little girl? If you’ve already gotten her bandana, move on. We’ll lose ratings if the audience thinks you’re bullies.

Pig:

Yes, Captain.

Segun:

Ha!

Amethyst:

Ug, Pig get her off! She’s choking me!

Segun:

These bandanas are mine! This one, too!

Pig:

Ow! Penalty, penalty! She jumped on my head.

Segun:

I did not. I leapt off your shoulder.

Captain:

Don’t just hang there, dimwits! After her!

Segun:

Server, this is terrifying, but somehow also fun? Why did you suggest Death Matches before this back when you asked if I wanted to do another sport?

…Still not talking to me? That’s alright. I can do this on my own. No one has disappeared yet. No voids have popped up and tried to eat anyone.

~SNAP~

Segun:

Aggg! Oof. What happened to my chain? Am I supposed to call penalty?

Announcer:

Please remain calm.

Fluffy:

Why are chains d-disintegrating?

Pig:

Look at the stands!

Announcer:

Please remain calm and seated.

Pig:

Fat chance of that. The stadium is turning into pixels and floating off. No way those spectators are gonna stay in their chairs.

Amethyst:

See what ya did, little glitch lover? You brought the curse here just by thinking about it.

Segun:

Whoa, don’t swing at me! A kick like that could do serious damage. This isn’t a Death Match.

Pig:

Captain just got crunched by a big, black nothing.

Segun:

N-nothing isn’t scary.

Amethyst:

It is when it eats you.

Segun:

Seriously, stop trying to kick me. I’m pretty sure it’s against the rules.

Pig:

What rules? This is a battle for survival now.

Fluffy:

Agggg—

Segun:

Fluffy? No, it ate him, too. Why is this happening?

Pig:

That’s what we want to—

Segun:

Pig? Anybody? Why is it so dark?

Nil:

I brought you back to the Kennel. That whole stadium was crumbling.

Segun:

Has ~GULP~ Has anything like that ever happened before?

Nil:

I don’t know much about the other sports, just Death Matches because the streams talk about them so much and the races because that’s what our Masters watch, but…

Segun:

You think it was because of me.

Nil:

It can’t be a coincidence.

Segun:

…

Nil:

Hey, cheer up.

Segun:

Why? My existence is destroying our world.

Nil:

Did you at least figure out what that flower does?

Segun:

Besides tug on my hair when my ears move?

Nil:

Yeah, I noticed you weren’t moving that left one as much. Besides that…?

Segun:

Unless it destroyed the stadium, no. Do you think others made it out?

Nil:

…What I’m really afraid of is that none of them did, not even the Masters watching. That lady from the council will advocate to delete you for sure, then.

Segun:

But you don’t know? They could have made it? And those that did get sucked in, they could still be alive, waiting for us to rescue them somewhere.

Nil:

But without a connection to the Server…

Segun:

It’s possible, right? I need to find them. I’ll rescue them.

Nil:

…Segun, I really think you need to stay in the Kennel like the Committee said.

Segun:

You’re not on my team anymore, Nil?

Nil:

Please don’t fold your ears like that. I’m not betraying you. I want to help you, but you have to do what’s safe in the meantime while I figure out how to do that.

Segun:

How, Nil? How are you going to help me? Do you even know where to start?

Continued in pt 5

Thank you for reading!

Prima:

Should have known I’d find you here sulking in the back of the cave beneath the waterfall. Why are you staring at that message like it’s the barrel of a loaded gun?

Segun:

It’s from the Racing Regulation Committee. They say...they say I’m not allowed to race anymore. I can’t leave the Kennel.

Prima:

Don’t cry, Segun. Your chameleon scales copy the color of your tears, and you get unsightly invisibility streaking your face.

Segun:

How can I not cry, Prima? This is a nightmare. You heard the same stream last night. Even though Nil argued for me, they still think I should be deleted, and I...I’m not sure I can disagree.

Prima:

You want to get deleted?

Segun:

No, of course not. But Knight is dead because I exist. Because we exist.

Prima:

You don’t know that for sure.

Segun:

Now you look like Nil, hands on hips and wings all flared.

Prima:

And you look a mess, really, ears flopped to the side, face puffy and halfway invisible. One look at you could give a child a heart attack.

Segun:

~SNIFFLE~ I’m not...not half a creepy as you, sneaking up on me in the dark with your glowing blue marks on your wings and yellow dragon eyes. You look like a half-formed monster come to eat me.

Prima:

What if that’s what came for Knight? Perhaps there’s a new life form slinking through the Server? Didn’t you tell me the Server spoke to you, said it was a new consciousness? What if this is that trying to take on a physical form, but it needs fuel and parts? Materials it gets from feeding on us?

Segun:

That sounds like something out of a scary story.

Prima:

The best stories always have a basis of truth.

Segun:

~SNIFFLE~ W-what’s that?

Prima:

What?

Segun:

That! Hiding behind your leg!

Prima:

What, you’re afraid of this little child?

Segun:

Don’t hold her like that, Prima. Can’t you see she’s terrified?

Prima:

I told you your face would scare someone.

Segun:

I’m not the culprit. Put her down, she’s as stiff as a board.

Prima:

If I put her down, she’ll just glue herself to my leg again, and it annoys me.

Segun:

What’s your name little girl?

Prima:

You leaning over her like that with your grotesque face is only frightening her more.

Segun:

Let’s ignore the big, scary Prima, okay? Do you want me to try to guess your name?

Prima:

Oh, look a nod. Apparently, she can understand the spoken word.

Segun:

Hmm, you have huge, gorgeous green eyes. Maybe your name’s Emerald? No? Was I even close?

Prima:

Our Masters just changed her name when they bought her, Segun. They’re not really that creative.

Segun:

Well, she has adorable bunny ears hanging down her back and short, cerulean hair. Maybe Cotton?

Prima:

The wrinkled nose says she’d prefer it not be, but doesn’t specifically- okay, there’s the head shake.

Segun:

Pretty adamant, too. Eek! What just grabbed my tail?

Prima:

Spin faster. Maybe it’ll fly off.

~BOOM~

Prima:

That was actually pretty impressive.

Segun:

It’s another kid. He’s all curled up like an armadillo, and he looks so sweet asleep.

Prima:

You probably just killed him.

Segun:

Not a timely joke, Prima! Really, kid, are you okay? ~TAP-TAP~ Prima, he’s not responding, even when I tap his chubby cheeks.

Prima:

If you weren’t so violent, maybe you wouldn’t kill people so often.

Segun:

Prima, seriously!

Prima:

Just let that runny nose of yours drip on him.

Segun:

That would be disrespectful. Maybe if I hug him and wish hard enough it’ll resurrect him.

Prima:

I’d say that might only crush him, but he has an armadillo shell, so he should be fine.

Kid:

Huhuhu.

Segun:

Is he...is he laughing?

Prima:

Like I said, drip snot on him.

Kid:

You should have seen your face! Ow, don’t drop me. I’m fragile!

Segun:

Don’t tell me our masters bought this joker, too.

Kid:

That’s right. I’m now a part of Countdown for the Win Kennels, home of the epicness of Nil, and you’d better treat me right. I’ll be even more epic one day.

Prima:

More epic than Nil? That’s not a hard bar to clear, pipsqueak.

Kid:

My name’s not pipsqueak; it’s Quart. And that’s my sister, Tresca.

Prima:

Hahaha, I told you our masters weren’t very creative.

Segun:

Four and three? What were your names before?

Quart:

Doesn’t matter. They’ve been replaced in our memories anyway. I know I wasn’t always Quart, but now I can’t remember anyone ever calling me something different.

Prima:

Don’t worry, I’ll call you plenty of different things.

Quart:

Her teeth are kinda scary. Not that I’m scared or anything. I’m not scared of nothing!

Prima:

Easy, since “nothing” isn’t all that scary.

Segun:

Did you two recently hatch from your first cocoons?

Quart:

Yep, we’re five now and ready for some official Beginner Races. So, you’d better not mess them up for us, glitches.

Segun:

Don’t call us glitches. It’s rude.

Quart:

Isn’t it rude to break the world, too?

Segun:

I’m not breaking the world.

Quart:

The stream people say you are. So, where’s Nil? I want to meet him.

Segun:

I’m not breaking the world. I…I’m just me.

Quart:

I saw the end of your last race. You could barely move. The crowd was rooting against you.

Segun:

It works that way, too?

Quart:

You are older than me, right?

Segun:

…I’m not sure. There’s something about those onyx eyes of yours that seem familiar and older and wiser than dirt.

Quart:

Glad I’m wiser than dirt, then. Sadly, I can’t say the same for you. Come on, Tresca. We’re going to find Nil.

Segun:

But really, his eyes do seem too familiar. Like, who all do we know with black irises like that?

Prima:

Any Synth smart enough to earn the intelligence color in their first cocoon.

Segun:

He’s at least second generation, though, since he has a sibling and he’s not a glitch like us. He could have inherited his eyes from a parent. The mods, too, like Nil did.

Prima:

Discussing the lineage of random children is fascinating and all, but I actually came here to ask you about that prize you got in the Volcano Race, you know, for coming in last. What’s it do?

Segun:

You want it Prima? You can have it.

Prima:

You misheard the question. What does it do?

Segun:

I don’t know.

Prima:

Wear it. Figure it out. It might help you. And, if you discover it’s useful, then I might want it.

Segun:

It…why would they give me a prize for coming in last?

Prima:

I don’t know if you can see my shoulders shrugging in the dark, but they can’t wrap around the concept any more than my brain can. It’s what has me so curious about this Ally Rose.

Segun:

Oh sure, I should just wear it around the Kennel. Because I so feel like showing off for the large crowd watching me here.

Prima:

There are kids here now. That’s something.

Segun:

Why am I the glitch, Prima? You’re also a twin Synth. Why am only I being punished?

Prima:

Why was it only you who received a prize when I won first place?

Segun:

They didn’t give you anything?

Prima:

Such an observant thing you are. The masters got prize money, but no, you got the mod.

Segun:

That is strange. What if this mod could help me fix things?

Prima:

Like your face?

Segun:

Like our world. I have to explore this more. I refuse to be stuck here. I have to see what’s going on for myself, see how much I’m really affecting things.

Prima:

What’ll you do if you enter a race and someone else gets deleted?

Segun:

I’m not going to enter a race. I’ll start this experiment by entering a different competition.

Prima:

A Death Match? The skill of summoning a void to devour your opponent would definitely come in handy there.

Segun:

I don’t want to kill people. I’ll enter one of the other sports. Like Flags.

Prima:

And if more people get sucked into non-existence?

Segun:

They won’t. I’m ninety percent sure it’s not me. I’ve finally gotten to leave the Kennel and do things. My freedom, my fulfilling my purpose can’t be evil, can’t be destruction incarnate.

Prima:

The masters can’t approve it, and I don’t think they would even if they could.

Segun:

I’ll need a code copy like before. Good thing I know who can get one for me.

Continued in pt 4

Thank you for reading!

Reporter:

Still unknown is the location of Knight, a Synth belonging to the Superior Victory Association of Kennels. Knight is most notably recognized for performing as the Second of Quintis, also of the Superior Victory Association of Kennels, in the recent Expert Race.

Sitting with us here live are game analysis expert, Dr. William Windfern; Dr. Kagawa Ushio, a representative of the Council for Maintaining Artificial Intelligence; and Nil of Countdown for the Win Kennels, a Synth prodigy who won the most recent Expert Race.

Dr. Windfern, has any progress been made with regards to finding the location of Knight or what may have happened?

Windfern:

Unfortunately not on either count. As far as the Server’s reports are concerned, Knight simply never existed.

Nil:

But the Server has to remember Knight. I still remember Knight, and aren’t my memories part of the Server?

Windfern:

While the Server has access to the memories of all Synths, such information is compartmentalized. As part of your controversial rights, for instance, I could not ask the Server to play back any of your memories.

Nil:

Does it remember any of the races Knight was in? Like, who does it say was Quintis’ Second?

Windfern:

While those records remain intact, they are merely placeholders with no actual ties to the individual in question. What is more vital and missing are the path headers that maintained his connection.

Nil:

Without a connection to the Server, we die!

Windfern:

Exactly. Whether or not Knight’s body still exists, the Server cannot find it. For a human, it would be like transporting somewhere without your heart, a very fatal happening indeed.

Reporter:

Dr. Kagawa, that’s quite the expression you’re making. Are you alright?

Kagawa:

When little Nil leapt up like that, I feared his wing would hit me in the face.

Reporter:

Quite understandable. His raven wings are as spectacular as they are large. Nil, would you mind retaking your seat?

Nil:

Oh, sure.

Kagawa:

I did have something I wanted to remark upon, if I may? If Knight is indeed deleted or dead, which is highly likely at this point, do we consider this murder or merely damages for the Superior Victory Association of Kennels?

Nil:

Murder. He’s alive. If someone killed him, that’s murder.

Kagawa:

Yes, the Council has advocated rights for Synths as a sapient race for years, but other problems arise from such a stand, namely the issue of ownership and the likelihood of Synths dying in the various sports overseen by the Server. For instance, should a Synth be charged with murder for killing another Synth in a Death Match?

Nil:

Yes. Death Matches need to be stopped.

Kagawa:

As should the Expert Race with its high-fatality rate.

Windfern:

On whom would you pin this murder, Kagawa? The Server? The company which owns the Server?

Kagawa:

In this particular case, we cannot overlook the fact that the glitch stood right next to Knight when the void opened.

Windfern:

You believe this was a result of the glitch’s presence?

Nil:

What do you mean, “the glitch”?

Kagawa:

The twin Synths Prima and Segundo are anomalies the Server was not designed to support. I do not think it a coincidence that in their first race together something this catastrophic happened.

Nil:

You think this was Segun’s fault just because she was there?

Windfern:

The theory has merit. The presence of a glitch usually results in other programs going awry. If left unchecked, this could spiral out of control.

Reporter:

Does this mean the glitch should not be allowed to compete anymore?

Windfern:

At least until we can find a solution. We wouldn’t want another tragedy to occur.

Nil:

But competing is a Synth’s purpose.

Windfern:

Haven’t you gone on record several times expressing your desire never to compete again?

Nil:

Yes, but that’s just me. I know how much racing means to Segun. If she couldn’t race…

Kagawa:

She would feel like she might as well not exist?

Nil:

Well, yeah. I don’t like saying it that way, but yes, that’s how important racing is to her. If you take away her ability to compete, you’ll take away what makes her Segun.

Kagawa:

Erasing her may be the only solution to the problem.

Nil:

You can hear yourself, right? You sound like a villain.

Kagawa:

I am not the villain, Nil. It is unfortunate, but sometimes individual growths must be culled for the greater good. A rose growing in the middle of the path is a lovely flower, for sure, but it is still a weed simply because it grew where it ought not. It did nothing wrong besides exist, but its existence is miserable and it inhibits others, so it must be pulled.

Nil:

Bet you wouldn’t talk about a human like that.

Reporter:

Nil, I must ask you to sit down again.

Nil:

She’s talking about deleting Segun!

Windfern:

If worse comes to worst, that may have to happen, but rest assured we will exhaust all other possibilities before committing to such a drastic course of action.

Kagawa:

How long do you think that will take? What if others die in the meantime? What if next time it is not a big name like Knight but instead some unknown little girl’s first pet? Will you explain to her what happened and why you did nothing?

Windfern:

I wouldn’t say we are doing nothing.

Kagawa:

That’s what it will seem to her. How many have to die, Windfern? Where do we draw the line?

Nil:

What if you delete Segun and it doesn’t fix anything because she didn’t have anything to do with it? You’re just jumping to conclusions because it’s easy to blame the glitch!

Reporter:

Nil, you cannot jump around in here. You’ll hurt someone.

Nil:

What’ll you do, delete me, too?

Kagawa:

Clearly this child is not ready to be part of a mature, adult discussion.

Nil:

I’ll sit, but really, I want to see how mature you’d be if this group started talking about killing someone you loved for no reason.

Kagawa:

Let it go on record that this Synth exhibits the capacity to feel love for another, something certain experts tell us is impossible.

Windfern:

It is impossible. Nil is merely mimicking behavior he has seen, nothing more profound. The emotions of Synths are illusions.

Nil:

Human emotions are just chemicals.

Reporter:

Can we get back to the topic at hand? This is supposed to be about finding Knight.

Nil:

How far does the illusion go? Is it just emotions, or is it our whole place in the world? When I show off my wings or do some cool trick, is what you feel just an illusion, too?

Reporter:

Nil, we are not diving into human philosophy.

Nil:

I’m just trying to say if our emotions don’t matter, why do yours?

Continued in pt 3

Thank you for reading!

Announcer:

Five…Four…Three…Two…One…Volcano Advanced Race begin!

Segun:

Woot! Let’s do this!

Racer:

Hey, s-stay in your own lane!

Segun:

Oh, sorry. I didn’t know. I’m not supposed to cross this chalky line?

Racer:

What are you, n-new to racing?

Segun:

Well, this is only my third race, and it’s my first as far as Advanced races go. Will we have lanes the whole time?

Racer:

No, j-just until we reach that lake up ahead.

Prima:

Don’t look so cute with your hand on the back of your head and fluffy tail waving, Segun. Look, you’ve got him blushing and all flustered.

Racer:

I-I’m not…Wait, are you Prima and Segun from the Expert Race?

Prima:

That’s us. Feel free to bow and bask in our glory.

Racer:

You look d-different in person.

Segun:

We’ve changed a bit since we were in the Expert Race.

Racer:

Yeah, weren’t Prima’s wings s-smaller…and purple?

Segun:

She got that monarch butterfly pattern as a prize for being my assistant in the Expert Race.

Prima:

Everyone who crosses the finish line of the Expert Race gets a prize because it’s a bit of a big deal.

Segun:

Because she applied the pattern just before we went into our Third Cocoon, it got rendered on her wings in black and azure.

Racer:

What p-prize did you get?

Segun:

Mine isn’t as noticeable right away.

Prima:

Or at all, really, if you want to be technical.

Segun:

Prima, you cheater, don’t just fly over the lake.

Prima:

It’s not cheating. It’s using my assets. Flying is faster than leaping across those steppingstones.

Racer:

The c-cave’s getting shorter anyway. She won’t be able to f-fly for much longer.

Segun:

This is such a beautiful cave, isn’t it? I mean, it’s not just a plain pond with boring steppingstones. The water sparkles, glowing almost, and its light draws squiggles on the ceiling and walls. Even the moss seems like art, like flowers and willow branches.

Racer:

Are you m-mocking the rest of us, commentating on the s-scenery and spinning while the rest of us are doing our best just to keep up while running in a s-straight line?

Segun:

No, I just think a lot of work went into crafting our surroundings, and I’m appreciating it. I love racing, and I’d never use it as a chance to mock anyone.

Racer:

You could have f-fooled me. You b-begin in the lowest-ranked start space, then prance around like this race is nothing. It probably is n-nothing to someone like you who came in the top three at the Expert Race.

Segun:

It’s not nothing. It means the world to me to be able to race. Like I said, this is only my third, and—

Racer:

So what are you going to d-do, play around and make us look bad for a decade until the next Expert Race c-comes along?

Segun:

I’m sorry if it seems like I’m trying to make you look bad. I’m not. I’m just trying to appreciate every moment of being here.

Racer:

Hey, don’t— Your fox ears are— Don’t hold them all c-crooked and sad like that. My heart can’t take it.

Segun:

Will you forgive me?

Racer:

Gah, halfway up like that is w-worse!

Prima:

Don’t kill him with your cuteness, Segun. Look, he’s turning the color of a tomato, and I think he’s forgotten how to breathe.

Racer:

~COUGH-COUGH~

Prima:

Poor guy, just before we have to go underwater, too.

Segun:

Wait, we have to go down?

Prima:

Unless you plan on carving a path through that solid rock wall, but there should be a much easier path beneath it.

Segun:

I’d believe you, but there’s a net only about knee-deep beneath the surface.

Prima:

Ow, my face!

Segun:

You should have listened to me before you dove.

Prima:

Hm, there has to be a way down there.

Racer:

Ag!!

Prima:

Aren’t you useful? Just gotta find another collapsible steppingstone. Here. This one looks slightly darker than the others.

Segun:

Wah!

Prima:

No fair finding one before me. You weren’t even really looking.

Segun:

Here. I’ll hold the flipping part of the net still so you can come through.

Prima:

I’m not your Second this time; I’m your competitor. Why are you helping me?

Segun:

Oh right. I guess that is kind of— Hey, wait up! Don’t just dive through after saying something like that!

~SPLASH~

Oh wow, the water’s actually very shallow. Thanks for catching me, Prima. Is there even anything below us, or does that blue stretch on forever?

Prima:

Lame-os who can’t fly should stay in the floating water.

Segun:

I get it. It’s like they’re still steppingstones, but now they’re liquid spheres, and I have to leap from one to the next.

Prima:

They had to go and try to make this complicated for fliers, too, with all these waving nets. How inconvenient to have to weave between the spheres to find the next openings.

Segun:

I’d tell you that you fly so gracefully ~SPLASH~ but I’m afraid it might go to your head.

Prima:

You should try to swim a little more gracefully. No one cheers for awkward penguins, and you know how much cheers help you.

Segun:

I’m not an ~SPLASH~ awkward penguin! ~SPLASH~ I move as ~SPLASH~ smooth and eloquently as ~SPLASH~ a dolphin.

Prima:

Keep telling yourself that.

Segun:

What happened to the other racer? ~SPLASH~

Prima:

He— Whoa, net, watch where you’re flapping. He has a stingray’s wings, so this is the perfect setup for him, gliding between spheres.

Segun:

Good. ~SPLASH~ Now he can’t complain it’s unfair when we catch up.

Prima:

You look like a drowned rat.

Segun:

And you look like a fly trying to dodge ~SPLASH~ spiderwebs.

Prima:

Alright nets, you’re annoying me.

Segun:

Prima, don’t breathe fire so close to me! ~SPLASH~

Prima:

It’s not like I hurt you.

Segun:

Someday I’ll get a mod that ~SPLASH~ lets me spit acid or something ~SPLASH~ and then we’ll see how much you like it.

Prima:

That’s just like you, to think up such a disgusting mod to give yourself. Guess you can’t really top my fire anyway.

Segun:

Just you wait. ~SPLASH~ I’ll have plenty of people ~SPLASH~ who think I’m cooler than you ~SPLASH~ I’m just getting started!

Prima:

Oh, I’m so worried. Oops.

Segun:

Prima!

Prima:

I hiccupped. It wasn’t on purpose.

Segun:

Just like I happened to be ~SPLASH~ in the last startup space. ~SPLASH~ I bet you rigged that, too.

Prima:

Why would I do such a thing and place myself in the third worst spot, besides?

Segun:

Then why? ~SPLASH~ We’re talented racers. It just makes the others look bad.

Prima:

It’s a penalty because we were a no-show at the Quicksand Advanced Race.

Segun:

But that wasn’t our fault! Our Third Cocoon started. ~SPLASH~ Cocoons are unpredictable, and you can’t get out of one until it’s done.

Prima:

It was poor planning on the part of our masters. They were riding the high of our incredible win and didn’t plan very well. They knew our Cocoon was close. They shouldn’t have signed us up for anything.

Segun:

Then why did you get a better spot than Random Dude? ~SPLASH~

Racer:

My n-name is Fluffy.

Segun:

You don’t look very fluffy. ~SPLASH~ Your mods are ocean-based.

Fluffy:

~SIGH~ My master’s older s-sister set my name as a ~SPLASH~ joke. She didn’t realize names c-couldn’t be changed.

Segun:

I understand. Officially I’m ~SPLASH~ Segundo, but I prefer Segun. I’d change ~SPLASH~ it if I could.

Prima:

He should be Infundibulum for those octopus suckers on his arms.

Fluffy:

Don’t fly so c-close to me. ~SPLASH~

Prima:

I ate an octopus once.

Segun:

Then you threw it up. ~SPLASH~

Prima:

It was weird.

Fluffy:

P-probably not weirder than you. ~SPLASH~

Prima:

Rude, pushing me.

Segun:

~SPLASH~ Prima, you didn’t answer my question.

Prima:

Because the answer’s obvious. I won my last race. Clearly, he didn’t.

Segun:

My last race was the Expert Race, and I ~SPLASH~ came in second. That should count ~SPLASH~ more than if he came in second in some other ~SPLASH~ race. Why wasn’t I placed ahead of ~SPLASH~ him? Don’t shrug at me.

Prima:

Maybe he has a record of winning his races like I do. But it’s obviously not as good a record as mine.

Segun:

I also have a record of winning. ~SPLASH~

Prima:

Yeah, a record of two races, and your baby race doesn’t count.

Fluffy:

I think we’re just ~SPLASH~ g-going around in circles.

Prima:

You’re right. This conversation is pointless. Segun’s never going to get it.

Segun:

Look, this net looks thicker than the others. I think it stretches further, too. And the hashing is just wide enough for me to squeeze through.

Fluffy:

Prima, please don’t— You’re shaking the whole thing— Your wings won’t f-fit!

Prima:

My wings are— Ha, made it through! Don’t doubt me. My wings are awesome. Any statement otherwise is a falsehood.

Segun:

And there she goes, flying off like a drama queen.

Fluffy:

Showing off like a p-prodigy. I bet ninety percent of the c-crowd is rooting for Prima.

Segun:

Hm, the breeze is coming from below.

Fluffy:

No one ever notices the s-slimy octopus kid. I don’t think I’ve ever had more than t-two people root for me at once.

Segun:

Maybe you just need to do something a little more outstanding.

Fluffy:

Like what?

Segun:

Jump off this net with me.

Fluffy:

Um, there is literally n-nothing below us.

Segun:

Nothing but air.

Fluffy:

Your smile is f-freaking me out.

Segun:

Come on!

Fluffy:

Aggg! I want it on record that you m-murdered me! I didn’t jump of my own…we’re not falling. We’re rising!

Segun:

Because the breeze is pushing on your stingray wings. Spread them further, and I bet we’ll go faster.

Fluffy:

Wouldn’t I go faster if you weren’t c-clinging to me?

Segun:

You’d consider dropping me here?

Fluffy:

Well, if it would w-win me the race…why do your ears look like they’re challenging me?

Segun:

It wouldn’t win you the race. By strict physics, this breeze shouldn’t be strong enough to lift you, let alone both of us, but it is, and that means people are rooting for us. In this world, the love of the crowd can keep you from dying. But what do you think would happen if you purposefully dropped me?

Prima:

I might consider catching her. I mean, I don’t think Nil would let me live it down if I happened to let Segun die in her first Advanced Race.

Segun:

When you roll your eyes as you say such things, I can really see how much you care.

Fluffy:

Oof, the c-crowd couldn’t have given us a better landing?

Segun:

My landing was fine. It’s not the crowd’s fault you didn’t pull your feet under you when you saw we were nearing the edge here.

Fluffy:

I was d-distracted by the million copies of me. Are these all m-mirrors?

Segun:

Yeah, they are a little disconcerting. All distorted, too. Look at this one. I’m like a pear.

Prima:

Yes, quite the pair you make. A pair of slowpokes who’ll end up last in this race, just like they started.

Fluffy:

Was that the r-real Prima I just saw or another reflection?

Segun:

She’s scary either way, honestly.

Prima:

I heard that.

Segun:

I didn’t intend for you not to.

Fluffy:

I can’t t-tell what’s real and what’s a reflection. Oh, my head. I can’t even tell if I’m the real m-me!

Segun:

Just close your eyes and follow my voice, Fluffy. Ooh, this reflection of mine has a handlebar mustache, hahaha!

Fluffy:

Don’t break out in m-maniacal laughter. This place is c-creepy enough. ~BANG~ Ow, my face! Aggg!

Prima:

That’s how you know you’re well and truly ugly, when you open your eyes to see your own reflection and freak out.

Fluffy:

My r-reflection didn’t have a head. I didn’t have a h-head!

Prima:

You’d better leave him behind, Segun. He’s only going to get squeakier.

Segun:

Come on, Fluffy, have a little fun. Look, this reflection of mine has fangs instead of eyes.

Fluffy:

You f-find that fun!

Segun:

It’s not real, at least, so yeah, I’ll laugh at it because it’s silly. Here, you laugh at your ridiculous reflection, too. Take your hands off your eyes.

Fluffy:

No, you can’t m-make me. This doesn’t bother you at all because it’s n-normal for you.

Segun:

How would this be normal for me?

Prima:

Now you look like Nil with your hands on your hips and all lecture-ly.

Segun:

Prima, are you purposely doing laps around us?

Prima:

Well, I’m certainly not lost in this simple maze. Ow! Stupid mirror jumped right out in front of me.

Segun:

Punishment for lying?

Prima:

I could have dodged it had I wanted. Just wanted to see what it felt like.

Segun:

Fluffy, answer me. How do you think I have the advantage here?

Fluffy:

Because you and Prima have the s-same face. All these g-grotesque reflections, it’s what you see every day when you l-look at one another.

Prima:

Hahahaha! Hit the nail right on the head, Fluff-face.

Fluffy:

Really, would you j-just go? I might be able to m-make if I didn’t have to see so many reflections. I don’t like c-crowds.

Segun:

Oh. Well, good luck. Hopefully we’ll see you closer to the finish line.

Fluffy:

Yeah, w-whatever.

Segun:

Prima. Prima! Do you really think— Ow, stupid mirror. Do you really see me as a grotesque reflection of you?

Prima:

Certainly no one could mistake us for one another, despite us having the same basic face.

Segun:

But my mods are cuter. I mean, we both have golden eyes, but mine are more feline and yours more reptilian.

Prima:

Are you trying to say cats are cuter than dragons?

Segun:

A lot of people think so, yes.

Prima:

Next you’ll say your fox tail is better than my huge, dazzling wings, and we know that’s not true.

Segun:

Well, again, the masters always call me cute when I wag it. It is kind of heavy now that’s it’s longer, though. I wish it could go back to being smaller and fluffier like it was before our cocoon.

Prima:

And those ears sticking up stupidly and giving away your every emotion, you think they’re more appealing than my mask of scales?

Segun:

That part of you is actually a little scary. I mean, it looks like eyeshadow gone very wrong and exploding into a beak where your nose should be.

Prima:

Oh how the artist is misunderstood by those with no taste. Farewell to thee.

Segun:

Wait, Prima! Don’t just fly off. How am I supposed to get up there?

Segun:

Hmm, that must really be the path. This is a dead end…unless maybe I can dig through the wall. It would be useful to have someone like Knight along with me for this. Who designed this room anyway? Who puts spikes on the ceiling, then makes everyone go up through the middle of them?

Segun:

I hope this wasn’t the maze exit that only fliers were supposed to find. Maybe I should go back and—Wah!

Knight:

HAHA! I HOPED THAT TAIL OF YOURS WOULD STILL HILARIOUSLY FUZZ OUT WHEN YOU WERE FRIGHTENED.

Segun:

Why would you sneak up out of nowhere and throw me like that? I was almost impaled on the spikes.

Knight:

BUT NOW YOU ARE EXACTLY WHERE YOU NEED TO BE, LITTLE GIRL. DON’T PIN YOUR EARS BACK LIKE A HISSING CAT. I JUST SAVED YOU A LOT OF TIME.

Segun:

How is this where I’m supposed to be, clinging from the ceiling and trying not to get stabbed?

Knight:

YOU REALLY ARE DUMB, AREN’T YOU? LOOK BY YOUR RIGHT HAND. SEE THE BUTTON? YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO USE THE ROCK AND SEE-SAW IN THE CORNER TO GET UP THERE, AND NOW WE HAVE SKIPPED THE NEED FOR THAT STEP. PUSH THE BUTTON ALREADY.

Segun:

What does the button do exactly?

Knight:

WHY SO SUDDENLY SUSPICIOUS? DID YOU NOT WISH FOR MY PRESENCE?

Segun:

Are you here specifically as a result of that wish? Or is this all coincidence?

Knight:

HAPPENSTANCE LUCKY FOR YOU AND SURE TO DRIVE ME FROM MY MIND. PRESS THE BUTTON LEST I MUST RESORT TO THE SEE-SAW.

Segun:

Ah, it squealed. The spikes are moving! Eek!

Knight:

DON’T “EEK!” LIKE A HELPLESS WORM. JUST MOVE OUT OF THE WAY.

Segun:

I’ve never heard a worm go “eek!” even when Prima ate them. Ooh, there are blocks on top of the moving spikes. Should I jump on them?

Knight:

IF YOU CANNOT FIGURE OUT THAT MUCH, THEN THERE TRULY IS NO HOPE LEFT FOR YOU.

Segun:

They should have called this the Steppingstone Advanced Race.

Knight:

PERHAPS IF YOU WIN, THEY WIL DEIGN TO ALLOW YOU TO SUBMIT A NAME CHANGE SUGGESTION, BUT THAT IS A VERY LARGE IF.

Segun:

Hey, if. As if you think you’ll beat me. I beat you in the Expert Race, didn’t I?

Knight:

ONLY BECAUSE I WAS NOT COMPETING. I WAS REQUIRED TO STAY WITHIN A CERTAIN DISTANCE OF QUINTIS AND AID HIM.

Segun:

Yes, Quintis, the best, most famous racer ever, and together you still lost to Nil, Prima, and I. Because we’re amazing. Mostly Nil and I.

Knight:

DON’T DALLY OR I WILL LEAP ON YOU.

Segun:

Also, if I stay on a block too long, I’ll get scraped off when it slides under other spikes.

Knight:

NOT AS PRESSING A DANGER AS THE ONE I MENTIONED WILL HAPPEN IF YOU DON’ HURRY UP.

Segun:

I’m hurrying, I’m hurrying. How far does this vertical, spike-covered tunnel go, anyway? That button really activated a lot of platforms.

Knight:

MUST YOU SPEAK TO MOVE YOUR LEGS?

Segun:

Maybe? At least I don’t have to specifically tell them what to do. Any words work.

Knight:

FINALLY, THE TOP, WHERE I NO LONGER MUST BE STUCK BEHIND YOU DUE TO LACK OF STANDING ROOM.

Segun:

Not my fault you take up so much space. Oh, wow. And here I was wondering why this was called the Volcano Race. Just look at all these lava falls.

Knight:

MAGMA.

Segun:

What?

Knight:

WE ARE STILL UNDERGROUND, SO THAT BURNING, DELIQUESCED ROCK IS PROPERLY TERMED MAGMA.

Segun:

So fancy. Well, it’s gorgeous, all these deep reds and oranges. It’s slower than water, too, almost like time has slowed, or like I’m running super fast. Watch, I can even dart through one of these gaps before it closes.

Knight:

I SUPPOSE SUCH ANTICS WILL WIN YOU THE ATTENTION OF FANS.

Segun:

Oh, sometimes I forget they’re watching me. Knight, you said you’d be glad not to be stuck behind me, but you haven’t passed me yet.

Knight:

YOUR PACE IS DECENT NOW.

Segun:

I don’t think you can run fast enough to keep up with me. Wanna try it? Really go all out and sprint?

Knight:

ONLY IMMATURE CHILDREN WASTE ENERGY.

Segun:

Is it really a waste if— Oh! Well, that was close.

Knight:

FOR SHAME. SUCH A LOVELY ROCK THAT WAS.

Segun:

And that lava geyser totally hurled it against the ceiling. That rock would have been me if I hadn’t jumped back.

Knight:

I WOULD ADVISE WATCHING YOUR STEP.

Segun:

I don’t think it’s our steps. I mean, look at how huge your feet are, and you shake the ground. There’s no way you could navigate a minefield.

Knight:

UNDERESTIMATING YOUR OPPONENTS IS THE STRATEGY OF THE MOST TRAGIC LOSERS.

Segun:

What I’m saying is, well, just watch.

Knight:

THE LUMINOUS SPOT FOLLOWS YOU, EVEN WHEN YOU LEAP, AS IF IT CAN SEE YOU.

Segun:

Yep. If it went by touch alone, I think it would be more attracted to you than me, but it aims for me because I’m moving more.

Knight:

A TRAP FOR SMALLER, FASTER RACERS.

Segun:

But if it only goes after fast racers it can see…

Knight:

DID YOU JUST…ARE YOU STILL THERE?

Segun:

Over here now, actually!

Knight:

DID YOU TELEPORT?

Segun:

You really didn’t see me?

Knight:

I DON’T SEE YOU NOW.

Segun:

Boo!

Knight:

NOT AMUSING. AH, I SEE NOW. YOU HAVE CAMOUFLAGING SCALES.

Segun:

Chameleon skin. It’s the mod I got for finishing the Expert Race.

Knight:

INVISIBILITY. THAT’S A USEFUL MOD INDEED. VERY EXPENSIVE ON THE BLACK MARKET.

Segun:

I’m not going to sell it. Besides, it went through my Third Cocoon with me, so it’s a part of me now. I can’t remove it. I wouldn’t want to either.

Knight:

WOULD YOU NOT RIDE ON MY BACK? I AM NOT YOUR TEAMMATE.

Segun:

Oh, I was just avoiding the geysers. They seem not to care about your shuffling.

Knight:

GET OFF.

Segun:

Okay, grumpy. Now tell me what mod you got for finishing the Expert Race.

Knight:

SECONDS DO NOT WIN ANYTHING.

Segun:

But Prima did.

Knight:

YOU AND PRIMA ARE GLITCHES. I EXPECT NOTHING NORMAL FROM YOU TWO.

Segun:

Are you sure you didn’t get a super special mod from the Expert Race?

Knight:

IT WOULD BE A DIFFICULT THING FOR ME NOT TO NOTICE.

Segun:

Then what’s that black swirling, galaxy-like thing growing behind you?

Knight:

WHAT?

Segun:

Don’t stop and stare at it. Just run!

Knight:

I AM LOATH TO ADMIT IT, BUT THIS IS MY SWIFTEST SPRINT.

Segun:

Maybe if I win this race, I’ll submit a suggestion to change your name to Turtle. Move it, big guy! It is literally right behind you!

Knight:

I CANNOT SEE ANY CLAWS, BUT I FEEL THEM WRAPPED AROUND ME.

Segun:

Thrashing is only slowing you down. Keep running! Knight! Knight? Knight!!!! It just…it just swallowed him. Maybe…maybe it’s just a holding trap, and they’ll let him out when everyone else finishes the race. Yeah, I just have to get up and finish.

Segun:

But why do I feel so heavy, like I’m trying to run in water with a boulder strapped to my back? The finish line is right there.

Fluffy:

Ears all the way b-back like that? Something wrong?

Segun:

How can you move so freely? I feel like I’m stuck in molasses.

Fluffy:

Hey look, there are only f-five others waiting across the finish line. I won’t actually c-come in last this time. I might even b-beat you, so I won’t come in second-to-last either.

Segun:

Wait, there’s only you, me, and Knight left?

Fluffy:

No way I’m w-waiting. This is m-my chance!

Segun:

No I. Can barely. Move.

Prima:

Not that this isn’t normal, but you look awful, Segun.

Announcer:

All racers have crossed the finish line. Please form an array for the awards ceremony. First place, Prima.

Prima:

As if it was going to be any other way.

Fluffy:

I…I actually didn’t get in last. I d-didn’t get in last!

Segun:

Where is Knight? Announcer, are they going to let him out?

Announcer:

And isn’t this unexpected? Our last place racer has unlocked a rare mod, the Ally Rose.

Segun:

It’s beautiful, really, but I’m not in last place. Where is Knight?

Announcer:

Prepare yourselves, racers. You will be teleported back to your Kennels in three seconds.

Segun:

Wait, Knight’s still not here. Why aren’t you answering me?

Announcer:

Please unhand this NPC. There is no information relevant to your query.

Segun:

Knight! You must know him. He was right there just a moment ago. This void thing ate him, and he’s waiting for you to let him out.

Announcer:

There is no record of a racer designated Knight.

Segun:

No, that can’t be. He was just…

Server, I know you don’t talk to me anymore, but can’t you tell me this one thing? What happened? Is Knight dead? Why doesn’t the Announcer remember him? Please Server? This can’t be right!

Continued in pt 2

Thank you for reading!

This story is a sequel to Second, which can be found here: https://theprose.com/book/1671/second-a-synths-dialogue-only-story

We glance(d) at each other from across the room.

I look(ed) down at the floor.

You snicker(ed) at my shyness.

We head(ed) towards the door.

I accept(ed) your flirtatious offer.

We snuggle(d), grab(bed) a few drinks.

A few years went by like nothing.

A marriage on the brink.

We elope(d) out of nowhere.

Scary, yet exhilarating fun.

I figure(d) this euphoria could last forever.

You seem(ed) to be the one.

...

But she also seemed to be the one.

The one who won over me.

The days that once felt so alive

Are now ancient history.

And now I’m alone in this empty room.

When we met, what we felt was true.

But I guess someone else caught your eye.

But I still really, really, love(d) you.

White glistens like the surface of the moon as far as I can see in all directions. No hills or valleys delineate space; flatness stretches to infinity. I could walk forever and still never leave.

For a time, I do walk. Am I getting anywhere? Everything’s still the same. Where is this place? Why am I here? And how?

What did I do last? Sleep. After a long, busy day, I put on my comfy-but-ugly pajamas and slipped between my sheets. I assume my head hit the pillow. I was out before it did.

Is this a dream?

It doesn’t feel like a dream. What is a dream supposed to feel like?

I don’t know, but not this. As if I am at the end of a pendulum, both light and heavy, falling and flying. It’s hard to breathe, but the gurgling burn in my lungs seems distant.

How long have I walked? If my asthma’s kicking up, perhaps I should sit. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a chair?

An armchair appears, dense, dark planks set in rigid angles rising from the white as if launched through powdered snow.

Can this place hear my thoughts? Does it exist to fulfill my wishes? How convenient.

I think of a different seat, and the single piece of furniture transforms, growing plush blue cushions and a handle to toggle it to recline.

How suspicious. I’ve read enough dystopia to know that too-perfect things only mask equal amounts of too-harsh oppression. Now that I’ve discovered the good, how long will it take me to find the evil here?

“Hours.” A man appears as if stepping out of mist. He wears green scrubs and a white coat. It’s not the same white as everything else, duller, less sparkly.

I don’t like the idea of him being able to read my mind, too. “It’ll only take me hours to find what’s wrong with this place?”

“You only have hours left. To do anything.”

“You mean”—I meet his gaze. It is like the sky on a day where the sun decided not to be ignored—“I have only hours to live. I’m about to die. How can you know that?”

“Your body knows it. Think of me as your subconscious.”

My subconscious is a doctor. Nothing weird about that. Though I probably would have gotten farther in life being a main-conscious doctor with a subconscious artist.

“Might my body be wrong? Might it be lying?”

“You can’t breathe. Can you hear your heart?”

Yes. Like war drums.

“No matter how hard it pumps, blood without oxygen is worthless. Your organs are shutting down. This space inside your mind will be the last to go, but as I said, you have only hours. This is my last gift to you, all I can give.” His eyes flash in challenge. “So what will you do?”

All my unfinished projects cascade before my eyes, creations that will never see completion now. Not unless—

“Nothing you do here will affect the outside world.”

“That’s not fair!” Hot, sticky tears dribble down my cheeks. How cliché to cry when death is imminent. I don’t want to be cliché.

My tears heed the wish and rise instead of fall. Like a halo of stars, they sparkle around my head.

“Not fair? You can do anything, no consequences. Every dream can come true, everything playing out just as you want it. Is that not a blessing?”

“But if it’s not real, what good’ll it do? It’ll just end!”

“So you’ll waste it just because it won’t last as long as you’d like?”

I glare at him. I have hours. Precious hours. Rather than count them, I should make them count. How, though? What should I do?

What would you do?

If you’re here experiencing this with me, are you any more real than the chair I conjured? Will you die with me when our hours are up?

Then I guess what I should ask is: What will you do?