Chapter 1: Where it all began

Our present is currently being reshaped by a new reality: virtual reality. Many of us are eager to immerse ourselves in this exciting new world. But when will it become a reality?

The early 2030s have arrived, and with them a revolutionary new technology. For the first time at a technology exhibition, the full immersion installation made headlines in all information portals. It's hard to imagine how many people were searching for answers to their questions. I was one of those people searching for answers, and my quest would have a profound impact on my life. I discovered things I never could have imagined and explored the depths of a new world. Words cannot describe the emotions I felt in this world, and even my memories cannot do them justice.

But let's start at the beginning: the moment I entered this reality.

Chapter One. Evening of May 24th, 2027.

For as long as I can remember, I've always been passionate about games. And then, when I opened a pop-up news feed about the release of a fully immersive car model for diving into an alternate reality, I didn't know how to react. After all, I had been waiting for such a car for years. Imagine sailing the expanses of a fictional world, feeling a sword in your hand, learning magic, and perhaps even becoming a monster. That's what everyone dreamed and hoped for with all their soul. But seeing the price tag on my dream car, I was brought back to the reality of my life as an ordinary shut-in in the gaming industry. In theory, I could afford such a price, but I would have to give up everything, not for five years, but at least for three. But what if I could negotiate with my parents? I thought and immediately tossed that idea to the farthest corner of my consciousness without coming up with anything else. And so, not coming up with anything, I decided to take a break from the overwhelming flow of information that had flooded my brain.

Morning of May 25th, 2027.

Waking up early in the morning, I found a letter in my mail. I was very surprised that it came from my boss. After reading the letter several times, I couldn't believe my eyes because it said that one of the prototypes of this car had been received at work, and I would have to fully study it and check how long it could work. Why, you might ask, and I'll answer. It's simple - I got a job at a company that creates new entertainment devices. That is, I'm like a test subject who gives his review.

Having a good breakfast, I rented a scooter and rode to work. The entire trip took at most 15 minutes, but I wanted it to be faster. Unfortunately, I had to comply with the laws prescribed for riding a scooter, because for reckless driving, you could end up in jail for 5 days, which of course, I didn't want to do. Entering through the service entrance, I immediately went to the underground floor of the company, where the main work on unreleased products takes place. Passing by the envious glances of my colleagues who test new games and devices, I felt an indescribable pleasure from the fact that such an important job had been entrusted to me. Entering the room with my dream car, I overheard a conversation between the director and the head of the workshop.

"Director, how did you get this particular specimen? There isn't even any labeling on it. I don't know if we can trust a machine with a person's consciousness. Won't we end up with a vegetable in the end? As an official in charge, I assure you that this venture is dangerous for the test subject, and conducting it is too risky."

"Tell me, how long have you been working for me? You should have already understood that I am a risky person," he said. "He who doesn't risk doesn't drink champagne," my father used to say when making deals. "If you want, I'll be the test subject. We have to take risks to be the first to offer an alternative to this machine. All I can say about this machine is that it was decommissioned after testing, but it is in fully working condition."

I stood there with my mouth open, surprised that they didn't even notice my presence. I had to pretend like I had just walked in, but in my head, there was still the question of whether I should get involved in all of this, knowing all the risks. But would I have another chance to be one of the first to experience the virtual world in the front row? After all, as the director said, "he who doesn't risk doesn't drink champagne." And if I don't take the risk, I probably won't be able to afford such a machine, at least not in the near future. I had to take the risk; maybe I could even get priority for our alternative. So I jumped into the conversation as if I had just arrived.

"Hello!" I said, interrupting their conversation. "I read the letter you sent me and came right away. I want to say that I didn't intentionally eavesdrop on part of your conversation, specifically about the danger of this machine. But I'm willing to take the risk in exchange for the right to receive the first ready-made machine from our company, well, for the risk, of course," I said, feeling the nervous gaze of the workshop manager, while also glancing at the director's expression. I hoped I wouldn't get fired. They could even call me a commercial spy, and that would close off my entry into the market for new gadgets. I was nervous, waiting for their response.

"Ahem," the director said, coming out of the stupor caused by the situation and my offer. Clearing his throat, he said, "Aaron, it's great that you interrupted our conversation at the right time. It would have been difficult for me to find someone willing to take such risks. But if you want to receive a ready-made product for such a risk, there will be no problem allocating our alternative to you. We also guarantee to cover all damages and compensate your family if necessary. But first, we will have to sign an additional agreement on the confidentiality of this machine," the director said, looking straight into my eyes with a sharp gaze.

The feeling of being noticed by a person of such stature could certainly bring a sense of satisfaction and make one feel significant, but not in this situation. His gaze, instead of bringing me pleasure, frightened me the most. It conveyed that if something slipped out of my mouth, he would be the one to silence me for the rest of my life. And so, the die has been cast, the bet cannot be returned, and I must go all the way. Fueled by hope and a bit of impulsiveness, I began nodding my head actively.

"Yes, of course, Mr. Director. But if I'm not mistaken, my main contract includes a non-disclosure agreement. Wouldn't it be strange to sign another contract of this type, or am I wrong?"

"Where do I begin, Aaron? The main contract covers basic information, but it does not include what I want to make a deal with you about, specifically your trial activity. I will take responsibility for your family in case of unsuccessful dives, as well as the obligation to treat you in case of any physical or psychological injury. In exchange for your complete silence about this equipment. You see, I cannot trust information about the machine. I'm sure you've heard that this machine has been decommissioned, so its use is already illegal. To put it simply, the contract is for your benefit, not mine. For me, it's about hiding the secret of this machine, and for you, it's about your well-being," the director explained.

Although it sounded more like he was expressing his opinion. Digesting the information received, I heard the following: "So, Aaron. For now, you can check out your future workplace, since most of your time will be spent in the machine. Also, I think you should come up with the best thing to say to your family in case you can't regularly communicate with them. If I were in your place, I would say that I am going on a business trip for several months, and I can assist you with that by contacting your family if necessary. Well, for now, think about what to do next." After waving goodbye to me, he left.

"I don't know what to say to you," I heard the workshop manager say suddenly. "If everything goes well, then consider that you were born in a shirt. I wouldn't climb into it myself, but be sure I don't abandon my own. I will help you with hormonal injections during the experiments to maintain your stable condition, but remember that I won't be able to keep you on artificial hormones forever. We chose you because you had already participated in our experiment on partial immersion of consciousness. But now everything is different, there we could only transfer a few senses, but now the transfer will be complete, up to taste and touch. Try to remember that this is not the real world. We don't know what kind of loaded world is there, but you have to go through it completely, and no matter what you encounter there, remember that it's just a virtual world. I think we should address each other by name, as we're now in the same boat. Call me Chimmin Ho."

The workshop manager also left, but I don't even know what to say. Before, I couldn't even imagine changing the way I address the manager, as I heard he didn't like our pronunciation of his name. It's hard for us to understand how to correctly pronounce certain syllables of their names. Although lately, I've been seeing more representatives from Asian branches, and I should learn to pronounce their names correctly, because if I were in their place, I would be offended if they called me by the wrong name.

"Okay, boss Chemin Ho," I replied on a warm note. Now there's only one thing left to do: come up with what to tell my family or ask the director for help. Whatever I choose, I'll still have to lie to my family, no matter how much I don't want to. If they find out the truth about the danger of this venture, my own family will put me through an inquisition. Thinking about what my family could do to me, I smoothly moved to the company cafeteria.

"Boo!" Suddenly, a bloodcurdling scream blasted in my ear, causing my face to contort in fear. Instinctively, I turned towards the perpetrator who caused my frightened expression, ready to retaliate with a slap. However, upon seeing the face of the person at the registration desk, I had to suppress the urge for physical retribution.

"Hey buddy. How did you like my little prank? Did I scare you too much? I was walking to the cafeteria and noticed you nodding thoughtfully at something and not paying attention to me. Since I came to say hello to you, I couldn't resist the temptation for this stunt. I'm to blame myself," declared my old acquaintance Alice, nodding proudly. If you ask me how long I've known her, it's been since college. She was just as active then. After finishing school, we both started working at this company based on our university's recommendation. I would like to believe that she joined this company because of me, but who would believe that she would want to be closer to me? I also forgot to mention that her name means nobility. Although she behaves like a capricious princess, the aura that surrounds her exudes elegance, or maybe it's just my perception.

"Hey Alice. Sorry, I didn't notice you," I said, stepping back from her. "I got an interesting task from the boss and I'm thinking about what to tell my family since I might be delayed at work for a few weeks. What do you think is the best thing to say?" I asked, gesturing for her to join me at the table in the corner.

"Are you testing that machine again? You got stuck there for two weeks last time, and I had to come and watch over you. What did you find in it? You even said that the game only conveyed a few sensations. Why risk yourself for that?" She scolded me with her eyes, sounding concerned.

"I'm telling you, this job is fascinating. It's not just a game anymore. Although I can't divulge the details, believe me, it's worth it. Let's think about what to tell my family. They suggested I say it's a business trip, but I don't know if they'll buy it. They still see me as a guinea pig in this industry. That's why I don't talk to them much. But since we've been friends for so long, they might believe you more.

You know, I understand your family's concerns. I don't like taking risks either. Even though they say it's safe, you never know for sure. And just because of you, I...never mind!" She turned away.

What am I supposed to do now? Should I focus on her or the job? Especially after her last remark, what did she mean? I can't seem to figure it out. I need to take my mind off things, I thought and signaled the cafeteria worker to come over.

"Hi, can I have two coffees, two of today's signature desserts, and one more of your smiles, please?" I asked the cafeteria worker with a smile.

"The smile is on the house, but I'll bring the rest right away," she said with a grin.

"And what was that? Trying to flirt with the waitress?" Alice's reproachful voice interrupted. Sometimes it feels like there's a spark between us, but why do those sparks always come at the wrong time? It reminded me of our past. I always tried to make her laugh, and I got it back from her. Those were good times.

"Why assume I'm flirting? I just wanted to cheer her up," I said, feigning bitterness on my face. "On a serious note, could you help me contact my family? I'm afraid I won't be able to explain my absence clearly. Although I don't speak to them much, the family accountant often checks up on me. Imagine what will happen if she can't find me. And you get along well with them." I said, turning towards the window.

" You'd better talk to them yourself. I don't want to feel guilty in front of them for such an obvious lie. Especially if what happened in the past repeats itself. I was so worried about you then. And yet you say that this time the job is more interesting. Will I have to cover for you later? How can I face your parents after that?" she said to me with tears in her eyes.

I looked at her after these words. Barely visible tears shimmered near her eyes. I remembered the day when I almost lost my mind during the partial immersion test. It was she who was sitting there taking care of me. Maybe it's better to talk to them myself. The risk this time will be even greater than last time. Maybe it's time for me to confess to her? And what if she rejects me, then what should I do? I think it's better to confess after the trials.

"You're right, Alice. I'd better talk to them myself. I'll say I got an important project. I think my father will like that. And when it's all over, I want to tell you something. Agreed?" I extended my pinkie finger, waiting for confirmation of our agreement.

"Why not now? Do you want to tell me something inappropriate?" she asked with a pouty face. I immediately remembered the moment when I joked with her like that.

"I promise it's not the same prank I pulled back then. I'm serious. I have something to tell you," I said, shaking my pinkie finger.

"I'll believe you this time, although I don't understand why we have to wait so long," she said, already wrapping her pinkie finger around mine.

"Thank you for sitting with me. I'm off now. See you!" I said, grinning widely. And already leaving the cafeteria, I shouted with a hint of laughter, "Oh, and I forgot my wallet at home, can you pay please!" As I walked out the door, I heard her scream, "You...!"

While strolling through the city, I decided it would be best to call my parents tomorrow, right before the start of the trials. I think then I can choose my words carefully. Walking along the alley, I met my friend from school who seemed to have been dumped. Approaching closer, I heard the following. "

"So that's how you treat me. You went and got yourself a girlfriend on the side. And we've been living together for over two years now. And how could I have fallen for your sweet words of love," she said, slapping him hard. Then she turned and walked away. The poor guy was left with a mark on his face. And then he saw me. "Oh, what am I going to do?" I said, unsure.

"Hey Vijay, what's up?" I said, or rather mumbled. My mind was blank, I don't know why I asked that question. It's obvious that he's not doing well. What a disgrace. Where can I hide from shame?

"Hey Aaron. Life sucks, as you can see. And how about you? I hope you're not in the same boat as me," he said, looking down. You can see how bad he feels.

"I don't even know how to answer you. You know what, let's go to my place, I have a game that hasn't been released yet. It'll distract you from everything that's happened," I said.

"Thanks for the invitation, but I can't accept it. You know, I didn't do anything wrong. She didn't even let me explain what happened and just left me. And I really wanted to surprise her and propose to her," he said with bitterness, even I feel bitter about his mood. "You know what, take this. It's not needed anymore, but it might come in handy for you," he said, handing me a small box. I think it's better to take it from him. Later, I'll call and return it. Maybe they'll sort everything out. Reaching out to him, I took the ring.

"I'll hold onto it for her. And I'll give it back to you when everything's settled, my friend," I said, putting the ring in the secret pocket of my jacket. "Don't despair, you can fix a lot of things. As they say, 'all problems can be solved except death.' So you shouldn't worry too much about what happened today. See you then," I said and left, not knowing how the story with the ring would end.

Upon entering my house, I immediately turned on my gaming device and did what I came to do: play. Our company was releasing a beta of a new game, and moments like these are exactly why I chose to work in the industry. After passing a table of various snacks, I headed into the kitchen to reheat last night's dinner, which luckily had a long shelf life thanks to our housekeeper's culinary skills. Once all the preparations were complete, I got down to business, namely the game.

"Hi. I just finished playing the game, and I think we need to rework the reload mechanism and the reaction time to switch weapons. Realism is lost when weapons switch instantly." Yeah, I checked out the basic bugs. I think we can market it with a few minor tweaks, although my vote is not decisive," I said with a note of bitterness. It was frustrating to see people looking forward to the game for years, even though it might be released with a few non-critical bugs. However, when I think back to the game of the last decade and the criticism it received for its bugs, it becomes clear why games are being developed so thoroughly now.

After wrapping up my conversation with the game manager, I headed to my room, knowing that I was looking forward to what I had dreamed of for so long, and tomorrow that day had arrived. I was looking forward to being fully immersed in the game and hoping that I could experience the magic firsthand. It would be just as exciting to learn swordsmanship, find a magic sword, or become a magical archer. With such expectations, I drifted off to sleep, unaware of how short-sighted I was.