Strange Behaviors

It started as a subtle whisper, a barely noticeable change in behavior among the players of Morphantasia. But as days turned into weeks, the whisper grew into a cacophony of odd and unsettling incidents. All around the world, people who played Morphantasia began to act strangely, their personalities shifting in alarming ways. The most notable changes were among those with higher-than-average IQs—they became more aggressive, their tempers short and their actions unpredictable.

Iris and Maven sat in their science class, their attention divided between the lesson and their own quiet conversation. Their teacher, Mr. Daniels, was explaining the principles of chemical reactions, his voice steady and calm. Suddenly, a commotion erupted at the back of the room.

A boy named Ethan, usually quiet and introverted, stood up, his face flushed with anger. He rubbed his left eye furiously, his movements frantic and agitated.