Chapter 1: Pro War

Chapter 1: Pro War 

Phew! Glancing at the room, Lei Jiu felt a sense of relief wash over him as memories of the space began to blur. It seemed he hadn't returned for almost seventy years. The private sanctuary he once cherished had faded into the recesses of his mind without his realization. What once occupied every corner of the floor had vanished.

If it weren't for the shutdown of "Pro War" and the subsequent expulsion of everyone, Lei Jiu's likelihood of voluntarily quitting the game would have been close to zero.

Opening the refrigerator, he retrieved a can of Coke, cracked it open, and guzzled it down in one go, relishing the cool sensation.

This virtual personal haven was comforting. Even after seventy years, there was no concern of decay. Grabbing a bottle of sour plum juice, Lei Jiu made his way to the sofa, sinking into its cushions as he stared at the ceiling, lost in thought.

"Professional War" is over, meaning fifty years have passed in reality? How time flies! Yet... he had been too engrossed. The virtual world and reality ticked in parallel, following a strict ratio of 10:1. It was common knowledge that "Pro War" would run for 500 years before shutting down.

However, 500 years is an eternity, and few forget the game's closure. But Lei Jiu, detached from the world, seemed an anomaly.

Lei Jiu, male, Han nationality, aged 26, single, and among the first ten million interstellar colonization volunteers from Earth. Two hours after boarding the colony spacecraft, like the others, he entered a "sleep" state, embarking on a cosmic journey expected to last a century.

The advancement in Earth's technology allowed for the preservation of consciousness, enabling a virtual existence even while his body remained frozen. His journey began here, in his private space, albeit simpler then, compared to its current comfort.

The onset of "Professional War" led Lei Jiu, like other volunteers, into the game world. He wasn't a gaming enthusiast per se, but the allure of a fully immersive experience drew him in.

Initially, he hadn't planned immediate entry, as such a reality lacked the comforts of a private space. But with no virtual community available, save for family, his space felt isolatedâ€"a lone castaway on an island.

Lei Jiu wasn't autistic, nor was there internet in his space. Thus, gaming became his sole option, much like others.

The 500-year game life in "Pro War" proved fulfilling beyond imagination, even for his closest friends. Reflecting on it, Lei Jiu felt a twinge of embarrassment.

Nevertheless, as "Pro War" concluded, all would embark on the next phase of cosmic journey, an unknown world awaiting their awakening.

"Volunteer Lei Jiu No. CHI2222222, the game 'World War,' also known as 'Island War,' will commence in an hour virtual world time. Please prepare. Basic game information is accessible via personal terminal," a neutral voice echoed.

"Thank you, Center of the Earth."

"You're welcome."

The Center of the Earth, the colony spacecraft's intelligent core, served as the game's arbiter. Lei Jiu, aware of its taciturn nature, turned to study the new world's data.

"World War"? The name hinted at potential game mode changes. Perhaps a shift towards a lord mode?

Also known as "Island War"? Further reinforcing the lord mode speculation, suggesting a vast ocean expanse and small landmasses.

A lord mode world with limited land? Lei Jiu pondered, a tad perplexed.

Regardless, he delved into the details. In "Island War," players could opt for two initial identities: adventurer or island owner.

Adventurers traversed the continent, engaging in typical game pursuits. Meanwhile, island owners oversaw their domains, tasked with conquest and construction.

Though advantageous, being an island owner required careful consideration. Unlike adventurers, leveling up was arduous and time-consuming.

The brutality of island owner conflicts meant winners gained everything, while losers reverted to adventurers, forever chasing former glory.

Despite the risk, many sought island ownership, driven by aspirations of power and wealth. Lei Jiu, among them, never entertained other options.

Why? Because after five centuries of adventure, anything less would feel like a step backward.