Chapter 23

The World Developer Expo is in full swing, and the organizers are impressed by the high-quality simulations submitted this year.

"The developers have really stepped up their game," remarks one organizer, scanning the bustling exhibition hall. "The quality of this year's simulations is remarkable."

Another nods in agreement. "Absolutely. We're seeing a lot of innovative approaches,"

The first organizer chuckles, "The success of that Batman: Arkham Asylum simulation really raised the bar. Developers are getting more ambitious with their creations."

The second organizer nods, "Ah yes, I remember that one. The developer who made it, Genesis, is participating in this year's Expo as well. I'm curious to see what he comes up with."

The first organizer hums in agreement. "Indeed. With the bar set so high, the competition is going to be fierce. Can't wait to see what Genesis has in store."

The second organizer ponders. "Any other developers catch your eye?"

The organizer's eyes light up as he recalls Caliban, a developer who had caught his attention in the past. "I remember a developer named Caliban who also entered this year. He used to be a rising star when he first started."

The organizer quickly locates Caliban's simulation.

"Impressive," the organizer murmurs, "And it seems Caliban has taken some inspiration from that Batman simulation as well."

The organizer comments, "This is shaping up to be one of the standout entries." He makes a mental note to keep a close eye on Caliban's progress throughout the Expo.

The other organizer ponders, "Who do you think would win between the two?"

The first organizer chuckles, "That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Caliban and Genesis are both incredibly talented. It will be difficult to tell who is better. I guess we'll just have to wait and see which one the Hunters end up favoring."

The second organizer nods, "It's going to be a close competition. Both developers have their strengths, and it's hard to predict how the Hunters will respond. We'll have to keep a close eye on the rankings and feedback."

The first organizer hums in agreement. "Indeed. May the best developer win, I suppose."

The two organizers continue their discussion, anticipation building as they await the final results of the competition.

…

Sam sits back in his chair, a small smirk playing on his lips as he watches Ruby's stream. He's amused to see the popular streamer struggling against his creation, Cerberus.

On the screen, Ruby's character dodges the Cerberus' icy attacks, only to be caught in its jaws moments later. Sam chuckles as Ruby's avatar crumples to the ground, the "You Died" message flashing across the screen.

"Ouch, that's gotta hurt," Sam murmurs, taking a sip of his coffee.

As Ruby faces Cerberus once more, but just as she seems to gain the upper hand, Cerberus uses an ice attack, freezing Ruby's in place again.

"Ah, better luck next time, Scarlet," Sam chuckles, shaking his head as Ruby's character collapses once more.

Sam's eyes scanned the list of simulations at the Expo, searching for anything that might pique his interest.

His gaze settled on a simulation titled "Night Raid," made by a developer named Caliban. Sam furrowed his brow, not recognizing the name.

"Hmm, 'Night Raid,' huh?" he murmured, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "Sounds intriguing."

Sam read the description of the simulation, his eyes narrowing with interest. "A dark, modern fantasy city, huh?" he murmured, stroking his chin. "And I get to play as an assassin, taking down these 'remnants' - whatever those are."

He leaned back in his chair, a small smirk playing on his lips. "Sounds interesting."

Sam placed the headset over his eyes and was instantly transported to a shadowy city, its towering skyscrapers looming overhead. The streets below were cloaked in darkness, save for the flickering neon signs that cast an unsettling glow across the urban landscape.

Sam glanced down at his attire, a small smirk playing on his lips. The black jacket and dark overcoat with a hood gave him the perfect assassin look. His sword hung at his waist, and a pistol rested on the back of his hip, ready for action.

"Hmm, not bad," he murmured, adjusting the cuff of his sleeve. The ensemble suited his role perfectly.

A sleek limousine pulled up, and a man in a crisp suit opened the back door.

"The boss is expecting you, Hunter," the man said, his expression neutral.

Sam's brow arched with interest. "The boss, huh?" He stepped forward, sliding into the plush leather interior of the vehicle. "Well, then, let's not keep them waiting."

As the limousine glided through the shadowy streets, Sam leaned back, drumming his fingers against the armrest.

The limousine stops at a towering casino, its neon lights casting an eerie glow over the darkened street. Sam steps out, adjusting his coat as the driver opens the back entrance for him.

Two burly guards stand at the door, their expressions unreadable. "The boss is up ahead," one of them grunts, gesturing for Sam to follow.

Sam trails behind the guards, his senses heightened as they navigate the dimly lit corridors. The sounds of slot machines and raucous laughter echo in the distance,

Finally, the guards usher Sam into a lavish office, its walls adorned with framed artwork and dark, heavy furniture. Seated behind an ornate desk is a well-dressed man with a sharp, angular face and piercing eyes.

"Ah, you must be the new Hunter I've heard so much about," the man says, his voice low and smooth. "I'm Gotti. Welcome to my establishment."

Sam meets the man's gaze evenly, his expression betraying none of the curiosity he feels. "I was told you had a job for me."

Gotti leans back in his chair, a thin smile playing on his lips. "Indeed, I do. There are some...remnants that need to be taken care of. Are you up for the challenge?"

///

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