"You are among the heroes summoned to this world." Kirin's voice returned and the peaceful lavender fields returned.
Kirin looked at Arthur and said, "You do not look impressed."
"Hmm it is just a convenient backdrop story for roleplaying immersion. Oh, but I am now a little impressed that your interactions with players include reading their facial expressions."
"The AI and NPCs in the game have a deep learning system. Furthermore, brainwaves are more revealing than facial expressions or speech. Our coding evolves to provide a more immersive experience."
Arthur stared at Kirin for a moment. "No more roleplaying grand speech?"
"The system deems it unnecessary. You are also an index case for palliative research. The company is aware of your circumstances and I will check in with you regularly for feedback."
"Wait, so are you a company employee? " Arthur was puzzled.
"Yes and no. I merely relay messages and the intent from the game designers. However, I do have some freedom of independent actions within my administrative level of access."
Arthur nodded. Noticing the pause, he prompted the system to carry on.
"We will generate a character model similar to your facial structure. You may make 20% corrections to the dimensions and modify your features. " A male figure appeared, with short dark brown hair, well kempt features, gray eyes and simple plain features. Arthur put a finger to his chin, " Kirin... this was how I looked when I was half my age. "
Kirin expressionlessly replied, "Unfortunately the system only generates characters that on average between 20-50 years old. This is at our upper limit."
"Why the bias against old people? "
"Our player population is targeted to the younger population. We would suggest you do not stand out from the population as your real identity would need to be kept confidential."
Arthur recalled signing the confidentiality agreement, he was not allowed to reveal his age, cancer or any part of the experiment. Well, the grass that stands tall will get cut, he would do fine keeping a low profile. He would much prefer that anyway. Arthur nodded and said, "No need for modifications. Let's move on. Do I get to choose a class?"
"No, there is no need to. Apocalypse follows a classless system. You have the freedom to try all classes and crafting jobs. However, we will give you a starting package with a weapon of your choice. We will ask some questions on your playing style and offer recommendations. "
" First, do you prefer to fight at the front lines or from afar? A front line melee would require dexterity and fast reaction times. Range fighters would generally rely on preparation and accuracy."
"I'm old. A backseat would be better. Range, please. "
"Second question, would you prefer work alone or with a group?"
"I'm old. Would be draining to interact with the young ones."
"Third..." "I'm old.." became the common answer. This game really did not seem suited for Arthur's old bones.
"What name would you like in the game? " " Arthur. " "Arthur has been taken, choose another." "... Arthos?" It sounds similar enough.
"You may choose a weapon. We would suggest a bow, throwing knife, a wand or a staff based on your preferences. "
I took a look at the displayed weaponry. For some reason, the staff reminded me of my walking stick. " The staff it is. "
My vision blurred. " Have a pleasant journey. "