Chereads / Cyberpunk 2077: Doom / Chapter 8 - Chapter 8: Kon Karne

Chapter 8 - Chapter 8: Kon Karne

Date: 18th of June, 2075

Location: America - Night City - Santo Domingo - Bioware Industries

POV: Victor Von Doom

"Speak."

"Look I already told you everything! A group of gonks came and forced us to study the rock. We didn't know it would do such a thing!" A Bioware executive screamed.

"Hoh, so you allowed others to fall into a trap? Speak before I enlighten the walls with your filth."

"Please! That's all I know!" He heaved, from the floor. His body bowed to my ever-growing presence, gravity almost pulling him to the floor.

Glaring at him I merely warned him before exiting, "Count your blessings, Mark. I Victor Von Doom always keep my word."

Infecting his brain with malware he was quickly blitzed with daemons that removed his memories of recent events. When he would awake he would return merely fatigued and confused.

Entering the security room I casually replaced the videotapes with a loop ensuring that no soul would know what happened at Bioware Industries. Hopping onto my motorcycle I revved its engine before driving away, my speeds maneuvering through the neon-lit streets.

As I followed the coordinates passed to me by the Church of Light, my journey eventually led me to a hidden gem tucked away amidst the bustling chaos. The sign above the entrance flickered with holographic runes, a clear indication that I had arrived at the mystical store I sought.

With pre-existing knowledge in runes and linguistics on my own database, it translated to 'Mystique and Intrigue' - A strange name for a supposed magic store.

Stepping through the doorway, I felt a sudden shift in the atmosphere—a subtle hum of magic interwoven with the constant hum of technology. The air was heavy with the scent of incense and the unmistakable crackle of energy lingering in the space. This was not an ordinary store, but a haven of wonders where the ethereal met the cybernetic.

The interior unfolded before me, revealing a dazzling display of enchanted artifacts and futuristic gadgets. Hovering shelves showcased crystal orbs that emanated a soft, pulsating glow, while cybernetic enhancements glistened with a hint of mystical energy. Rows of books, their pages adorned with glowing sigils, beckoned me to explore their ancient wisdom.

Behind the counter stood a figure clad in an eclectic mix of flowing robes and cybernetic augmentations. Their eyes sparkled with otherworldly wisdom as they greeted me, their voice carrying a melodious tone infused with arcane power.

"Welcome my humble store, mage...." He whispered, his voice lingering waving through the air.

The store seemed to defy the constraints of physical space, its layout shifting and rearranging with each step I took. The shelves whispered secrets, promising untold possibilities and hidden knowledge. A floating holographic display showcased enchanted weaponry, their blades crackling with elemental energy and runes pulsating with power.

Among the shelves, I discovered artifacts that bridged the gap between the mystical and the cybernetic—a pocket-sized grimoire containing digital spells, a talisman embedded with circuits that enhanced magical abilities, and even a cybernetic familiar with glowing eyes and ethereal wisps of energy.

The walls whispered of forgotten prophecies, and holographic displays projected visions of possible futures. The store was a crossroads where the ancient and the futuristic intertwined, where the line between science and sorcery blurred.

"You seem lost? Is this perhaps your first time?" The man chimed scanning me, his eyes twirling with differing iris before walking closer.

"You would be correct," I admitted, I would not attempt to fool the strange clerk. His otherworldly presence seemed to say otherwise of his intentions. If he posed a threat I would simply end him.

"Interesting, it has been many moons since one such as yourself has walked amongst my wares. I presume the church of the light sent you here, no?"

"Indeed."

"Disgusting fanatics they are, always attempting to save humanity. Hmm, well what do you wish to acquire?" He inquired, his hands wondering at the many artifacts.

"Is it power?" He questioned waving his hands towards a blade," Or are you perhaps seeking... Knowledge?"

Bursting forth from the walls, an array of tombs was laid out, a massive lot of books shifting back and from the shelves. My scans attempting to analyse any possible works of technology failed. The scans merely conjured signs of energy spikes in the direction of where the books were.

"Please be my guest." He smiled his teeth metallic gold. Attempting to scan him I was met with an obvious blank wall. His cybernetics were unable to be screened. It seems that all of the mages and sorcerers were clad in mystery.

Stern with my tone and unquivering in my power I responded with a resolute confidence, "I wish to acquire all books on history. Leave no page unturned. The uninitiated may require guidance. What would you recommend for one of my stature?"

The bookseller's gaze flickered as if recognizing a kindred spirit, albeit one shrouded in a cloak of ambition and darkness. With a voice laden with ancient wisdom, he responded, "Ah, the grand tapestry of history alongside the basic theory of magic. Allow me to guide you, seeker of dominion."

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Arcane: The basics

Introduction: Welcome to the world of the Arcane, this parchment will detail information on your new world. Tread carefully not all those who help you are your friend and not all those who harm you are your enemies. A mage is a dangerous creature who should be treated with caution. So what is a mage? A mage is a conjurer of the impossible. Where reality is merely a fickle medium to toy with. There will be able to alter the world through words or thoughts. This book will outline their dangerous impossibility.

Sources: With many branches and schools of magic, there are only three sources of energy, chaos, order, and nature. Chaos and Order while similar in effect conjure on different principles. Chaos is influenced by emotion whereas Order is conjured through thought. While both interact a mage who powers their spells through chaos is able to quickly conjure powerful spells in seconds whereas a mage who uses thought is able to accurately and precisely conjure spells to their liking. Nature is a unique source of energy source as those who use it are mostly hermits.

All life produces energy as a by-product of existing, most would call this energy ki, chi or qi but I would prefer the term Aura. Aura is directly linked to life force and Life-energy the more life energy in the world, the more powerful they are. While extremely powerful their power is heavily tied to an easily changeable concept. If nature or humanity was to ever face a calamity the first archaic community to die would be the aura users.

Storage: While most are born able to draw energy from these sources, most are not, a select few who aren't unable to due to their bodies not containing a mana core. Some may state that one would need a mana core to conjure magic but they would be incorrect.

It would be correct to assume mana cores allowed for magic use and accumulation thought similar to a flask of water when too much is poured it will flood and destroy the user. A user who lacks a mana core is able to draw energy without the worry of such fears yet is unable to conjure spells as quickly. Due to this the pros and cons are obvious.

Ranks:

Apprentice - tier 0

Intitate - teir 1 and 2

Journeyman - teir 2 and 3

Elder - teir 3 and 4

Master - tier 5 and 6

Grandmaster - tier 6 and 7

Archmage - Tier 8

Mediums: A medium is a tool used to display a mage's prowess the possibility endless. A few examples are wands, knives, staves swords, daggers, spears, shields, etc. This help amplifies the effect and intent of a spell. While a conjurer's hands are always useful having an edge over your opponent is always welcomed.

Artifacts: Enhanced mediums with bonus effects that help conjure powerful spells. Oftentimes or not they are enchanted by an enhancer or blessed by certain actions. The constant use of mana may also affect artifacts.

Chapter 2: Sapiens: Conquerors of the Past

I retreated to a secluded corner of the store, a sanctuary where shadows danced amidst the flickering neon light. Cradling "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari, I delved into the annals of our species. Harari's words unfolded like a blueprint of domination, illuminating the rise and fall of empires, the machinations of power, and the frailties of those who dare challenge destiny.

As I devoured the pages, my mind sharpened, absorbing the lessons of history with unwavering focus. I relished the accounts of the conquest, the clashes of civilizations, and the intoxicating allure of power. From the earliest civilizations to the modern world, I revelled in the grandeur of humanity's dominance, forging a path to reshape the destiny of nations.

Chapter 3: Guns, Germs, and Steel: Forging the Tools of Conquest

Jared Diamond's "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" awaited me next, a treatise on the web of forces that shaped the trajectory of civilizations. With every page turned, Diamond peeled back the layers of the world's tapestry, revealing the weapons of domination wielded by the cunning and the relentless.

My eyes narrowed as I absorbed Diamond's insights, his observations on the importance of geographic advantages and the relentless pursuit of superiority. Disease, conquest, and technological prowess—these were the instruments of destiny that I, Victor von Doom, had already mastered to perfection. I merely lacked the time and knowledge to fully enact it. While a push on the corporations could work, a king without a kingdom would be nothing.

Chapter 4: A History of the World in 100 Objects: Artifacts of Power

In the dimly lit corner of the store, I uncovered "A History of the World in 100 Objects" by Neil MacGregor. This compendium of artifacts whispered secrets of bygone eras, their power palpable even through the pages. Each object held within it the echoes of greatness and the footprints of those who dared shape the world.

As I delved deeper into the tome, the artifacts beckoned me with their tales of conquest, innovation, and cultural dominance. I mused at the universality of human ambition and the weight of legacy. My hands traced the contours of history as if absorbing the essence of past empires, extracting their power to fuel my own ascent. It was all too common in this world, the ambition, the fall of empires and the hunger that beamed for dominance. Such a feeling was not so distant to my own.

Chapter 5: The Silk Roads: A Tapestry of Power

"The Silk Roads: A New History of the World" by Peter Frankopan intrigued me, for within its pages lay the secrets of civilizations connected by ancient trade routes. This chronicle of the great networks that spanned continents would grant me insight into the delicate threads of power that could be woven to bind nations under my indomitable will.

Frankopan's words guided me through the journeys of merchants and conquerors, revealing the intricacies of cultural exchange and the thirst for domination. I envisioned myself in his own position. The many mistakes that he had enacted numerous. I was a modern conqueror, traversing these digital highways, and establishing my dominion. While Magic may have been foreign to my abilities it was not lost. While he was careful in his discovery in the end it was his own curiosity that bested him. He lacked the power and ferocity that I had held.

"Say why does the magic world hide within the confines of mortal footholds? Are you not all-powerful enough to topple corporations?"

"That would be due to the secret pact of forty-eight hundred ensuring that mysticism be kept hidden from mortal kind. Our numbers dwindled due to one menacing figure. Here take this book and read it later. It contains the history and the reason why such mysticism is outlawed and seen as taboo in the mortal kind. Though such moral barriers are dropping due to recent events such laws remain existent." He replied handing me a thick book, its length and width the size of a pillow - the thickness the similar in size. Casualling handing it over I stored it within my inner world for later.

"Now what of the clashing factions? I have never heard of this Church of Light before."

"They would be an extremist group born from Pope Franciland the second. During some time in the seventeenth century, he had decided to create a secret order to protect the mortals from ending themselves. This revelation caused many others to be displeased by his act of kindness as it went against the sanction. Such lead to the two factions battling one another."

"Interesting what side do you align to?"

"I'm merely an individual waiting my days out. Politics bore me. I will be long dead before any of the two make any change to this accursed world."

"You're neutral?"

"In a world where picking sides is favoured why not watch from afar? I have lived far longer than any mortal and experienced more than some sorcerers. What do I care for the decay in magic? While humans have caused the great decay in sorcery it was futile and inevitable. We mages are a product of our time. Humans now possess more prowess than any mage could conjure in the days of old. This is simply the way of life, changes occur and the world continues do you not agree?"

"I find it all the more humorous that you distinct yourself differently from the so-called mortals are you not all the same now that technology has advanced?"

"We are different. Yet we are not all immortal. A mage could naturally live for hundreds of years, a simple decade a mere fleeting moment. Only now do mortals process an ounce of what we have. While they have conjured the possibility of immortality through digitalisation they have merely cast their soul into the abyss. Humans cling to technology as their means of survival we pursue power through magic as a way to dominate. We are not the same."

"I notice a lack of technology amongst sorcerers why is that?"

"That would be due to the stigma around technology. Very few would lower themselves to equip cybernetics it is often seen as a cheap alternative to training. While some would equip and create artifacts such as yourself. True mages often minimise their use of cybernetics and mortal technology when we already have alternatives. "

"I see - pride."

"Indeed, but what use is a vehicle when you can teleport? What good is a plane when you can fly? What good is a gun when we have energy blasts? These mere examples already showcase our prowess. While not all mages are capable of doing such things they are not true mages."

"What is the populace of sorcerers then? Who would ever be capable of such feats?"

"That would be Abel leader of The Light and Varkus Vortarium leader of the Khaos Brigade. The last two true mages of this world."

"Hmm, thank you. I have much to ponder on, now what of the price? Do you take eddies?" I inquired.

"I merely barter what say you give me a few artifacts of your own? I find it amazing that such technological gear has been enchanted. Such is often impossible."

Merely grasping my inner world I gave the man a few of my spare bolters and blank armours. The weapons and armour were mere practice gear.

"Amazing... Have a fine day good sir...." He murmured studying the gear. Driving back to my home I ensured that I had not been followed. My turns waved back and forth streets before eventually making it back home. The day was now dark with Misty and Jackie retired home.

Reclined in the depths of my lab, I was surrounded by holographic displays and cutting-edge cybernetic implants. Before me, a fusion of ancient tomes and advanced scientific journals lay strewn across my workstation, representing the culmination of my relentless pursuit to merge the forces of mysticism and science.

I was intrigued and lost in the world of mysticism. Night City's sprawling metropolis and technological marvels provided the perfect backdrop for my experiments. I had become well-acquainted with the city's intricate web of intrigue and power dynamics, using it as a canvas upon which I could weave my master plan. Here, I sought to unlock the true potential of the world's mystical forces that lay dormant, while leveraging my scientific acumen to unlock new realms of power.

As I delved deeper into the intricate texts before me, I discovered the ranks of beginning mages, each with its own unique path of ascension. It was a hierarchy that spanned centuries, but my position was clear—I was an intimate, on the cusp of unlocking the true depths of power that awaited me—the prospect of what lay beyond fueled my relentless pursuit.

Through my connections, I delved into the vast archives of Night City's historical databases. The tomes unearthing hidden narratives overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of the city's technological advancements. It was here that I discovered a tapestry woven with threads of mystic power, intertwining the lives of renowned historical figures with their latent abilities as mages. Paralleling the mortal archives with the sorcerers I was met with interesting discoveries.

In the depths of antiquity, legends speak of Merlin, a figure shrouded in both mysticism and mystery. Known as a powerful sorcerer, Merlin rose to prominence during the days of King Arthur and Camelot. His command over arcane forces was said to be unparalleled, capable of summoning storms, altering fate, and wielding untold magical might. With his intellect and arcane prowess, Merlin stood as a paragon of magic, a mage of formidable power.

In the shadows of Europe and Asia, another figure emerged, destined to challenge the might of Merlin himself. Valor, a ruler of vast dominions, sought to wield the forces of magic and science in tandem. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to uncover the secrets of ancient mystic arts, delving deep into forbidden tomes and unlocking the boundaries of possibility. Valor's reign over Europe and Asia was marked by his command over elemental forces, his ability to reshape reality, and his iron-fisted rule.

Yet, in a clash of titanic forces, Merlin and Morgan rose to challenge Valor's dominion. The siblings, renowned for their arcane lineage, united their powers to thwart the ambitions of Valor. Their mastery over spells, illusions, and enchantments presented an insurmountable obstacle for Valor, leading to his ultimate defeat. The clash between Valor and the siblings stands as a testament to the clash of empires and the fragile balance between power and destiny.

As time progressed, new figures emerged, each leaving an indelible mark on the annals of magic. From the Renaissance to the modern era, mages like Nikola Tesla, a visionary scientist and mage, harnessed the forces of electricity and arcane energies to reshape the world. His experiments blurred the line between science and magic, pushing the boundaries of human understanding and revealing the true potential of mystical forces.

The history of the most powerful mages is an ever-evolving tapestry, with new chapters waiting to be written. As time unfolds, new sorcerers, witches, and magicians will undoubtedly rise, adding their names to the annals of mystic supremacy. The world of magic is vast, and its champions continue to shape the destiny of realms with their incredible abilities, unwavering determination, and insatiable hunger for power.

The records spoke of a past where great minds, artists, and leaders possessed extraordinary magical prowess. The enigmatic Mona Lisa, famed for her enigmatic smile, was rumoured to have been a master of illusion and charm, captivating all who beheld her with an otherworldly allure. Leonardo da Vinci, the visionary polymath, utilized his command over elemental forces to breathe life into his inventions, defying the laws of physics.

Even within the tumultuous world of political intrigue, figures such as Winston Churchill and Joan of Arc wielded the arcane arts to tip the scales of power in their favour. Churchill, renowned for his indomitable spirit and strategic genius, also possessed the ability to summon protective barriers, shielding his people from harm. Joan of Arc, the warrior-saint, had drawn upon divine energies to lead armies to victory, her legendary sword illuminated by an ethereal glow.

The great Queen Nefertiti of ancient Egypt was not only known for her iconic beauty but was whispered to possess an unparalleled mastery of healing magic, capable of mending even the gravest of wounds. Shaka Zulu, the indomitable warrior king, was rumoured to have called upon the spirits of his ancestors, enhancing his battle prowess and instilling fear in the hearts of his enemies.

The historical figures I encountered transcended borders and defied categorization. Mansa Musa, the legendary emperor of the Mali Empire, was renowned for his vast wealth, but few knew of his remarkable ability to manipulate the elemental forces, controlling fire and earth with ease. Makeda, the Queen of Sheba, was not only celebrated for her wisdom and grace but also possessed a deep connection to the ethereal realms, communing with spirits and channelling their guidance.

El Cid, the valiant knight and noble warrior, was not only revered for his prowess on the battlefield but was said to possess a deep understanding of elemental magic, harnessing the powers of wind and lightning to aid him in his conquests.

The legacy of Al-Andalus, the Islamic state that once flourished on the Iberian Peninsula, revealed a vibrant fusion of mystical practices. Scholars such as Averroes and Ibn Arabi were not only renowned for their intellectual pursuits but also delved into the esoteric realms, exploring the secrets of alchemy and spiritual enlightenment.

The Spanish Inquisition, a dark chapter in history, held tales of mages who navigated the treacherous terrain of secrecy and persecution. It is whispered that some Spanish explorers, venturing into uncharted territories, encountered mystical forces beyond their comprehension, forging alliances with ancient spirits and entities that granted them unimaginable power.

Or so it displayed - most of these events were merely written from a personal bias. All these notes while fictitious at first explained the unsolvable. I would need to study more on the parallels between the Magic world and the mortal realm. Dropping my magic studies for now I examined the board in front of me its display showcasing the deep influence I had over the world.

With many group leaders working independently under my guise it worked wonders on spreading my will. My corresponding groups were split into different regions their main tasking in controlling the corresponding governments, either by cohesion, conversion or my favourite domination. They were not to interfere or press one another with each group its own miniature faction.

Vulcan my right-hand man was in charge of relaying and handling most of my affairs. He had shown his devotion and dedication to my cause and thus was rewarded with such a position. He controlled Texas and was the handler of the others. He understood his position well with his merit drowning the combined efforts of the other four. He had seen my image and my great plan and smiled when enlightened.

Altair was another leader of such a faction and was in charge of controlling and managing Eastern Europe, Khan was in charge of India, Solvoic was in charge of Russia and Alvan of China. With such a wide network information was relayed to my databases every millisecond. Names, organisations, secrets all of it was transferred. Under every leader were their own corresponding lieutenants.

Studying for a few hours and undergoing the war-torn battlefields that were strewn around the world, I was interrupted by a few knocks. The obvious culprit - David, his body slightly bruised with a few knicks and cuts around his legs.

"What is it, David?" I inquired through the door's voice emulator.

"Uhm can I come in?"

"It depends on how I'm feeling."

"I just wanna talk about something that happened today." Seeing the boy's dim-lit eyes and scrunched figure I understood that perhaps he had encountered danger. While I kept obvious tabs on the boy - with a report coming in on his encounter with Vulcan's protege; It seems he left the encounter with mental scars.

Shutting my emulated screens and opening the door I stared at him, awaiting his possible inquiry.

"So, you wish to discuss something."

"I killed some people today..." He explained.

"I see, so how did you feel?"

"Nothing." He responded honestly.

"I just felt angry and lost but I didn't regret it. Is this... Normal?"

"It isn't."

"Does that mean there's something wrong with me?" He exasperated.

"No, it means you're better than the rest," I replied.

"That I'm better?" He murmured confused.

"Where others would falter and defecate at taking the life of another you prevailed unflinchingly. That anger is good, useful even. It is a source of power, that you must temper. Like a fine blade, it must be hammered so that it may not dull your senses. What is wrong is your feeling of lostness. Your heart and mind should never wonder."

"But is not bad to be different?"

"Every great was different. Now prove to them that you are the same."

Still lost in his mind I allowed him to think. It was moments like this that allowed him to think critically. I would allow him to think now, so that he may not be blinded by his thoughts on the battlefield. Hesistation often leads to inaction and inaction leads to death. Such was a weakness that must be rooted out while he is still a child. It was oftentimes to be wrong and alive then be correct and dead.

"I guess so," He murmured.

"Don't let such thoughts plague your mind. I heard you ran into trouble."

"Yeah, I ran into some nutjob called Murkman. Bloody Gonk tried recruiting me as his sidekick or something. I then got saved by this weird woman, she was dressed in a black skinsuit would you know her?" He questioned, his eyes scanning for any sudden jerk or movement. Good, the kid was adapting.

"I wouldn't be sure as you know I'm quite new to the city." I lied.

"I heard her say unauthorised access would you know why? She seemed to have scanned me but then changed her attitude after saying that." He pressed.

"Interesting, it seems you have a guardian angel." I humoured.

"Hmm yeah real strange." He smiled, his thoughts almost clinging to another memory. Seeing his increased heart rate over my internal monitor and a slightly creeping smile I had a feeling I knew what he was thinking of.

"You meet a pretty girl?" I inquired.

"Ah, no." He replied.

"Are you sure? The redness of your checks, increased heart rate and sudden smile point otherwise."

"Fine, yeah it was a girl. She was pretty cute." He replied sheepishly.

"I'm guessing you fumbled."

"No, I'm real classy with the chicks!" He argued, his sudden outburst once again fueling my statement.

"Did you get her number?"

"I-I... never mind, look can we change the subject." He voiced in embarrassment.

"No, I don't believe will." I declined, "Now, tell me what she looks like."

"Do I really have to?"

"Not if you want my card to keep working." I threatened, a holographic screen showcasing the hard locking system. Hovering my hand over it I awaited his answer.

"Fine, she was short and had really cool chrome on. She was really cute and had such a slender body... I don't know she seemed sweet. Have you ever had a crush on somebody?"

"I refuse to have relations with women."

"Does that mean you're a virgin?"

"Don't be so foolish, me? A virgin, don't spout such nonsense." I smiled waving his statement.

"Well, then what's your secret how would you get the girl?" He inquired.

"It depends on the women and it depends on the time," Victor answered honestly.

"Okay, so what would you do in my situation?"

"I would simply ask her for her number."

"Really? Thats it? No pick up line no game?"

"When you're as captivating as I you have no use for such words. Women often flock to my side in an attempt to gain my favour. Whether it through their bodies or more."

"So how do I... Be you?

"I don't waste time on females David they run on emotions. One day they might be your greatest treasure the next a random piece of rubbish that you find used on the street. That is why you must exercise chastity. Those who exercise lust are often weak, often focalising on their emotions rather than the content of their own character. We live in a world where the physical is a mere lie, study, analyse and watch carefully on whom you spend your energy."

"Is it really that deep? What's if I just wanna you know. Have some fun?"

"Fun? Do I look like a child to you David? If you wish to circle around women then that is no matter. Do as you please but do not be shocked when your own infidelity wrecks your mind or shatters your future." I explained.

"So who'd you lose your virginity to?" He asked confused.

"Ah, that would be a long tale but a tale I won't answer for now. Listen, if you wish to have fun then do so with caution. Even if a woman is open to leaving her legs open be careful of what you stick your blade in. As prolonged use can often cause ware. I am a man of goals David I do not falter at the heart easily."

"So did you have any intimate relationships then?"

His questions agitated my mind, as memories of old re-surfaced.

"Hmm, not since I was young like you. Since then I have not met a single soul who had caught my gaze or sparked my heart. Every mortal no matter how strong or powerful is weak against my might and no woman is as intelligent as I am. I seek perfection in a world of imperfections."

"So how did you lose it to her?"

"She...made me question my goals," I answered honestly. The sight of her once again caused my emotions to stir - It was a feeling I had hated.

"Damn, so some chick was hot enough to get you flustered? What does she look like?"

"Kissed by the sun with light brown skin, an immaculate figure with a bulbous rump. Her eyes were as dazzling as the stars with her dark brown hair enchanting her face. Had I been weak, I would've remained weathered to a dying faction. Such a fate was not worthy of my calling."

"So was it her looks or did she say something to you?"

"She wanted me to run away with her, away from everything. For her to be my everything and for me to be hers. I was naive and thought that perhaps I should remain content. That I should run me away. I was lost in her eyes, and when I grasped her flesh I felt warmth like no other.... My heart was content. But my soul was not. It was not warmth that my heart felt but the flames of inaction - of stagnation. And so I Victor, refused."

"So what was she like?"

"Kind and stubborn. The type of woman to bash your head in with an axe before embracing you the next."

"She seems kinda nice."

"She was annoying."

"It seems she was more than just that..."

"Perhaps but those are fleeting moments. Since then I have moved forward and I wish for you to do the same." I invoked, "I will not withhold you from having fun but I will also caution you so as to not stain my prestige with such actions. One must live with integrity."

"I get it, but do you think you'll see her again?"

"Perhaps not," I murmured before gazing towards the entrance camera screen. A crew of figures emerging, "it seems we have visitors."

-

A/N: If you want more give me more stones :P. Also going to be on a little hiatus until next week due to assignments. I'll resume posting somewhere around Tuesday or Wednesday.