Connor logged out of the game and checked the time—8:24 AM. He realized he's going to be late for the school testing, which starts at 10 AM. Not one to fret, Connor downed a bottle of C-Grade Solution and went through his morning routine of light workouts, a habit ingrained in him since his time in the future.
He then headed to the shower. After his shower, Connor dressed and made his way through the Lin Estate.
The estate was a sprawling expanse of meticulously maintained gardens, elaborate fountains, and stately buildings, reminiscent of a grand palace from a bygone era. Lush greenery, perfectly manicured hedges, and the serene lake that bordered the estate added to its majestic beauty.
As he walked through the grand halls of his home, Connor encountered his older brother, Jett. Jett, at twenty years old, had dark brown hair and piercing blue eyes, a stark contrast to Connor's white hair and golden eyes.
Jett was a modern-day second-generation city official with aspirations of becoming the nation's leader. Despite his ambitions, he was deeply devoted to his family.
"Connor! You won't believe how realistic Shattered Realms is," Jett exclaimed, animatedly recounting his experiences in the game. "The details, the interactions—it's like living another life."
Connor nodded, appreciating his brother's enthusiasm. "Yeah, it's something else. But don't get too lost in it, Jett."
Jett laughs and continues, "I heard from the City Council that there's going to be a big change in the coming weeks. Something about WTC and new laws affecting virtual economies and player rights. It's going to shake things up for sure. Good luck on your test, Con. I'm going to head back to the job. Apparently, City Hall has an important guest coming."
Connor raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Player's Rights? Seems like this new game is really something if the WTC is getting involved. Thanks for the heads-up. I'll keep that in mind. Safe trip, bro."
Connor then made his way to his father's study. Conley Lin, a tall man with a commanding presence, stood by the window, looking out over the estate. He shared Jett's dark hair and blue eyes, and his stature exuded both strength and wisdom.
"Good morning," Connor greeted his father.
"Morning, Connor. Ready for your school testing today?" Conley asked, turning to face him.
"Yeah, dad I did. I just finished my morning routine and I'm heading out soon," Connor replied.
Conley nodded approvingly. "Good. Remember, today is important. Make sure you represent our family well."
"I will, dad," Connor assured him before leaving the study.
Connor quickly made his way out of the estate and headed to his school. The estate's grandeur faded behind him as he approached the bustling city, advanced with technology and societal structure that defined their era.
As Connor made his way to school, he couldn't help but think about the world's recent history and the rise of Chronos Corp. The rapid evolution of society and technology over the past century played through his mind, providing a backdrop to his own journey.
Around 2045, during archaeological expeditions, scientists uncovered ancient artifacts that defied current technological understanding.
These artifacts, believed to be remnants of a lost advanced civilization, contained blueprints for technology far beyond contemporary capabilities.
This discovery laid the foundation for future technological advancements.
Many leading scientists suggest that even though it was discovered there on Earth, its origins are extraterrestrial.
By the mid-21st century, disputes over dwindling natural resources erupted into global conflicts involving both nations and mega-corporations.
These Resource Wars caused widespread devastation and reconfigured political boundaries. In response to the chaos, global accords were established to regulate technology and corporate power.
The World Tech Council (WTC) was formed to oversee these regulations, ensuring that technological advancements benefited humanity.
In the late 21st century, humanity witnessed a technological renaissance. Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and biotechnology revolutionized industries and daily life.
Though, in the mid to late 21st-Century, AI integration became commonplace, significantly extending human work efficiency and enhancing human capabilities, the new modern era of the 22nd century experienced it even more so.
Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) technology also evolved rapidly, allowing for full sensory immersion. Early VR games and simulations set the stage for more complex and realistic virtual environments.
From 2120 to 2130, many small corporations merged and consolidated power, forming mega-corporations with influence surpassing that of traditional governments. These entities controlled huge quantities of resources and dictated global policies on a scale never before seen.
Intense competition for technological dominance and resource control led to a series of corporate conflicts known as the Corporate Wars. These wars reshaped global politics and economics, creating new alliances and power structures that affected the common people more so than the corporations.
Even so, in 2160, IVR technology reached unprecedented levels of realism and immersion. Well, in 2169 that is.
"Shattered Realms," the most advanced IVR game, was launched by the enigmatic Chronos Corporation.
This was the only corporation that remained untouched and neutral throughout the 100 years of its founding. Many other corporations tried and failed to acquire its ownership. They went as far as using lethal force. However, none of the other corporations' forces were ever recovered. One corporation even fell overnight due to the swift actions of Chronos Corp.
Their latest game, Shattered Realms, offered a fully immersive alternate reality where players could live entire lifetimes and achieve real-world wealth and status. The virtual economy within Shattered Realms became dominant, with digital currencies and assets gaining significant real-world value.
Players earned their livelihoods through in-game activities, and virtual investments became crucial for economic growth. However, most won't know that until the in-game currency exchange be implemented within the coming week.
In the present day, society is divided into distinct classes based on access to technology and virtual assets.
For the elite class, known as the Lofts, possesses advanced technology and dominates both the real and virtual worlds. They have access to the best resources and control significant portions of the virtual economy.
The lower class, known as Grounders, will not struggle to gain a foothold in the Shattered Realms.
However, they will face challenges in accessing advanced technology and resources which requires them to join a gaming workshop or be lucky enough to be recruited into a big gaming franchise in order to even play the game.
'They don't know, but Chronos Corp. will mass-produce afforble gaming helmets for all to play. At that time, it'll be too late before the Servolution begins. This is the main reason I need to join Chronos Corp.'
Various factions would have risen within Shattered Realms, aiming to challenge the Loft's dominance.
Groups like the "Free Blades" and "Digital Dawn" seek to redistribute power and resources, allowing everyone to have access to Shattered Realms.
Connor plans to do this way before the Servolution even becomes a thing. He also plans to spearhead the distribution of gaming helmets all to quell the public's anger.
This in turn, he hopes, would make him a hero of the republic and therefore receive a massive influx of Players ready to join his Guild when the time comes for open recruitment.
Connor, having been a part of this evolving world, was acutely aware of the impact that Chronos Corp and Shattered Realms will have on society. The game was more than just an escape—it was a means of survival and prosperity for many of the less fortunate.
His own family, the Lin family, had navigated this changing landscape with skill and foresight, securing their place among the Lofts long before the fourth generation of VR.
As Connor's car approached the high school, he looked out the window and took in the impressive sight once again. The school is a reflection of modern architecture, seamlessly blending sleek, futuristic elements with classical design.
At the forefront of the school, on the grassy field, a name, New Horizons Academy, was engraved in bold, silver lettering that shimmered in the mid-morning light.
Below the name, the school's emblem—a stylized image of a rising sun with rays extending outward—was etched with intricate detail, symbolizing the institution's commitment to guiding students toward a bright and promising future.
The entire sign was framed by a border of meticulously trimmed hedges, adding a touch of natural elegance to the entrance. Students passed by, the sign stood as a proud testament to the school's prestige and the high standards it upheld.
It's expansive campus sprawled across 10 acres, with manicured lawns, elegant fountains, and tree-lined pathways creating a serene and welcoming atmosphere.
The main building stood tall, its facade a mix of reflective glass panels and white stone. The glass panels shimmered in the morning light, giving the building an almost ethereal quality.
Large pillars flanked the entrance, their surfaces engraved with intricate patterns that glowed faintly with blue light, a subtle reminder of the advanced technology integrated into every aspect of the school.
As the car pulled up to the drop-off area, Connor noticed the hustle and bustle of students arriving for the day. They moved with purpose, their uniforms crisp and their expressions a mix of excitement and determination.
Holographic displays floated above the main entrance, cycling through important announcements, the day's schedule, and congratulatory messages for recent student achievements.
Stepping out of the car, Connor was greeted by the familiar sight of the school's expansive courtyard designed to welcome parents dropping their children off.
Beautifully maintained gardens lined the pathways, and students congregated in small groups, chatting animatedly. The air was filled with the hum of conversation and the occasional burst of laughter, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.
As Connor walked towards the entrance after buffing his driver goodbye, he overheard snippets of conversations from lower-grade students.
"Did you see the reps from Chronos Corporation? They look so impressive," a young student exclaimed, eyes wide with awe.
"Yeah, my older brother said they're here to recruit the best talents for Shattered Realms," another replied, practically bouncing with excitement.
Security guards stood at key points, their presence adding a layer of security and order amidst the excitement. School officials in distinct shirts moved around, directing students and ensuring everything was running smoothly.
"Keep the hallways clear, everyone," one of the officials called out, his voice authoritative yet kind. "We need to make sure the representatives have a clear path."
Excelling here would open doors and create opportunities that were crucial in this era of rapid advancement and fierce competition.
The doors to the main building slid open smoothly as Connor approached, and he stepped into the spacious lobby. The interior was just as impressive as the exterior, with polished marble floors, high ceilings, and walls adorned with digital displays showcasing the school's history and student accomplishments.
Connor enters the main hallway and he could feel the energy of the school day intensifying. Interactive screens displayed the day's schedule and the achievements of the school's top students.
Holographic displays floated above, showcasing highlights of previous years' events and notable alumni.
"Man, I can't wait until we're seniors and get to participate in this," a freshman said to his friend as they watched the activity.
"Me neither. This is the biggest event of the year," his friend replied, his eyes gleaming with ambition.
Connor continued through the hallways, past groups of excited students and teachers offering last-minute encouragement to their charges to prepare for the test next year.
"Remember, give it your all and stay focused," a teacher advised a group of students. "This is your chance to shine."
As Connor approached the testing area, he checked his watch.
11:24 am.
He was an hour and a half late. The senior students, all 2000 of them, were already deep into their testing routines. Once he reaches the assembly hall, Connor hears his name being called for the third time.
"For the third time, Connor Lin, please report to the testing area immediately," the proctor's voice echoed throughout the
Connor quickened his pace, arriving just in time to hear his name being called again. He stepped forward, humbly apologizing, "My apologies for being late."
A familiar, smug voice cut through the room. "Late again, Connor? Some things never change."
Connor turned to see Ethan Voss, the son of a state official and the most talented student of their year by far. Ethan stood with an air of arrogance, his 2-star Mentee Realm cognitive strength level prominently displayed on the status screen ahead.
"Think you can just waltz in here and impress everyone?" Ethan sneered. "I've been ready for this for years."
'Oh, how I've missed you, Ethan,' Connor says to himself, not the least bit happy that he's being ridiculed by an extra in his story called Life.