"Okay, chat that's all for today!" The sound echoed throughout my room as I sat in front of a computer screen, the light shining in my fish-eyed pupils, dead, void of a soul, a personality.

Okay, you don't know me so let's start from the top, my name is Taida Haru, and most of my friends call me Haru, even though I don't have many friends. I normally spend my days, rotting away in my chair, doing all my classes online and keeping out of touch with the outside world.

The only reason I got into the college dorms regardless was to get away from my mom without too many expenses, the sun was my enemy, and instant ramen while watching my favorite streamer was an oasis in a desert, the height of my day, the pinnacle of ecstasy! 

I wanted to become a gamer myself, though it's not the path my mother would want for me, and personally I don't think I'll make it anyway, kind of a gamble. I rather just study and watch gamers from the comfort of my room, believe it or not, I like this current lifestyle. 

Though lately, I came across a small streamer about a year ago, she goes by the name of "UntitledGhost" and I really like her, I'd love to meet her at some point but sadly no company is going to make a streamer with her following do anything like that-

"Hey, Haru!" Someone burst into my room, their eyes immediately squinting at the shift from the bright corridor to the dark room. Oh right, I forgot to mention I live with this, "bundle of joy."

Meet Gabriel, girls often faun over him in secret, can you really blame them? With black scruffy hair and those ocean blue eyes, I see where he's a really outgoing guy yet chooses to stick with me for some reason or the other. He's a gamer too though he only plays on his switch lately.

He normally says it's because "it's convenient when on the move", sigh– the struggles of an extrovert.

"You need something?" I asked, watching him as he felt his way around my room, his hands reaching for the fabric of my curtains and spreading them open as wide as he could, the sudden wave of light attacking my retinas.

"What the hell man?!" I shouted in reflex, Gabriel turning to me with a smug grin before it all turned into shock, taking in my disheveled state.

"Did you get any sleep?!" He asked, his eyes visibly concerned for my well-being.

I looked up at him with a dead stare, the bags under my eyes easily mistakable for poorly added-on makeup.

"You came here for something??" I urged, dodging the question entirely, waiting on his response.

"Oh, right! Guess what?" He grinned, practically bouncing up and down from excitement.

"I'm gonna need glasses?" I quipped, rubbing my eyes as I slowly tried to adjust to the light entering the room

"Nope!"

"You sure?" I asked, pinching the bridge of my nose.

"Positive." 

I looked up at him, seeing that he could hardly hold in his excitement, I sighed and showed my palm to him telling him I give up and just spit it out.

He waisted no time in telling me, blurting it out like it was some sort of news announcement.

 "UntitledGhost is having a con this week!"

"Right here?" I tilted my head confused as to what he meant. "you mean in this apartment?" 

Gabriel looked at me with a look of disbelief, his smile dropping to a disappointed stare, "I'm gonna chalk that up to lack of sleep–"

"She's celebrating Gamestops grand reopening!"

I shot up from my seat the excitement he felt now passed onto me, "Wait actually?!"

"Yeah, dude!" He shouted back, matching my sudden burst of energy

"When is it??"

"Friday!"

I grinned from ear to ear. I couldn't wait. The two of us were practically squealing by the amount of fanboying we were doing.

___

In the year 2145, the world has seen a plethora of technological advancements. While rockets embarking on missions to inhabit Mars and the development of advanced military weapons are undoubtedly impressive, the true marvel captivating the global population lies in the evolution of gaming. VR headsets have revolutionized the gaming landscape, offering an immersive experience that transcends the clunky controls of the early 2020s. These headsets grant players a tangible presence within the game, allowing them to feel pain, savor food, and experience a myriad of sensations once thought impossible.

Among all the innovations in gaming technology, the most profound evolution is seen in the gamers themselves. The gaming community has grown and diversified, giving rise to a new breed of elite players known as "drifters." These individuals are not mere hobbyists; they are the best of the best, surpassing the skills of average and casual players. Drifters dominate the virtual arenas, excelling as content creators, speedrunners, and professional competitors. Their prowess in navigating the digital realms has earned them a revered status in this new age of gaming.

For many, the dream of becoming a drifter is a tantalizing aspiration. I am no exception. The allure of being part of this elite group, of mastering the art of the game and gaining recognition, is a powerful draw. However, reality often has a way of intervening. My life has been consumed by academic pursuits, a path chosen to make my mother proud. University, with its demands and expectations, has left little room for indulging in my passion for gaming.

But today is different. Today, I stand on the precipice of a life-changing event. This gaming convention, a gathering of the most talented drifters and the latest in gaming technology offers a unique opportunity. It is a chance to break free from the constraints of my current life and step into a world where my true passion lies. The convention promises not just a glimpse into the future of gaming, but a potential pathway to becoming part of that future.

As I prepare to leave for the convention, my mind is a whirlwind of possibilities. What will I see? Who will I meet? Will this be the moment that changes everything? With a mixture of excitement and determination, I take a deep breath and step forward. The future is uncertain, but it is filled with potential. Today, I am not just a university student. Today, I am a dreamer, ready to take the first step towards a new destiny.