Six years have passed since the introduction of the Virtual-Reality Combat Simulator known as Gun Meister Online. Putting on a dive helmet and sinking into the adrenaline-charged world of sex and violence has become commonplace. NPCs have become more lifelike than ever, creating relationships with players that can transcend mere programming.  But the game is struggling. The NPC intelligence system has spread to most games, and the novelty has worn off. Dedicated players still enter Gun Meister every day, but the new players are dropping off. As skill gaps increase tensions build among the player corps.  Blaine Morgan is thrust into this world, seeking escape from his broken life, and embraces this world wholeheartedly. He makes friends, ranks up, and starts building a polycule of NPCs. So when his world is shattered by griefers, what are his options?  There's only one answer for this battered veteran. Play the game.