> Saturday September 14 1901

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> The president has spoken with the press! He attributes his survival to the X-Ray machine, the device that sees into the anatomy, and especially to Dr. Roswell Park. The doctor, it seems, was just arriving back at the Fair where he was medical director, after preforming a neck operation of some sort. The press quoted Dr. Park with saying, "Recent advances in medicine, medical equipment, and knowledge, were assets in my timely arrival at the Fair. Had it been five years prior, I'd have been in the middle of operation at the time of the shooting."

Edward's heart pulsed with a mixture of excitement and nervous anticipation as he traversed the labyrinthine streets of The Eternal City, guided by the address provided by F. Each step he took fueled his determination, despite his limited experience in this new virtual world. Though aware of his novice status, he refused to succumb to fear, channeling a newfound courage that flickered within.

At last, he arrived at the designated location—a decrepit building concealed in a forgotten corner of the city. The worn door yielded easily to his touch, revealing the dimly lit hallway beyond. A surge of adrenaline coursed through his veins, heightening his senses and sharpening his focus. With a determined stride, he pressed forward, undeterred by the enigmatic atmosphere that enveloped him.

The faint glow emanating from the cracked door beckoned him forward, its tantalizing allure drawing him deeper into the unknown. With unwavering resolve, Edward stepped into the dimly lit room, its ambience drenched in the soft flicker of candlelight. Shelves adorned with ancient tomes and enigmatic artifacts lined the walls, bearing witness to the secrets hidden within these hallowed walls. At the center of it all lay the coveted prize—a radiant ring adorned with intricate engravings.

As Edward approached the table, his eyes locked onto the precious artifact. The air crackled with anticipation, an unspoken challenge hanging in the room. It was then that a figure emerged from the shadows—a hooded mage exuding an aura of mystery and power.

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Undeterred by the mage's imposing presence, Edward stood his ground, his voice steady yet tinged with respect. "I've been sent to retrieve what rightfully belongs to another. Are you the guardian of this elusive ring?"

A smile played upon the mage's lips, an acknowledgement of Edward's audacity. "So, you dare to face me, a mere novice? Your bravery is commendable, but do not mistake it for foolhardiness. This ring is under my protection."

Edward's gaze met the mage's unwaveringly, his determination evident. "I may lack experience, but I possess the will to succeed. Hand it over peacefully, and no further conflict shall arise."

A moment of tense silence hung in the air, the room seemingly holding its breath. The mage's eyes flickered with a mixture of amusement and intrigue. "Very well. Show me your mettle, young adventurer. Prove that you are worthy of claiming this prize."

Edward's heart swelled with determination as he took a step back, preparing himself for the inevitable clash. Though untested, he had faith in his abilities and the potential that lay within him. With a swift motion, he reached for his weapon, ready to face the challenges that awaited him in this pivotal moment.

In this clash of wills and magic, Edward would seize the opportunity to grow, his courage serving as a guiding light through the shadowy depths of uncertainty. He may be a novice, but his spirit burned bright with the promise of a hero in the making.

As Edward braced himself for the imminent clash, an overwhelming surge of energy pulsed through the room, filling the air with crackling sparks of mystical power. The mage's eyes glowed with a potent arcane force, and ethereal tendrils of magical energy swirled around their outstretched hand, weaving a mesmerizing dance. The sight of such raw power sent a shiver down Edward's spine, serving as a stark reminder of his own meager experience in this vast virtual world.

In a swift motion, the mage unleashed a torrent of elemental energy, their staff cutting through the air with a flourish. Flames erupted from the mage's fingertips, engulfing the space where Edward had stood just moments before. Instinct took over as Edward's reflexes kicked in, allowing him to evade the initial onslaught with a swift and nimble dodge. The searing heat of the flames licked at his heels, leaving scorch marks in their wake.

But the impact of the mage's spell was far from inconsequential. The sheer force of its manifestation shook the very foundations of the room, causing the floor to quake and tremble beneath Edward's feet. Cracks spiderwebbed across the once-solid ground, creating a treacherous path that betrayed his balance. In a disorienting blur of motion, Edward lost his footing and was sent hurtling into the gaping void below.