> Friday September 6 1901

>

> My God I wish I hadn't gone to the Fair today. The President of the United States of America was shot. In front of my very eyes. I was to shake the mans hand, I was going to thank him for the inspirational speech he gave... and then a man... he shook his hand and shot him! I have never seen such a horrendous act in all my days...

> It is fortunate indeed that there was a machine on display that can see the interior of the human anatomy without dissection. Last I heard, after they had rushed the president off, they had discovered the bullet that had entered his body, removed it, repaired the damage, and sewn up his injuries.

>

> I pray the man will survive, he means so much to this nation.

As Edward's consciousness settles into the game world, he finds himself standing amidst the vibrant scenery of the main square in the entry town of The Eternal City. The hustle and bustle of adventurers and townsfolk fills the air, and the majestic fountain at the center of the square offers a soothing melody as water cascades down its elaborate stone structure.

Just as Edward turns to take in the breathtaking sight, he feels a gentle yet firm grip on his arm. He turns his head, and his eyes meet Cassie's, who stands beside him. Her eyes reflect a mix of concern and excitement.

"Edward, there you are, you went online without waiting for me to finish talking!" Cassie exclaims, her voice filled with relief. "I've been waiting here for you. Are you alright?"

Edward takes a moment to collect himself, his gaze shifting from the awe-inspiring surroundings to Cassie's captivating presence. Her vividly colored hair seems to dance with life, matching the vibrant energy emanating from her.

"I'm here, Cassie," Edward replies, a mixture of surprise and curiosity in his voice. "I... I don't know how I got here. It feels surreal. But I'm fine. I think."

Cassie's concern transforms into a warm smile, her eyes gleaming with understanding. "Don't worry, Edward. You've stumbled upon an extraordinary realm. Welcome to The Eternal City, where adventures await at every corner. It can be overwhelming at first, but you'll get the hang of it. I promise."

Edward's eyes widen, his excitement beginning to overshadow his initial confusion. "So, this is real? Not just some elaborate dream? I'm actually in a game world?"

Cassie nods, her voice filled with reassurance. "Absolutely real. The game world may seem fantastical, but the experiences, the friendships, the challenges—they're all real. Your actions and choices matter here, just as they do in the world you came from."

This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Edward's gaze shifts towards the rainbow refractions gleaming from a set of glass wind chimes nearby, causing his perception of the world to slow down momentarily. "I can see every ray of light. It's like I've been granted a new way of seeing."

Cassie follows Edward's gaze, a spark of curiosity lighting up her eyes. "Ah, the wonders of this realm never cease to amaze me. Light and shadow play a crucial role in this world's dynamics. It's fascinating, isn't it? Light creates shadows, and shadows hold secrets."

Edward's attention is then drawn to a pair of young boys retreating into a shadowy alcove, seemingly vanishing into thin air. "Did you see that, Cassie? Those kids just... disappeared. Is that a game mechanic or something more?"

Cassie's eyes flicker with intrigue as she follows Edward's gaze. "Curious indeed. This world holds many mysteries. Those children might possess abilities beyond our comprehension. They might be hiding in plain sight or possess unique skills. The possibilities are endless."

As Edward's perception returns to normal speed, he notices a young woman adorned in vibrant green garments, her attire adorned with living vines and leaves. Strapped to her pack is a peculiar tool, a fusion of a pickaxe, hammer, fishing rod, and various other implements, giving it an almost organic quality.

Edward points towards the woman, his voice filled with fascination. "Look at her! Her attire, her equipment—it's like she's in harmony with nature itself. Have you seen anything like it, Cassie?"

Cassie's gaze follows Edward's gesture, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Nature has a way of weaving its magic into the fabric of this world. That woman might be a guardian of the wilderness or possess a special affinity for gathering resources. Perhaps we'll cross paths with her on our own journeys."

Edward's attention is then captured by a knight clad in dark blue armor, seemingly accompanied by flashes of rainbow light trailing behind him, as if a shard of crystal floats in his wake. "Cassie, look at that knight! There's something enchanting about him. It's as if he carries a fragment of pure magic. What could it be?"

Cassie's gaze lingers on the knight, her expression thoughtful. "That knight, called Butterfly Knight, is adorned with a unique aura, an embodiment of power and mystery. The rainbow lights suggest the knight possesses a rare artifact or is infused with extraordinary abilities. Such encounters often hold great significance in the paths we choose."

As Edward finally turns around to face Cassie, he is captivated by her radiant presence. Her hair, alive with vivid hues of red, orange, and yellow, seems to dance freely in the virtual breeze, lending her an ethereal aura.

"Now, Edward," Cassie says, her voice gentle yet commanding, "let's find a place to sit and talk. There's much to discuss, and I want to make sure you're grounded in this realm before we proceed. Shall we?"

Edward nods, a mix of wonder and anticipation coursing through his veins. "Absolutely, Cassie. Lead the way. I'm ready to learn and embark on this incredible adventure with you."

As they find a comfortable spot in the bustling square, their conversation continues, weaving together the threads of curiosity, friendship, and the vast possibilities that lie before them in this extraordinary game world.

After their engaging conversation, Cassie informs Edward that she has pressing matters to attend to and bids him farewell. Edward watches as she gracefully departs, her vibrant hair swaying with each step, until she becomes a colorful blur in the distance.

Left alone in the main square, Edward's curiosity draws him towards a building connected to the shadowy alcove he had observed earlier. As he approaches, he reads the weathered sign hanging above the entrance: "F's Pawnery." Intrigued, he pushes open the creaking door and steps inside.