Virtual Reality Story

The faint beating of his heart could be seen through the convoluted layers of his skin. The dull, repetitive ticking of the clock, hanging from the lacquered wooden wall was echoing emphatically in his sensitive ears. His cold, pallid skin could feel the patterns displayed on the overused bed sheets and thick blankets, as he lay paralysed on his single mattress. Connected to his head, was a plastic, claw- like brace that enveloped his entire skull and attached firmly onto his neck. The brace was wired and plugged securely into the double socket power point positioned low under his bedhead. Searching with his right arm, he found a neatly- packed, empty box that was labelled 'Creationation! You've got to be dreaming!' Vaguely reading the instructions clearly shown at the back of the box, he came down to the final step that said ambiguously, 'Now, just close your eyes and fall asleep'.

"Zane, can I come in" bellowed an immature feminine voice from knocking on the door from outside the room. "No! Go away, I'm busy" he replied impertinently, knowing that if he was interrupted, his opportunity would be lost. Zane shut his eyes anxiously, his muscles began to spasm and he began imagining different, bizarre scenarios in his mind.

"Welcome to Creationation" an optimistic voice uttered. "Here, you are in control of your happiness and your life, whether you want prosperity, tranquillity, success or even hardship, you can create it here". Zane looked upwards in enlightenment, to the angelic hologram that was cast in front of him. "However, there are some rules and regulations that you must abide by when you are in this world"

They are not to be broken,

Your adventures, not to be spoken of.

No items or objects must be taken;

In the case that you are awoken

With anything you have, that exists here,

Know that life form, will forever disappear.

Never ever find love, that's not what this is for

Then this parallel existence, will be not anymore

If you wish to return,

Close your eyes for a short time,

Your reality, will become your reality,

And your mind will become your mind.

He acknowledged these wise words with a weary grin. Understanding the possible implications of his actions, he cautiously walked past the illuminating hologram and into the foyer where many like-gamers scurried around intently into the many portals. These portals were labelled with particular feelings such as: happy, peace, passion, rebellious and