The Problem Chapter 2: Journey
Ris was tired of the real world. The constant pain, the medication, the judgments – they had all become too much to bear. But within the digital realm that the protagonist had created, she had found her sanctuary.
In the virtual world, she felt free, vibrant, and truly alive. Her avatar, a reflection of her ideal self, moved with grace and confidence. The pristine landscapes stretched out as far as the eye could see, with lush forests, tranquil lakes, and towering mountains. This was her escape, her solace, her paradise.
As she walked through this virtual Eden, Ris marveled at the beauty around her. The sun cast a warm glow over the landscape, and the flowers swayed in the gentle breeze. In the real world, she couldn't walk without pain, but here, her steps were light and effortless.
"Wow, this place is incredible!" Ris typed in the virtual chat, and her message appeared on the screen as a shimmering text bubble.
A friendly reply popped up from a user named "Vesper": "I know, right? It's like a dream come true."
"Want to explore together?" another user named "Zephyr" suggested.
Ris felt a rush of excitement. She had never felt such a sense of belonging before, and the idea of exploring this world with others was exhilarating. "Sure!" she replied.
As Ris joined Vesper and Zephyr, they explored the virtual landscape together, sharing stories of their real-world struggles and their dreams within the digital realm. They laughed, danced, and soared through the sky, their avatars reflecting their newfound joy.
Days turned into weeks, and Ris's virtual adventures continued. She met more people along the way, each with their unique stories and avatars. Together, they formed a close-knit group, bonding over their shared experiences in this paradise. The group's name, "The Dreamwalkers," soon became synonymous with friendship and support.
One day, they stumbled upon a hidden village, nestled in the heart of the virtual world. The village was bustling with life, filled with other users and their avatars. It was a hub of creativity and connection. Ris and The Dreamwalkers decided to make it their new home.
Ris marveled at the beauty of the virtual village. She approached a user named "Luna," whose avatar was crafting a magnificent sculpture by the village fountain.
"Hello, I'm Ris. This place is incredible, and your sculpture is amazing!" Ris sent the message.
Luna smiled warmly and replied, "Thank you, Ris! I'm Luna, and you're welcome to explore and create with us. The village is a place for dreamers like us."
Ris introduced Luna to her newfound friends, and Luna introduced them to other villagers. The Dreamwalkers quickly became a central part of the village community, contributing their creativity and forging bonds with fellow dreamers.
As the days passed, Ris couldn't help but wonder about the real world she had left behind. The pain was still there, but in the virtual world, she had discovered a healing power in friendship and connection. Her experiences with The Dreamwalkers and the village had ignited a glimmer of hope, making her question whether there might be a way to bridge these two worlds.
Ris found herself torn between the desire to remain in her newfound paradise and the nagging pull of her physical self, lying dormant in a sterile room. She knew that a choice loomed on the horizon, one that would determine the course of her life, both in the real world and in this mesmerizing digital Eden.
The Blackbird
Stamford Arts Centre
