The Role of the Reaper

Roleplaying is an art. To me, it's not just about picking a character; it's about creating a legend. Every detail matters—appearance, voice, mannerisms, even the backstory. I wasn't just crafting a character; I was forging a myth.

It all started with a game. Not just any game, but Exoria Online.

The Game That Changed Everything

Exoria Online wasn't your typical RPG. It was the ultimate fusion of immersive virtual reality and open-world exploration. Players could step into a world of uncharted lands, mythical creatures, and limitless adventure. What made it revolutionary was its freedom. Every player could create their destiny: heroes, villains, or even something in between.

For someone like me—a self-proclaimed master of roleplaying—it was the perfect playground.

I'd been waiting for its launch for months, obsessively watching trailers, reading developer interviews, and even sketching designs for my in-game character. My hype was off the charts, and as the release day approached, I could barely contain myself.

The Persona

The heart of roleplaying lies in the persona. A character isn't just stats on a screen—it's a reflection of creativity and vision.

For this game, I wanted something unique. Someone who would stand out in a world of heroes and legends. My character would embody mystery and power, a figure feared by many yet truly understood by none.

After countless sketches and revisions, I settled on his design:

Hair: Silver on the left, black on the right.Eyes: One a cold, piercing gray; the other a fiery crimson, both devoid of emotion.Skin: Pale, almost corpse-like, as if untouched by the sun.Outfit: A black and gold ensemble, complete with a long flowing coat, gloves, and a single crimson scarf trailing behind.

And his name?

Abyss Reaper.

Not a hero. Not a villain. Something more.

A New World Awaits

I entered the game on launch day with excitement bubbling inside me. Exoria Online wasn't just a game—it was a chance to live the fantasy I had crafted in my mind.

The opening sequence was breathtaking. A sprawling city of towering spires and bustling markets stretched out before me. NPCs mingled with players, each one indistinguishable from the other in their lifelike movements and expressions.

I moved through the city, taking in the sights and marveling at the level of detail. Every cobblestone street, every flickering lamplight—it all felt real.

"Welcome, adventurer," an NPC greeted me. "Are you ready to carve your path in this world?"

"Oh, I'll carve it, all right," I muttered, slipping into character. "And I'll make sure it's unforgettable."

Crafting the Legend

For hours, I immersed myself in the game, completing quests, battling monsters, and perfecting my character's combat style. Abyss Reaper wasn't just powerful—he was artistic.

I wielded a sleek scythe adorned with chains and a glowing red eye in its center. Every swing was fluid, every attack precise. Enemies fell before me like leaves in a storm, and with each victory, I felt more connected to my persona.

But it wasn't just about combat. It was about presence.

Whenever I entered a room, I made sure people noticed. Whether it was a dramatic line or a slow, deliberate walk, I wanted Abyss Reaper to leave an impression.

The Moment Everything Changed

After an intense dungeon run, I decided to take a break. Stretching, I opened the menu and searched for the logout option.

It wasn't there.

"Huh. Weird," I said, frowning. I scrolled through the menu again, checking every tab.

Nothing.

"Log out," I said aloud, expecting the system to respond.

「This command cannot be executed.」

My heart skipped a beat.

"Log. Out," I repeated, slower this time.

「This command cannot be executed.」

Panic began to creep in.

I tried to access the game's help system, but it was unresponsive. The bustling city, the vibrant world—it all suddenly felt suffocating.

That's when it hit me.

I wasn't playing Exoria Online.

I was in it.