<strong>EPILOGUE</strong>


    A short time ago, in one of the countless meta-virtualities that were the underpinnings of a world simtion called Conquest...


    A figure in a gray tie and ck swallowtail coat closely monitored an event that had necessitated far too much personal attention and influence to orchestrate.


    The figure nodded when a certain vexing yer’s HP reached zero, as if predicted and ording to n.


    Now the System could be nudged back to a stable, less chaotic state.


    In celebration, the figure personally sent the system message "You died!" to the yer, resisting the impulse to add an admonishment for the yer to stay out of further mischief.


    Satisfied, the figure turned its attention to other matters. The figure was soon bent over the work area, fully upied with the myriad tasks required to fulfill its purpose and mandate, the smooth functioning of the System, ording to coded dictates.


    Suddenly, the figure froze for a long moment. Quivered. Standing, it expanded rapidly, far beyond its original size, bewildered eyes searching, mouth moving in growing rage.


    Fists clenched, head thrown back, the figure screamed in a voice that reached all across the System, "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?"


    To be continued...