Draconia Offline vol. 1

12.1. Don't Be Afraid of Us - Part 1

It almost doesn't seem real but Fefnir turns on the 3D projector and it's on all news channels. Silent and horrified, we stare at a live footage of the military occupying streets of American cities. Fefnir then finds a debate programme.

"It's just a precaution," an American politician claims vehemently and looks pale. "We want to avoid any violence... possible racial riots."

"It's supposed to protect the transforming players," her colleague seconds. "There were already some cases of Draconians being attacked... so far only verbally, fortunately."

"Hospitals are full and people are buying food rations like crazy," the first politician adds. "All we want is to prevent panic."

"But you strongly recommend that Draconians don't go outside unless they absolutely have to?" the commentator asks.

"We implore them," the politician nods. "For the time being... until people get used to it a bit."

I look at Erik and he clutches my hand. We were expecting some kind of escalation soon but a state of national emergency?

Fefnir switches the channel and it's the EU representatives speaking. Although they didn't announce the state of emergency, they also strongly advise players not to leave their homes for now. Allegedly, for our own safety.

"Our safety!" Liana spits. "They're afraid of us, that's all."

"It's understandable, Miss Richter," Dr Stein speaks up. "We still don't know what's really going on and people are losing their nerves. I mean... we know WHAT is going on. But we have no idea HOW and WHY."

"They can't limit our freedom of movement like that," Fefnir protests and angrily hits the chair.

He just wanted to release some steam but the wood doesn't withstand the pressure and breaks. Fefnir opens his mouth wide and looks at the damage he's done.

"S-sorry... I didn't mean to... I...," he's shocked by his own strength.

"And that's exactly why people are afraid," Dr Stein gulps. "Four new races on the planet, each with abilities far exceeding humans."

"We have to prove that we're still us," Liana says. "We're still their friends, colleagues from work, family..."

"How?" Ingri is on the verge of panicking and looks back at the projection. Now it shows a footage of people protesting in front of the White House.

"You two specifically might be able to help," Liana points at me and Erik.

"Huh?" we both blink, confused.

"First of all, you're a VR celebrity, Aefener. You've already had millions of followers and you keep getting more by the minute. That means that we can reach a lot of people with whatever you post online. We potentially have a huge audience."

She breathes in.

"Secondly, your boyfriend is human. The public will accept us better if we show that we're still friendly with them so there's no reason to fear us."

"I can't involve Erik," I violently shake my head. "What if someone hurts him because of me? There will be many haters."

"You-are-so-cute-but-stupid," Erik pauses every single word. "I'm not leaving your side which means that I'll be perfectly safe wherever you'll be."

"I have a third point," Ingri brings up, trying to calm herself. "Think about the majority of your fanbase, Aefener. Giving them an eye candy by presenting your handsome human boyfriend will make them even crazier for you. That's more positive publicity."