Absconding

ch. 1 Ginny

As I settled onto the train, observing people gradually entering, a sense of excitement surged within me. The government introduced a VR set, inviting individuals worldwide to embark on this new reality. They promised a staggering reward of four million dollars to all participants. Glancing around the futuristic train, capable of accommodating around 200 passengers, I couldn't spot any familiar faces. As I prepare for this unfamiliar virtual world, I'm excited about the upcoming challenges! There are even rumors that if I manage to beat the game, I could win a whopping 30 million dollars and a new home for my family. This is truly amazing, especially considering how prices are rising rapidly due to the Earth's population reaching 14 billion people. Most people, except for the wealthy, can barely afford the high costs. A typical grocery shopping trip now amounts to around 1000 dollars for just 25 items. In recent times, there have been distressing incidents of people resorting to violence, even in grocery stores and homes, simply to avoid going hungry. The world we inhabit seems to be descending into chaos, and I can't shake the feeling that a significant portion of the global population will board these trains that transport us to the VR center. Before boarding the train, I was required to provide a train attendant with my full name and age. It was a straightforward process, aimed at ensuring proper identification upon reaching the top-secret destination. I'm worried about the age range starting from 14+ for joining the virtual world. I'm just 19, and the thought of having to fight against kids or dealing with unknown elements in this virtual reality bothers me. It's unsettling and haunting. Nonetheless, despite my concerns, I remain excited. As the man seated beside me, closest to the window, gets caught up in his excitement, he accidentally bumps into my foot.

"Oh, goodness! I'm so sorry," he exclaims, chuckling. "I'm John," he introduces himself. He appeared pale with dark hair and brown eyes. I nod, relieved to find someone who shares my uneasiness. "Absolutely. It's all so unknown, and the thought of what awaits us can be quite nerve-wracking. How are you coping with it?"
John sighs, his eyes reflecting a mix of excitement and apprehension. "I won't deny it, have my concerns too. But at the same time, I'm drawn to the adventure and the possibilities it holds. It's a leap into the unknown, and I believe it'll be worth it.
His words reassure me, reminding me that we're not alone in our nervousness. Just as John and I were about to resume our conversation, our attention is drawn to the TV screen hanging from the train's ceiling. It flickers to life, capturing the focus of everyone on board. Simultaneously, the once bright windows turn dark, preventing us from seeing outside. The interior lights switch on, illuminating the train car and making it easier for us to observe one another. The previously bustling train becomes eerily silent as everyone's attention is now fixed on the TV, waiting in anticipation for what it would reveal. On the TV screen, a woman with short black hair, cropped close to her ears, appears. She is dressed in a professional suit with a skirt, exuding an air of authority and maturity. Clearing her throat, she begins addressing the passengers.

"Greetings, everyone. For your safety during this journey, I kindly ask you to prepare yourselves. Please turn off your electronic devices and hand them to the attendant," she instructs, her words carrying a serious tone. Almost immediately, an attendant emerges, carrying a bucket.

"Please do not attempt to hide your phones. They will be checked again upon arrival, and you will not be permitted to enter until you have surrendered your devices into the buckets. Rest assured, you will receive them back once the VR experience concludes," she continues, emphasizing the importance of compliance.

The woman on the TV screen, Ms. Grey, continues speaking with a mix of sternness and excitement. "I'm Ms. Grey, one of the project's funders, and I'm thrilled that all of you have chosen to join us," she announces, a faint smile on her face. Some people in the crowd behind us clap and cheer, but the enthusiasm quickly fades away, overshadowed by the gravity of the situation.