The stairs leading to the top floor of the third section. As I climbed them, I placed my hand over my chest.

*Thump, thump.*

I could feel my heart beating rhythmically.

Even though this was just my virtual body, it was still enough to express the exhilaration I felt.

I feel great.

I’m enjoying this.

It wasn’t about fighting for the fate of the world.

Clearing a tough boss and reveling in the soaring sense of accomplishment. That’s all it was.

Right now, I was simply enjoying the "game."

*Step, step.*

I ascended the stairs and reached the top of …