Chapter 3:

Conversation

Vacation on the Placeholder


“Every rule of the universe is still respected, essentially.”
“So you’re saying magic is physically possible?”
“Yes. But in a way you’re unable to understand, I’m afraid.”
“But what about those made-up memories? You changed the entire timeline using that computer?”
“No. The timeline in this reality is exactly the same, but every living creature in the universe now has the memories of what is basically a simulation of their lives, if these rules were true ever since they were born. Some things won't make any sense and that is bound to be troublesome, which is why this has to be fixed."
“Okay. But why do I remember the original world?”
“Matt.” the entity or whatever it is in front of me doesn't show emotion, but somehow I get the feeling they sound sad - “This happened because the builder couldn't reach us. I could manually change it so you wouldn’t remember, but I do not understand the human mind enough for such. And I wanted you to help me understand it, if you may.”

I pause. This entity seems knowledgeable about many things, but it can't understand me?

“What even are you? Why a cow of all things?"
“When I got to this planet, I thought I was similar to this animal, so I decided to take its form. But I could be a pig if you prefer.”
“That’s not the problem at all...”
“So, any questions left?”
“No. But listen.” I stop and think for a second - “I’ll try to help you understand, though I doubt it’ll work.”
“Thank you for that.”

I look around, to see the time still frozen. Feels like I should be freaking out about this, but everything is happening so fast. Maybe it’s because I don’t feel anything in so long.The strange being in front of me starts to walk away, turning his head just before leaving.

“One more thing, Matt. Get to where you were going with Vera originally. Be sure to get there, since I do not know if we will get to talk until then.”
“Okay, I'll make sure of it.”
“Goodbye,” he nods

See you later, then.

As soon as he disappears, time slowly unfreezes giving me enough time to unleash a powerful water jet into the conjured fireball, instantly extinguishing it. A lot of the water vaporizes, fully covering our sight, and I take this chance to run away with Vera.

“Damnit, Matt! Took you long enough!" Vera complains - "I was this close to using my fire magic, even though you have a much better match!”

I better get used to this.

“Sorry, sorry. I was a little out of it.”