Chapter 19:

#BLUR IV

REIN: Nightmare Trials


4Before me lay a vast grassland, trees of varied heights swaying in a harmonious dance. Each tree seemed to have found its unique place, creating a visual symphony that captivated the senses. The cafeteria's minimalism gave way to nature's intricate complexity—a surreal contrast.Above, a dome-shaped ceiling mimicked the sky, casting a soft, warm glow akin to sunlight.A stream wound through the garden, reflecting the artificial sunlight as it sparkled. A wooden bridge elegantly spanned the stream, inviting exploration.Clear water flowed gently, harmonizing with the tranquillity. The gentle sounds from the branches, complemented the wind that blew. "How's the view? The Cloud Garden preserves not only flora but also the atmosphere," the cat explained."The dome recreates the sky, maintaining the delicate balance of clouds, weather, and air quality our planet once enjoyed using an artificial weather ecosystem." The environment's intricacies revealed a complex artificial ecosystem—a blend of innovation and reverence for nature.The garden's wonders unfolded—every blade of grass, each tree, and the air part of a living homage to Earth's beauty. This place wasn't just a static display; it was a testament to humanity's potential to harmonize with the environment.The wooden bridge carried us across the stream, water sounds and rustling leaves creating a gentle symphony. The Cloud Garden exuded serenity, a refuge embracing the senses. My appreciation deepened for the balance between technology and nature.Here, Earth's splendor lived on, preserved within a realm that transcended time and space. The profound beauty of the Cloud Garden revealed a sanctuary where innovation and the world that birthed it coexisted in perfect harmony."Amazing... How big the garden?" I marveled, my eyes widening at the vastness of the Cloud Garden.Instantly, the cat jumped into an explanatory mode."The garden is the last block on the floor, with a space of 10 by 10 kilmers wide, divided into 9 pattern zones: north, northeast, northwest, west, east, south, southeast, and southwest. It's like a layout resembling a tic-tac-toe grid. Each section represents a distinct mini-environment, offering a variety of landscapes or features. The arrangement allows for diversity and organization within the overall green space."As the sun dipped over on the garden, not minding the time, Mr. Cat continuing his explanation."Imagine a 3x3 grid, each square holding a unique climate and scenery," Mr. Cat said, but the lack of visual materials left me bewildered.Noticing my confusion, the cat initiated something extraordinary.
"[System] command, [invoke] holograph," 
He uttered, and suddenly, silver glistening sand lifted from the ground, forming a suspended 3x3 grid in the air with a crackling sound akin to fine glass crushing each other. It was like magic—the kind that sparks excitement in the heart of any child.The cat began painting the landscape within the hovering grid."In the top-left, we have the Boreal Forest, a vast expanse of evergreen trees thriving in colder temperatures. This region experiences a true winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see."He pointed to the top-center square and continued his vivid descriptions."Moving to the top-center, behold the temperate Deciduous Forest. Trees here shed their leaves in autumn, creating a vibrant display of colors. It's a place where the changing seasons paint a mesmerizing portrait."Gracefully gesturing to the top-right square, Mr. Cat unfolded the wonders of the next area."Now, to the top-right lies the Coniferous Forest. Here, towering conifers dominate the landscape. Picture spruce, pine, and fir trees forming a majestic tapestry, creating a haven for diverse wildlife."The cat's tail swayed with enthusiasm as he spoke of the different regions."Descending to the middle row, in the left square, lies the Tropical Rainforest, a lush paradise teeming with biodiversity. This vibrant and humid environment harbors an array of plant and animal life."Pointing to the middle square, he continued."In the middle, we find the Grasslands. A vast, open expanse where grasses sway with the wind, home to grazing animals like zebras and bison. It's a realm of endless horizons."Gazing at the middle-right square, the cat continued his narrative."To the middle-right, the Desert, a place of extremes. Scorching temperatures and scarce vegetation characterize this arid land. Yet, its stark beauty captivates those who venture across its dunes."Mr. Cat drew attention to the bottom row."In the bottom-left, imagine the Taiga—a cold and challenging biome with coniferous forests. Here, hearty species like moose and wolves navigate the snowy landscape."Pointing to the bottom-center square, he guided me through the wonders of the next area."Heading to the bottom-center, we encounter the Savannah. A blend of grasslands and scattered trees, it hosts iconic creatures such as lions and giraffes. It's a symphony of life in the open savannah."Finally, Mr. Cat pointed to the bottom-right square, unveiling the last piece of our magical grid."And lastly, in the bottom-right, the Tundra, a frozen wilderness where only the hardiest plants and animals survive. This frigid domain showcases nature's resilience in the face of adversity."Silence followed as the cat finished his enchanting explanation. Caught in the allure of the magic, I was frozen in place."What's wrong, Blur? You're frozen in place," the cat's words snapped me back to reality."Mr. Cat, what is that? What is that?" I exclaimed, completely drawn to the magic he had performed."Eh... You didn't listen to my explanation.""Why would I listen?" I retorted. Who would want to hear a dull lecture about some scenery when you could witness actual magic happening before your eyes? Certainly not me.Avoiding the topic—"Instead of that, why don't you show me what you did?" I insisted, leaving the cat with no option but to explain what had just transpired.