Chapter 3 (Draft)

The day I learned about the Jingozi faith was pivotal. In a rare moment of reprieve from our work, the Teacher minced no words as he expressed and explained the Jingozi faith.

The Jingozi believe the whole universe is a series of simulations. They came to this revelation because of their ability through technology to create new realities during The Game. We know this as truth because Champions recount how they enter into actual magical combat during a match. The evidence is the physical and mental damage that occurs when they lose—sometimes fatal.

Jingozi scholars proposed that since they could create simulations that appear genuine for others, they too must be in a simulation orchestrated by a higher force. But to what end? Their conclusion—the Jingozi creed—was the purpose of the simulation is to master it and transcend it.

In this simulation, a Jingozi believes two forces exist named the All Light and the All Dark. The All Light and All Dark are paradoxically at peace and war, trapped in a cycle of creation and destruction. To transcend, the Jingozi must master both or face judgment, having their souls forever trapped in a Great Paradox. And although each Jingozi chooses light or dark, they work together towards a prophecy called the Final UnKnowing where those worthy will transcend beyond the simulation.

I interrupted, “You still haven’t explained why you came to our planet.”

The Teacher feigned a moment of annoyance. But I knew he appreciated the inquiry and continued without skipping a beat.

The Great UnKnowing manifests only at the end of a seven-century cycle, occurring at varying intervals on different planets. The Jingozi observed and studied our history for six hundred years before revealing themselves. The All Light and All Dark exist in paradox in every world. And for the past hundred years, they have been living amongst us, seeking more signs of how to unlock the Final UnKnowing.

Briefly mesmerized by how incredulous it all sounded, I ignored my skepticism and fired the next question.

“It’s been seven hundred years since the Scattering. Your kind has been with us for a century now. Why hasn’t the Final UnKnowing happened?”

The Teacher confessed they did not know. Nobody, not even the highest Jingozi elders, possess the sight to predict the time and place of the Final UnKnowing. And their continual seeking is considered their test of faith. But if they do not transcend after a hundred years, they believe their test failed and travel onto another planet.

With a sudden chill, I asked, “When you leave, what happens to us?”

And with that infuriating detached stare, he answered, “We will purge your world.”

The chill instantly became a hot flame—purged? What did that mean? Of course, there was no doubt Jingozi technology could destroy us in mere moments. But why not just leave us in peace?

I knew the Teacher sensed my fury as I was sure he expected it. But I decided to hold my tongue for another question.

“Then what is the point of The Game?”

For a glancing moment, the Teacher seemed to smile.

“The Game serves as our discipline and tool for our mission. We play to condition our souls in the All Light and All Dark while teaching civilizations of our faith. Champions who master The Game will join us to transcend and fulfill their destinies. That is why we purge those that fail.”

I quickly snarled, “And what about me? I’ll never become a champion because I’m trapped here with you!”

Before I could finish seeing how my words landed with my enslaver, as every Jingozi does like a ghost, he glided out of the room. That was the first and last time we ever spoke of such things.

Chapter 4 Coming Soon >