04/11/99, Adumar

The club pulsed with techno, its rhythm reverberating through the floor. Sonnie moved confidently toward the arena’s edge, the crowd’s energy escalating as she approached. Her actual body, hidden from view, was already deep within the system, waiting. The countdown began.

Three. Two. One.

Her mind exploded into her other body, the towering creature she controlled. The battle was raging, her opponent—just as monstrous—was out for blood. The crowd screamed, but Sonnie was beyond them, focused only on the fight. She moved with precision, dodging strikes and landing blows. Adrenaline surged as her heart synced with her beast’s movements. With one swift strike, the opponent crumpled. The crowd roared, but Sonnie didn’t care.

The battle was over. She began returning to her human form, no need for validation. Her real body, disconnected from the cheers, was just a vessel for when she needed it. It wasn’t the true Sonnie; the true Sonnie existed in the arena.

She transferred back effortlessly, her senses sharpening. The victory didn’t matter. She wasn’t here for the praise. As she walked away, the crowd’s scent of sweat and perfume filled the air. Eyes followed her—some in awe, others seeking something more.

A girl, hesitant but determined, stepped forward. Sonnie didn’t slow down.

“I don’t do autographs,” she said, her voice smooth with a quiet edge.

The girl persisted, following her. Sonnie felt her presence like a shadow. With a dismissive breath, she stopped, knowing the girl wouldn’t relent.

“Fine," Sonnie said, her tone sharp. "What do you want from me?”

Her words hung in the air, a challenge. The crowd’s hum faded. Sonnie’s eyes narrowed. She didn’t need recognition. She had her creature, her fight, her purpose. Everything else was noise.