Cherreads

Chapter 2 - Trace

Basic Information

Age: 23

Gender: Male

Volunteer Status: Test Subject for the Digital World Project

Personality: Reserved, observant, introspective

Core Stats

Stat - Value - Description

TrL (Threat Level) 1 Still holds onto his morals, but the path ahead is uncertain.

VL (Virus Level) 1 Barely affected—only a slight trace of corruption lingers.

TcL (Technology Level) 1 Basic-level gear and core functionality; room for growth.

HP (Health Points) 125 Slightly above average endurance; can take some damage.

SP (Strength Points) 15 Moderate strength; enough to handle himself in a fight.

AP (Armor Points) 10 Light protection; not meant for prolonged direct combat.

EnP (Energy Points) 100 A stable energy core, but limited capabilities for now.

Background

A Life of Isolation and Disillusionment

Trace was never the type to fit in. Growing up, he surrounded himself with people who, in hindsight, were never truly his friends. They were reckless, selfish, and manipulative—using him when convenient and abandoning him when he needed them most. He trusted too easily, and each betrayal cut deeper than the last.

By the time he reached his early twenties, he had grown tired of people. The world around him felt hollow, filled with shallow interactions and broken promises. He stopped seeking connection, preferring solitude over false friendships.

So when the Digital World Project was announced—a fully immersive simulation, a chance to start over—he saw it as an escape. A golden opportunity to leave everything behind and build a new identity, free from the weight of his past.

Becoming a volunteer was an easy decision. In this new world, he wouldn't have to deal with the lies, the betrayals, or the disappointments of reality. Here, he could be anyone. Or perhaps, no one at all.

Appearance & Style

Trace's attire reflects his personality—reserved, somewhat withdrawn, but with a subtle edge that hints at something deeper.

Black Shirt with Red Lines – A simple but sleek design, the red accents running across the fabric like veins of energy.

Thick Black Jacket with Velvet-Red Fur – A heavy, oversized jacket that provides both warmth and presence. The red velvet fur lining adds a touch of luxury, making it stand out against the darkness of his attire.

Dark Black Jeans with Small Red Streaks – The red streaks are barely noticeable at first glance, but up close, they resemble digital glitches—almost like fractured code trying to seep through.

Black Sport Shoes with Cyan-Blue Lines – Practical yet stylish, the cyan-blue lines pulse faintly, almost as if carrying an electric current. A subtle contrast to his otherwise dark ensemble.

His fashion choices aren't just for appearance—they serve as a barrier. Dark colors, heavy layers, and muted tones make him less approachable, creating distance between himself and others. The red and cyan accents, however, hint at something else—a lingering energy, a spark of life that refuses to be completely extinguished.

Personality & Early Development

The Observer

Trace is not the type to rush into situations blindly. He watches, analyzes, and waits. He has learned from past mistakes—trusting too quickly leads to pain, and acting without thinking leads to regret.

Introverted & Reserved – Prefers solitude over social interactions. Speaks little, but his words carry weight when he does.

Cautious but Not Cowardly – He avoids unnecessary risks but isn't afraid to act when the situation demands it.

Sharp-Minded – Thinks critically about his surroundings and decisions. Doesn't take things at face value.

Detached but Not Heartless – Though he avoids deep emotional connections, he still feels. He just doesn't show it easily.

More Chapters