Quantum Gambler

The Diverger wasn’t supposed to do this. It was meant to collapse unwanted possibilities, erasing them like bad memories. Instead, the discarded outcomes endured, fragments of reality left to fester in the dark corners of existence. Elias Caine learned this the hard way.

Now, in the neon haze of a casino somewhere on the edge of civilization, he sits in the shadows, sipping bourbon and watching his opponent. The Diverger card glows faintly on the table between them, a reminder that every choice comes with a price.

Elias smiles, tired but sharp. It’s always the same: win the hand, control the game, and hope the ghosts of his discarded selves don’t come knocking tonight.