other. To say the least, because such games do not technically have definitive endings, some form of endgame content has to serve for player’s motivation... like seeking and playing for the feeling of superiority over others, I think.” “Oh?” In the midst of his chewing, Kikuoka raised his eyebrows as if to request a further explanation. Seriously, why did we have to talk about that, deep inside I considered poisoning him, half for the sake of revenge as I continued: “...It’s not just limited to the game. Wanting to be recognized, wanting to climb even higher than others, isn’t that the basic structure of our society? Even you should understand as those in the same department as you, there are government officials who are envious of others with a better university degree or have faster promotions due to connections; but on the other hand, they look down at the non- government officials with a smug sense of superiority. Finally those with both inferiority and superiority in balance can eat cake with peaceful faces, isn’t it?” Kikuoka swallowed the mille-feuille, and smiled gingerly. “You are quite frank with your spite aren’t you? So what about Kirito-kun? How do you take the balance?” “...” Of course, despite having an inferiority complex as high as a mountain, I have no intention of telling this guy. With an ignorant face, I fired back: “...Well, at least I’m together with my girlfriend.”