[ WP ] Two god-like beings , disguised as old men , play a game of chess on a park bench to decide the final fate of humanity . The players , however , are distracted by a couple seated across them ...

`` Pawn E4'', a tired old man said. the white pawn sliding of its own volition across the holographic board, resting in its destination with cold precision. 
 
 `` Really? After thousands of years you open the same way. Pawn to E5 is the only option here, said his opponent, who though similar in age appeared less world weary, parrying his move. 
 
 `` It is a powerful opening, what more could you ask of me? ``, A twinge of fire sparked in his eyes draining the years from his face. `` I am afraid old friend this shall be our last game, it is time to make a choice.'' 
 
 The platform was trimmed with steel and glass railings raised high above the ground of the park. Dozens of men and woman played various games, though chess dominated them. Familys walked with their children laughing at some joke only they heard. Dogs caught flying disks thrown by human and android alike. Small children played the timeless game of tag. 
 
 The sky broke through the thick dome as if nothing was there at all, mingling with artificial light. Ships of all sizes speckled the sky traveling in all directions. A dark crescent shadow passed over the chessboard blotting out the pieces for a moment. The men followed it and glanced at a young couple. The woman was reading a novel huddled in her lovers arms, who was stroking her hair and admiring her. 
 
 `` We are going to end this? ``, the weary man stated bluntly, staring at the couple, his eyes wet. `` The Love, the passion, the admiration of those we care about? Knight F3'' 
 
 `` All things must end, you stated this yourself. Less you forget about war, violence the destruction of the very planet you gifted them! They have spat on every chance that you gave them every LESSON you have taught. When will the teacher finally give up on his students? When I pulled the veil back from your eyes you cast me out! Black knight to C6'', a cold chill rose up in the air, causing the young woman to draw nearer to her lover. The pages of her book fluttered in the wind. 
 
 `` Old friend look at the children below. See how they play? They know nothing of the sins of the past why should they suffer? Do their parents not love them regardless of the pain they cause in their life? Do they not suffer in vain? Look at the wonder they create with only the hands they were given? Bishop B5'', he placed a weary hand on his chin. 
 
 `` Yet you look past the harm they cause? ``, glancing at a child whose anger could be felt. He was yelling at his dog for stealing his treat. He grew more angry at the small animal as it began to cower away in remembrance. `` Some harm lasts beyond the cause. When does it end? When does the hand that heals become the hand that ends suffering for good? I would end it all if I was allowed, just say the word and the cold fist of justice shall judge one last time. Knight F6'' 
 
 The knight clicked into place with a slight shimmer. 
 
 `` I will not snuff out what I have created. They learn, and grow in spite of and because of the pain they cause. It does n't stop them, it does n't slow them. What is love without anger? What is Pain without respite? Pawn D3'' 
 
 `` Do you not want those you love most to live without suffering? Without pain?'' 
 
 The young woman gripped her head in intense pain, bolts of anguish tore through her body like lightning. The man stood up and quickly drew a small syringe gun from his coat, placing it with familiar precision on her neck. He held her close to his chest as the pain subsided, lightning became static, static became a whisper. The sound of his heartbeat, a beacon to relief. A guide in her madhouse. 
 
 `` I think we shall continue this game another day. Some choices are better left unmade'', The board shimmered away, the pieces faded almost instantly. His opponent only nodded. 
 
 `` Love can be healer of all. ``, the old man did not look tired any longer.
