Diabolical Plots #120, February 2025

“Application For Continuance: vMingle Restroom Utility (RedemptionMod)” by Ethan Charles Reed

“In His Image” by R. Haven

Reviewed by Victoria Silverwolf

Two stories narrated by nonhuman characters appear in this issue.

“Application For Continuance: vMingle Restroom Utility (RedemptionMod)” by Ethan Charles Reed takes the form of a message from an artificial intelligence asking not to be terminated. The AI relates how it attempted to change the personality of a narcissist while he was on an unsuccessful date in virtual reality.

The author extrapolates current online dating into a high-tech future in a convincing way. The AI’s ability to lessen the obnoxious self-absorption of the narcissist through subtle hints is not as believable, given the fellow’s extreme rudeness to his date. If readers can accept this transformation, they may find the story a thoughtful reminder that change is possible.
The narrator of “In His Image” by R. Haven is a statue being created by an artist in the image of his lover. The statue falls in love with the artist, leading to jealousy and a tragic ending.

The simple plot, a modern variation on the familiar myth of Pygmalion, is related in a sensitive, poetic manner. Readers may be able to predict the conclusion. (In particular, the story’s content warning gives away too much of the climax.)

Victoria Silverwolf has to pick up a new pair of glasses in the morning.