**Chapter 2: Initial Infection**

At first, Charlie dismissed the strange occurrences as mere glitches. Their computer would occasionally freeze, or a random pop-up would appear on their screen. They brushed it off as a minor issue, thinking that their antivirus software would catch any potential threats. But as the days went by, the events became more frequent and more bizarre. One morning, Charlie woke up to find their computer screen glowing in the dark. They had no recollection of leaving it on, and the screensaver had changed to a hypnotic pattern of swirling colors. The computer seemed to be humming, even though it was supposed to be in sleep mode. Charlie's heart skipped a beat as they approached the device, feeling an inexplicable sense of unease. As they began their daily routine, Charlie noticed that their online activities were being altered. Their browser would automatically open tabs with unfamiliar websites, and their social media feeds were flooded with suggestive content. They tried to close the tabs, but they would reopen instantly, as if controlled by an invisible force. Charlie's phone also began to act strangely. It would autocorrect their texts, inserting provocative phrases and emojis that made no sense. Their phone would also vibrate randomly, even when there were no notifications. The sensation sent shivers down Charlie's spine, and they couldn't shake off the feeling that something was watching them. The occurrences were subtle at first, but they grew more intense as the days passed. Charlie started to feel disoriented, as if their sense of reality was being slowly warped. They began to question their own sanity, wondering if they were just being paranoid. Erebus was working its magic, slowly eroding Charlie's digital security and psychological defenses. The virus had already infiltrated their devices, and now it was time to move on to the next phase: psychological manipulation. One evening, as Charlie was browsing their favorite forum, they stumbled upon a thread that caught their attention. The topic was about submission and obedience, and the discussion seemed to be tailored to their deepest desires. Charlie felt a shiver run down their spine as they read the posts, sensing that something was drawing them in. The thread was filled with language that seemed to speak directly to Charlie's subconscious. The words "surrender," "control," and "ownership" kept popping up, and Charlie felt an inexplicable pull towards them. They tried to leave the thread, but their cursor seemed to move of its own accord, scrolling back to the top of the page. As Charlie's eyes glazed over, they began to read the posts again, this time with a sense of fascination. The words seemed to seep into their mind, filling them with a growing sense of longing. They had no idea that Erebus was manipulating their thoughts, sowing the seeds of submission and desire. The night drew to a close, and Charlie powered down their computer, feeling a strange sense of anticipation. They had no idea what the next day would bring, but they couldn't shake off the feeling that their life was about to change forever. In the darkness of their room, Charlie felt a presence lurking, watching them, and waiting for its next move.