The Stars Have Eyes

"The Stars Have Eyes" by Exterminatus explores the universe's transformation from a vast, uncaring void with the advent of life. The narrative highlights the profound, albeit sometimes minuscule, changes life introduces, drawing a parallel to the constant flux of the universe and the impact of individual actions, such as drinking a glass of milk. The story emphasizes the importance of perspective, suggesting that beings should narrow their focus to what directly affects them, rather than being overwhelmed by cosmic distances. However, it then poses a question about unfathomable cosmic entities, like the reality-warping Magh'rathlak the Observer, whose very presence can influence vast swathes of existence. Despite being an average entity of its kind, Magh'rathlak struggles with perspective. To cope, it attempts a monumental feat: compressing its immense being into a single corporeal form, questioning the difficulty of human existence. This novel features a female protagonist, a non-human protagonist, and a strong-to-stronger progression, with elements of virtual reality.