The Causality Theorem

“The call of Eris beckons us all," Isla began, "It was there at every drunken night, for all those bad decisions. It was there every time you could have saved a life. It was there for every choice you ever made. She was playing for you the whole time.”
Tyler heard the song, the symphony of the world, a strange music that could never be described playing in the background.
“Life is a game,” Isla continued, “come on,” she reached out her hand, grabbing his and forcing him to his feet. She put the apple in his hand, “Let us dance with the devil’s daughter, thee and me.”
His head throbbed, the music swelling to a roar, “The rains be the strings, the thunder be the brass,” Tyler felt a sudden rush, tears welling in his eyes as the melody neared its peak, she brought the apple to his lips. His mouth opened, giving in to temptation without his consent. He bit into it, and she did the same. The taste of spice, apples, and honey ensnared the senses. “Are we not the crescendo?” Isla smiled, “Let's make some mischief.” The taste was warm, and when he opened his eyes, he saw the paths laid out before him. Some were decent enough, possibilities leading to a long and healthy life. He knew he wouldn't take them. He saw the risks, saw the rewards, and settled on a more dangerous path...

— From The Scarlet Ashes