CHAPTER ONE
Max Willam was badly injured by his bullies and had hardly any strength left to stand up. He was left bleeding out to death, feeling betrayed by his own best friend and everybody else who had put him into this situation. With a heavy heart, he slowly closed his eyes and surrendered to death. In a nearby laboratory room, there were machines beeping as a group of scientists discussed the results of their experiment. The head doctor angrily demanded new results back in their office immediately, no matter what they had to do to get them. As the head doctor stormed back into his office, the scientists huddled together and discussed on what to do next. Suddenly one of them noticed a sign of life in Subject 12 and quickly informed the head doctor that they had something they could work with. This gave them a glimmer of hope that their experiment could be a success and Max Willam might still be saved.
Subject 12 found himself in a cylinder container, completely bewildered as to how he was still alive. He saw a few people in white clothing enter the room and move towards him. The people were pleased to see some improvement, but Subject 12 was still confused as to what was going on. When asked for any update on the subject, the doctor mentioned that he was awake and his intelligence was surprisingly high. This news was met with amazement from the other doctors, who couldn't believe the miraculous condition of the Subject. His body temperature was also stable, suggesting that he had not been harmed by his time in the experiment. Subject 12 remained in the cylinder container, still baffled as to how he had managed to survive his ordeal with no apparent damage. He looked around, trying to make sense of his situation, but he couldn't find any answers. For now, he simply had to accept his newfound state of being and move forward with it.
Subject 12 was released from the experimental cylinder container hours later and clothed by a female physician. The physician proceeded to conduct a meticulous examination of the subject for any anomalies. Upon completion, no issues were found. "It appears that everything is satisfactory," stated the physician before exiting the room, leaving Subject 12 behind.
Lost in his thoughts, Subject 12 mused aloud about what others might be saying about him. Max Willam turned towards a mirror on his left and caught sight of an unfamiliar face staring back at him. "Who is this individual? Is this truly what I look like now?" he wondered as he reached out to touch his reflection but was interrupted by a voice calling out to him.
"Subject 12, please follow me," instructed the doctor who had returned for Max Willam. With little knowledge of his surroundings, Max Willam had no choice but to comply with her request.
As they walked through the room filled with numerous other bodies in similar containers that he had occupied earlier, they finally arrived at a large door which required an unusual knock from the doctor before it opened up into an entirely new world - one that took Max's breath away.
He gasped in amazement and asked himself incredulously: "Wow! What is this place?"
The doctor instructed Subject 12 to stay close and not to wander away.
After a long journey on foot, the group finally arrived at their destination. The guards stationed at the entrance questioned the doctor about her presence. She explained that she was there to meet the head doctor. One of the guards went inside to relay the message, returning shortly afterward with permission for her and Subject 12 to enter.
"Please take a seat, Doctor Eliza," said the head doctor.
She complied and sat down.
"I understand we have a new test subject in our facility who has recently awoken from slumber," said the head doctor.
"Yes, that's correct," she replied.
"I trust that all health and safety checks have been carried out?"
"Yes, we've thoroughly examined everything and found no issues."
"Excellent. Now we must prepare the subject for presentation to the king."
"Understood."
Unbeknownst to them, Max Willam was keeping a close eye on the situation, carefully listening in on the conversation between the two doctors. He soon realized that he was in a kingdom where human experimentation took place.
Transforming them into unyielding, subservient beings for a plethora of diverse roles
This situation could be treacherous for me; I must remain vigilant and masquerade as what they desire, all while thinking on my feet.
As the dialogue concluded, the female physician grasped Subject 12 by the hands, hastening towards the nearest wardrobe chamber for him to attire himself.
"Ah, a splendid morning to you, Dr. Eliza. As always, your radiance shines bright."
"Thank you, Alicia. You look stunning yourself."
Their laughter intertwined.
"Now tell me," probed Alicia, "What brings you to my domain? Could it be your sweetheart whose hand you clutch so firmly?"
"What? No! It isn't like that at all!"
Quickly releasing Subject 12's hand, Dr. Eliza's cheeks flushed crimson.
"I must say," Alicia teased, "Dr. Eliza, you and Subject 12 make quite the striking pair."
"Enough with your jests!" exclaimed Dr. Eliza. "We simply came here in search of fitting attire for a special event."
"Well," responded Alicia playfully, "if you insist."
Together, they ventured into the mysterious chamber. Desperately searching for the attire designated by the head physician, Dr. Eliza finally discovered the elusive clothing intended for Subject 12.
"Aha! At long last!" Dr. Eliza exclaimed as she located the enigmatic outfit meant for Subject 12.
Puzzled, Max Willam wondered aloud, "What kind of garments are these?"
Dr. Eliza instructed, "Subject 12, don these mystifying clothes."
Reluctantly, Max Willam - known now as Subject 12 - felt an overwhelming uneasiness at the thought of disrobing to dress in the newly presented garments.
"Why do you hesitate, Subject 12?" questioned Dr. Eliza.
Uncertain of how to proceed, Max Willam hesitated on the spot.
Dr. Eliza endeavored to undress Subject 12 herself; however, a voice called out to her before she could proceed.
"Doctor Eliza! Although this fine specimen is a test subject for the empire, surely there must be some semblance of civility? It's inappropriate to disrobe in front of others," the voice demanded.
Cognizant of this revelation, Dr. Eliza conceded that perhaps this was indeed why Subject 12 had been unwilling to undress in her presence.
Why not entrust me with the task of dressing him up?
Fine, just avoid any wild antics like before.
What are you implying?
You're well aware of my meaning.
Alicia escorts Subject 12 into the dressing chamber, sealing the door shut. Inside, she commences disrobing Subject 12.
An icy shiver courses through Max Willam's spine.
What is this sensation I'm experiencing?
Alicia's visage contorts with desire as she begins caressing Subject 12's chiseled musculature.
What is transpiring? Is she appraising me, or is it...
Indeed, it appears so.
Alicia plants a kiss on his neck and whispers something secretive into his left ear.
We have moments to spare, handsome. Let us engage in some thrilling revelry.
She advances intimately, wrapping her arms around his neck and delivering fervent kisses.
Did you find it pleasurable, Subject 12?
Is this reality or mere fiction? He ponders, bewildered by his own thoughts as he inquires further.
In the midst of eerie silence, Dr. Eliza recognized a familiar sound and felt compelled to investigate.
As if orchestrated by fate, the doors to the transformation chamber swung wide open.
"I knew it, Alicia! I warned you not to lay a finger on him!"
"Come now, dear sister ā I mean, Dr. Eliza ā don't be so harsh."
Eliza sighed, exasperated, "He may be captivating, but he's not one of us ā you're well aware of this."
"But why must every test subject be treated like soulless pawns?" Alicia pleaded.
Dr. Eliza pressed her fingers to her temple in despair.
"Alicia, please prepare him at once. I must bring him to the head doctor who will transport him to the grand empire state."
With a tinge of sorrow in her heart, Alicia bestowed one final kiss upon Subject 12's lips before dressing him for the journey ahead.
And there it was, a transformation for the ages, making him appear effortlessly eloquent.
Struck with awe, all that could be mustered was a sincere, "I don't have the words to express my gratitude for your assistance."
"No need to thank me, Dr. Eliza. Simply know that I'm here if you or he require further aid."
Confidence radiated forth from Dr. Eliza, certain their paths would cross again in the future.
With a sly grin on her face, Alicia cast a seductive glance towards Subject 12, her intentions clear.
"Let's make our way back home, Subject 12."
And so, after two dozen hours, they triumphantly returned to the Head Doctor's lair. In recognition of their accomplishment, they were granted immediate entry without question.
Impressed by their progress, the Head Doctor remarked, "Dr. Eliza, it seems you've completed your task - Subject 12 has received the attire of legends."
"Yes, Head Doctor," she confirmed proudly.
With a sense of determination and urgency, the group prepared themselves to venture to the grand Empire State and present their astonishing findings to the mighty King.
Upon the ancient table of the Head Doctor, three mystical stones sparkled with a preternatural glow. Confidently, he grasped them, handed two of them to his trusted Female Doctor colleague, who in turn passed one to the enigmatic Subject 12.
"Brace yourselves," he warned, and with but a moment's hesitation, they vanished in a burst of ethereal light.
Twenty-three hours later, they rematerialized atop an enormous circle of intricately-carved stone nestled in the heart of the Empire State's central castle. The Head Doctor and his esteemed follower exchanged uneasy glances, visibly wearied from their supernatural travels; yet Subject 12 appeared unfazed.
"We must seek an alternative for such arduous journeying," the Head Doctor declared as they wearily sought solace on wooden chairs conveniently situated near them.
Max Willam, meanwhile, experienced an unsettling sensation in his hand where rested the mysterious magic stone. Compelled to examine it closer, he opened his palm only to watch in awe as the stone melted before his very eyes like water, seeping into his skin with unknown consequences.
A mysterious symbol materialized on Max's hand, followed by a holographic screen presenting a plethora of enigmatic details:
[ Name: Max Willam]
[Subject 12]
[Unknown race]
[Strength Unknown] [Agility Unknown]
[Intelligence Unknown] [Unlimited Power]
[Empire State Megahertz]
[Money Gain: Zero]
"Great, not a single penny to my name," Max grumbled, recalling his emergence from the container.
[Caution: Unknown individuals approaching]
As if emerging from the shadows themselves, two royal guards of the Empire State strode forward, swords glinting ominously in their hands. Unsure of their intent and keen to protect himself and his creators, Subject 12 adopted a defensive battle stance.
"What's the matter, Subject 12?" Doctor Eliza inquired.
"Is he alright?" asked the head doctor.
"He's doing well. Seems like he has sharp instincts," a velvety voice remarked from behind them.
The doctors whirled around to see Head Captain Nax approaching.
"I didn't even notice you coming," uttered one of them, surprised and impressed.
Chuckling, Captain Nax responded, "Your boy here saw us coming from a mile away." Both doctors exchanged glances, newfound awe dawning in their eyes as they looked back at Max Willam.
"Who might this be, I wonder? We could certainly benefit from someone of his caliber in our ranks," remarks the head captain with awe.
"Ah, he is none other than our very own experimental test subject, designated as Subject 12," replies a nearby voice.
"I must say, your accomplishments for the empire are remarkable, head doctor," praises the captain.
"Your kind words are much appreciated, head captain. Thank you," responds the doctor graciously.
"Now then," continues the captain, "His Majesty has ordered me to ensure your safe passage to the castle."
"Understood," affirms the doctor. Max Willam remains poised and alert in his stance.
"Stand down, Subject 12," commands Doctor Eliza gently. Max Willam instantly reverts to a casual posture.
"Incredible!" exclaims a soldier standing behind Head Captain Nax, clearly amazed by what he just witnessed.
"Well then, shall we proceed?" asks the head captain, to which all parties agree.
Meanwhile, nestled far across the land lies a rival kingdom known as Junaid. For centuries, they have been at odds with the mighty empire. Four years prior, the high priest and priestess managed to summon individuals from another world into their realm.
"Welcome to the grand Kingdom of Junaid!" proclaims the high priest enthusiastically.
Upon closer inspection, it becomes apparent that these summoned beings are all teenagers dressed in student attire. One raises his hand hesitantly and poses a query.
"Excuse me, but why have we been summoned here?"
"All will be revealed in due time, as soon as you find yourselves in the presence of our esteemed king and queen. Patience is key," assures the high priest.
As they approached the majestic castle, the students gazed upon distinguished figures clad in lavish attire on either side, with the king and queen seated regally on their thrones ahead.
"Welcome to my kingdom, valiant young heroes," proclaimed the king, rising to his feet.
"I understand that many of you may feel uneasy and bewildered at being summoned to this unfamiliar realm. Please accept our deepest apologies and these tokens of our gratitude."
In a shimmering haze, bags of gold materialized before each student.
"Wow, that's an incredible amount of gold!" exclaimed the class president, awestruck.
"Now that we have addressed that matter," continued the king, "it is time to reveal our urgent desire for your presence in our kingdom."
"We stand on the precipice of a great conflict with the nefarious Empire State, a formidable foe threatening us all."
A curious student posed a question. "Your Majesty, what makes the Empire State so menacing?"
With a grim expression, the king replied, "My brave young hero, they conduct vile experiments on living beings, forging monstrosities to achieve dominion over all. It is truly appalling."
One female student gasped in horror. "That's just dreadful!"
"Yes," concurred the king soberly. "This is why we implore you to lend us your aid and strength in our quest to vanquish this malevolent enemy and preserve countless lives."
Stepping forth boldly, Zen Holland - the students' esteemed leader - pledged their collective support to the monarch in fulfilling his noble endeavor.