Chereads / The Guardian Of The Multiverse / Chapter 3 - Beginning of a Journey Part 1

Chapter 3 - Beginning of a Journey Part 1

(Marvel, DC, images, manhuas, and every anime that will be mentioned and used in this story are not mine. They all belong to their respective owners. The main character "Karito Josue Valdez" and the story are mine)

Karito Pov

I woke up today with an unsettling feeling gnawing at the back of my mind. It's like a sense of disquiet has seeped into my very being, casting a shadow over the day before it even begins. And to add to my perplexity, I found myself abruptly jolted awake from a vivid, yet perplexing dream. It felt so real, like I was submerged in a vast expanse of water, yet strangely, I didn't drown. The memory lingers, lingering like a phantom, leaving me to wonder: what the hell is happening to me? What does it all mean?

"The commencement of your extraordinary journey is upon us, dear Player. Brace yourself for a life filled with constant growth, endless challenges, and the chance to relive and refine your experiences. But before you embark, allow me to provide you with vital information concerning your formidable adversaries, known as The Darkness. As previously mentioned, these enigmatic beings hail from diverse universes, thrust into foreign realms to sow chaos and cast an insidious influence over them. They are called Darks, and they can only be vanquished or eliminated by none other than you, the chosen one. Any other character who dares to confront them will inevitably falter, as they lack the necessary qualities to combat these malevolent forces.

So, what sets you apart? It is your intrinsic nature, your destiny intertwined with this purpose. What attracts them to the wrong world, you might wonder? It is the disruptions and deviations in the delicate tapestry of time itself. The gods have assured us that your existence alone does not disrupt the timeline, seamlessly blending you into the fabric of the world as if you have always belonged. However, altering even a single thread of the timeline empowers the enemy, for you disrupt the very foundation of reality and send ripples through the tapestry of existence. This is not to say you are bound by these rules. You possess the freedom to chart your own course and make choices that align with your desires. Consider this a warning, a foreknowledge that altering the timeline carries consequences. Be prepared to confront a Dark earlier than anticipated, or face a more formidable foe due to the disturbances caused.

Furthermore, it is crucial to note that whenever a Dark manifests, they possess a disconcerting ability to manipulate the system itself, making your battles even more arduous. However, you possess the invaluable skill of hacking, enabling you to counter their machinations and afflict them with debuffs, albeit only once. Bear in mind that as their strength intensifies, so does the improbability of leveling the playing field. With the conclusion of this final elucidation, I extend my sincerest wishes for your success, Player. And remember, you need only summon me should you ever require my assistance."

As Kara wraps up her detailed explanation, I find myself swallowed by an enveloping darkness. Moments later, I awaken, greeted by the gentle rays of the sun peeking through the tiny spaces in my window's worn screen. Shaking off the remnants of slumber, I rise from my bed and glance at my Daily quest, awaiting completion. Determined to swiftly fulfill its objectives, I prioritize efficiency, eager to rendezvous with Steve Rogers afterwards.

Small-time skip...

Player: Karito Josue Valdez

Level: 13

EXP: 0/13,000

HP: 20,000/20,000

Prestige: 0

Hero: Spider-Man (Miles Morales)

STR: 32

END: 23

INT: 20

DEX: 40

VIT: 20

(Stat Points) SP: 0

I allocate the three additional stat points into endurance, bolstering my stamina, strength, speed, and reflexes skills, which all level up as a result. Utilizing the status recovery feature, I ensure that any signs of fatigue won't be apparent when I meet Captain America. I know the real test lies ahead, during the impending war in New York, so I must save my recovery abilities for that crucial moment. Lost in thoughts about the strategy to tackle "The Avengers" movie, my phone buzzes with a text from Steve Rogers, informing me that he's headed to the gym. I reply, assuring him that I'll be there soon.

Leaving my building, I slip into an alleyway, where I activate my auto-equipped Spider-Man costume. Gazing at my reflection in a small puddle, I take a moment to gather my thoughts. This is really happening... I can do this. It's going to be challenging, but I won't back down—I was raised to persevere. A self-assured smirk spreads across my face as I channel newfound confidence. Leaping into the air, I shoot a web from the new gadget I acquired in the E Rank dungeon yesterday. As I swing through the cityscape, a sense of liberation washes over me. The wind rushes past my body with each exhilarating swing, and I can't help but marvel at the sheer beauty of it all. I stop myself before getting too sentimental, fully aware that I have to focus on the task at hand. What surprises me most is how effortlessly I adapt to the web shooters—it feels as if they've always been a part of me. Perhaps the system's guidance is responsible for my instant mastery. Learning Miles's abilities, just by contemplating them, proves to be an incredibly useful feature. After a satisfying session of web-swinging, I finally arrive at the gym, where I am set to meet Captain America once again. Changing back into casual attire—hoodie, mask, jeans, shoes, and a backpack—I aim to maintain a low profile, concealing the fact that I possess an inventory capable of storing any item I desire.

As I step into the gym, I spot Steve in the midst of an intense session with the punching bag. This must be the pivotal moment where he begins to recollect his past and unleashes his raw power, shattering the bag with a single punch. Each strike he delivers carries a weightier impact than the previous one, his haunted memories fueling his determination. The resounding thud of his fists connecting with the bag reverberates through the room, growing even louder with each strike, until finally...BOOM. The bag disintegrates into a cloud of remnants. It's my cue to enter now and portray genuine surprise at the sight before me.

(Karito) "Goddamn Steve, you good man?"

(Steve) "You saw that...right?"

(Karito) "Since the beginning...did you remember your past? Because you had an angry look on your face."

(Steve) "Y-yeah...I'm sorry you had to see that."

(Karito) "Nah man seriously it's all good. I was just surprised. What surprises me, even more, is that you have a whole line of sandbags on the floor"

(Steve) Nervous chuckle "Yeah, happens more than once."

Right after Steve finished that sentence I felt someone watching us...that must be Nick Fury.

(Karito) "Whoever is there come out!"

Nick Fury comes out of the entrance of the gym and presents himself.

(Nick Fury) "I'm impressed you noticed I was there even when I silently entered her and with your back is against me."

(Karito) "I got a good sixth sense."

(Nick Fury) "I can see that."

(Karito) Acting surprised "How do you even know that?!"

(Steve) "Karito, don't worry he isn't a threat, he's the one who helped me get out of my 70-year slumber."

(Karito) "Oh, that's him? I'm sorry for my outburst I didn't know." Extends hand "I'm Karito Josue, nice to meet you!"

(Nick Fury) Takes hand "Director Nick Fury from S.H.I.E.L.D."

(Karito) "Awesome."

(Steve) "Changing topic. Sir, what are you doing here?"

(Nick Fury) Looks at Karito "He should leave..."

(Steve) "No, I trust him and he's capable."

(Nick Fury) "What makes you so sure?"

(Steve) Looks at Karito "Can I tell him?"

(Karito) "Go ahead."

I wanted him to know anyways.

(Steve) "Because he was able to keep up with me. I was holding back, sure but his powers benefit him greatly. He was able to land some solid hits on me."

(Nick Fury) Surprised "Is that so? Then we might need your help with what I'm about to tell Steve Rogers."

Alright, I'm in. Perfect.

(Karito) "Sure what's up?"

(Steve) "Are you here for a mission, Sir?"

(Nick Fury) "I am."

(Steve) "Trying to get me back into the world?"

(Nick Fury) "Trying to save it." Passes the folder

I stand beside Steve and look at the papers while listening.

(Steve) Grabs the folder and reads it " HYDRA'S secret weapon."

(Karito) "That's what you fought red skull for before being frozen right?"

(Steve) "Yeah..."

(Nick Fury) "Howard Stark fished that out of the ocean when he was looking for you. He thought what we think. The Tesseract could be the key to unlimited sustainable energy. That is something that the world sorely needs."

(Steve) Gives back the folder "Who took it from you?"

(Nick Fury) Grabs it back "He's called Loki"

(Nick Fury) "He's...not from around here."

(Karito) "Loki? The God of Mischief? From Asgard?"

(Nick Fury) "Correct."

(Steve) "Wait what?"

(Nick Fury) "There's a lot we'll have to bring you up to speed on if you're in. The world has gotten even stranger than you already know.

(Steve) Starts getting ready to leave "At this point, I doubt anything would surprise me."

(Nick Fury) "10 bucks says your wrong."

(Karito) "10? You're pretty merciful."

(Nick Fury) "....20."

(Karito) "Now we talking."

(Nick Fury) Looks back at Steve "There's a debriefing packet waiting for you back at the apartment."

(Steve) Grabs his bag and a sandbag placing them on his shoulder "Let's go Karito"

(Karito) "Roger that Captain." Starts following Steve

(Nick Fury) "Is there anything you can tell us about the Tesseract that we ought to now know?"

(Steve) "You should've left it in the ocean."

Scene change

Inside a S.H.I.E.L.D Quinjet

As Steve delves into the Avengers' initiative program, I discreetly observe, pretending to be unaware while stealing occasional glances. Truth be told, I'm already well-informed about it.

(Steve) "So, this Dr. Banner was trying to replicate the serum they used on me?"

(Karito) "It definitely looks like it."

(Agent Coulson) "A lot of people were."

(Karito) "People wanted to have your man boobs, Steve."

(Steve) "I will punch you Karito if you continue your jokes."

(Karito) "Yes, crystal clear." Chuckles

(Agent Coulson) "Well, he is the world's first superhero. Banner thought that gamma radiation might hold the key to unlocking it, Erskine's original formula."

(Steve) "Didn't go his way, did it?"

(Karito) "Definitely not, dude is the definition of going ape shit."

(Steve) "Language!"

(Karito) "Yeah yeah." Chuckles

(Agent Coulson) "Not so much."

(Karito) "That's an understatement."

(Agent Coulson) "When he's not that thing, though the guys like Stephen Hawking's"

(Karito) "You mean crip-?"

(Agent Coulson) "Don't you dare finish that.."

(Steve) "Who's Stephen Hawking's?"

(Karito and Coulson) "A smart person."

(Karito) "JINX! You owe me a smoothie."

(Agent Coulson) "I'll think about it."

(Karito) "WHA-"

I got duct tape covering my mouth, thanks to Agent Coulson.

(Agent Coulson) "I gotta say...It's an honor to meet you officially."

I hummed an "awwwwww" while I ripped off the duct tape. Ouch.

(Agent Coulson) "I've sort of met you. I mean, I watched you as you were sleeping."

(Karito) "Aye yo?"

(Agent Coulson) "I mean, I was present while you were unconscious from the ice. You know, it's really just a huge honor to have you on board this..."

(Karito) "Bro, if you are like this with a man I don't imagine a woman...or u swing that way?"

(Agent Coulson) "Karito I swear..."

(Karito) "Hehehe...."

(Steve) "I hope I'm the man for the job."

(Agent Coulson) "Oh, you are, definitely...Uhh, we made some modifications to the uniform. I had a little design input."

(Karito) "What did you put? Your number?"

(Agent Coulson) "You are gonna give me an aneurism Karito."

(Karito) "I know."

(Steve) "The uniform? Aren't the stars and stripes a little... old-fashioned?

(Agent Coulson) "With everything that's happening and the things that are about to come to light, people might just need a little old-fashioned."

After messing around with Coulson for a while, we finally arrived at this massive "boat" out in the ocean. As to where exactly in the ocean, your guess is as good as mine. We've been flying for what feels like ages. But hey, I'm just glad I get to explore this behemoth of a vessel. So, with the landing complete, we disembarked onto the landing deck, ready to start our adventure.

(Agent Coulson) "Stow the Captain's gear."

(Agent) "Yes sir" Quickly does as so

(Agent Coulson) "Agent Romanoff, Captain Rogers and that's his friend Karito Josue."

Whoa, hold on a sec! I've seen her on TV, and yeah, she's smoking hot, no doubt about it. But standing right in front of me? It's a whole new level of hotness. Okay, okay, calm down, buddy. Don't start drooling like a maniac. Focus, man, focus! Keep your eyes on the prize and try not to embarrass yourself in front of the gorgeousness standing before you. You got this!

(Steve) "Ma'am."

(Karito) "Pleasure to meet you!" Smiles

(Agent Romanoff) "Hi..."

Boom! Nailed it! I mean, come on, it's not like I had a whole script prepared in my head for this moment. Sometimes you just gotta roll with it, you know?

(Agent Romanoff) "They need you on the bridge. They're starting the face trace."

(Agent Coulson) "See you there." Leaves

I can already see it coming. Natasha's about to make her move on Steve. It's like clockwork, you know? She's got that look in her eye, that sly smile on her face. Three... two... one... and there it is!

(Agent Romanoff) "It was quite the buzz around here, finding you in the ice. I thought Coulson was gonna swoon."

(Karito) Snort "Trust me, he did. He literally said he watched him as he slept."

(Agent Romanoff) Laughs "Seriously? I would've loved to see that."

(Karito) "Fortunately for you and not for Coulson, I recorder it."

(Steve) "Wait, what? How?"

(Agent Romanoff) "Oh-oh! Let me see!"

(Karito) Pulls out the phone and shows her "Here you go."

A minute later...

(Agent Romanoff) Laughing her ass off "Oh my god, this is perfect! He's never gonna live through this."

(Karito) "I teased him so much back in the plane he literally was a blushing mess. Tho Steve stopped me...I'm gonna continue to tease Coulson later anyways."

(Agent Romanoff) "What else did he do? Did he ask you to sign his Captain America trading cards yet?"

(Steve) "Trading cards?"

(Karito) "Coulson has trading cards of him?!" Laughs hysterically "Oh lord I can't I'm gonna have an asthma attack here."

(Agent Romanoff) Laughs as well "We are tripping Coulson so hard right now."

(Steve) "I still don't know what trading cards are."

(Karito) "They're vintage, I bet he's proud of them."

(Agent Romanoff) "You have no idea" Giggles

(Karito) "Oh hey, I think that's Dr.Banner from the files we saw earlier. Aye, Dr. Banner!"

The doctor's face lit up with a mixture of relief and bewilderment as I called out to him. He had this sort of lost puppy look at first, darting his eyes around like he was searching for something. But as soon as he laid eyes on the three of us, he hurriedly made his way towards us, a glimmer of hope returning to his expression. It was like witnessing a mini-rescue mission right there in the middle of the chaos. I couldn't help but crack a smile as he approached, curious to hear what he had to say.

(Bruce Banner) "Oh uh yeah, Hi...They told me you would be coming here."

(Karito) "Can't start the party without America's ass."

(Agent Romanoff) Snorts and covers her mouth attempting not to laugh

(Bruce Banner) "What?"

(Steve) "Karito, you are unbearable sometimes."

(Karito) "Bitch, I'm adorable."

(Agent Romanoff) Starts laughing again

(Steve) "Anyways... the word is, you can find the cube."

(Bruce Banner) Looks around "Is that the only word on me?"

(Steve) "Only word I care about."

(Bruce Banner) Nods "It must be strange for you, all of this."

(Steve) "Well, this is actually kind of familiar."

(Agent Romanoff) "Gentlemen, you might want to step inside for a minute. It's gonna get a little hard to breathe."

(Karito) "What? This gonna fly?"

(Agent Romanoff) Smirks

(Karito) "Now we talking." Smirks

(Steve) "You're joking right?"

(Bruce Banner) "Wait what? This can fly?"

(Agent Romanoff) "Wait and see."

(Intercoms) "Flight crew, secure the deck."

The "boat" beneath our feet rumbled and shifted, as if gears and machinery were rearranging themselves into a new configuration. Ah, yes, I recognized this transformation all too well. It could only mean one thing: the legendary Helicarrier was revealing itself in all its glory. Now, let me take a moment to give you a quick rundown of what the Helicarrier is all about. Picture this: a flying fortress equipped with massive turbine engines that keep it soaring through the skies, while still maintaining its seafaring capabilities. The brilliant minds, including the esteemed Howard Stark, poured their genius into its creation. And let me tell you, seeing it firsthand was a sight to behold. I could hardly contain my excitement, bouncing with enthusiasm at the incredible adventure that lay before me.

The four of us hurriedly stepped inside the Helicarrier and made our way towards the bridge, the nerve center of all the action. As we entered, Steve, Bruce, and I couldn't help but look around with wide-eyed wonder. The sight before us was nothing short of incredible. The advanced technology that surrounded us surpassed anything I had ever laid my eyes upon. It was as if we had stepped into a realm of innovation and marvels. The Helicarrier was a testament to human ingenuity and progress. I couldn't help but be in awe of the sheer brilliance that unfolded before me. It was a true feast for the senses, an experience I would never forget.

(Agent 1) "Hover power check complete. Position cyclic. Increase collective to 8.0%"

(Agent 2) "Preparing for maximum performance takeoff."

(Agent 3) "Increase output capacity."

(Agent 4) "Power plant performing at capacity...we are clear."

(Maria Hill) "All engines operating. S.H.I.E.L.D. Emergency Protocol 193.6 is in effect. We are at level, Sir."

(Nick Fury) "Good. Let's vanish."

(Maria Hill) "Engage retro-reflection panels."

Just as Maria Hill had mentioned, the Helicarrier began to cloak itself, slowly fading from view. It was an incredible sight to witness, watching this colossal floating fortress disappear right before our eyes. I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement at the sheer awesomeness of it all. Once we had taken a moment to appreciate our surroundings, Nick Fury made his way towards us, initiating a conversation that held the promise of intrigue and adventure.

(Nick Fury) "Gentlemen."

Steve and I walked toward Nick Fury and gave him 20 dollars.

(Nick Fury) "Regretting what you said Karito?" Smirks

(Karito) "You have no idea..."

Well, that went according to plan. It's crucial for me to maintain an air of cluelessness about the situation and pretend that I have no idea what's coming next. Acting suspicious would only raise eyebrows, so I intentionally made things harder for myself by adding to the bet. It's all part of the game. Meanwhile, Steve took the opportunity to explore the advanced technology that was entirely new to him, while Nick Fury went off to greet Bruce Banner, who had just arrived.

(Nick Fury) Extends hand "Doctor, thank you for coming."

(Bruce Banner) "Thanks for asking nicely...So, how long am I staying?"

(Nick Fury) "Once we get our hands on the Tesseract, you're in the wind."

(Bruce Banner) "Where are you with that?"

(Agent Coulson) "We're sweeping every wireless accessible camera on the planet. Cellphones, laptops...If it's connected to a satellite, it's eyes and ears for us."

(Agent Romanoff) "That's still not gonna find them in time."

(Bruce Banner) "You have to narrow your field. How many spectrometers do you have access to?"

(Nick Fury) "How many are they?"

(Karito) "Confirm that by calling every lab you know and tell them to put the spectrometers on the roof and calibrate them for gamma rays. Dr. Banner can rough out a tracking algorithm for basic cluster recognition. That can at least make you all rule out a few places."

To my utter dismay, I suddenly realized that my ill-timed remark had captured the attention of nearly everyone in the room. Oh no, what have I done? I inadvertently blurted out the line that was meant for Bruce to say. My big mouth strikes again. Now I have to think on my feet and play along with the unexpected twist I've caused. Time to embrace the flow and make the best of this fuck-up.

(Agent Coulson) "Who are you and where is Karito?"

(Karito) "What? I can be smart sometimes. I'm not just easygoing and dumb."

(Nick Fury) "So you are actually smart?"

(Karito) "No, but I do have my moments. The smartest thing I can do is programming."

(Nick Fury) "Hmmm, I see."

(Bruce Banner) "Anyways" Looks at Nick Fury "Do you have somewhere for me to work?"

(Nick Fury) "Agent Romanoff, could you show Dr. Banner to his laboratory, please?"

Agent Romanoff goes towards Bruce Banner and starts leading him to his lab.

(Agent Romanoff) "You're gonna love it, Doc. We got all the toys."

Karito Pov

After a good while of mingling, cracking jokes, and playfully ribbing Agent Coulson, we finally settle down, eagerly awaiting any updates on Loki's whereabouts. Steve and Coulson seem to be engaged in a serious conversation, and I decide to join in on the action. I take my place alongside them, ready to contribute to the conversation or simply soak in the company of my newfound allies.

(Agent Coulson) "I mean if it's not too much trouble."

I arrive by Steve's right side while Coulson kept talking to him on his left side.

(Steve) "No, no. It's alright."

(Agent Coulson) "It's a vintage set."

(Karito) "You mean your Pokemon cards?"

(Agent Coulson) "Karito don't ruin my moment."

(Karito) "That depends on how you handle this conversation." Smirk

(Agent Coulson) "Ugh, anyways. It took me a couple of years to collect them all...Near mint. Slight foxing around the edges..."

(Karito) "Bro, how desperate were you to collect those cards?"

(Agent Coulson) "Very."

(Karito) "That's what she said."

(Agent Coulson) Sighs in disappointment

After yet another round of playful banter with Coulson, a sudden cacophony of beeping interrupts our lighthearted moment. I glance over and see a computer screen flashing with urgency, signaling that it's finally time to come face-to-face with Loki. It's about time, I think to myself, realizing how much longer this process feels compared to the condensed version I watched on the big screen. But hey, that's the reality of being in the thick of things rather than safely watching from a theater seat. With a mix of excitement and a touch of apprehension, I gather my wits and prepare myself for the encounter with the mischievous Asgardian. This is where the real adventure begins, and I can't help but feel a surge of anticipation coursing through my veins.

(Agent) "We got a hit! A 67% chance...Wait, cross-match 79%."

(Agent Coulson) "Location?"

(Agent) "Stuttgart, Germany. 28 Königstrasse...He's not exactly hiding."

(Nick Fury) "Captain and Karito, your up."

(Karito) Cracks knuckles "Alright, let's go, Steve."

(Steve) Nods and takes the lead

Scene change

Stuttgart, Germany

No Pov

The grandeur of the occasion is unmistakable as we find ourselves amidst a gala of opulence and sophistication. The elegant attire worn by the attendees exudes an air of affluence, leaving no doubt that this gathering is a conclave of the privileged. The ethereal notes of violins gracefully permeate the air, their melodious strains adding a touch of refined charm to the ambiance.

A centerpiece of intrigue captures my attention—a statuette portraying a dual-faced bull, its gaze fixed in opposite directions. Positioned atop a table-like structure, it assumes a prominent position, intended to be admired by the throngs of discerning onlookers. Engrossed in animated conversations and savoring delectable delicacies, the oblivious guests remain blissfully unaware of the clandestine machinations unfolding behind the curtain of this seemingly idyllic scene.

In the company of Steve and Karito, we venture toward the area designated by Nick Fury, wherein Steve is poised to discover his coveted new suit. Arrayed along the periphery, an impressive array of weaponry awaits, each weapon boasting formidable size and power, silently beckoning for a valiant hand to wield them. Yet, amidst this arsenal, it is the sight of the suit—the embodiment of marvel and might—that captures the collective gaze of all present. And not to be outshone, Steve's iconic shield stands as a steadfast symbol of his indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve.

Karito's lips part in a resounding whistle, a clear indication of his unabated enthusiasm and delight. With a subtle but knowing smirk gracing his countenance, he leaves Steve Rogers to his own devices, allowing him the solemn privilege of donning the distinguished uniform that awaits him. As the scene unfolds, Karito deftly seizes upon the moment, summoning Kara with a mere utterance and triggering the intricate mechanisms that effortlessly enrobe him in the iconic mantle of Spider-Man.

A shroud of ethereal white envelops Karito, its luminous presence briefly captivating the gaze of onlookers, only to dissipate with a graceful swiftness that mirrors its emergence. In its wake stands Karito, adorned in the resplendent attire of Spider-Man, a seamless integration of man and mythos brought to life. The metamorphosis, as transient as it is wondrous, unveils the full splendor of Karito's transformed visage, a vivid manifestation of the timeless allure associated with the revered web-slinger.

Spider-Man turns his head seeing Captain America now fully suited and ready to go.

(Captain America) "Ready Spider-Man?"

(Spider-Man) "Hell yeah." Smirks

Spider-Man then saw a notification from Kara.

Capture Loki

10K Gold

20K EXP

New Spider Skill

To be continued...