(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)
In the vast expanse of the white void, where no signs of life or existence could be found, a profound emptiness prevailed. It was a canvas of pure nothingness, a blank page upon which the grand tapestry of creation was woven. This void held the potential for infinite ideas and boundless imagination, where the strokes of an author's pen breathed life into worlds. But, just as easily as a creator's eraser could wipe away the strokes of inspiration, the essence of existence could be erased.
In this desolate moment, this universe of Marvel, once teeming with vibrant characters and stories, had been extinguished. The weight of this cosmic annihilation fell upon the shoulders of Astral Regulator Thanos, a variant of the Mad Titan that transcended the confines of canon. With a single gesture, a snap of his fingers, he obliterated everything. The cataclysm that followed rivaled the birth of the universe itself, a Big Bang of destruction. Nothing remained in that realm.
Yet, against all odds, two beings survived the cataclysmic event that mirrored the primordial explosion. Spider-Man and Spider-Boy floated adrift in the ethereal expanse of the white canvas. By some unfathomable miracle, they endured. Spider-Man, the first to regain consciousness, slowly opened his eyes, his senses adapting to the void. His body bore the wounds of battle, but his suit had shielded him from the brink of annihilation.
The arachnid hero surveyed the desolation, his mind teetering dangerously close to the precipice of overwhelm. Thoughts eluded him, emotions surged chaotically, and an overwhelming shock held him captive. With trembling hands, he covered his face, his breathing growing labored. The weight of the world's expectations, the trust of billions of lives, now pressed upon him. They had entrusted him with success, and yet here he stood, the guardian of a shattered dimension.
Only he and his apprentice survived to bear witness to the tragedy. Do you comprehend the crushing weight of such lofty expectations? To meticulously plan and prepare for an endeavor spanning two decades, envisioning every path to triumph, only to have those hopes razed to ashes? Can you fathom the desolation that envelops one's soul when the culmination of countless efforts unravels? When every cherished friend and ally vanishes, erased from existence? The toil and sacrifice were reduced to naught.
It is a shock so suffocating that tears cannot flow, a pain that sears the heart and threatens to rupture the mind. The desire to scream, to weep, to mourn wells within, but the depth of despair renders one voiceless. Spider-Man stood trapped in this torment for what seemed like an eternity, though mere minutes had passed. And finally, a primal scream erupted, a haunting sound that shattered the essence of one's being. It reverberated with shattered dreams, echoing with inconsolable despair, piercing the very fabric of existence.
At that moment, the enormity of loss crashed upon Spider-Man's fragile spirit, like waves relentlessly pounding a weathered shore. Grief welled up from the depths of his soul, an immeasurable sadness that defied comprehension. The weight of failure bore down upon him, crushing his spirit beneath its unbearable burden. The universe he swore to protect had been snuffed out, and his desperate attempts to prevent it had been futile.
The echoes of anguish resounded through the void, as Spider-Man found himself enveloped in a sea of desolation. His heart ached with the sorrow of countless lives lost, their stories abruptly ended, their potential left unfulfilled. It was a funeral dirge that echoed through the cosmos, mourning the demise of hope, of dreams, of a universe that once thrived with vibrant life.
Tears streamed down Spider-Man's face, mingling with the emptiness of the void. His cries merged with the silent symphony of devastation, a lamentation for the shattered fragments of a reality that was no more. In that moment of profound grief, he grasped the weight of his failure, the anguish of knowing that he had let down not only his allies and friends but the countless souls who believed in him.
As the white void stretched out endlessly, Spider-Man's voice grew hoarse from his mournful cries. The pain etched deep within his soul, carving a permanent scar that would forever remind him of the price of failure. In that desolate expanse, he was but a broken figure lost amidst the echoes of a universe erased.
And so, Spider-Man remained adrift in the abyss, grappling with the devastating magnitude of his loss, haunted by the ghosts of a once-vibrant existence. The echoes of his screams and the tears that stained his cheeks would forever be carried by the winds of eternity, a solemn requiem for a universe now consigned to oblivion.
2 hours later...
Spider-Man, his body weightless in the ethereal void, remained suspended, cradling his apprentice's unconscious form. In the vast expanse of the white canvas, he grappled with the understanding that, perhaps by the sheer fortune of being the mentor, his apprentice had survived the cataclysmic explosion. Emotionlessly, his gaze wandered, taking in the barren emptiness that stretched infinitely before him.
In the midst of this desolation, Spider-Man summoned forth his power, opening a portal to the Nexus, a realm beyond the confines of time, space, and everything that exist. The portal, a manifestation of his creation, materialized, and through its threshold, he glimpsed Chrona, her countenance heavy with sadness. With measured steps, Spider-Man crossed into the dimensional library that housed the stories of existence, each volume a testament to the intricacies of history.
His weary eyes fell upon his unconscious apprentice, cradled in the gentle embrace of Chrona, whose benevolent soul radiated an aura of compassion. Together, they traversed the library's hallowed halls, until they arrived at a chamber suffused with the soft glow of healing. Chrona, with a mere thought, conjured a bed adorned with an array of medical supplies, an oasis of solace in this realm of boundless narratives.
With utmost care, Chrona settled Spider-Boy's slumbering form upon the bed, her touch delicate, as if tending to the frailty of a fragile butterfly's wings. She retreated, her concern now directed towards the lone Guardian who bore the weight of existence upon his shattered spirit. As she stepped outside the room, her eyes met Spider-Man's vacant gaze, his gaze adrift in the void of his own despair.
Biting her lip, Chrona's worry deepened, for even her abilities to soothe troubled souls seemed feeble in the face of Spider-Man's anguish. The depths of his despair had reached an unfathomable level, beyond the solace she could offer. At that moment, devoid of words or solutions, she instinctively embraced the broken hero, seeking to lend him the warmth of her presence.
As their bodies intertwined in a solemn embrace, Spider-Man's resolve crumbled, tears cascading down his cheeks. He clung to Chrona, his sobs echoing through the empty corridors of the library. Time stood still as they clung to one another, finding solace in the fragile connection they shared. Minutes stretched into an eternity, but Chrona remained steadfast, offering the solace he so desperately needed.
In the sanctuary of that embrace, Spider-Man allowed his emotions to flow freely, his anguish and heartache pouring out like a torrential downpour. The weight of his failure, the magnitude of loss, pressed upon him with unbearable intensity. Yet, in the presence of Chrona, he found a sliver of comfort, a reminder that he was not entirely alone in his pain.
They remained locked in that embrace, their tears mingling, their spirits intertwined. In the boundless expanse of the library, their silent communion spoke volumes, conveying a shared understanding of the depths of sorrow and the resilience of the human spirit. Time ceased to have meaning as they clung to each other, seeking solace in the darkness that enveloped them.
Chrona, with her unwavering support, vowed to stand by Spider-Man's side, offering him solace for as long as it took. In that moment of shared vulnerability, they forged a bond, united in their shattered hearts, bound by the understanding that healing would be a gradual process, and that the road to recovery would be paved with tears and the fragile remnants of hope.
Minutes Later...
Karito lay sprawled across Chrona's lap, his body languid and unresponsive. His visage bore the etchings of shock, a mask of profound despair that mirrored the weight of his failure. In the intimate silence of their shared refuge, Chrona's delicate fingers traced gentle patterns through his disheveled hair, a gesture offered in hopes of providing solace in the face of overwhelming sorrow.
No words passed between them, for none seemed adequate to capture the depths of Karito's anguish. Chrona understood that sometimes, the mere presence of another soul was enough to provide a semblance of comfort. With each stroke of her hand, she sought to ease the burden that weighed heavily upon the Guardian's weary heart, even if only for a fleeting moment.
And so, in the midst of their silent communion, Chrona's voice resonated softly, weaving a tender lullaby that carried with it the promise of respite. The melody, like a gentle breeze, caressed the air around them, casting a soothing spell upon their ethereal surroundings. Its delicate notes wrapped around the desolate corridors of the library, carrying a balm of tranquility in their wake.
Karito, his ears attuned to the melodic strains, found solace in the familiar tune. Its lilting cadence stirred distant memories, memories of a time when hope still bloomed within his heart. With each passing verse, he felt his spirit gradually succumbing to weariness, the weight of his thoughts gradually dissipating in the embrace of the lullaby's tender embrace.
As the echoes of the lullaby filled the chamber, Karito's eyes grew heavy, and the weight of his burden momentarily eased. With every gentle note that emanated from Chrona's lips, he found himself surrendering to the gentle embrace of sleep, even though he knew its respite would be fleeting. Yet, in those precious moments, he allowed himself to drift away, seeking solace in the realm of dreams, where the boundaries of reality could be temporarily set aside.
Though his slumber may be short-lived, Chrona remained steadfast, her tender ministrations continuing even in his repose. She watched over him, a silent guardian of his troubled spirit, as he sought respite from the maelstrom of his thoughts. In the soft glow of the library, she became the beacon of solace, offering a sanctuary in which he could find brief respite from the burdens that weighed him down.
And so, with the soothing melody of the lullaby lingering in the air, Karito drifted deeper into the embrace of sleep, finding solace in the hushed whispers of dreams. Chrona, ever-vigilant, continued her vigil, knowing that even in slumber's fragile grasp, the struggles of the waking world would soon stir him from his temporary respite. But for now, in this fleeting interlude, they both found solace in the fragile sanctuary of dreams.
Karito's dream...
Karito's eyelids fluttered restlessly as he descended into the realm of dreams, unaware of the tumultuous landscape that awaited him. The serenity of slumber began to give way to the gnarled tendrils of his subconscious, as the nightmare's grip tightened around his fragile psyche.
In the ethereal depths of his troubled mind, the familiar surroundings of the dimensional library twisted and contorted, morphing into a nightmarish labyrinth. Corridors stretched endlessly before him, their walls pulsating with an eerie luminescence that cast grotesque shadows upon the floor. Each step he took seemed to echo with a hollow emptiness as if the very essence of his being was being swallowed by the suffocating darkness.
As Karito ventured deeper into the abyss, phantom whispers danced on the edge of his perception, their voices a cacophony of discordant tones that tore at his sanity. The whispers spoke of his failures, his inadequacies, and the weight of responsibility that had crushed his spirit. They whispered of the lives lost, the hopes shattered, and the world he had failed to protect.
Suddenly, the walls of the labyrinth shifted, transforming into a twisted reflection of his memories. Faces of those he loved and lost loomed out of the darkness, their expressions twisted with anguish and accusation. Their eyes once filled with trust and admiration, now bore the weight of disappointment and betrayal. Their voices merged with the chorus of whispers, their words a relentless barrage of accusation and despair.
Karito's heart pounded in his chest as he desperately sought an escape from this torment, but the maze seemed to coil tighter around him, its corridors leading him further into the depths of his own fears. Shadows danced in the periphery of his vision, shifting and morphing into grotesque specters that taunted him with their twisted forms. Every step forward felt like a descent into madness, as his mind teetered on the precipice of despair.
And then, as if the nightmare itself reveled in his torment, the figure of Dark AR Thanos materialized before him, his malevolent gaze piercing Karito's very soul. The air grew heavy with a palpable sense of menace as the astral variant of the Mad Titan advanced, his presence radiating a suffocating aura of power. Karito's every instinct screamed for him to run, to escape the clutches of this embodiment of his greatest fears, but his legs refused to obey.
Dark AR Thanos towered over him, his voice dripping with malicious intent as he mocked Karito's every failure. He reveled in the Guardian's anguish, relishing the opportunity to drive him further into the depths of despair. Each word spoken by the malevolent entity carved wounds in Karito's already fragile psyche, the weight of his own inadequacy crushing him under its unbearable burden.
As the nightmare raged on, Karito's cries for mercy were met with mocking laughter, reverberating through the twisted corridors of his subconscious. The nightmare fed on his fear, amplifying it to its most excruciating crescendo. The walls of the labyrinth closed in, threatening to consume him entirely, as he grappled with the darkest corners of his own mind.
And then, with a jolt, Karito's eyes flew open, his body drenched in a cold sweat. He gasped for air, the remnants of the nightmare still clinging to his trembling form. The room around him was once again bathed in the gentle glow of the dimensional library, the nightmare now reduced to mere fragments of troubled sleep.
As he lay there, his heart still racing, Karito couldn't shake the lingering sense of unease. The nightmare had pierced the very depths of his soul, exposing his deepest fears and insecurities. It was a chilling reminder of the battles fought not only in the physical realm but also within the labyrinthine recesses of his own mind. The scars left behind by that harrowing encounter would take time to heal...
Peter Parker's Dream...
Within the twisted realm of his nightmares, Peter Parker found himself trapped in a haunting labyrinth of darkness. The memories of his family, once a source of comfort, were twisted into grotesque specters that tormented his very soul. Their voices echoed through the desolate corridors, whispering words of despair and abandonment.
In the depths of this nightmarish maze, Peter stumbled upon a shattered reflection of his Aunt May, her warm smile now contorted into a malicious grin. Her once gentle voice dripped with venom as she berated him for his failure, blaming him for their dire circumstances. The weight of her disappointment bore down on his trembling shoulders, threatening to crush his spirit.
As he pressed on, the twisted maze seemed to mock his dual roles as both a member of the Parker family and as Karito's apprentice. The walls whispered cruel reminders of his inadequacy, magnifying every mistake he had ever made. Images of his loved ones flickered before his eyes, their faces contorted with anguish and despair.
In this nightmarish realm, the destruction wrought by Astral Regulator Thanos loomed ever-present. Peter was forced to confront the charred remains of his home dimension, its once vibrant streets now reduced to ash and rubble. The echoes of laughter and joy were replaced by the mournful cries of those lost, forever etched into the haunting silence.
The weight of survivor's guilt bore down on Peter's fragile psyche, the burden of being one of the few to escape the annihilation suffocating him. The reality of his isolation, the absence of his family and friends, gnawed at his heart like a relentless beast. He felt a profound emptiness, a void that could never be filled.
Amidst the twisted nightmare, Karito's presence manifested as a distorted figure, his once guiding voice now distorted and filled with scorn. He questioned Peter's worthiness, mocking his apprenticeship and accusing him of being responsible for the destruction that had befallen their dimension. The mentorship that once offered solace now became a source of torment.
Peter's mind became a battleground, a never-ending struggle against his darkest fears and doubts. The nightmare taunted him with the realization that he had failed to protect his family, that his efforts as Karito's apprentice were in vain. The weight of the shattered dimension bore down on his conscience, threatening to shatter his very soul.
In the depths of despair, Peter found himself engulfed in a maelstrom of anguish. He screamed, his cries echoing through the nightmarish labyrinth, but they were met with only silence. The weight of his failures, the loss of his family, and the destruction of his home dimension crashed upon him like an unrelenting tidal wave, drowning him in a sea of sorrow.
As the nightmare persisted, Peter felt himself sinking further into the abyss, consumed by the nightmarish manifestations of his deepest regrets. The twisted echoes of his family's voices, the accusatory whispers of his mentor, and the desolation of his shattered world merged into a cacophony of torment that threatened to devour him whole.
In this realm of eternal darkness, Peter was trapped, his mind ensnared in a never-ending cycle of guilt and despair. The nightmare became his reality, a twisted reflection of his shattered existence, reminding him of his powerlessness and the devastating consequences of his failures.
As he awoke from the nightmarish depths, drenched in a cold sweat, Peter's heart remained heavy with the weight of his fractured reality. The scars of his torment lingered, forever etched into his psyche, a haunting reminder of the horrors he had endured. The nightmare had not provided solace or redemption but had instead plunged him deeper into the abyss of his own despair.
Reality
Peter awoke, his weary eyes scanning the room with a mixture of trepidation and desperation. The remnants of the nightmare still clung to his consciousness, refusing to release their hold. He yearned for confirmation that his torment had been nothing more than a figment of his imagination. His gaze fell upon the familiar sight of his patched-up form, a testament to the battles he had fought. The nightstand held the chip of his Iron Spider suit, a symbol of his resilience in the face of adversity.
A scar on his chest served as a cruel reminder of the confrontation with the Black Order and the relentless pain he had endured. Yet, he understood that these battle scars were mere physical manifestations, insignias of a struggle that paled in comparison to the depths of his emotional wounds. His heart carried the weight of the losses he had suffered, losses that left no visible mark upon his flesh. Only the presence of his trusted Sensei provided solace, a beacon of light in a sea of darkness.
With a heavy sigh, Peter rose from his bed, his weary limbs protesting the weight of his sorrow. The room, now a sanctuary of familiarity, held secrets that he sought to uncover. Through a doorway created by his own will, he entered the ethereal realm of the Nexus, a gateway to all knowledge and stories that spanned the vast tapestry of existence. It was here, within the hallowed halls of the dimensional library, that he sought answers, a glimmer of hope amidst the ashes of his shattered reality.
In the observatory, a place of contemplation and introspection, Peter's trembling hand cradled a pulsating 4th-dimensional tesseract. Its radiant glow bathed the room in an otherworldly luminescence, illuminating the depth of his despair. Placing the tesseract upon the wall, he activated the machinery that would scour the omniverses, searching for a familiar resonance, a connection to his own universe.
Minutes passed like an eternity, each second punctuated by the relentless ticking of his shattered hope. The computer diligently analyzed the data, its calculations unfolding before him like a cruel dance. And then, the verdict was delivered, a verdict that shattered his spirit once more. The universe he had called home, the universe that cradled the memories of his loved ones, had been extinguished. The people he held dear, the Avengers, his friends, his family, all lost to the merciless jaws of cosmic annihilation.
With the weight of the revelation pressing upon his chest, Peter crumpled to his knees, tears streaming down his anguished face. The enormity of his loss overwhelmed him, his heart aching for the irreplaceable presence of his Aunt May. The realization struck him with devastating force - he would never see her again, never feel her comforting embrace or hear her reassuring words. The void that consumed his universe left him adrift, a solitary figure in an expanse of nothingness.
In the silence of the observatory, Peter's sobs echoed, the sound reverberating through the emptiness of his existence. The tears flowed freely, mingling with the shards of his shattered dreams. The universe had conspired against him, reducing his world to a desolate wasteland. All that remained were the echoes of memories and the haunting specter of his Sensei, the sole witness to their shared survival in a desecrated realm.
As the tears subsided, Peter embraced the devastating truth that now defined his existence. The weight of his grief settled upon his shoulders, an unwelcome burden that threatened to consume him entirely. The path ahead appeared bleak, the road stretching out before him devoid of familiar faces, of laughter, and camaraderie. Only he and his Sensei remained, a bond forged in tragedy, clinging to one another for solace in a world that had forsaken them.
In the bleakness of that observatory, Peter Parker, the once hopeful hero, now stood as a shattered soul, lost amidst the remnants of a decimated universe.
Chrona Pov
It pains me to witness the state of Karito and Peter, their spirits ravaged by the harrowing ordeal they have endured. No words of solace or comfort can breach the impenetrable fortress of their sorrow. Their resilience is unquestionable, but the wounds they bear run deeper than the physical realm. Time may heal, they say, but I fear that time alone will not be enough. The scars etched upon their souls may forever mar their once vibrant spirits.
But it is Karito who weighs heavily upon my heart. Within the recesses of his being, his Gamer System flickers with an unsettling anomaly. It defies the very nature of its design, manifesting a punishment feature that should have long been eradicated after his liberation from Kara's malevolent influence. The same Kara who sought to warp him into something unrecognizable, to strip away his essence and reshape him in her own image. And now, it seems her twisted desires may find fruition through the unyielding torment bestowed upon Karito.
I tremble with apprehension, for I know the depths of his selflessness. In his unwavering devotion to his apprentice, Peter, he would willingly bear the burden of punishment, sacrificing himself to spare the young hero further anguish. But the weight of such a sacrifice, coupled with the shards of despair that have already shattered his spirit, threatens to extinguish the last vestiges of his resilience.
I am consumed by fear, for I have witnessed the fragility of the human spirit under the weight of insurmountable despair. Karito's spirit, already fractured and teetering on the precipice of oblivion, can only withstand so much before it crumbles completely. The thought of him being pushed to the brink, of his light being extinguished by overwhelming darkness, fills me with a sorrow that seeps into the very depths of my soul.
As the weight of my own thoughts presses upon me, the hushed sound of weeping catches my attention, resonating from the depths of the library. It is a mournful cry that pierces through the silence, and I instantly recognize its source—Peter, the shattered soul who is still grappling with the unforgiving hand of destiny that has befallen him.
Approaching the wall from which the anguished sobs emanate, I extend my hand, its trembling touch grazing the cool surface as the library responds to my presence. Slowly, the wall begins to unravel, revealing a tear-stained face, etched with pain and sorrow. It is Peter, his eyes weary and haunted, as he struggles to find solace amidst the ruins of his existence.
With a voice shattered by the weight of his grief, he musters the strength to speak, his words laden with a mix of anguish and desperation. His voice trembles as he tries to make sense of the senseless, seeking solace in the embrace of a sympathetic ear, even as despair threatens to drown him.
(Peter) Sobs "Chrona... Why...?"
(Chrona) "Peter... I'm-"
(Peter) "I'm sorry... Isn't going to cut it... I want my family..."
(Chrona) "...I-"
(Peter) "I want my aunt may... My friend Ned..."
(Chrona) "..."
(Peter) His voice breaks "A-A-And now... They... They are all gone... I'm all alone..."
(Chrona) "You aren't alone, Peter."
(Peter) "It is when my entire family is dead..."
(Chrona) "Peter..." Kneels in front of him and wipes his tears
(Peter) "..."
(Chrona) "You still have me and Karito. I will always be here for you, you know that right?" Smiles
(Peter) "I know..."
(Chrona) "You two saved me from my eternal loneliness... Now let me save you... Please..."
(Peter) "I'm sorry... For getting hostile..."
(Chrona) Hugs him "It's fine... You don't have to be sorry..."
(Peter) Hugs her back and silently cries
(Chrona) "I'm here... Don't worry..."
Contrary to my expectations, Peter's shattered spirit gradually succumbs to the calming influence I exerted upon him. His quivering sobs subside, replaced by a fragile tranquility that washes over him like a gentle tide. The sight offers a brief respite from the overwhelming sadness that has enveloped us, providing a momentary glimmer of hope amidst the desolation.
Yet, even as relief finds its way into my heart, an insistent worry for Karito gnaws at the corners of my consciousness. Though I possess powers that far surpass his own, I find myself unable to penetrate the depths of his despair. My attempts to employ my abilities and alleviate his suffering prove futile, leaving me with a disconcerting sense of powerlessness.
I ponder the enigma that lies at the core of Karito's transformation, the inexplicable changes he underwent during his confrontation with Thanos. There was a shift in his essence, a distortion that rendered him unrecognizable, both physically and energetically. It is a riddle that demands unraveling, for it holds the key to understanding the extent of his anguish and the origins of his current state.
(Peter) Still hugging Chrona "...How's Mr. Karito?"
(Chrona) Playing with Peter's hair "I'm not sure what he's doing, he hasn't spoken a word since he got here."
(Peter) "That's concerning..."
(Chrona) "I should go and look for him again and see if he's willing to speak."
(Peter) "Alright, I'll... Just watch how other omniverses are doing... I guess."
(Chrona) "Okay, I'll see you in a bit then." Smiles
(Peter) Sad Smile "Yeah..." Observers the Nasu Verse with an emotionless expression
Driven by a burning curiosity, I resolve to seek out Karito, to confront the enigma that has taken hold of him. I yearn to comprehend the depths of his suffering, to bridge the gap that separates us and offer him the solace he so desperately needs. It is my duty, as the one who is supposed to be a guide and informant for the Guardians of the Multiverse.
But as I prepare to embark on this quest for answers, a sense of trepidation gnaws at the edges of my resolve. What if my efforts prove fruitless, and I am left to confront my own limitations? The weight of responsibility bears down upon my shoulders, reminding me of the fragility that lies beneath even the most formidable facade.
Nonetheless, my determination remains unyielding. I cannot stand idly by, allowing the darkness to consume Karito's spirit. I must face the daunting unknown, armed with nothing but my unwavering resolve and a flicker of hope. For within the heart of this enigma lies the potential for redemption, for the rekindling of a flame that threatens to be extinguished by the cold embrace of despair.
I make my way towards the Research Room of the Nexus, where I know Karito can often be found seeking solace in his analysis and distractions. But now, as I observe Karito in the Research Room, I can't help but feel a sense of sorrow for him. His usual analytical prowess seems clouded, his focus marred by the weight of our recent failure.
I watch as Karito delves deep into his analysis, seeking refuge in the intricacies of the stories that surround us. It's a familiar pattern, his way of attempting to escape the harsh reality that hangs over us like a heavy shroud. But I know all too well that such distractions can only offer temporary respite from the depths of despair.
The responsibility he feels weighs heavily upon him, and I can see the strain etched upon his face. Despite his attempts to maintain composure, his true emotions lie just beneath the surface, threatening to consume him.
I approach him cautiously, understanding the delicate nature of this moment. As the Librarian, I am here not only to provide information and guidance but also to offer solace and support. I must tread carefully, for his wounds are deep and his spirit fragile.
With gentle steps, I draw closer to Karito, my heart heavy with the knowledge that words alone may not be enough to heal his pain. But I will try. I will lend him my presence, my empathy, and my unwavering support. Together, we will navigate this sea of grief, seeking solace in the stories that still surround us, even amidst the devastation.
For as long as they need me, I will be here, standing by their side, ready to offer whatever solace and guidance I can. Their journey may be filled with darkness, but I will strive to be their beacon of hope, their anchor in the storm.
No Pov
(Chrona) "Hey... Karito?"
(Karito) Startled but relaxed after he noticed that it was Chrona "O-Oh, Chrona. Look at this! I was doing a calculation of the feats I did while I was in that weird state."
(Chrona) "Well, I was just about to ask you that."
(Karito) "Oh? Um... What is it then?"
(Chrona) "What happened to you while in that transformation?"
(Karito) "Honestly, I don't know. I just remembered what I did but I don't know how I even did it or how it happened."
(Chrona) "Really? Are you sure?"
(Karito) "Yeah... Anyways, did you know that I pushed a Moon that was the size of Mercury? I didn't even know that skill gave me such a boost in power!"
(Chrona) Thoughts "I guess this is better than to see him depressed but... I feel like he's trying too hard..."
(Karito) "For me to do that I would've required around 1.5×10^26 Joules of energy or at least around 1.8×1020 megatons of TNT. And then that collision would release a further 1.1×10^30 joules of energy, or 1.2×1027 megatons of TNT, enough to utterly annihilate the planet it is colliding with! Well... I'm not 100% certain but this is what I got!"
(Chrona) Thoughts "Yeah, I think this is better than to keep thinking about it so I should continue this mood." Speaks "Well, there's always someone in the comment section that's willing to make a more accurate calculation."
(Karito) "You can do that?"
(Chrona) "Of course, I wouldn't be the Librarian of this place if I wasn't up to date with what people are posting all around the internet."
(Karito) "Hmmm, when you put it like that it's understandable."
(Chrona) "If I recall. You kind of disappeared one time during the fight."
(Karito) "I think you're talking about when I went to the Obsidian Void."
(Chrona) "...What?"
(Karito) "I somehow know of that place."
(Chrona) "How... Are you not erased from existence?"
(Karito) "I guess I'm just built differently.
(Chrona) "I... Well, I guess it's because you're a Guardian you had a level of tolerance."
(Karito) "It took a few seconds for it to actually get an effect. Me and that Dark were moving in less than a Picosecond inside there, we couldn't waste any time or we would essentially be erased from existence."
(Chrona) "You moved in Picoseconds?"
(Karito) "Yes, I moved in one trillionth of a second. Which is 1/1,000,000,000,000,000 of a second..."
(Chrona) "I know what it is, I'm a librarian." Giggles
(Karito) "I was being a nerd, sorry." Shrugs
(Chrona) "It's alright." Sighs "When are you going to talk to Peter?"
(Karito) "Whenever he's stable enough to talk."
(Chrona) "He already woke up."
(Karito) "Oh, word? I didn't even notice. Where is he?"
(Chrona) "He's in the observatory, again."
(Karito) "Alright, let me check how he is then."
(Chrona) "He's calmed down after a bit."
(Karito) "Thanks, he definitely needs it."
(Chrona) "Just helping a friend out..." Looks down "How... are you-"
(Karito) Interrupts "I'm fine, I won't think about it. If I do I'll just mope about it."
(Chrona) "But..." Sighs "I understand."
(Karito) "Good. Let's meet up in the lobby."
(Chrona) "Yes, sir." Teleports
(Karito) "..." His "happy" face turns into a serious one "Welp, let's fine Peter."
Karito, in a display of profound mental prowess, exerted his will upon the room, commanding its transformation into an exquisite observatory—an ethereal space where time and reality harmonized. Within this transcendent realm, Peter, the diligent apprentice, immersed himself in the contemplation of diverse Omniverses that unfolded across the tapestry of fiction. Like a vigilant guardian, he assumed the role of an omniscient observer, scrutinizing the intricacies and wonders of these parallel realms.
Yet, amidst the vastness of the Omniverses, a subtle melancholy seemed to pervade Peter's consciousness, momentarily obscuring his perception. A mere heartbeat later, his heightened senses detected the presence of his venerable mentor, Karito, amid his despondent state. Peter, ever attuned to his teacher's energies, turned gracefully, acknowledging the arrival with a respectful greeting that carried the weight of their shared bond. With a serene demeanor, he uttered a cordial "hello" that reverberated through the sanctum of knowledge.
(Karito) "Whatchu doing?"
(Peter) "Well, being an omniscient being. Observing different stories to keep myself distracted..."
(Karito) "Same, I was in the Nexus's Laboratory."
(Peter) "I guess we both would rather stay distracted than keep our minds falling deeper into despair."
(Karito) "It's pointless to overthink it, if we stay thinking about it we will never move on. I already had more than enough fucked up moments in my life to stay moping about it for the rest of my existence."
(Peter) "What was it that you said one time? I think it went like "The past is a memory, the present is a gift and the future is a mystery" or something along those lines."
(Karito) "Almost, it's actually "Yesterday's the past, tomorrow is the future, but today is a gift. That's why we call it the present". I think that's the one you were referring to."
(Peter) "Yeah, but is the same thing. Kind of."
(Karito) "Also, we are meeting up with Chrona in the lobby we gotta talk about something."
(Peter) "Is it about the System being extremely weird?"
(Karito) "That's right."
(Peter) "Alright. Nexus, teleport us to the Lobby."
With a single syllable escaping Peter's lips, laden with the enchantment of "teleport," the mystic powers of the Nexus surged forth, instantaneously propelling them across the ethereal currents of existence. In an ephemeral blur, the fabric of reality unraveled and rewove itself, depositing the valiant duo in a new realm of perception.
As their surroundings materialized before their keen eyes, the heroes' gaze traversed the expanse, alighting upon Chrona, who awaited their arrival with a poised elegance. Engrossed in the pursuit of cinematic knowledge, she had been perusing the latest offerings birthed by the silver screen. Yet, the moment her acute senses detected the heralded presence of the heroes, she dispelled the shimmering holographic spectacles and gracefully turned her gaze toward them.
(Chrona) "Hey you two, ready to talk?"
(Karito & Peter) "Fuck no."
(Chrona) Sweatdrop
(Karito) "I'm just kidding anyways, let's get straight to the point before it's too late. The System, I've seen a punishment system before but the way it behaved this time is strange."
(Chrona) "It's more than obvious that this is the work of Kara. She hates your guts now for kicking her out of the system. The Darks don't have that level of influence on your system, they can just shut down its usage. You already know how that feels."
(Karito) "Losing my powers and shit, yeah I know."
(Peter) "So you got yourself an obsessive Yandere after you? You're starting to sound more and more like an anime Character sensei."
(Karito) "God, don't remind me. I've already been to two anime dimensions. Those stories were pretty heavily corrupted if I hadn't cleansed the whole thing."
(Peter) "Well, not exactly two. Because you did start going through dimensions with that fight with Scorpion. It's like you two were tied in a bungee cord, beating each other in different dimensions."
(Karito) "It was a crazy experience..."
(Chrona) "Um... Let's not deviate from the actual problem, please?"
(Karito) "Sorry, bad habit."
(Peter) "Same."
(Chrona) "So, Karito do you know where the punishment takes place?"
(Karito) "No fucking clue."
(Chrona) "And-"
(Karito) Interrupts "And I'm going alone, I already took the burden from Peter."
(Peter) "What?!"
(Chrona) "When did you...?"
(Karito) "While I was being a nerd around in the Lab I just did that in the meantime."
(Peter) "Why would you take my burden as well?"
(Karito) "Because my Job is to make you better than me. Everything that I know, passed down to you. My knowledge, skill, and experience... But not my pain."
(Peter) "But-"
(Karito) Pats him on the shoulder "Hey, it's gonna be fine."
(Peter) Sighs "Alright..."
(Chrona) "Karito, you only have a few minutes left..."
(Karito) "I'm on a time limit? At least it lets me mentally prepare myself."
(Chrona) "Do you need anything?" Concerned
(Karito) "Take care of each other while I'm gone, alright?"
(Chrona & Peter) "Yes, Sir/Mr.Karito."
Before Karito could part ways with Chrona and Peter, the blaring alarm of his Gamer system shattered the tranquility of the Nexus. Its piercing tones echoed through the air, signaling the arrival of his impending punishment for his perceived failure in safeguarding the universe entrusted to his care.
Kneeling down, Karito felt an oppressive weight bearing down upon him, an otherworldly force that distorted and shifted his very form. His body flickered like ghostly afterimages, caught in the throes of an unforgiving cosmic energy. And then, in an instant, he vanished from sight, leaving behind an empty space where he once stood.
Chrona and Peter stared at the void that remained, their expressions etched with a mixture of shock and concern. The absence of their companion, whisked away to face his penance in an unknown realm, hung heavy in the air. They were left with a profound sense of helplessness, grappling with the weight of Karito's fate and the uncertain path that lay ahead for him.
Karito's Pov
A cacophony of screams reverberates through my mind, tearing at my sanity. The agony that courses through my being is indescribable, an unrelenting torment that defies comprehension.
In the midst of this maddening symphony, I struggle to find a semblance of coherence. Every fiber of my being is consumed by an unfathomable anguish, as if I am being torn apart from within. The boundaries between reality and delusion blur, leaving me adrift in a sea of chaos.
Laughter erupts from my lips, a desperate and maniacal sound that echoes through the void. It is a laughter born of desperation, a feeble attempt to hold onto some semblance of control amidst the chaos that engulfs me. But deep down, I know that I am losing myself, slipping further into the abyss of insanity.
Frantically, I try to make sense of the images that assail my senses. They flicker and distort, an erratic slideshow that defies comprehension. Faces, places, and memories blend together in a nightmarish collage, each fragment more disjointed than the last. I can't grasp onto any coherent thought or find solace in understanding.
Fear courses through my veins, a relentless surge that threatens to consume me whole. It claws at my sanity, gnawing at the edges of my mind. Panic sets in, as I realize the depth of my descent into this nightmarish labyrinth. There is no escape, no respite from the horrors that taunt and torment me.
In the depths of this dark spiral, a glimmer of determination flickers within me. A voice, distorted and twisted, whispers in the recesses of my mind, urging me forward. It is a voice fueled by vengeance, a primal desire to confront the source of my suffering.
But as I stumble through this endless darkness, the realization dawns upon me. This is my personal hell, a realm where reason and sanity hold no sway. I am trapped within the twisted corridors of my own mind, searching for an elusive salvation that may never come.
I cry out for divine intervention, a plea for deliverance from this nightmarish existence. But the silence that greets me is deafening, a stark reminder of my isolation and the depths of my despair.
I cling to a fragile thread of hope, a belief that somewhere within this twisted realm, I can find a way back to sanity. But as the darkness envelops me, swallowing me whole, I am left with a haunting realization.
In this labyrinth of madness, I am alone.
...
...
...
(???) "Hey, it's time to wake up."
(Karito) "Ugh..."
Where am I?
(???) "Splash him with water."
(???) "Yes, sir." Fills a bucket with water and empties it on top of Karito
(Karito) Adrenaline rush "HA! WHAT THE FUCK?!
What is this?! Who are they?! Why do I feel so weak?! Why?! WHY?!
(Interrogator) Cold and calculating "So, Mr. Karito, you've finally awoken from your slumber. The time has come for your initiation."
What? What the hell is he saying?
(Karito) Confused and groggy "Initiation? What are you talking about? Where am I?"
(Interrogator) Smirking "You're in a special facility, Mr. Karito. A place reserved for individuals like yourself, classified as enemies of the state."
Huh?! What?! Why?!
(Karito) Struggling against his restraints "Enemies? What are you talking about? I haven't done anything wrong!"
(Interrogator) Mocking tone "Oh, really? We have substantial evidence suggesting otherwise. Your activities, your associations... all point to a dangerous individual who poses a threat to our nation's security."
(Karito) Growing more alarmed "This... this is a mistake! You've got the wrong person!"
(Interrogator) Chuckling darkly "Ah, but this enigma is your current existence, Mr. Karito. You have been chosen as a participant in an extraordinary venture. A test of strength, of the very fabric of your being. It is surprising that you volunteered for such a process to lower your sentence."
What the fuck is this?! Volunteered?! What kind of script is this?!
(Karito) Fear creeping into his voice "No... This can't be happening. I never volunteered for any venture. I demand to be released!"
(Interrogator) Leaning in, whispering "Release, Mr. Karito? In this elusive realm, release becomes an elusive concept. You are ensnared here, entangled in the enigma of the unseen."
(Karito) Angry "What fucking enigma are you talking about!? You're all just fucking NPCs! I will escape!"
(Interrogator) Coldly "I'm afraid there is no escape, Mr. Karito. You are here to face your inner demons, to confront the terrors lurking within your own mind. Only then will the path to freedom be revealed."
What the hell is wrong with me? I don't feel like myself. I feel so broken...
(Karito) Desperation in his voice "Please, there must be a way out of this. I refuse to be a pawn in some cryptic game. Let me go!"
(Interrogator) Coldly "I'm afraid escape is but an illusion, Mr. Karito. You are here to confront the depths of your own psyche, to unravel the mysteries that lie dormant within. Only then shall the path forward be revealed."
(Karito) Whispering, filled with dread "My own psyche... the hidden truths within... I cannot... I cannot bear it."
(Interrogator) With a sinister tone "Brace yourself, Mr. Karito. The true essence of this enigma awaits. Your role is but a fragment in its intricate tapestry."
A heavy fog clouds my thoughts, as if I'm trapped within a hazy nightmare. The room is dimly lit, casting long shadows across the worn-out walls. My head throbs with an intensity that borders on unbearable, each pulse echoing through my skull.
The silence is broken by the authoritative voice of an interrogator, their words laced with an unsettling mix of authority and malevolence.
(Interrogator) "Take him with the other four."
A guard, stoic and foreboding, acknowledges the order with a cold nod. Without warning, his baton crashes against my body with brutal force, a jolt of searing pain coursing through me. I grit my teeth, suppressing a cry of agony, as the realization sinks in, my powers, my abilities, have been stripped away, leaving me defenseless and vulnerable.
I'm trapped within a twisted web of uncertainty, caught in a narrative that eludes my comprehension. Fear claws at the edges of my consciousness, urging me to break free from the confines of this surreal nightmare. But I'm shackled, both physically and mentally, forced to confront the enigma that engulfs me.
The air is heavy with tension, and a sense of foreboding settles deep within my bones. I am but a pawn in a cruel game, ensnared by forces beyond my control. Every fiber of my being rebels against this twisted reality, desperate for answers that remain elusive.
(Guard) "Night, night."
CRACK!
...
...
...
(Scientist 1) "Is everything in order for the procedure?"
(Scientist 2) "Yes, all preparations have been completed. The test subjects are securely restrained, and the monitoring equipment is operational."
(Scientist 3) "I still can't believe we're proceeding with this. The ethical implications..."
(Scientist 1)" We have received authorization from the highest levels. The potential insights we may glean from this endeavor outweigh any concerns about morality."
(Scientist 4) "Have the subjects been adequately briefed on the nature of the study?"
(Scientist 2) "Yes, they have been informed about the duration of the experiment and the potential effects of prolonged sleep deprivation. They understand the risks involved."
(Scientist 1) "Very well. Let us commence with the initiation of the sleep deprivation protocol. Monitor their vital signs closely and meticulously document any notable changes."
I gradually regained consciousness, the hazy fog in my mind dissipating. The voices of people discussing something reached my ears, piercing through the disorientation. Blinking my eyes open, I found myself in a room unlike any I had seen before. It was lined with shelves of books, the scent of aged paper filling the air. Cots stood against the walls, devoid of any bedding, and a small corner housed a basic water source and toilet facilities. The room had a sterile, utilitarian feel to it, lacking any sense of comfort or warmth.
My gaze shifted to the other occupants of the room, four individuals clad in the same drab orange prisoner attire as myself. We were like prisoners of a forgotten era, trapped within the confines of this mysterious place. The silence hung heavy in the air, the weight of uncertainty pressing upon us all.
Examining my surroundings, I noted the provisions of dried food neatly arranged, suggesting that we were expected to endure our confinement for an extended period. The absence of amenities such as a shower only added to the growing discomfort. Yet, my mind couldn't help but wander to the larger puzzle at hand. There was a script unfolding before me, a predetermined narrative playing out with meticulous precision.
A sense of foreboding washed over me as I realized I had become a player in a macabre experiment. Thoughts of the countless stories and movies that portrayed experiments gone awry flooded my mind, a chilling reminder of the potential horrors that lay ahead. Despite my hopes for a less sinister outcome, a nagging unease gnawed at the edges of my consciousness.
Though I was still uncertain of the nature of this place, one thing remained clear—I had to find a way out. The walls seemed to close in on me, the confinement stifling. My determination to escape grew stronger with each passing moment. This peculiar setting, with its cryptic script and enigmatic purpose, would not hold me captive indefinitely.
But as my mind raced with plans and possibilities, a lingering fear crept into my thoughts. What if my very acknowledgment of the possibility of a dreadful fate had sealed my destiny? I shook off the unsettling notion, refusing to succumb to the suffocating grip of fear.
(Prisoner 1) "Oh, hey, New guy your up."
(Karito) "Oh... Uh... Hi..."
(Prisoner 2) "Did you volunteer to get out of prison as well? At least that's what they promised us."
(Karito) "Yes, I did" Thoughts "The fuck? I meant to say no."
(Prisoner 3) "You must be fucking insane."
(Karito) "Well, we are prisoners. That automatically makes us questionable."
(Prisoners 4) "Oh ho, we got a smartass in here."
(Karito) Eyes narrow "I should guess that you're the "Alpha Male" here?"
(Prisoner 4) "Fuck yeah pipsqueak, whatchu gonna do about it?"
(Karito) "Nothing, speaking to you makes me wanna hurl."
(Prisoner 4) Angry "YOU LITTLE-"
A sudden blare from the speaker jolts us, capturing our attention with its chilling resonance.
"Loudspeaker Announcement:"
"Attention, subjects of the Experiment. Your time of reckoning has arrived. The moment you have all been waiting for, or perhaps dreading, is upon us.
You have been chosen to participate in a groundbreaking experiment that will push the boundaries of human endurance and unravel the mysteries of the human mind. Your bodies, your minds, and your very existence will be put to the ultimate test.
We caution you to prepare yourselves, for what lies ahead is not for the faint of heart. The limits of your sanity will be probed, your resilience tested, as we delve into the depths of human consciousness.
Remember, you are but mere pawns in this grand scheme, a means to an end. Your lives have been forfeited for the pursuit of knowledge, for the advancement of science.
In the coming hours, days, and perhaps even weeks, you will experience a myriad of sensations, both physical and psychological. Embrace the unknown, for only through this journey can we discover the truth that lies hidden within the darkest recesses of the human soul.
Be aware that failure to comply with the experiment's protocols will result in severe consequences. Resistance is futile, for there is no escape from this labyrinth of despair.
May you find strength in your companions, for you will need it. Trust no one, for deception, lurks around every corner.
The Experiment begins now. Brace yourselves for the horrors that await."
A heavy silence descended upon us, enveloping the room in an eerie stillness. The prisoners, once filled with hope and anticipation, erupted into furious protests as the truth unraveled before their eyes. The scientists, bound by their own machinations, were left with no choice but to proceed with the experiment, weighed down by the burden of their deceit. In the midst of it all, an unsettling sense of dread crept over me, clutching at my heart and threatening to consume me whole. The unknown path that lay ahead filled me with a deepening fear, one that seemed to seep into every fiber of my being.
(Prisoner 1) "This is absolute bullshit! They promised us freedom, a chance to start anew! And now they tell us it was all a lie?"
(Prisoner 2) "I can't believe we fell for their twisted game! They manipulated us, played with our hopes and dreams!"
(Prisoner 3) "Those damn scientists, they think they can toy with us like lab rats! We're not expendable!"
(Prisoner 4) "We trusted them! We put our faith in their words, and they betrayed us! This is unforgivable!"
An overwhelming surge of anger swept through the room, fueling the prisoners' wrath. I, too, succumbed to its influence, unleashing a primal scream. It felt unnatural, as if an external force manipulated our emotions, turning us into instruments of fury. The sound of our collective rage filled the air, while unseen observers reveled in our torment. I fought against the consuming anger, but it held me captive, a pawn in a twisted game. The screams echoed, a haunting reminder of our imprisonment, both physical and psychological. Amidst the aftermath, I wondered what sinister purpose lay behind this sadistic experiment and if there was any hope for escape.
(Karito) His voice filled with anger "We won't stand for this deception! They will pay for their lies and the torment they've subjected us to!"
The cacophony of anger and frustration began to subside, leaving behind a chilling silence in its wake. It was in that eerie stillness that my gamer system emitted a faint notification sound, piercing through the heavy atmosphere. Dread coursed through my veins as I glanced at the message displayed before me. The words etched on the screen sent shivers down my spine as if they were a harbinger of unimaginable horrors. Fear gripped my heart, constricting it with a suffocating grip. The realization of what lay ahead sent tremors of apprehension through every fiber of my being.
Gamer System Notification:
[Priority: High]
Objective: Survive the Experiment
Welcome, player, to The Experiment. You have been chosen as an unwilling participant in this harrowing journey into the depths of human endurance. Your task is simple yet dreadfully daunting: to survive the unyielding horrors that await within this twisted realm.
Prepare yourselves, for the boundaries of your sanity will be tested, and your very essence will be pushed to the brink. In this nightmarish landscape, where the boundaries of reality blur and the line between life and death fades, your strength of will and resilience shall be the only guiding lights in this abyss of despair.
Beware, for the darkness within these walls holds unspeakable terrors, and the malevolent forces at play revel in the suffering of the condemned. Each breath you take shall be laced with dread, every heartbeat a reminder of the fragile thread that separates you from the abyss.
Remember, there is no escape. The only way out is to endure, to outlast the horrors that seek to break your spirit. Embrace the darkness, for it is your constant companion in this forsaken realm.
May your resolve be unyielding and your spirit unwavering, for you have entered a realm where the human mind is pushed to its limits, and the price of survival is paid in blood and shattered souls.
Survive. That is your sole objective. The rest... is a descent into a waking nightmare.
May fortune favor the desperate.
[System Message Ends]
No...
No... No...
NO! NO! NO!
I... I'm gonna completely lose my mind...
Haha...
Hahahahaha...
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
FUCK! FUCK! FUCK! HAHAHAHAH!
Level Of Sanity: 5%
Welcome to The Russian Sleep Experiment...
To Be Continued...