I took a deep breath, focusing my mind on the task at hand. The first section, numerical reasoning, was a breeze. The numbers danced in my mind, the solutions to the problems appearing effortlessly. I completed the section in record time, my pencil flying across the page.
The verbal section was equally straightforward. The words flowed seamlessly, their meanings and relationships crystal clear. I navigated the analogies, synonyms, and antonyms with ease, my vocabulary expanding exponentially with each question.
The spatial reasoning section presented a slightly greater challenge, requiring me to visualize and manipulate complex shapes and patterns in my mind. But even this proved to be no match for my enhanced cognitive abilities. I rotated and dissected the figures, the solutions revealing themselves with each mental twist and turn.
The logic section was a playground for my newly acquired intellect. The puzzles and deductive reasoning problems that once would have stumped me now seemed elementary. I breezed through the questions, my mind connecting the dots and unraveling the hidden patterns with ease.
The memory section tested my ability to recall information, both visual and auditory. Lists of words, sequences of numbers, and complex images flashed before my eyes, and I absorbed them all, committing them to memory with perfect clarity.
Finally, the verbal-nonverbal section challenged me to interpret and analyze information presented in both written and visual formats. I deciphered charts, graphs, and diagrams, my mind effortlessly translating the data into meaningful insights.
As I completed the final question, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. The test, once a daunting challenge, had become a mere exercise in mental agility. I had conquered it, my imagined intelligence proving to be far more potent than I had ever imagined.
I looked up at Mr. Jurgen, who was observing me with a mix of awe and disbelief. "I'm done," I announced, handing him the completed booklet.
He took it from me, his eyes scanning the pages with a growing sense of wonder. "That was... impressive, Xian," he finally said, his voice filled with admiration. "You finished in record time, and your answers... well, they're all correct."
A smile spread across my face, a sense of accomplishment warming my chest. "I told you I was good," I quipped, a playful glint in my eyes.
"Now let's see the total... let's go to the lab," Mr. Jurgen said, his excitement palpable.
We left the small testing room and followed Mr. Jurgen down the hallway, our footsteps echoing in the quiet school building. He led me to a science lab, its shelves lined with beakers, test tubes, and various scientific instruments. A large computer occupied one corner, its screen displaying complex graphs and charts.
A middle-aged woman, her hair pulled back in a neat bun and her eyes framed by stylish glasses, stood by the computer, her attention focused on the data displayed on the screen. She turned as we entered, her expression curious.
"Ah, Mr. Jurgen," she greeted him with a warm smile. "And this must be the young prodigy you were telling me about."
Mr. Jurgen nodded, gesturing towards me. "This is Xian Ying, the student who aced the quiz competition yesterday. I believe his IQ might be off the charts."
The woman, whose name tag identified her as Dr. Amelia Tan, extended her hand towards me. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Xian," she said, her voice kind and welcoming. "I'm Dr. Tan, the school psychologist. I'm looking forward to evaluating your cognitive abilities."
I shook her hand, a polite smile on my face. "The pleasure is all mine, Dr. Tan," I replied.
Dr. Tan gestured towards a chair beside the computer. "Please, have a seat," she invited. "I'll just need a few moments to analyze your test results."
I sat down, my curiosity piqued. I had never taken an official IQ test before, and I was eager to see how my imagined intelligence would translate into a numerical score.
Dr. Tan turned back to the computer, her fingers flying across the keyboard as she inputted the data from my completed booklet. The screen flickered with activity, complex algorithms and statistical models processing the information at lightning speed.
After a few minutes, Dr. Tan turned back to me, her expression a mix of astonishment and fascination. "Xian," she began, her voice hushed, "your scores... they're extraordinary. Off the charts, in fact."
She paused, her gaze meeting mine with a newfound intensity. "Your IQ is... what... 790... this is impossible. You answered every single question correctly, and in record time... what... the..."
Her voice trailed off, her words lost in a sea of disbelief. She stared at the computer screen, then back at me, as if trying to reconcile the data with the reality before her. The numbers on the screen defied all known standards, challenging the very definition of human intelligence.
"This... this can't be right," she finally managed to say, her voice a mere whisper. "The highest recorded IQ is around 250. This... this is unheard of."
I shrugged, trying to maintain a nonchalant facade despite the inner turmoil brewing within me. The implications of my score were overwhelming, the weight of my newfound intelligence a heavy burden to bear.
"Maybe I'm just a natural genius," I joked, though the words felt hollow even to my own ears.
Dr. Tan shook her head, her expression a mix of awe and concern. "This goes beyond genius, Xian," she said, her voice grave. "This is... something else entirely. Something extraordinary."
She paused, her gaze searching mine. "I need to run some more tests, Xian. I need to understand the full extent of your abilities, the implications of your... unique intelligence."
"So... I have to take more tests?" I asked, a hint of apprehension creeping into my voice.
Dr. Tan nodded, her expression earnest. "Yes, Xian. But don't worry, these tests won't be like the IQ test. They'll be more focused on your specific cognitive abilities, your problem-solving skills, your creativity, and your overall mental agility."
She paused, a reassuring smile gracing her lips. "It's an opportunity, Xian. A chance to explore the full potential of your mind, to understand the true extent of your gifts. And I'm here to help you every step of the way."
I hesitated for a moment, the weight of her words sinking in. It was true that I had a lot to learn about my powers, about the implications of my imagined intelligence. And perhaps Dr. Tan could provide me with the guidance and support I needed to navigate this uncharted territory.
"Alright," I finally agreed, a sense of curiosity outweighing my apprehension. "I'm in."
Dr. Tan's smile widened. "Excellent," she said, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "Let's get started then."
She led me to a series of stations set up around the lab, each one designed to test a different aspect of my cognitive abilities. There were puzzles to solve, patterns to recognize, and even a virtual reality simulation that challenged my spatial awareness and problem-solving skills.
I approached each task with a mix of excitement and trepidation, my mind buzzing with the possibilities. With each challenge I overcame, my confidence grew, my understanding of my own abilities deepening.
Dr. Tan observed me closely, her eyes sparkling with fascination. She took notes, her pen scribbling furiously across a notepad. Occasionally, she would interject with questions or comments, her insights both insightful and encouraging.
As the hours passed, I found myself immersed in the tests, my mind fully engaged and my imagination soaring. It was exhilarating, to push the boundaries of my intellect, to explore the limitless possibilities of my power.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the tests were over. I sat back in my chair, exhausted but also exhilarated. I had given it my all, and I was eager to hear Dr. Tan's conclusions.
She approached me, her notepad in hand, a thoughtful expression on her face. "Xian," she began, her voice a mix of awe and wonder, "your results are... astounding. They confirm what the IQ test suggested: your intelligence is truly extraordinary."
"Ahaha.... am I going to be famous?" I chuckled, rolling my eyes playfully and looking away. The thought of being labeled a genius, of being paraded around like a scientific curiosity, didn't exactly appeal to me.
Dr. Tan smiled, understanding my reluctance. "Fame is a double-edged sword, Xian," she said, her voice gentle. "It can bring both admiration and scrutiny, both opportunities and challenges."
She paused, her gaze meeting mine with a newfound intensity. "But your intelligence, your potential... it's a gift, Xian. A gift that could change the world. And I believe it's your responsibility to use it wisely, to make a positive impact on the lives of others."
Her words resonated with me, echoing the sentiments expressed by Kuro and Bennett. It was a reminder that my powers were not just a means to an end, but a responsibility, a calling to serve something greater than myself. The weight of that responsibility settled on my shoulders, a familiar yet exhilarating burden.
"I understand, Dr. Tan," I replied, my voice sincere. "I'll do my best to use my abilities for good."
She nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. "I have no doubt you will, Xian. You have a bright future ahead of you, a future filled with endless possibilities."
I nodded, a determined glint in my eyes. "Alright... so am I good to go?"
She chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Yes, Xian, you're free to go," she replied. "But please, don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need anything. Ah, also, here, take the result certificate." She handed me a neatly printed document, the official confirmation of my extraordinary IQ score.
***
Back at home, I burst through the door, excitedly waving the certificate in my hand.
"Mom! Look!" I exclaimed, my voice brimming with pride.
"Whatttt? 790!? IQ!?" My mother's eyes widened in disbelief, her jaw dropping open.
My father, who was relaxing on the couch, joined us, his expression mirroring my mother's shock. "W-What... I never knew my son was this smart..."
I couldn't help but grin at their reactions. It was a moment of pure joy, a validation of my abilities and a testament to the power of my imagination. The pride in my parents' eyes was a reward in itself, a reminder that even amidst my extraordinary life as The Imaginary, I was still their son, and they loved me unconditionally.
"Well, I guess I'm just a natural genius," I joked, striking a pose.
My mother laughed, a warm, proud smile spreading across her face. "You certainly are, my son," she said, pulling me into a tight hug. "I'm so proud of you."
My father, though still a bit stunned, joined in the embrace, his gruff voice softening as he patted my back. "Well done, son," he said, a rare moment of affection shining through his usual stoicism.
As we broke apart, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The love and support of my family, the unwavering belief in my potential, it was a powerful reminder of the true meaning of home. It was a place where I could be myself, where I could celebrate my victories and share my burdens, a sanctuary amidst the chaos of my double life.
Later that evening, as I lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling, I called out to IM, who was also lying on his bed, engrossed in his phone. "Hey IM,"
"What's up?" he replied, glancing over at me.
"Why did Dove say we don't have to go on patrol anymore?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
"Well, the crime rate has been dropping significantly lately," IM explained, putting his phone down. "And with the Seers practically gone, there's not much for us to do. What else is there to focus on besides finishing off those corrupt people?"
"Hmm... finishing off those corrupt people?" I echoed, a thoughtful frown creasing my brow. It was true that our primary mission had been to combat the Seers and their influence, but now that they were seemingly out of the picture, a new question arose: what was the Unveiled Family's purpose now?
"Well, we're not working alone now. We have those sorcerers from the Eclipse. We'll wait for their next move," IM replied, his voice calm and collected.
I nodded, acknowledging his point. It was true that we had shifted our focus, aiming to infiltrate the government and bring about change from within. The alliance with the Eclipse had opened up new possibilities, new strategies to achieve our goals.
Ting! My phone vibrated, a notification sound breaking the silence.
I picked it up and saw a message from Bennett.
[Bennett: Come. I found the genius.]
"I need to go now," I said to IM, excitement buzzing in my veins. I quickly got up and headed to the wardrobe to change into something more suitable for meeting the enigmatic genius.
"Be careful," IM reminded me, his voice laced with a hint of concern. "We don't know what to expect from this 'genius'."
"I will," I assured him, pulling on a dark hoodie and jeans to blend in with the night. "I'll keep you updated."
Teleport to where Bennett is going, I imagined, focusing my will on the destination she had mentioned earlier.
With a familiar rush of displacement, I found myself standing in the bustling heart of the old district. The night air was alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and the clinking of glasses from nearby bars and restaurants. The streets, illuminated by a warm, inviting glow, were filled with people enjoying the weekend nightlife.
I materialized directly behind Bennett, who seemed to be waiting for me. I tapped her shoulder lightly.
"Hah!?" she jolted in surprise, spinning around to face me.
"You surprised me!" she exclaimed, placing a hand on her chest. "How did you even—?"
"It's a secret," I said with a wink, a playful smirk tugging at my lips. "So, where's this genius you were talking about?"
Bennett regained her composure, a hint of amusement flickering in her eyes. "He's inside," she replied, gesturing towards a small, unassuming house tucked away on a quiet side street. "Follow me."
We walked towards the house, the sounds of the bustling street fading as we ventured deeper into the quiet alleyway. The house itself was unremarkable, its faded paint and overgrown garden suggesting a life lived in solitude. The only sign of life was a single light glowing in a window on the second floor, a beacon in the darkness.
Bennett paused at the front door, a thoughtful expression on her face. "The genius is... eccentric," she warned me, her voice a low whisper. "They may not be what you expect."
I nodded, my curiosity piqued. "I'm ready for anything," I assured her.
With a deep breath, Bennett knocked on the door, the sound echoing through the quiet night. We waited, the anticipation hanging heavy in the air. After a few moments, the door creaked open, revealing a figure shrouded in darkness.
"Who is it...?" a raspy voice inquired, its tone cautious and suspicious.
Bennett stepped forward, her voice firm and confident. "We're here to see the genius," she announced. "We have a proposition for them."
The figure hesitated for a moment, then stepped aside, allowing us to enter. The interior of the house was just as unremarkable as its exterior, its furnishings sparse and outdated. The only exception was a small room at the back, its door ajar, revealing a faint glow emanating from within.
Bennett led me towards the room, her footsteps silent on the worn carpet. As we approached, the glow grew brighter, revealing a mesmerizing sight. The room was filled with an array of glowing orbs, each one pulsating with an otherworldly energy. And in the center of the room, surrounded by the ethereal light, sat a young man, his pale skin and silver hair shimmering like moonlight.
He looked up as we entered, his eyes a piercing blue that seemed to penetrate the very depths of our souls. A faint smile played on his lips, a mix of amusement and curiosity.
"Ah... you," the genius said, his voice soft yet resonant. "The one whose mother I closed the eyes of, isn't it..."
I jolted, a wave of shock coursing through me. The mention of a mother closing her child's eyes to shield them from ghosts... It couldn't be... Was this genius the same person who had visited my mother all those years ago?
A million questions swirled in my mind, each one more urgent than the last. Who was this mysterious genius? What connection did they have to my past? And why had they sought out my mother all those years ago?
"You... you were the one who closed my eyes when I was a kid?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper. The air crackled with tension, the room suddenly feeling smaller, more claustrophobic. The weight of the unanswered questions pressed down on me, a suffocating feeling of unease.
The genius's smile widened, revealing a set of perfectly straight teeth that gleamed in the ethereal light. "Indeed, I was," they confirmed, their voice a melodious symphony that resonated through the room. "Your mother, a woman of remarkable strength and compassion, sought my help to protect you from the unseen world. She feared that your gift, your ability to perceive the spectral realm, would burden you with a darkness you were not yet ready to face."
They paused, their gaze piercing through me, as if reading the very depths of my soul. "I granted her request, sealing your eyes to the world of spirits. But I also left a gift, a seed of potential, waiting to blossom when the time was right."
Their words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken truths and hidden meanings. I struggled to comprehend the full implications of their actions, the ripple effects that had shaped my life from that fateful encounter so many years ago. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing a hidden layer of my past, a layer I had never known existed.
"Why?" I finally managed to ask, my voice raspy with emotion. "Why did you do that? Why did you interfere?"
The genius tilted their head slightly, their expression a mix of amusement and sadness. "Because I saw your potential, Xian," they replied, their voice a gentle breeze. "I saw the spark of greatness within you, the power to shape reality itself. But I also saw the darkness that lurked in the shadows, the dangers that awaited you on your path."
"I see... so that's why it was so hard to open the seal on my eyes..." I said, the pieces of the puzzle finally falling into place.
"Oh, right," the genius responded, their curiosity piqued. "How did you manage to open the seal?"
"I found Nyi Roro Kidul," I replied, my voice filled with a mixture of gratitude and awe for the powerful goddess who had helped me unlock my true potential.
A silence fell over the room. Bennett's jaw dropped, her eyes wide with astonishment. The genius's expression mirrored hers, a mixture of surprise and intrigue.
< Chapter 199 > Fin.