At Shintenseiku Residential Area 3.
Present day. The sun had dipped below the skyline, casting long shadows over the rooftops. I leaned against the edge of the roof, arms crossed, staring into the distant cityscape. Akio stood nearby, his tablet glowing faintly in the growing twilight.
“I told you guys,” I said, breaking the silence. “It’s another dead end.”
Akio barely glanced up from his screen, his expression unreadable. “Tell me, Sire,” he said, using the overly formal nickname he’d decided was funny to use lately,
“what exactly did you see? Because according to my research, there’s this project ‘The Kyrie Project.’ No one seems to know much about it.”
Below us, in the apartment kitchen, Kiyon’s voice carried up through the open window as he scrubbed dishes with far more aggression than necessary.
“So, overall, we just wasted our time,” Kiyon called out. His tone was drenched in sarcasm. “Though, I gotta admit, the Kyrie Project sounds interesting. Is it some kind of advanced tech that’s finally going to replace my brother’s idiocy?”
I rolled my eyes and leaned further over the edge. “Shut up and keep washing those dishes.”
He muttered something under his breath, but I ignored him. I had bigger concerns. “Here’s what happened,” I began.
A Flashback during The sterile chill of the lab at the S.E.S. Quarters still lingered in my memory. The hum of machinery had filled the air as I stood under the sharp glare of fluorescent lights. Emile, the researcher assigned to me, was focused entirely on the holographic projections dancing in the air between us. The display showed my body stats in excruciating detail height, weight, muscle mass, neural activity... except something wasn’t right.
Emile adjusted his glasses and stared at the data. “The machine doesn’t seem to recognize you as a human being,” he finally said, his tone equal parts fascinated and baffled.
“Wait, what?” I raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by his bluntness.
“Look here,” he continued, gesturing toward the screen. “It’s spitting out an error code. That’s all it says ‘Error.’” He tapped the hologram, zooming in on one of the readings. “An impostor scan would pick up everything about you if you were human. But... it’s not.”
I didn’t respond right away. What could I even say to that?
“You’re not from this world, Kyrie.” Emile’s voice softened slightly, as if he were trying to break the news gently. “This is astonishing. Right before my eyes, I’m witnessing what I once wrote about in my thesis.”
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“Good to know,” I said dryly, doing my best to stay composed. “Now that you’re convinced, tell me what’s the Kyrie Project? And more importantly, where can I find the people who can actually help me get home?”
Emile hesitated, then nodded. “You’ve heard of one of Zemstan’s abandoned projects, haven’t you?”
I shook my head, and he swiped through more projections, pulling up old documents and grainy photos.
“The Neural Network Transference,” he explained, his voice taking on an almost reverent tone.
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Emile leaned forward, his eyes glowing with an unsettling enthusiasm as he explained. “They developed a cutting-edge technology that allows them to map the neural patterns and consciousness of a powerful being onto an artificial neural network.”
I tilted my head, not sure if I should be impressed or horrified.
“By meticulously studying the brainwaves, synaptic connections, and unique patterns of the original being,” he continued, “they create a highly advanced neural network replica.”
“Wait, hold up.” I cut him off, raising a hand. “That’s prohibited. You can’t just replicate Zemstan Innovations without proper authority. It’s dangerous and downright reckless.”
Emile smirked, brushing off my concerns with a casual shrug. “Is that so? But the prodigies of the previous era aren’t here anymore. Therefore, we can replicate any desired content from Zemstan without interference.”
“Tsk.” I clicked my tongue, shaking my head. “Fine. Whatever. Just don’t come crying to me if something goes wrong. I’m not responsible for cleaning up this mess.”
“Noted.” He chuckled, seemingly unbothered by my warning.
I sighed, crossing my arms. “Now, can you get to the damn point? Do you have any kind of machine that can send me home?”
Emile hesitated, his enthusiasm dimming slightly.
“Speaking of technology, we’re still far from developing a machine that enables us to travel through space in a matter of days. Regrettably, I don’t have any answers beyond that.”
I frowned, trying to keep my frustration in check.
He continued, his tone resigned. “We haven’t even reached a Type 1 civilization. We still have a long way to go to achieve that goal. Nothing compares to Grandeur, which was a Type 4 civilization before the magnetar event, so…”
“So you really don’t have any clues either?” I asked, my voice flat.
He shook his head. “As of the moment? No, not really.” the flashback of those moments ended there.
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Back on the rooftop, Akio’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. “Did he ask any other questions about your abilities, Sire?”
“No doubt,” Kiyon interjected from below.
“Yeah,” I said, rolling my eyes at the memory. “He asked, like, five times.”
Akio tilted his head, his expression serious. “Besides this Emile person, have you met any other researchers, Sire?”
“Not really,” I replied, leaning against the ledge. “Despite the place feeling empty, there were AIs functioning as security guards.”
“That seems rather suspicious, Sire,” Akio said, narrowing his eyes.
“And why is that?” I asked, turning my gaze toward him.
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Akio raised an eyebrow, his tone skeptical. “You got in easily. If they truly didn’t want anyone to access that place, the security should have been tighter.”
I glanced down at Kiyon, who had just finished his task of washing dishes. He flopped onto the living room couch, tossing the dish towel aside.
“I did use my ability to get in,” I admitted. “Should I have refrained from doing so to evaluate what kinds of traps I might’ve encountered instead?”
Akio’s expression shifted slightly, his analytical side taking over. “Oh, I see, Sire. That means another adversary could exploit the same weakness and invade at any moment.”
I shrugged, leaning against the rooftop’s edge. “I didn’t have much of a choice. I was fully aware of the risks I was taking. Besides, it’s crucial that my identity stays under wraps. Only a select few know I’m here.”
Kiyon chimed in, stretching out lazily on the couch. “Akio’s got a point, man. We don’t even know if we can trust this Emile guy yet. For all we know, he’s already started spreading more rumors about you. I mean, you proved to him that you’re real, right? What’s stopping him?”
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He paused, smirking as he added, “Of course, that’s just my assumption.”
Akio nodded solemnly. “At any rate, Sire, we should keep our eyes open for anything unusual.”
I sighed, glancing over at him. “Should I infiltrate the facility again?”
“It’s a bad idea, Sire,” Akio said firmly, shaking his head.
“In the end,” I muttered, “I didn’t figure out much from the S.E.S. facility anyway.”
“Speaking of finding clues,” Kiyon said, sitting up straighter, “why haven’t we heard from Rylee and the others yet?”
He turned to Akio, his curiosity apparent. “Hey, Akio, how’d you stumble here, anyway?”
Akio’s lips twitched into a faint smile.
“I could ask you the same thing. How did you get here?”
“Singularity Gate,” Kiyon replied casually, as if it were the most obvious answer in the world.
I frowned, crossing my arms. “Isn’t that a one-time-use device?”
Kiyon nodded, his grin widening. “Yeah. I used it right away so no one else could get ahead of me.”
“Damn!” I laughed, the absurdity of the situation striking me. “So that’s why…dope”
“If you’re thinking what I’m thinking,” Kiyon said, mirroring my grin, “then yeah. Rylee and the others were planning to use it too.”
Akio folded his arms. “Singularity Gate is a one-time-use tool. Once it’s activated, it can never be used again.”
I let out a short breath, the weight of the situation pressing down on me again. “I’m not sure if this sounds biased or not, but… I never wanted them to come here anyway.”
Kiyon threw up his hands, clearly exasperated. “Well, I thought the technology here was supposed to be top-notch! I should’ve never come to this place!”
I couldn’t help but let out a laugh, shaking my head. “Now that’s what bias sounds like.”
Kiyon clicked his tongue in irritation, muttering something under his breath.
Still chuckling, I leaned forward, my voice growing serious. “So, what’s our next goddamn plan?”
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Meanwhile, In Grandeur City. Zemstan Headquarters. Innovation Area, Third Floor.
I wasn’t there, but I could imagine the bustling scene. The hum of activity, brilliant minds working together.
Rylee was at the center of it all, hunched over a massive blueprint of a spacecraft. Scientists scurried around, each absorbed in their respective tasks, the air thick with focus and urgency.
Junichi strolled into the area, his sharp eyes scanning the work being done. He stopped at Rylee’s station, nodding toward the blueprint.
“Ah, so this is a Warp Drive Vessel. One of Zemstan’s most successful innovations back in the day.”
Rylee didn’t look up but replied with a sigh, “Yeah. Problem is, I’m stuck trying to figure out where to gather more energy resources to power it.”
Junichi glanced toward a distant projection of the Dyson Sphere, orbiting outside their Helion Planet.
Rylee shook his head, the frustration evident in his voice. “We can’t use the Dyson Sphere anymore. Our technology is too degraded to harness its power.”
Junichi’s brows furrowed in thought. “Right. And Kyrie’s the only one who can venture outside the planet without any equipment.”
“Should we contact Leeway for a recon mission to nearby planets?” Junichi suggested. “After all, we still have that stealth recon ship.”
The image of the sleek, advanced stealth recon ship stationed on the upper levels of the headquarters flashed through my mind.
Rylee hesitated. “I have my doubts about the success of such a mission.”
Junichi crossed his arms, reading the unspoken concern. “You’re thinking there’s a chance another Hybrid might raid the mission, aren’t you?”
“Exactly,” Rylee admitted. “But your idea might still work. Leeway is a trustworthy captain, after all.”
Junichi gave a small nod, likely thinking of the capable captain.
As Rylee glanced back at the blueprint of the Warp Drive Vessel, his expression firmed. “I’ll gather everyone in the conference room. We’ll figure this out.”
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Back at the rooftop apartment.
Akio’s concern pulled me out of my thoughts. “I’m really worried about that Kyrie Project, Sire. They might actually move forward with it.”
Kiyon tilted his head, a dangerous gleam in his eye. “Should we invade their quarters again?”
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I leaned against the railing, trying to piece together our next move. “Let’s plan this carefully, alright? You both know I can’t just use my ability recklessly in this place. It’ll only get everyone in trouble.”
Akio, ever the tactician, chimed in. “Sire, remember, you’re not the only Hybrid currently on Earth.”
He gave Kiyon a knowing look. Naturally, I followed his gaze.
Kiyon blinked, looking confused. “What? Why are you both staring at me? Do I have something on my face or what?”
Akio smirked. “You can use your powers freely, unlike your twin brother here.”
Kiyon rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide a grin. “Fine, I’ll help when it comes to battle situations. Just don’t ask me to babysit your short-haired princess.”
Akio tilted his head, amused. “You’re referring to Ms. Ziekary?”
Kiyon let out a scoff but didn’t answer.
I crossed my arms, my tone sharpening. “Regardless, I don’t trust Emile. At all. And honestly, I don’t think they’re capable of making progress with this so-called Kyrie Project anyway.”
“Why’s that?” Kiyon asked.
I gave him a pointed look. “Because they can’t accomplish anything without my DNA.”
Kiyon snorted, clearly impressed. “Whelp, well said.”
I leaned back, thoughtful. “Emile said I could contact him if I wanted answers, but honestly, I’m not sure if I want to get involved in this S.E.S mess anymore.”
Akio stepped in with his usual practicality. “Whether you want to get involved or not, we still need to keep our eyes on S.E.S. For now, we move to the next plan, which is ”
Before Akio could finish, the door to the rooftop flew open, slamming against the wall with a loud bang.
“Kyrie!”
It was Ziekary, rushing in like a whirlwind.
Kiyon threw his hands up. “The hell, Ziekary? Would you knock? We’re having a private meeting here!”
“Ziekary?” I stepped forward, instantly on edge. “What’s wrong?”
“I’m sorry for barging in,” she said, breathless. “But there’s something weird I need you to see.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Weird?”
“The townspeople,” Ziekary continued, looking back toward the door. “They’re panicking. Hurry!”
Before I could press her for details, she darted back out the door, her urgency leaving no room for hesitation.
Akio glanced at me, his expression serious. “This seems bad, Sire.”
Kiyon scratched the back of his neck, frowning. “How much of your power did you use the other day?”
“About 24%.”
“Figures.” He clicked his tongue. “Looks like we’re about to deal with another thug, I mean morph”
I clenched my fists, already moving toward the exit. “We’ll finish this discussion later. Let’s head to the location.”
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As I moved swiftly through the city streets, following Ziekary’s urgent pace, I could feel the tension building. My mind raced as I pushed myself to stay focused.
Akio’s voice echoed behind me, his usual calmness almost out of place. “Do you think it’s a mutant?”
I glanced over my shoulder, quickening my pace. “Well, we’re about to find out.”
Kiyon was already following closely, a familiar smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Always the optimist, huh?”
Akio, however, was left behind, muttering to himself. “So, it’s just me and my laptop again.”
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At Shintenseiku Street, Way to Commercial District
Ziekary was still ahead, running as fast as she could, but her glances back showed her anxiety. “Wait, where is he?” She glanced at her phone. “Kyrie?”
Her phone rang, and she quickly checked the message.
Kyrie’s Text -”Look up.”
“Again?” she muttered, slightly exasperated.
With a sigh, she looked up. “Why do you always like jumping through high places?”
I grinned, standing on the rooftop above her. Of course, I didn’t answer just gave a slight chuckle and waved my hand near my ear, pretending I couldn’t hear her.
I typed out a quick response.
Kyrie’s Text - “Keep running.”
She read the message, her expression softening as she continued her run, her eyes darting around nervously.
I kept my eyes on her, making sure she stayed safe from whatever was about to unfold.
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Just then, Kiyon entered the scene, passing through the same buildings as me. He spoke up, a bit too casually. “Any news?”
I shook my head, still scanning the area. “I’m not seeing anything suspicious up here, so not really.”
I glanced at him. “You still got any TSD?”
He gave me a thumbs up, pressing a holographic screen with Zemstan Technology’s logo.
Kiyon’s Screen -Time Suspension Field.
“Hell yeah, I’m always prepared,” he said, a cocky grin on his face.
I raised an eyebrow. “Is this the same one you used when you arrived?”
He smirked. “Catch on quick.”
I crossed my arms. “Bet you don’t have the authority to use such inventions, though.” I wasn’t surprised, but it was still useful. “It was helpful in the end.”
“Are we gonna keep talking, or are we gonna catch up to her?” Kiyon asked, already moving forward.
I followed, my pace picking up. “Let’s go.”
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At Shintenseiku Commercial District
The scene was chaotic as the crowd gathered, murmuring in confusion and fear. Ziekary pushed through, her voice rising above the chatter.
“Excuse me, coming through!” she called, squeezing past people, her anxiety visible.
I followed closely behind, my face covered to avoid drawing attention, slipping through the crowd with ease.
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At Top of the Skyscraper
Kiyon was high above, perched on a skyscraper, watching the unfolding scene. He had a clear view of everything.
“Heh, sure is crowded down there,” Kiyon commented, his gaze fixed on the commotion below.
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In Front of the Destination
Ziekary stopped suddenly, her eyes wide with confusion. “Wait… the black hole is gone?”
I raised an eyebrow. “Black hole?”
She quickly clarified, “No, not like the ones in space… it’s more like a small version of a black hole, swirling and pulling everything in.”
I didn’t have time to process her explanation. “Kiyon, now’s the time.”
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The scene was chaotic as the crowd gathered, murmuring in confusion and fear. Ziekary pushed through, her voice rising above the chatter.
“Excuse me, coming through!” she called, squeezing past people, her anxiety visible.
I followed closely behind, my face covered to avoid drawing attention, slipping through the crowd with ease.
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At Top of the Skyscraper
Kiyon was high above, perched on a skyscraper, watching the unfolding scene. He had a clear view of everything.
“Heh, sure is crowded down there,” Kiyon commented, his gaze fixed on the commotion below.
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In Front of the Destination
Ziekary stopped suddenly, her eyes wide with confusion. “Wait… the black hole is gone?”
I raised an eyebrow. “Black hole?”
She quickly clarified, “No, not like the ones in space… it’s more like a small version of a black hole, swirling and pulling everything in.”
I didn’t have time to process her explanation. “Kiyon, now’s the time.”
Through the Headset
I spoke into the comms, my voice steady but urgent. “Kiyon, activate the TSD.”
Time Suspension Field (TSD) Activation
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With a sudden flicker of energy, the entire city froze in place. People, cars, and the world itself became completely still.
Ziekary looked around, her eyes wide in disbelief. “Did the time just stop?!” she exclaimed.
I turned to her, trying to keep her calm. “You’re gonna be okay. Just stay behind me.”
Ziekary looked down, her expression somber. “This also happened when I got hurt by that mutant who impersonated Charlotte…”
I nodded, remembering the incident. “I remember. Looks like I’m about to fulfill one promise.”
Ziekary’s face softened. “Oh dear… that’s right, I remember!” she said, a small smile forming.
I glanced around, my eyes scanning the frozen city. There was something off. Someone was coming.
A figure emerged from the crowd, moving through the frozen streets with purpose. Her steps were deliberate as she approached us, her face obscured by a veil.
“Well, well,” the figure said, her voice smooth and knowing. “Your face is completely covered, Kyrie.”
Ziekary frowned, confused. “Hm?”
The figure continued, her tone light but filled with recognition. “But for me… no matter how hard you try, I’ll always recognize you.” She paused, a smile in her voice. “It’s been a while, Kyrie.”
I felt a chill down my spine as the veil slowly lifted. The woman standing before us, calm and composed, was none other than Seralphyne.
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(Author Note: This is supposed to be Chapter 8 my apologies!)
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