《Mind Chatter》


 Prololgue

    I was lying on the ground, looking at the men gathered around me. Though I tried to keep my eyes open, my vision was blurry. Even through their hazy figures, I could tell they were anxious. From the shoulder plates of his armor and the silhouette of his long hair, I recognized my commander Keon leaning over me. I could see his mouth moving, but all I heard was an endless ringing sound.


    "You''re a disgrace."


    I felt ashamed. I tried to stand up, lifting my head as high as I could, but I couldn''t feel my body. I must have been lying there for a long time. I was cold, my body shaking. While my arms and shoulders trembled, everything below my chest felt oddly warm and wet. I thought they were playing another prank on me¡ªI must have fallen asleep during watch again. They must have called Commander Keon this time to teach me a harsher lesson.


    "You can''t do anything right."


    "Leave him alone. He''s doing his best."


    I couldn''t identify who these voices belonged to. Though I could lift my head slightly, that was all I could manage. I tried to say "Commander!" but no sound came from my mouth. Commander Keon grabbed my shoulders and brought his face close.


    "-ere?"


    The commander was saying something, but I couldn''t understand¡ªI couldn''t come to my senses. Why? Commander Keon shook me by the shoulders, and my vision cleared slightly.


    "Where are they?"


    Where are they? Who is he asking about? Was I with someone? Did I let someone escape? What if things went terribly wrong because of me? What would I do then? Think... Think...


    "The only thing you''ve been doing for a long time."


    "Where are they, tell me!"


    I''ve disgraced my commander and my unit. Now I''ll get up and explain what happened, take my punishment, and never make the same mistake again. I''ll be better.


    "Another promise that won''t be kept."


    "Commander, I''m not sure he can hear you. We need to go. Maybe if we split up and search for tracks, we can find where they went."


    It must have been Lorry speaking. His face was blurry because he was far away, but I recognized his voice. Still, I didn''t understand what they were talking about.


    "Sir, I can''t keep him alive much longer, you need to hurry!"


    A woman''s voice¡ªI didn''t know where it came from or who it belonged to. I scanned the area and noticed the starless, dark sky behind my commander. Stars seemed to be falling frequently¡ªtoo frequently to be normal.


    "She reminds me of her..."


    "Don''t start that now."


    I looked down at my body. Why couldn''t I feel anything? Then I saw it¡ªthe lower part of my chest was missing. So that''s why I couldn''t feel anything. I was dying. The woman whose voice I had heard was using some strange machine on me, unlike anything I''d seen before.


    My commander asked once more where they were. I wanted to answer but couldn''t speak. He let go of my shoulders, and my head fell to the ground.


    "Remove that device. Let''s try it on the others."


    "Just take it off."


    No, don''t remove the device! If you remove it, I''ll die, won''t I? I can''t die yet¡ªI promised my family I''d return. I glanced at the woman from the corner of my eye. Though I couldn''t tell if she was looking at me, I saw her hand was close to mine. Maybe if I touched it, she''d understand I wanted to live.


    "Or you just wanted to touch a woman''s hand in the pathetic final moments of your life."


    "Not pathetic, it was a modest life. Don''t worry, If we were born again, I would spend my entire life with you again."You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Using my remaining strength, I tried to reach for her with my right hand. I think I moved it. Commander, look... Please... I have a daughter...


    "Had."


    Despite my sincerity, my words hadn''t reached my commander. Suddenly everything went dark. I felt nothing. It was like being conscious in a dream. And what were these voices in my head?


    "He''s really starting to lose it! Now he thinks he''s hearing voices in his head!" laughed one of the voices mockingly.


    I didn''t know who these voices belonged to. I couldn''t even feel the limbs I knew remained¡ªit was as if my body had ceased to exist. I wasn''t lying down or floating; I simply was. But one voice seemed familiar, as if I''d spoken with him countless times before. That man''s voice seemed to be healing me somehow.


    "I don''t know how much longer I can hold the others. You need to hurry up and wake!"


    That man''s voice again... Whoever you are, if you can hear me, help me! I''m afraid of dying. I don''t know what awaits me. I haven''t seen my family for weeks. I don''t want to spend even an hour without them.


    "They don''t want to spend even a second with you!" spoke a angry man''s voice.


    "After some time, sensation returned. I felt the cold, ice-cold air on my skin. And when I opened my eyes, I was here. That''s everything I remember. Can you tell me what''s happening? How did I get here? How am I alive?"


    He had skipped the things he remembered but couldn''t say out of shame¡ªlike the voices in his head and his cowardly thoughts.


    "How do you feel right now? Are you experiencing headache, nausea, blurred vision, ringing in your ears, erection?"


    The white-coated, blonde, bespectacled woman sat at her desk, filling out a paper with her hand on her chin.


    "No, I don''t have anything. Will you answer me now?" said the man with tired eyes. Like he just woke up from a really long sleep.


    "Do you remember your family, your name, or what you did for work? Any information would do."


    "I have a wife and a daughter..." The man fell silent, scratching his unkempt beard.


    "Very good. Do you know how long you''ve been dead?" The woman, whose eyes had been on her paper until then, looked at him for the first time. Exhaustion showed beneath her black eyes.


    The man pondered this serious question. No definite answer came to mind.


    "1 week?" he said modestly, not wanting to exaggerate.


    "I see."


    The man noticed she had reached the end of her paper. Just as he thought ''Finally my questions will begin'' she pulled out another form. There were at least three more.


    He sighed heavily with irritation and impatience. Rising from what looked like an operating table, his feet touched the ground with a metallic ''tink''sound. He noticed his feet were made of metal and panicked.


    He rolled up his white sweatpants and saw the metal continued up his legs.


    "Don''t worry, when I''m done there won''t really be any difference," said the woman, noticing his concern.


    "How much of my body is like this?" His hands began to sweat.


    "Eighty-six percent." said the woman with unsettling calmness.


    "How... How did I survive?"


    The woman set down her pen. She leaned back in her chair and gazed at the ceiling. After a moment''s reflection, she leaned forward again.


    "I don''t know why or how you died. To be frank, I don''t know who you are either. There are things I can''t explain yet. The information I can share is limited and classified. Know this much: you''re someone important."


    He thought it wasn''t enough. Everything she said only raised more questions.


    "Let''s continue one by one and slowly. Where am I, what is this place?"


    "I can''t tell you exactly where you are, but you''re in an infirmary."


    "Why can''t you tell me?"


    "Everything I tell you has been pre-approved by my superiors. To tell you more, I need to take notes of your answers, assess your health condition, complete these papers, and report to them. If you help me, everything will be resolved faster."


    All the man could do was nod helplessly.


    It took about an hour to complete the papers. The woman asked questions to evaluate his memory, logic, and psychological state. After a brief physical and reflex test, they finished the paperwork.


    "Is there anything else you''d like to add?"


    The man worried about the voices he''d heard earlier. But since he''d heard them while dying, perhaps this happened to everyone who died. The voices had stopped since he awoke. He felt no need to mention them.


    He shook his head, and the woman filed the papers and left without another word. He remained alone in the modest, white-painted room with its strange equipment.


    Though he couldn''t remember anything, including his name, some technical knowledge remained. He could recognize standard medical devices, factory machines, and everyday electronics. But none of the machines here looked familiar. This deeply troubled him. How could he not recognize these seemingly simple devices? It was as if his memory had selective gaps. Why could he remember some things clearly while others were completely blank? Most importantly, if he had truly died¡ªwhich he was certain of¡ªhow could he still alive? These questions echoed in his mind as he studied the unfamiliar technology, searching for answers. But no matter how long he looked, he found none. Could it be... Had it been more than a week?


    His heart raced, his palms sweated. His body trembled. Fear gripped him. His breathing became difficult as he fell to his knees. He felt ashamed of his fear.


    "Calm down, everything will be fine."


    That man''s voice again. Though he didn''t know who this familiar voice belonged to, his words seemed to help."


    "Take a deep breath in and out. We don''t need to frighten ourselves over things we can''t control. You''ll be fine. You always have been."


    He steadied himself through controlled breathing. Placing his hand over his heart as he stood up. At that moment, two people entered the room.

 An Important Man

    Two people entered the room¡ªthe blonde woman who had left earlier and a tall, slim man wearing a black suit with gold embroidery. As he entered, he adjusted his slicked-back hair.


    "We''ve been waiting for you to wake up. I''m personally glad you''re awake. My name is Zeta," he said, extending his hand. After a brief hesitation, they shook hands.


    "I know you have many questions. I wanted to come personally to explain some of them. May I know your name?"


    "Sir, he doesn''t remember his name. I wrote it in the notes," said the blonde woman from behind him.


    "Papers, files, notes... Yes, yes. I want to hear it from his own mouth."


    He waited silently, as if thinking a little longer would help him remember his name.


    "I don''t remember."


    "You can start by choosing a name for yourself! Or we can easily give you one, don''t worry. Aleah, would you bring a sona for me and the gentleman?" said the man, dismissing his amnesia.


    The woman let out a slight sigh and left the room. After adjusting his suit, Zeta sat down at the desk where she had been sitting. He gestured for the man to pull up a chair.


    "I won''t mince words with you, but your delicate situation requires a detailed explanation. Here''s what''s happening: You died¡ªit''s important that you accept this fact. We had to preserve you under special conditions for a long time because our technology wasn''t advanced enough. When we achieved the necessary breakthroughs, we decided to use you. This process isn''t simple. We tried many times and failed until you came along. You''re the only person who has successfully returned to life¡ªthis makes you unique. Your case was particularly challenging because most of your body and organs¡ªespecially your brain¡ªwere lost and unusable. To bring you back, we used tissues and organs from others who couldn''t survive. I want you to know this sincerely: you''re not just an experiment to us, you''re someone very important and valuable," said Zeta, interlocking his fingers on the desk, never taking his eyes off his subject.


    The words seemed etched into his mind, each one leaving a deep impression. Thousands of questions swirled in his head, and he couldn''t decide which to ask. What mattered was asking the right question, but which one was right? Each seemed more crucial than the last. He tried to organize his chaotic thoughts.


    "How long have I been here?"


    "To be honest, your records are lost. I don''t know your entry date, which is why the registration was done late. However, each person we used to revive you was carefully monitored."


    "How long have I been here?" the man repeated, anger edging into his voice.


    "You''ve been here for seven thousand three hundred and fifty-six years."


    The man couldn''t process this information. Every cell in his brain struggled with this number. Seven thousand three hundred and fifty-six¡ªeach digit carved deep wounds in his mind, blurring his thoughts. The number echoed in the depths of his consciousness as he tried to grasp this enormous span of time. The weight of millennia of sleep settled on his shoulders, making even breathing difficult.


    "What... what happened to my wife and daughter?" he asked, his voice trembling. Even as he asked, he knew the answer somewhere inside but couldn''t accept it. Logic failed him as hope prevailed. "If I''m still alive, maybe they are too. Maybe they''ve been awakened somewhere like me." he thought, clinging to his last shred of hope.


    "Do you realize how many years have passed? They''re dead." Zeta''s words carried no empathy.


    "Then why am I alive!" the man cried out, his voice raw with anger and pain. "Why did you separate me from my loved ones? Why didn''t you let me rest in peace with them? After all these years, what do you plan to do by bringing me back? If you have the technology to revive me, why didn''t you bring them back too? Kill me again! Find someone else, someone who wants to serve you like a slave¡ªbut I will never work for you! I won''t do anything, do you understand? Nothing!" His voice rose with each word, his eyes welling up. "I want to be with my wife and daughter, nothing else matters to me!"If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Do you realize the cost of our research and procedures? The resources spent on each experiment, the equipment used, and years of work are invaluable. Just maintaining and renewing laboratory equipment exceeds a country''s annual budget. It''s a miracle we achieved success in such a short time¡ªjust a few thousand years. I won''t repeat these procedures with their almost impossible chance of success¡ªI''m very clear about this. Besides, we can give you anything you want. I can arrange as many women as you desire, even better ones than before. Through modern genetic engineering, we can create someone perfect, equipped with all the features you want, someone to meet your every need. All you have to do is not cause us trouble. It''s that simple."


    "Who are you to say I could give up my love for my wife?" he shouted, standing up. Though he couldn''t remember her face, name, or voice¡ªthough not even the smallest fragment of memory remained¡ªhe was certain. He knew he loved them deeply. He would never abandon this unshakeable love. It was the only truth, the only certainty left in his memory. This bond burned in his heart so strongly that even time couldn''t erase it, no force could break it. Despite thousands of years, this love still blazed within him like a flame.


    "There''s no need to shout, sir," said Zeta, his voice controlled but authoritative. "Normally, I enjoy discussing business and I''m always open to others'' ideas, but this matter is absolutely non-negotiable. To be clear: you will work for us. There is no discussion, no alternative, and this decision will not change." His impatience became increasingly apparent.


    An uncontrollable wave of anger swept through the man''s body. His vision darkened, his hands began to shake. He grabbed Zeta''s perfect suit by the collar and raised his fist. Just before he could strike, an unbearable, indescribable pain enveloped his body. It felt as if thousands of sharp knives were flaying his skin, thousands of hands tearing at his flesh. He collapsed to the ground.


    "Please, sir, we''re both intelligent people. Did you think I hadn''t anticipated your resistance? I planned my precautions meticulously. If you refuse to comply, you''ll experience this pain¡ªit won''t kill you but will make life unbearable. The same will happen if you try to kill yourself. Believe me, I sincerely feel sorry for you. If you cooperate, you''ll be well rewarded. Not just well¡ªyou''ll have a magnificent life. You''ll be the most important, most respected man in all of Nivara! And I truly envy you."


    At that moment, Aleah entered with two glasses in her hands. She noticed the man writhing in pain on the floor.


    "Sir, that''s enough. He just woke up and his body is still very sensitive. After long-term cryogenic sleep, his systems haven''t fully stabilized. We wouldn''t want complications under these conditions. Permanent damage could occur, especially to his nervous system."


    "You''re absolutely right, dear Aleah, always thinking about our patients'' health!" said Zeta, with a hint of regret. "But unfortunately, you''re a bit late." He gently took one of the glasses and headed toward the exit, looking thoughtful.


    Before leaving, he caught his reflection in a machine''s shiny metal surface and, with characteristic meticulousness, adjusted his hair with almost obsessive care. As if he couldn''t tolerate even the smallest flaw in his appearance, he positioned each strand exactly where it should be.


    The pain vanished as suddenly as it had appeared. He took a deep breath and stood up, frowning, lost in thought about what to do next. The woman''s touch on his shoulder brought him back to reality. She was offering him a glass.


    "Drink some. It will help."


    He took the glass containing a clear, slightly greenish liquid. He looked at the woman, nodded with a slight smile, and drank it in one gulp. It had a strange taste, like apple mixed with tea, and made him feel somewhat lighter. He wondered if he had ever tasted anything like this before, but couldn''t remember. There were so many things he couldn''t remember...


    "Is what they said true? Have I been here for that long?"


    "You need to rest. I''ll take you to your room," said Aleah, avoiding his question.


    He followed her into the corridor. Everything was metallic, cold, and sterile. Blue lights along the walls illuminated their path. After several turns, they stopped at a door.


    "This is your room. Everything you need is inside. I''ll come to get you tomorrow morning." Aleah opened the door and stepped aside.


    The man entered the minimal room¡ªjust a bed, desk, chair, and small bathroom unit in the corner. The door closed behind him with an audible lock. He sat on the bed and covered his face with his hands. Seven thousand years... How could this be possible? And what would he do now? Despite having just awakened, he felt overwhelmingly tired. For now, he decided to just rest a little...

 The New Body

    He had lost all sense of time, drifting in and out of a deep, dreamless slumber. When he finally opened his eyes, his head throbbed and every muscle felt stiff as stone. Slowly, each movement causing pain, he struggled to rise from his bed and stumbled to the door, testing the handle with trembling fingers. Despite a small glimmer of hope, the door remained firmly locked, just as he had expected.


    After these extraordinary and traumatic events, he struggled to gather his thoughts and find a way out of this complex situation. Perhaps a shower would help clear his mind.


    As he stepped into the shower stall, water began spraying from countless holes that opened in the ceiling¡ªa sign of modern technology. Caught off guard, he jumped back quickly. The moment he left the stall, sensors detected his absence and the holes instantly closed. His clothes were already soaking wet.


    "I feel like a child," he thought while removing his wet clothes. As he examined his body, an unexpected sight greeted him¡ªhis entire lower body, from feet to chest, was covered in a metallic texture. His eyes unwillingly drifted to his genitals, now completely gray. He hesitantly ran his fingers over the foreign material; it had a strange skin-like texture, but it definitely wasn''t human. Below his chest were nail-like connection points securing this metallic covering to his body. With each touch of these metal pieces, the reality that his body was no longer entirely his own became more apparent.


    As he prepared to step back into the shower, he caught his reflection in the wall mirror. He stared at the man before him, hypnotized. Was this really him? Sharp brown eyes with a tired gaze, messy black hair falling just above his eyes, an unkempt beard... Everything looked normal and familiar on the surface, but something inside screamed that nothing was normal. He had no idea who this stranger in the mirror was. More frightening still, he couldn''t remember what his real face had looked like. Was this his face from before he died? He added this thought to his growing list of unanswered questions and tried not to dwell on it.


    The shower stall seemed to read his mind¡ªthe water temperature adjusted perfectly, its soft steam purifying his lungs. He sat down, trying to empty his thoughts. He closed his eyes and focused only on the peaceful sensation of warm water against his skin.


    Half an hour later, feeling renewed, he stepped out. It took a moment to notice Aleah sitting silently on his bed. He instinctively turned away, hastily covering himself.


    "Couldn''t you have knocked?" he asked, discomfort evident in his voice.


    "I did knock but you didn''t answer. Besides, you needn''t be embarrassed. I was specially assigned to monitor you closely. Think of me as your personal doctor. Nudity isn''t important¡ªwho do you think put you back together? I didn''t do it while you were clothed."


    "There''s a huge difference between that situation and this one. Don''t expect gratitude for bringing me back to life. Being my doctor doesn''t mean you can see me naked whenever you want!"


    "Aww."


    "What do you mean ''aww''!"


    Aleah stood and headed for the door while the man carefully turned his body, following her movements.


    "I''ll do your final checks, then you''ll receive your first assignment. Come with me."


    "What assignment? I''m not doing anyth¡ª" Before he could finish, it felt like hundreds of volts struck his body. The torture lasted five seconds. "Whatever you''ve put in me, take it out right now! You can''t force me to¡ª" The shocking began again, this time lasting ten agonizing seconds.


    "You''d better stop. The more you resist, the worse it gets. Put your clothes on and return to the room where you woke up yesterday."


    "My clothes... are wet..." he gasped, doubled over in pain.


    "You can come naked too, I don''t mind." she said before leaving.


    "Damn woman! Damn these people! This situation won''t last forever¡ªI''ll find a way to escape." he muttered angrily.


    He paced the room, trying to evaluate his situation with a cool head. Kept in deep sleep for seven thousand years, strange metal parts installed in his body, and now they expected something from him. These facts seemed more absurd with each passing second.


    He knew panic would do no good. First, he needed to accept his situation calmly, then find a way to escape. For now, the most logical option was to play along and gain their trust.


    He looked helplessly at his soaking clothes. "I wonder if there are any others?" he thought hopefully, glancing around. In a small closet in the corner, he found several plain, gray garments. Relieved, he quickly changed.


    "At least they showed the courtesy of providing clean clothes," he muttered sarcastically.


    He left the room and carefully retraced yesterday''s path down the corridor. He noticed there were no windows anywhere¡ªit felt like an underground prison. At the corridor''s end, he spotted the familiar door from yesterday.


    The door had no handle. As he reached to touch it, red lights danced over him, and it silently opened. "I know how this works!" he thought with childlike excitement.


    Inside, he found Aleah sitting at an impressive machine that dominated the room. Its metallic surface gleamed like a mirror, countless holographic screens pulsing hypnotically. In the center, blue liquid undulated within a crystal cylinder. Along the sides, small tanks held floating translucent tissues at various stages of development¡ªsome still forming, others nearly identical to human tissue.


    "What is this machine?" he asked, mesmerized by the screen.


    "Genetic Encoder. It reconfigures nanomachines according to tissue samples and measurements I input."


    "So what exactly does it do?" he repeated, confused.


    "I assemble body parts here."


    "I see. Now tell me about this assignment."


    "I don''t know. You need to talk to Consultant Zeta."


    "I hate that man."


    "Nothing I can do about it."


    Bored of waiting, he tapped out a rhythm with his feet. Soon, a bright green light appeared on the screen.


    "Complete and error-free!" The woman squealed with joy.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    One tank''s liquid began draining automatically. Once empty, Aleah carefully opened the lid and removed a bright purple, palm-sized ball.


    "Strip." she commanded with professional seriousness.


    "Can''t we do this without stripping?"


    She shook her head firmly. Reluctantly, he removed his gray shirt. She gestured for more. Despite his reluctance, he complied completely. Though being gray from chest down offered some comfort, he couldn''t shake his embarrassment.


    She pressed the purple ball against his stomach. It flattened instantly like clay, spreading across his body hypnotically. Every gray area glowed purple before fading to natural human skin. His body looked perfect, as if it had never changed. As he now resembled a real human again, his embarrassment returned, and he turned away reflexively.


    "Let me look at my masterpiece!" she exclaimed, jumping up.


    "Which part are you calling a masterpiece?"


    "I designed your entire body. My superiors only asked for a healthy-looking form. I won''t lie¡ªI made it how I wanted it. You''re lucky, I gave you an amazing body."


    "I''m not stripping for you again, get that into your head."


    "It doesn''t matter, you''ll have to strip for necessary procedures anyway."


    He exhaled angrily.


    "Where am I meeting Zeta?"


    "At the restaurant across the street."


    "So there are still restaurants after seven thousand years."


    "If you''re spending too much time in alternative reality, I suggest cutting back."


    "What''s that?"


    "We''ll discuss that another time. For now, let''s focus on getting you ready for the meeting. You need to wear the proper uniform for your position," she said professionally. She reached for an ornate wooden box with gold trim beside her, carefully opened it, and removed neatly folded clothes that had been specially chosen, holding them out to him.


    Still naked, he dressed quickly without thinking. First came elastic, high-quality leather pants with red and brown straps, secured by an embroidered brown belt. Over a thin black shirt, he donned an elaborate black and red vest with gold embroidery. He added an elegant brown leather cape reaching his shoulder blades, noting the gold emblem at its neck. "How much gold did they use?" he wondered.


    "What''s this?" he asked, pointing to the badge.


    "I don''t know, best to ask management. Like Consultant Zeta."


    Finally, after pulling on high-quality black and red gloves and comfortable boots, he was ready. "Let''s see what he wants from me..." he thought anxiously before leaving the room.


    When he walked out the door, two young men in black uniforms waited for him. They had sharp features, athletic builds, and the keen, alert look that comes only from years of guard training. Though they couldn''t have been older than twenty-five, their bearing showed years of professional experience. Their weapons¡ªsleek, compact devices¡ªrested in specially designed holsters, gripped with practiced readiness. They stood so still they might have been figures in a painting, every detail was perfect. Their disciplined movements revealed years of intensive training.


    When the young guards noticed him, they examined his formal attire before smoothly transitioning from attention to parade rest in perfect unison.


    "Sir! We have been assigned to escort you safely to the outer door. We are at your complete disposal." one said formally.


    Their professional deference made him feel important, but an inner voice warned against letting this treatment cloud his judgment. He responded with just a slight nod to proceed.


    Through winding corridors and sharp turns, they reached a high-security door guarded by armed personnel. The guards snapped to attention at his approach. "Initiate exit procedure." one escort commanded. It took five minutes to deactivate the advanced security mechanisms. Wherever this facility was, it was clearly under strict control.


    Beyond the security door, ornate stairs led upward, seemingly to nowhere. One guard smoothly removed a gold-plated badge from his light, flexible white-and-red armor and pointed it at the wall.


    A bright blue beam shot from the badge, revealing a hidden passage. Inside was a humid room filled with neatly stacked mysterious boxes. Without a word, he climbed the spiral stairs rising from its center.


    At the top, he emerged into an enormous hall unlike the dark corridors below. Custom-designed glass covered the walls and high ceiling, offering his first clear view of the outside world. The sight left him speechless.


    Modern apartments of glass and steel rose majestically, their surfaces gleaming in the sunlight. The city streets glowed as if stars had descended from the sky, light dancing from every window. He walked to the glass doors with measured steps, feeling the smooth floor beneath him. As he stepped onto the terrace, the intense sunlight pierced his eyes like needles. He shielded his face, blinking until his vision cleared. When he could finally see clearly, an inexplicable sadness washed over him¡ªas if his soul recognized this view but had forgotten why.


    From this height, the city spread below like an intricate painting. Wide streets formed crystal-like geometric patterns, perfectly parallel boulevards stretched to the horizon, and strategic patches of green parks softened the urban landscape. But one structure dominated his attention: a majestic castle of granite and marble rising from the city''s heart. Its soaring towers, thick walls, and ornate details seemed to belong to another age entirely. He wondered why such an ancient building stood amid this modern metropolis¡ªperhaps as a tourist attraction, or something more significant? The melancholy lingered, unexplained.


    "They''re not here..."


    Another voice echoed in his mind¡ªdeep with sadness and regret, familiar yet foreign. Thinking someone had spoken, he turned to find only the silent guards.


    "This way, sir," one guard said, drawing him from his thoughts. They walked to the hall''s end, where doors opened with a soft hiss onto a sprawling terrace.


    A luxury restaurant commanded the terrace''s center, offering spectacular city views. Live music drifted from inside, and an elegantly dressed greeter in pressed black stood waiting. The guards took positions at the entrance, their duties complete.


    The greeter professionally assessed his attire before offering the traditional welcome.


    "Welcome, sir! Did you have a reserved table?"


    "Is someone named Zeta here?"


    The greeter consulted his tablet.


    "Table 27, sir," he indicated with a graceful gesture.


    He spotted Zeta gazing distantly at the city view. With a polite nod to the greeter, he approached and pulled out a chair.


    "You need permission from your superiors before sitting at the table." Zeta said, eyes still fixed on the view.


    "Of course." he replied with a sarcastic smile, sitting anyway. "What do you want from me?"


    "First, I want us to be less hostile toward each other. Believe me, I''m not your enemy, but your friend. And friends help each other." Zeta offered.


    "I want to get through this quickly. Don''t drag it out¡ªtell me directly."


    Zeta sighed deeply and finally turned to face him.


    "You have many questions, don''t you? You want answers? Then do what I say, and I''ll give you the answers you seek." he said soothingly.


    "Fuck..." he thought. Zeta had laid out exactly what he wanted. Knowing force wouldn''t work, he gave a slight nod of agreement.


    "The star system is called Nivara. We''re on Equina, one of its habitable planets. This country is Gradia, and this city is Lotiana, one of its most advanced metropolises." Zeta explained carefully.


    "What is this place?" he asked, gesturing to the building around them.


    "Just an ordinary plaza that belongs to me. Nothing special." Zeta smiled mysteriously.


    His jumbled memory held no trace of these places. Nothing Zeta mentioned sparked even a hint of recognition. He felt utterly adrift.


    "I''m sure this all seems strange. Don''t worry, you''ll adjust in time. Now, you must be hungry. Let me order breakfast." Zeta said, reaching for the tablet.


    "How old am I?" he asked suddenly.


    "Biologically or chronologically?"


    "Biological."


    "Twenty-nine."


    "So chronologically, I''m seven thousand three hundred and eighty-five years old." he muttered, the knowledge surfacing unbidden.


    "Correct." Zeta said, unsurprised.


    A waiter began serving their meal.


    "Six thousand two hundred and seventy-four times eight hundred and thirty-six?" Zeta asked unexpectedly.


    The man froze. What startled him wasn''t the complex multiplication but knowing the answer instantly.


    "Five million two hundred forty-five thousand and sixty-four... How... how can I know this?" he asked, fear edging his voice.


    Zeta looked utterly unsurprised¡ªconfident, even.


    "Before I tell you your mission, there are more important things you should know." he said, pouring purple sauce over something bread-like. "The body parts used to create you came from crucial figures in our civilization. Every part is beyond perfect. Security protocols forbid me from naming them¡ªexcept one. Geminga Spitzer, the universe''s greatest detective, whose brain we used to create yours! I knew his genetic structure would match our criteria perfectly, and clearly, I was right." he finished, taking a bite of his exotic food.


    At the detective''s name, something in his brain seemed to tear free, writhing like a trapped creature trying to escape from deep within his mind. Every cell felt this foreign presence. He was certain now¡ªsomething was inside him, growing stronger as his memories returned.

 First Real Voice

    Writhing with a severe headache, he clutched his temples with one hand while the other unconsciously gripped the tablecloth, creating deep wrinkles in the fabric.


    "Finally, I''ve regained consciousness." said the man in a deep, powerful tone.


    "I''m hearing those familiar, disturbing voices in my head again. Am I losing my mind?" he wondered. Yet this experience felt notably different from the previous ones.


    "No, you''re definitely not crazy. I''m real, just as real as you are." said the voice confidently.


    The man scanned the room in confusion and unease while Zeta continued eating his meal calmly, as if nothing extraordinary was happening.


    "Are you really inside my head?" he asked, his voice carrying both curiosity and concern.


    "I wouldn''t say I''m exactly inside your head. But we share the same body. I can perceive every emotion and sensation of yours as if they were my own."


    "Then who are you?" he asked, as if already anticipating the answer.


    "My name is Geminga, as the man before you just mentioned." the voice responded confidently.


    "Wait a minute... So you''re really the person they used to create my brain?"


    "I don''t think there''s any other logical explanation for why we''re sharing the same body right now."


    "What about your memory, is it also¡ª" the man couldn''t finish his sentence before Geminga''s powerful voice echoed in his mind.


    "You were going to ask if my memory was erased too, weren''t you? Yes, it was. But now isn''t the time to discuss these things. First, eat something. We''re both exhausted from hunger."


    "You''ve taken this situation much more calmly than I expected. After your reaction yesterday, I honestly didn''t expect you to be so understanding." said Zeta, wiping his mouth with a napkin after finishing his meal. "Now I can explain your mission: You need to go to Hatrugar and retrieve Cintara''s Crown."


    "Where is Hatrugar?"


    "It''s located on the border of Lotiana. A city shrouded in mist, and dangerous."


    "Dangerous?"


    "Hatrugar is more of a survival zone than a city. A half-ruined metropolis¡ªa place where advanced technology and ancient magic remnants intertwine. High-rise buildings lost in the mist, decaying streets, and creatures living in the shadows. It''s a dangerous city where no one trusts anyone, home to all sorts, from ghost engineers to magic merchants."


    "I see... But why do I need to go there and bring back a crown?"


    "This is quite a sensitive political matter, my friend."


    "So you''re asking me to go to this place and steal a crown?"


    "If it were that simple, I wouldn''t be bothering the most valuable person in Nivara right after he wake up. You''re the only one who can find the crown''s location."


    With a deep sigh, he said, "Tell me from the beginning."


    "This crown contains the remnants of Cintara''s magical powers¡ªthe most powerful sorcerer in the entire universe. According to legend, the crown belonged to her and even caused her death. After Cintara''s death, the crown passed to one of her daughters, then to her daughter. Centuries later, it was stolen from Cintara''s living granddaughter, Eridani Beid. If it''s not returned soon, we fear Eridani will lose her life."


    "Why would she die?"


    "One of the spells contained in the crown grants immortality. The wearer becomes immortal, but the aging process continues. When the crown is removed, the person''s true age suddenly manifests, usually resulting in death from sudden aging. In our case, we''re relatively fortunate¡ªEridani is only one hundred and twenty-seven years old." Nodding toward the magnificent castle in the city center, he continued. "Right now, she''s there, trying to hold onto life under the care of the kingdom''s most skilled doctors. But she''s very old, and no one knows how long she can last."


    "Can''t immortality be granted through another spell?"


    "Every person blessed with immortality has met a tragic fate. It will continue to be so. This is actually a curse. No spell except Cintara''s Crown can save her."


    "How was the crown stolen?"


    "Two weeks ago, a diplomat from Hatrugar came for a political meeting with royal guards. Somehow they managed to remove the crown from Eridani''s head¡ªthough no one understands how. The crown normally locks onto its owner''s head with a magical bond, making it physically impossible to remove. They must have used a special spell or technological device."


    "Didn''t she have any protection? After all, she must be an important figure."


    "She is the Queen of Gradia. Of course, she was protected by the highest level of security measures, in a specially designed secure room. That''s where the main problem begins. All security systems were disabled, the guards were neutralized. The thief simply vanished."


    "Is there no information about the identity of the person who stole the crown?"


    "Unfortunately, their name is unknown. They came with a fake identity. We suspect they might be there since they came from Hatrugar."


    "I understand. Where should I start?"


    "I''m not the detective, you are. But if I were to give advice, I''d suggest you start by investigating the ''Mist Thieves''. ''" said Zeta, checking his watch as he rose from the table. "When you finish your meal, go to the plaza entrance. Someone will be waiting for you there. They''ll recognize you by your uniform."


    "What''s this uniform and badge business? Everyone acts like they know me."Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    "Actually, they don''t know you¡ªthey know your uniform. You hold one of the highest ranks within the royalty. Understanding the royal hierarchy might take some time, but you''ll learn eventually. The badge is just a special key for accessing the secret base."


    "Wait a minute! How will I get to Hatrugar? Let''s say I find the crown, but how will I catch someone who managed to evade the queen''s guards? What if a conflict breaks out between us?"


    Countless questions spun through his mind. Being good at mathematical calculations alone wouldn''t give him any advantage in a physical confrontation.


    "You have fighting skills, don''t worry. You can protect yourself." said Zeta and left the room.


    "The only thing left in my memory is standard procedures. If I really am a detective as he says, I might be rusty, but let''s do what he says. However, I have one condition for helping you." said Geminga firmly.


    "Condition? What do you mean?"


    "If I''m going to help you, you''ll ask the questions I determine. It''s very important for me to learn who I am."


    "Wait a second. What about me? I have a lot to learn too. They''re definitely hiding more information from me. I don''t think Zeta will answer more than one question. He''ll want to keep us under his control longer. The more questions we have, the more we''ll have to work for him. I''m sorry, but I''ll ask my own questions."


    "Then I won''t help you. You can fend for yourself."


    "What do you think you are, a little child?" he snapped, then fell into thought. "Okay, the first question will be mine, the next question yours."


    "We don''t know how long these missions will take. The sooner I learn, the better it is for me AND you. As I said, if you ask my questions first, I''ll help you."


    "You can put yourself back into my brain if you want. I''ll handle this on my own."


    "Let me know if you change your mind." said Geminga and fell silent.


    He hadn''t eaten since he woke up. Before him were interesting foods resembling the bread Zeta had eaten, with an exotic purple sauce poured over them. Following Zeta''s example, he poured the sauce over the bread and tasted it. The bread was still warm, and when combined with the sauce, it created a sweet-like flavor. It was a unique taste he had never experienced before. The sauce wasn''t overly sweet, perfectly balancing the food''s taste.


    After finishing his meal, he stood up and went outside. The two young guards were still faithfully waiting at the door.


    "Take me to the plaza entrance." he said firmly. The two guards respectfully saluted and began walking ahead.


    When he arrived at the Plaza entrance, he froze at the sight before him. Thousands waited patiently in line at the magnificent entrance¡ªbut this was no ordinary crowd. Extraordinary beings, different from humans, stood out among them.


    Lost in his wonderment, he was approached by a young woman who appeared to be in her early twenties. She ran up breathlessly, elegantly sweeping back her ocean-deep blue hair as she fixed him with warm orange eyes and a sincere smile.


    "I''m Eridanus Ran! It''s a great honor to meet you, sir!" she said, extending her hand politely.


    She was like a sea creature given human form. Though mostly humanoid, she possessed features of magnificent marine life: hands adorned with shimmering fins, delicate gills along her neck, pearl-like scales covering her body, ears that resembled ocean waves, and an elegantly extending tail¡ªcreating a mesmerizing sight.


    The man extended his hand with slight hesitation. The touch of Ran''s wet, scaly hands gave him a strange sensation he''d never experienced before. It was his first time shaking hands with a sea person. Looking more carefully around him, he was amazed: people with magnificent bird wings, others with lion manes and fur, some with shark-like grace, and yet others adorned with colorful insect features. It was as if all of nature''s magnificent creatures had taken human form. Most surprising was how ordinary humans accepted this extraordinary sight as perfectly natural.


    "Are you the person I''m supposed to meet?" the man asked, unable to hide his curiosity.


    "Yes sir, that''s me! Thanks to my success in the exam, I earned the honor of working with you. With your permission, may I learn your name?"


    The man gave a heartfelt thank you to the young guards who had escorted them and told them they could leave. After they departed, just as he was about to say "I don''t know my name." Geminga interrupted. "Repeat what I say." he instructed.


    "Due to the sensitive nature of our mission, I need to use a secret identity. You may respectfully address me as Geminga..." he said, trying to mask his uncertainty.


    "Perhaps she knows something about me. Besides, this way you won''t have to lie about your missing memory." said Geminga and fell silent.


    "Geminga... Master Geminga... What an impressive choice, sir! If you''ll permit me, could I take the name Ain?"


    "Who''s Ain?"


    "Why, the loyal assistant of the greatest detective in history, of course!"


    "Ah... I think you''d better stay as Ran. But I have something to ask you. These beings¡ªthese half-humans¡ªwhat exactly are they?" he asked, gesturing to the unusual crowd.


    "Humans." Ran replied simply.


    "No, I mean the ones with animal features."


    "Sir, this is quite a sensitive matter. Such terminology might not be appropriate."


    "I''m sorry! I''m only asking because I don''t know. I''ve never encountered anything like this before."


    "Different races coexist in every corner of Equina. Lotiana, in particular, is a safe haven for communities seeking protection from discrimination. Here, we''re all seen as equal individuals, just like you. Some call us ''half-humans,'' a term I really dislike, sir."


    "I truly meant no offense. Where I''m from¡ªat least according to my memory¡ªwe didn''t have such remarkable diversity.""


    "Don''t worry, sir! I''d love to provide you with detailed information about our society during our time together! Now, where would you like to begin our investigation?" She put on her gloves and carefully took out a notebook and pen from her backpack.


    "Well, look at that, trying to get detective lessons from you. Alright then, detective, we''re listening." said Geminga, with obvious sarcasm.


    "Hmm..." he mumbled thoughtfully.


    "I''m afraid I don''t have a computer chip or note tablet on me, sir. I prefer traditional methods." said Ran, noticing his puzzled looks.


    "No, no, that''s fine. Work however you like. We can handle this without technological tools..." he said hesitantly. It was clear he was trying to buy time to think. Then suddenly, he added in a decisive voice: "We''re going to Hatrugar!"


    "Brilliant idea!" Ran exclaimed enthusiastically.


    "Ran... I''m actually unfamiliar with this area. How can we get to Hatrugar?"


    "I can offer you several options: We can rent a car, take the Hyper Train, or use the fastest option, the SPA."


    "The SPA?"


    "Space-Powered Aircraft. It''s incredibly fast¡ªwe''ll be at our destination in minutes."


    As he considered the options, he realized a serious limitation: he didn''t have a single coin in his pocket. He didn''t even know the currency used in this world, though he could guess none of these transportation options would be free.


    "Ran, I''m sorry but I don''t have any money."


    "Do you know anyone who could help us?"


    "Unfortunately not."


    "No problem sir, I have some money with me. We could rent a car if you''d like."


    He was grateful his memory at least recognized the word ''car.''


    "Do you need anything special to drive a car?"


    "Yes, a license is required."


    "Do you have a license?"


    "No, unfortunately. But we could take the bus if you''d like? The journey takes two days, but we can use that time to get to know you better!"


    "Then let''s take the bus. I''ll repay you at the first opportunity." he said, following her.


    "Please don''t worry about it, sir! I''m not worried at all."


    Together, they walked through lively streets filled with humans and different races. He couldn''t tell if this extraordinary crowd was normal or if they had happened upon a special occasion. The only thing he could discern was that everyone seemed at peace. Yet this peaceful scene stirred an inexplicable sadness within him.


    "Why are they gone?" echoed a melancholic voice in his mind.


    "Who''s that?" asked Geminga uneasily, hearing the voice.


    "I don''t know. I hear these voices occasionally. Always lamenting about someone''s absence. Probably another presence forcibly planted in my mind, like you."


    After an hour''s walk¡ªduring which Ran talked constantly, though he couldn''t properly listen as he tried to suppress the voices in his mind¡ªthey reached the bus station. They boarded after tasting an exotic ice cream-like snack Ran offered.


    During the two-day journey, Ran continuously tried to make conversation and ask questions. However, he avoided talking by claiming fatigue, as he couldn''t comprehend most of what she was telling him. Despite numerous stops during this long journey, they finally arrived at Hatrugar.

 The Familiar Nothingness

    "Hatrugar!" shouted the bus driver. They were the only passengers getting off. The others sank deep into their seats as if trying to escape a cursed place. The city''s name had awakened expressions of deep unease and fear on their faces. As they disembarked, the other passengers'' looks carried not just pity and concern, but almost the sadness of a final farewell. The city''s frightening reputation clearly ran much deeper than mere rumors.


    The stop resembled an abandoned ruin rather than a bus station. No buses waited for passengers¡ªjust a neglected area filled with rusted metal pieces and rotted wooden remains lost in thick fog. Compared to the magnificent, vibrant station in Lotiana, this place seemed torn from a parallel universe. The lively restaurants, eye-catching souvenir shops, and cutting-edge electronics stores there had been replaced by a gloomy void. Though technically part of Gradia, it gave an impression of being disconnected and forgotten. This pale stop standing alone in nothingness was like a silent witness to the city''s fate.


    "I love making to-do lists, sir!" Ran burst out cheerfully, as if trying to dispel the gloomy atmosphere. Her tone was so sincere and hopeful that even the surrounding mist seemed to part for a moment. "I made one on my own for now. I asked you but you said you were tired. First Task: Go to Hatrugar." She carefully crossed out the first task. "Second task is to find the crown... How should we fill in between them, sir?"


    "Hmm..." the man thought for a while, his eyes searching through the mist. "Let''s go to the city center, or at least somewhere with lots of people. We''ll start by asking around. Maybe they''ll have some idea who might attempt to steal a crown. In places like this, everyone knows each other."


    "Brilliant idea, sir!" Ran began taking notes quickly, her fingers trembling with excitement as she wrote each note as carefully as if it were part of a treasure map.


    Looking around for a path, he noticed a neon sign piercing the darkness with flickering lights. Being the only light source in the misty air, it blinked with a pale glow. A rusty arrow pointed to a dirt path winding through the trees. No name, directional sign, or other marker stood nearby.


    With no other options, they reluctantly followed the sign''s direction. As they walked along the dirt path, the emptiness around them transformed into a dense forest. They now traveled along a narrow, mysterious path cutting through its depths.


    "Sir Geminga!" Ran whispered, as if afraid to break the forest''s eerie silence. "What will you ask when we find people to talk to? I''d like to take notes in advance."


    "Of course we''ll ask if they know anything about Cintara''s Crown, but first we need to soften them up." he said with an experienced air. "Write this down: First, exchange pleasantries so they understand you''re not a threat. You need to talk and act like one of them. After some small talk, they''ll warm up to you. If they''re selling anything, we must make a purchase. Only then can we get to the real subject." he explained, speaking as if from years of experience.


    "You''re amazing, sir! I wish I could be like you someday." said Ran admiringly, carefully noting down every word.


    "Of course you will be, Ran. Trust me, you''ll be better than me¡ªeven better than Geminga." he said with a sincere smile.


    "Hehe... You''re exaggerating, sir... You''re too kind!" said Ran bashfully, her bluish skin slightly blushing while her eyes sparkled.


    "How much money do you have left?" the man asked, changing the subject.


    "I have one hundred and twenty astralis left, sir..." said Ran, with a slight tone of sadness.


    "Astralis, you say..." the man repeated thoughtfully. "I haven''t done any shopping around here yet¡ªthe currency was different where I came from. How valuable is one astralis?"


    "I thought there was only one currency used throughout all of Equina, sir?" said Ran with surprise.


    "Just answer the question." said the man, making it clear he didn''t want to prolong the topic.


    "Sixty astralis is a middle-class worker''s monthly salary, sir. One can live comfortably for a month with that amount."


    "You mentioned you were a student. How did you save up this much?"


    "I was working part-time, sir. I didn''t want to be a burden on my family."


    "Good for you." said the man approvingly, without pressing further.


    After walking along the path for about twenty minutes, the silhouette of a city slowly emerged through the mist. A few buildings and vague shadows of people walking in the streets could be made out through the gray clouds. At the city''s entrance rose an intimidating wall, haphazardly built from various pieces of debris. Various graffiti caught the eye, the most striking reading "FUCK OFF, PEDALS!"


    They hesitantly stepped through the half-open city gate. The man had confidently explained to Ran what they would do just moments ago, but faced with this intimidating scene, his courage nearly vanished. Just as he was about to give up, faint faces of his family flashed in his mind. Maybe if he do what Zeta asked, he could learn who they were. Or if he accepts Geminga''s offer and help him¡ªafter all, he was the greatest detective of all time¡ªperhaps finding his family would be easier.


    Drawing courage from these thoughts, he approached a man he assumed to be a shopkeeper sitting in front of a store. The man appeared to be in his mid-forties, with graying hair and one white eye.


    "Good day, sir. We''re new here, what do you sell?" he asked, trying to appear genuine.


    "The only thing I have is what you need. What do you want?" the man said in a monotone voice.


    He had planned everything but hadn''t thought about what to buy out of courtesy. He sincerely asked for what he needed most at that moment.


    "Could I have some water?"


    "Water?" said the man, raising his scarred eyebrow above what was presumably his blind eye.


    "Yes, we''re thirsty."


    The man filled a glass with water from a handmade container in front of him and held it out. A slight smile had appeared on his face, as if he had encountered something unexpected.


    While drinking the water, he couldn''t figure out the reason for the man''s smile. He smiled back politely. "Ran, would you like some too?" he asked.


    "No sir, I always carry water with me." said Ran, with an uneasy smile.


    "Beautiful weather, isn''t it?" said the man, pointing to the surrounding mist.


    "Same as always. Shit. Tell me what you really want." said the man, shifting in his chair.


    There was no point in beating around the bush anymore. "I want information." he said directly.


    "Now we''re talking. Who are you working for?"


    The man didn''t exactly know who he was working for. But knowing that Zeta wanted something on behalf of the kingdom, he said "For the Kingdom."


    "It''s obvious you''re new at this." said the man, pointing to the writing on the wall behind him. Written in bright paint were the words: "The only place fit for you is hell, not the kingdom!" "Choke on your own trash, Pedals!"


    "Who are these Pedals?" the man asked curiously.


    "Sir... I believe that would be us¡­" said Ran in a timid voice.


    "The girl''s right, Pedal." said the man in a harsh tone. "If your lives are dear to you, fuck off." After angrily throwing the water glass in the trash, he went into his shop and slammed the door shut.


    Though he wasn''t exactly sure who the term Pedal referred to, it wasn''t hard to understand it meant people connected to the kingdom. But why did they hate them so much?


    After some thought, he realized that if he too had been condemned to live in an outcast and forgotten city, he would hate those who put him in this situation and those who did nothing about it.


    "That was a rough start, we made a bad first impression." he said thoughtfully. "But don''t worry, we''ll find a solution. At least we learned something important: we shouldn''t mention we''re from the Kingdom. We need to be more careful from now on."


    "You''re right, sir! Every new piece of information brings us closer to our goal!" said Ran, trying to keep spirits high. She had a nature that would never lose hope no matter what. The man sincerely admired this quality of hers.


    "My offer still stands, friend." said Geminga from the depths of his mind.


    "I''ll handle it. You keep sleeping."


    "As you wish."


    "Sir..." said Ran worriedly. "Was it wise to drink that man''s water in a place like this? What if there was something in it?"


    "Don''t worry. He had no reason to poison us."


    "But after our conversation..." Ran muttered to herself.


    "Look Ran, from the man''s attitude, I can tell that people here value information exchange. Instead of buying unnecessary things and prolonging the conversation, we should get straight to the point and buy information. That''s what detective work is about¡ªyou need to adapt to your environment." said the man, with the air of an experienced teacher.


    "What an amazing observation, sir!" said Ran while taking notes enthusiastically.


    Thinking someone might have heard them, they walked further into the city. After getting quite far from the one-eyed man''s shop, they came to a crowded marketplace¡ªthe largest gathering of people they had seen so far.


    He looked around. Most of the technological devices looked like contraband but appeared to be in good condition. According to Ran, hundreds of magical items filled the stalls as well.


    He had never seen weapons being sold openly before. The concept of weapons wasn''t very clear in his mind, but he instinctively knew these items were weapons. Only knives and swords seemed familiar. Who knew how weapons had evolved over seven thousand years? He should ask Zeta when he got back. For now, he made a mental note of this question.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    While walking through the middle of the market, he stopped a hooded figure. Eight spider eyes gleamed unmistakably from under their hood.


    "Excuse me, I''d like to buy information. Could you recommend a place?" he asked.


    The spider-eyed person studied them carefully in silence. The man belatedly understood the reason for this silence.


    "Ran, could you give the gentleman twenty astralis?" he said, pointing to the girl''s backpack.


    "My savings..." Ran sighed sadly while taking out the money.


    "Don''t worry, I''ll pay you back double."


    The person who took the money slightly pulled back their hood and began to speak.


    "Not gentleman, lady! I am a woman!" she said in a high-pitched voice.


    "I''m very sorry, madam, I couldn''t tell because of the hood." He couldn''t hide his surprise at speaking with a spider-person for the first time.


    "So you''re looking for information. Since you''ve paid the fee, I''ll tell you the best place in the city. But I warn you: if they don''t like you, they won''t do business with you even if you could buy the whole city."


    "You just tell us the place, we''ll handle the rest."


    "Her name is Ainsley. She runs the Mist**&**Wind bar. You won''t find a better source of information around here. Walk three streets ahead, you''ll see a pile of rubble. Turn right there and go straight, you can''t miss it."


    "Thank you!" said Ran, bowing politely.


    They reached the described location in less than half an hour. This part of the city was also busy, though not as much as the market. They immediately noticed the two-story building with electric, half-broken signs and constant foot traffic. The signs and posters read "Mist**&**Wind" in huge letters. Right across from it was a brothel where half-naked women waited, and it wasn''t hard to see that most people leaving the building were heading there.


    They attempted to enter but were stopped by two burly men in nice suits at the door.


    "Who are you?" said one, scratching his short beard. "Your clothes are strange. Where are you from?"


    "Let them in, they look like fun types!" laughed the other tall man, nudging his friend with his elbow.


    "I hope we don''t get in trouble because of you." he said with a somewhat worried manner.


    The two big men stepped aside and let them pass.


    When they entered, the establishment was packed. A thick cloud of cigarette smoke hung in the air, making the place feel stuffy despite its high ceiling. Most tables were occupied by humans, but there were also many half-humans¡ªsome with spider eyes, pointed ears, or scaly skin. The blend of conversations, laughter, and clinking glasses created an indistinguishable murmur.


    They made their way to the bar. As they approached, the man carefully examined his surroundings. Though the place was full of suspicious characters, no one seemed overtly dangerous or ready for a fight. Still, he remained alert.


    "Could I have a beer?" he asked, settling onto an empty bar stool while scanning the crowd. Meanwhile, Ran tucked her notebook into her bag and meticulously cleaned the road dust from her orange and white clothing.


    "Beera? Which variety would you prefer?" asked the woman with short black hair falling to her shoulders, pausing from polishing glasses.


    "I trust your recommendation." said the man with a wink and slight smirk. An inner voice remarked, "This behavior is so unlike me." He barely recognized himself.


    "The finest beera coming right up for the handsome gentleman!" said the woman with a flirtatious wink. Her figure in the tight-fitting long dress awakened long-forgotten feelings within him.


    "Wow! We haven''t had an opportunity like this in ages! Come on, don''t stop¡ª" echoed an unfamiliar, husky male voice inside him before falling silent.


    "What''s that voice about?" asked Geminga, surprised by this strange new voice.


    "I''m hearing it for the first time too. Who knows how many different personalities are sleeping inside me?" the man thought.


    "Here''s your beera, sir." said the woman, her yellow eyes gleaming as she set a large glass before him.


    He took a careful sip. Instead of the expected mediocre taste, he found a pleasant sweetness. His muscles relaxed instantly, and he felt at ease.


    "This is truly amazing!" he said sincerely, then added after a pause: "I''d like to ask you something. I''m looking for someone named Ainsley. I need some information."


    "You''re not from around here, are you?" asked the woman, resting her elbow on the counter and cupping her chin.


    The words irritated him. It was the second time he''d heard this. Yes, he was a stranger¡ªand it irked him how everyone seemed to treat him as if they knew he''d been dead for thousands of years.


    "That doesn''t matter, darling." said the woman, running her fingertips from his hand up his arm. She leaned forward, her deep cleavage fully visible. She was clearly trying to distract him, and due to his newly awakened impulses, he fell easily into her trap.


    As her soft fingers climbed toward his neck, her expression suddenly changed. Her seductive warmth vanished, replaced by icy seriousness. Then he felt cold metal against his throat¡ªshe had pressed a sharp dagger there so skillfully that no one had noticed.


    "Now tell me the truth." she said, still smiling but with a dangerous glint in her eyes. "What''s a Pedal doing here?"


    "Just for information... I have no other purpose..." he stammered, feeling the sharp metal against his throat.


    "Who from the kingdom sent you here? Tell the truth, or I''ll slit your throat!" she said, her voice low but threatening.


    Just as he was about to say ''Zeta,'' that familiar, terrible pain seized him. Though not severe enough to make him collapse, merely thinking of Zeta''s name triggered it. This terrified him. Even with his life at stake, some invisible force within wouldn''t let him reveal anyone from the kingdom.


    "Just... just want to know where the crown is." he whispered, barely audible. Meanwhile, Ran observed their surroundings, unaware of his deadly predicament.


    "What crown? Choose your words carefully¡ªthey could be your last." said the woman, pressing the dagger harder until its tip nearly pierced his skin.


    "The Crown of Cintara! I''m looking for it. I have no other business with you!" said the man, panic rising in his voice.


    "So you have no other business here? You came just for the crown?" she questioned, eyes fixed on his face.


    "A woman I met on the road said Ainsley was the most reliable person to buy information from. That''s why we came! I swear we have no other purpose!" he said, trembling as sweat beaded on his forehead.


    The woman slowly withdrew the dagger but kept it ready. After studying him intently, she spoke.


    "I am Ainsley. I can sell you the information you want." she said, a mysterious smile returning to her face, the dagger still hidden from others'' view.


    "I don''t mean to push, but why spare my life? You must have thought me dangerous, yet you let me go. There must be a reason." he asked, voice still trembling.


    "Your eagerness to die worries me." she said, eyes narrowing with an icy warning.


    "No, no! I''m sorry!" he said hastily, raising his hands.


    She heaved a tired sigh, her shoulders dropping.


    "Because you''re a coward. They wouldn''t send someone this cowardly. You killed a Pedal and stole their uniform, didn''t you? A real Pedal wouldn''t surrender so easily." she said, looking him over.


    Though she had completely misunderstood, it was his only way out alive. He simply nodded, eyes downcast.


    "Good work. The beera''s on me. I admire your courage." she said, pushing his glass forward. "But information isn''t free! What do you want to know about the crown? Choose your questions carefully."


    "First... shouldn''t we discuss the price?" he asked timidly.


    "Why waste my time if you don''t have money?" she snapped.


    "We have money! Would a hundred astralis be enough?" he asked anxiously.


    "That buys you two pieces of information. Not a word more." she said firmly.


    He thought carefully, wiping sweat from his brow. He needed to choose his questions well¡ªthis chance might not come again.


    "Who stole the crown?" he asked, holding his breath.


    "I don''t know." she said simply, her expression unchanged.


    He waited silently for more, but she just shook her head, eyes steady on him.


    "Is that all?" he asked, unable to hide his disappointment.


    "Yes, I don''t know who stole the crown. However, I do know that they are in Hatrugar. That should be enough." said the woman, taking a small sip from the man''s glass.


    At least I''ve confirmed they''re in this city, he thought gratefully before carefully choosing his next question.


    "Where is the crown now?" he asked, leaning forward.


    "It''s with the Mist Thieves¡ªa dangerous group operating in the city''s shadows." she said quietly.


    "Tell me about these Mist Thieves¡ªI''ve heard of them twice now. I need more infor¡ª" he began eagerly.


    "Sorry, your two questions are up." she said firmly.


    He nodded in resignation. Noticing Ran''s prolonged silence, he turned to find her anxiously watching a crowd. Though they weren''t looking their way, their loud, threatening talk filled the air.


    "Ran?" he said worriedly, touching the unscaled part of her shoulder.


    She jumped with a small scream, then relaxed slightly upon recognizing his touch, though tension remained.


    "What''s wrong?" he asked, noting her worried expression.


    "Nothing''s wrong, sir." she said shakily, eyes downcast.


    Her fear was obvious, but he decided not to press the issue. First, they needed to leave.


    "I learned something. Can you give me a hundred astralis?" he asked quietly.


    "Of course, sir." she replied monotonously, still worried.


    With trembling hands, she retrieved the money and gave it to him, which he quickly passed to the woman.


    "Nice doing business. Come again." said the woman, taking the money. "Some advice¡ªlose the Pedal uniform if you want to live. It''s dangerous around here."


    They left nervously, the cold night air hitting their faces. The man quickly sought a safe place to talk, spotting a bench in the dark street. Two harmless-looking drunks had passed out at one end. They quietly sat down.


    "I learned Cintara''s Crown is definitely in Hatrugar, held by a dangerous group called the Mist Thieves. We need to find them." he said softly.


    "Where should we start looking, sir?" Ran asked anxiously.


    He pondered, gazing at the dark sky. They were out of money and in dangerous waters. Zeta had made a grave mistake trusting him while explaining so little.


    Before he could answer, figures wielding metal rods emerged from the darkness, their weapons glinting in the planet''s bright light overhead. They attempted to flee but found themselves surrounded.


    "What do you want?" he demanded, pushing Ran behind him.


    "We have business with your little fish." said a man in his forties, menacingly swinging his rod. "Hand her over, and no one gets hurt."


    Ran trembled behind him, clutching his jacket. Though scared himself, he had to protect her. He could do this¡ªhe had to.


    "Be a good Pedal and don''t interfere like you always do." the man warned.


    "Geminga! We could die here¡ªthis isn''t time for disagreement!" the inner voice cried in panic. "Stop being childish and help!"


    "Listen to him, let the girl go. We can''t die so foolishly!" Geminga shouted, angry and afraid.


    "No, I won''t sacrifice her to save ourselves!" the man mentally declared.


    "Move, Pedal!" a man in his thirties shouted, advancing with his club raised.


    "I''m sorry, but you''ll have to move me by force..." the man said, fighting to keep his voice steady.


    The attacker roared and swung his club full force at his head. As the metal cut through the air, the man instinctively raised his left hand. The club struck and unexpectedly warped as if hitting soft metal. He felt only a slight tingle. Surprised, he reflexively countered with his right fist. Though unplanned, his punch carried overwhelming power. The attacker staggered back and crumpled like a puppet.


    The man stared at his hands in amazement. Without full effort, he''d floored his large opponent as if he weighed nothing. This display of strength shocked even him¡ªthe power coursing through him exceeded his wildest dreams. His normal-looking hands held incredible force. This newfound strength filled him with sweet confidence. Now he knew¡ªhe could and would protect Ran at any cost.


    The other men exchanged shocked, fearful glances, some backing away. They''d expected a Pedal to flee or barely resist before surrendering. But this display¡ªthe bent metal, their friend felled by one punch¡ªhad left them stunned.


    "What are you waiting for? Kill him!" roared their leader, face crimson with rage.


    Three men charged, swinging clubs and trying to surround him. Their weapons bent uselessly against him, becoming soft as rubber. He struck back with his new power, landing precise punches¡ªchin, chest, abdomen. Each attacker fell heavily, incapacitated.


    "Keep going! They''ll run soon, I''m sure!" Geminga cheered.


    He felt invincible. Even against the whole group, he could prevail¡ªhis power seemed limitless. Energy surged through his veins, growing stronger with each breath. This incredible force had no apparent bounds. His confidence peaked, eyes bright with determination. Yes, he would succeed. He would protect Ran, no matter what.


    Then came the sharp sting in his back. Pain like a hot iron spread through his body. His knees buckled, and he collapsed helplessly forward. That immense power vanished instantly. He tried desperately to rise, pressing against the ground, but couldn''t. Every slight movement sent waves of agony through him, as if an invisible nail pinned him down.


    Warmth flowed down his back, spreading with each passing moment. This familiar sensation triggered a distant memory. As he struggled to place it, his eyes widened in recognition. "They''d pranked me for falling asleep during watch." he whispered tremulously. He''d felt this wetness then¡ªbut now it was more intense, more real. A terrible realization struck. This was real. Was he dying?


    His body grew lighter, seeming to float in endless void. He tried moving his fingers, but control slipped away. His vision blurred, the world spinning faster and faster. As everything merged into chaos, Ran''s heart-wrenching scream pierced the silence. Then came an inhuman sound¡ªa shrill, soul-piercing laugh too high for any human throat.


    His consciousness guttered like a candle flame. The world plunged into absolute darkness, beyond color or light. He surrendered to that familiar void''s cold embrace, deeper and more welcoming than ever before.


    "After some time, sensation returned. I felt the cold, ice-cold air on my skin. And when I opened my eyes, I was here. That''s everything I remember. Can you tell me what''s happening? How did I get here? How am I alive?"


    The white-coated, blonde, bespectacled woman sat at her desk, filling out a paper with her hand on her chin¡­

 D茅j脿 Vu (Part A)

    "How are you feeling right now? Are you experiencing any headaches, nausea, blurred vision, ringing in your ears, or erections?"


    "Just a bit dizzy."


    "That''s normal, you''ve been in cryogenic sleep for a long time. It will pass soon, let me know if it doesn''t." After a brief pause, she continued. "Do you remember your family or profession? Even the smallest detail will do."


    "I have a wife and a daughter... I think?" he said, slowly scratching his scruffy beard.


    "Very good. Do you know how long you''ve been dead?"


    "Around seven thousand years?" he said thoughtfully, as if searching for a distant memory. "But I''m not sure, the concept of time is very blurry for me."


    "That''s quite an accurate guess." said the woman, examining the file in front of her. "It''s been exactly seven thousand three hundred and fifty-six years, two months, and fourteen days. Can you tell me where you are right now?"


    "Some kind of infirmary or medical facility." said the man, looking around. "But I can''t be more specific than that."


    "What about the city or country we''re in? Do you have any idea about those?"


    The man furrowed his brows in thought. Names were dancing behind a veil of mist in his mind ¡ª he could almost grasp them, but they kept slipping through his fingers each time. "Unfortunately." he finally said, letting out a slight sigh. "It feels like I should know, but I just can''t figure it out."


    The woman conducted a comprehensive series of tests ¡ª a lengthy personality assessment, detailed physical examination, and various reflex checks. After carefully noting all of these, she quietly left the room with her file.


    When alone, a strange feeling came over the man. This place felt oddly familiar to him, as if he had spent a long time here before. But that was illogical ¡ª he hadn''t been alive for over seven thousand years, how could he recognize this place?


    Seven thousand three hundred and fifty-six... This number kept echoing in his mind, as if it were part of an important code. With each repetition, it embedded itself deeper into his subconscious.


    There was something else bothering him: his extraordinary calmness about his current situation. Under normal circumstances, someone coming back to life after more than seven thousand years should be panicking, perhaps screaming and losing control. Yet he was calm and thoughtful, as if coming back from death was an everyday occurrence. Where did this abnormal serenity, this strange tranquility come from? Why wasn''t there even the slightest flutter of fear within him?


    Hoping to find answers to these questions occupying his mind, he began to examine the room more carefully. As his eyes slowly scanned the room, the only familiar object that caught his attention was the complex-looking genetic encoder in the corner. While looking at this device, an unexpectedly vivid image appeared in his mind: A tall, elegant woman ¡ª Aleah ¡ª was working intensely at this machine. This memory was so real that he could almost hear the rustle of her lab coat. But this image defied logic. How could someone who had just awakened recognize a device here and an employee?


    Aleah... This name was on the tip of his tongue, as if he had known her for years. But who was she? These unexpected memories and information emerging from the depths of his memory were creating a growing unease within him.


    At that moment, two people entered the room. One was the blonde woman who had just left. The other was a tall, slim man in a black suit. As he entered, he adjusted his slicked-back hair.


    "We''ve been waiting for you to wake up. I''m personally glad you''re awake. My name is Zeta." he said and extended his hand for a handshake.


    "Geminga." said the man.


    "Pleased to meet you, Mr. Geminga. Aleah, would you bring us each a glass of sona?"


    The woman left the room with a slight sigh and drooped shoulders.


    Aleah... So that was the name of the woman he remembered. But how had he learned it?


    Zeta pulled out a chair for the man before sitting at Aleah''s desk.


    "I don''t need to draw out my words with you, but the delicacy of the situation requires a detailed explanation. I''ll tell you everything clearly."


    This conversation felt familiar from somewhere ¡ª as if he had heard the same words, in the same tone of voice before. Each sentence, each emphasis, even Zeta''s posture triggered an echo of memory in his mind. This d¨¦j¨¤ vu feeling was so strong that he could almost predict the next words.


    "It''s true that you died before ¡ª it''s important that you accept this fact. We had to keep you in special conditions for a long time because our technology wasn''t advanced enough yet."This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    No, no ¡ª this wasn''t just d¨¦j¨¤ vu. He had lived through this conversation before, with every word, every intonation, every detail. Deep in his mind, there was a crystal-clear foresight of how this scene would continue. And at that moment, a voice began to rise from within. This was different from his inner voice, a foreign voice he had never heard before ¡ª echoing through the corridors of his mind like the resonance of another consciousness. A voice he didn''t recognize or know, but strangely felt very close to. This voice seemed to be trying to tell him something, as if struggling to free him from a cycle he had been trapped in for a long time.


    "Change it! Don''t continue the same way! The only way to escape this cycle, this endless repetition, is change! Stop repeating everything the same way!" The inner voice was rising, almost turning into a desperate cry.


    This voice... It was practically begging the man, desperately pleading. It was struggling for him to do something different. But what did he need to change? What decisions should he make differently? Why should he make decisions differently? This mysterious voice from the depths of his mind echoed even more clearly and vividly than Geminga.


    He hesitated for a moment. A voice in his own mind that was clearer than Geminga... How could this be possible? And was Geminga really him? Why did this name feel so foreign? Among all these questions and contradictions in his mind, he hesitantly parted his lips and finally gathered the courage to ask:


    "Who is Geminga?" His voice echoed in the room''s silence.


    Zeta''s expression changed at the unexpected question, raising one eyebrow slightly.


    "You are Geminga. You just introduced yourself to me with that name. Has your memory become clouded so quickly?" he said, unable to hide the curiosity in his voice.


    The man hadn''t actually directed the question at Zeta. He had inadvertently voiced the complex questions from the depths of his mind. At that moment, a voice rose from the folds of his brain ¡ª a voice so familiar, so close, it was like that of a friend who had lived within him for years.


    "I''ve finally regained my consciousness." said the voice inside.


    "Who are you?" the man asked the voice in his mind.


    "I''m Geminga, but something''s strange here. We were in a completely different place just now, weren''t we? There was... there was someone fish-like with us, where are they now?"


    "What do you mean? What fish? What are you talking about?"


    "There was a fish-like girl with us, I''m sure of it."


    "I don''t understand anything. I have no idea what you''re talking about."


    "What''s wrong?" Zeta interjected, seemingly disturbed by the man''s prolonged silence and self-muttering.


    "Ask if they have a task for you." Geminga whispered in his mind. "I need to check something."


    Following Geminga''s prompting, the man asked with a trembling voice, "Zeta, do you have a task prepared for me?"


    Zeta''s face suddenly lit up, a sparkle appearing in his eyes. "Wow! If I had known you''d be this eager for your task, I would have awakened you much earlier!" he said, laughing cheerfully. "Yes, there actually is a task. I was planning to discuss it in detail at breakfast tomorrow. Your enthusiasm is truly delightful."


    "I can''t wait until tomorrow, I want you to tell me right now." the man said impatiently.


    "Trust me, friend, even if I told you now, we''d still have to wait until tomorrow. There''s someone I want you to meet."


    "Something strange is going on here..." said Geminga, his voice thoughtful and uneasy. "Everything feels oddly familiar. We''ve forgotten something important, but I can''t figure out what it is. We need to stay alert."


    "What do you mean? We were dead for seven thousand years. I''m meeting you for the first time."


    "If this is really our first meeting, how were you able to wake me up? How do you know my name? And more importantly, why are you so little disturbed by hearing another voice in your mind?"


    "Trust me, I am quite disturbed."


    "You''re too calm about having a foreign entity speaking in your mind. You''re acting as if you''re used to this situation."


    "I don''t want to hear these theories anymore. My head is throbbing."


    "Very well, I''ll stay quiet for now. I have important things to think about. If you need me, just say my name in your mind. But don''t disturb me unnecessarily." said Geminga and fell silent.


    "Well, I think that''s enough conversation for today. I have some important matters to attend to, we''ll discuss the details more comprehensively tomorrow." said Zeta, placing his hand gently on the man''s shoulder in a supportive gesture. "I''m certain we''ll accomplish very important and impressive things together." he said, with a sincere and hopeful smile on his face.


    The man rose heavily from his chair just as Aleah entered the room carrying two glasses. Zeta glided toward her and took one, taking a contemplative sip.


    "You''re a bit late as usual, Aleah. I''m aware of your potential and I know you can do better. I have complete faith in you." said Zeta, absently fixing his hair while looking at his reflection in one of the large metal machines in the room.


    "Your conversation seems to have gone well. Here, have a drink." she said, extending the glass to the man.


    The man drank the green liquid in one gulp without thinking.


    "People usually prefer to drink sona slowly. Its calming and relaxing effects work better that way. Though according to some research, drinking it quickly can also have a revitalizing effect."


    "What exactly is this thing you call sona? I''m hearing about it for the first time."


    "It''s the essence of the sona flower with some sweetener."


    "It tastes good."


    "I''ll make you some more when you come for your check-up tomorrow. For now, I have work to prepare. Come, let me show you to your room."


    When they left the room, a long and quiet corridor lit with blue lights greeted them. The cold blue light emitted by LED strips along the metal walls gave their path a ghostly atmosphere. Aleah led the way, their footsteps echoing in the empty corridors as they walked through maze-like passages with sharp turns. After a few minutes of walking, they stopped in front of a metal door that looked no different from the others. When the man opened the door, he saw a minimal room containing only basic necessities - a single bed, a small table, a chair, and a simple bathroom unit in the corner. The room''s only decoration was a pale white light hanging from the ceiling. As soon as he stepped inside, the door automatically closed behind him and locked with a characteristic click.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, he spent some time thinking about what Geminga had said, analyzing every word echoing in his mind over and over. To relax his mind, overwhelmed with complex thoughts, he got up and headed to the bathroom. He shivered as the cold water touched his skin, but this sensation felt strangely good. After getting out of the shower, he dropped his tired body onto the bed and quickly fell into a deep sleep.