ã€ŠALEXANDRIAã€‹


 I: The Black Hole and the Star

    Earth 2.0 - 1950 After Migration (AM), Tuesday, June 12

    The city of LYOD pulsed with artificial life, neon signs flickering in rhythmic patterns against the darkened skyline. In a cramped workshop, no bigger than a car garage, a young man hunched over his desk, his fingers deftly assembling a delicate mechanism. The glow from his work lamp cut through the dim space, casting long shadows that danced with his movements.

    Beyond the workshop¡¯s thin walls, the world remained steeped in an endless night¡ªtwo years of uninterrupted darkness stretching across this half of the planet. Somewhere beyond the skyline, past towering spires and the maze of streets, the other side of the world basked in relentless daylight, warmed by the distant ember of the TRAPPIST-1 star. This planet, adrift 40 light-years from Earth 1.0, spun at a measured, deliberate pace. A full rotation took eight years, four years of unbroken night, followed by four years of unyielding day.

    Inside the workshop, time belonged only to the hum of machinery and the quiet determination of the young man at his desk..

    A frown creased Alex¡¯s brow as he studied the half-finished device on his desk. Something was missing. He turned it over in his hands, the dim glow of his work lamp reflecting off polished metal and tangled circuitry. A crucial mechanical component, gone, or perhaps never acquired in the first place. He exhaled sharply, pushing back from his chair.

    With a practiced motion, he grabbed his worn-out coat from the back of his chair and slipped it on. The fabric, tattered at the edges, was a testament to long nights of work and wandering. He reached for his tool belt, securing it around his waist before stepping outside.

    The air outside was dense, heavy with the scent of rust and ozone, the unmistakable tang of a city built on machinery. Fluorescent signs buzzed and flickered, bathing the alleyways in eerie, shifting hues. LYOD never truly slept, not in the endless night, nor in the unrelenting day.

    Alex, though most people, for reasons even he had stopped questioning, simply called him Sir, moved with purpose. His boots echoed softly against the pavement as he navigated through narrow streets, heading toward the scrapyard.

    It wasn¡¯t just necessity that pushed him to salvage old parts. It was survival.

    He had the knowledge, an associate degree in engineering, a foundation that once held promise. But in this era, knowledge alone wasn¡¯t enough. The world had advanced too quickly, raising the bar of competence to impossible heights. As technology surged forward, so did the lines between man and machine, until the distinction blurred beyond recognition.

    The unemployment rate had risen with this shift, swallowing those who couldn¡¯t keep up. Alex had been among them.

    Artificial humans now walked the same streets as organics, indistinguishable in appearance, intelligence, and even emotion. The world government had long since leveled the playing field, granting them the same rights as their flesh-and-blood counterparts. Activists had pushed for equality, their voices growing louder until the world relented. Now, human was a term without a definitive boundary.

    For people like Alex, it meant one thing: adapt, or be left behind.

    That was why he built, crafted advanced utilities, intricate devices, anything that could sell at a price low enough to compete in a saturated market. And tonight, with a missing component halting his work, there was only one place to go.

    The scrapyard.

    His pace quickened, the neon glow of the city stretching out before him as he disappeared into its depths.

    On the opposite side of LYOD, where the skyline shimmered with towering glass monoliths, the most prestigious institution of technological advancement loomed above the city, Trappistan University. Within its sleek, high-tech halls, a young woman meticulously adjusted the settings on her presentation console, the soft glow of the interface reflecting in her sharp, calculating eyes.

    The auditorium around her buzzed with quiet anticipation. Faculty members, industry experts, and fellow students were already beginning to take their seats, some whispering about the significance of today¡¯s event.

    At the heart of the commotion stood Starlight.

    Her presence alone commanded attention, not just because of her striking composure, but because she was the kind of student who left no room for doubt. For years, she had been the institution¡¯s brightest mind, earning the nickname Miss Best Answer for her uncanny ability to dismantle even the most complex questions with precision and flawless logic.

    But today wasn¡¯t about academic titles.

    Today, she was here to prove something greater.

    Her research, artificial genetic enhancement technology, was not just another study among the sea of scientific projects; it was the cutting-edge field of the era. And she wasn¡¯t merely a participant in it, she was leading it.

    A prototype rested on the podium beside her, sleek and compact, embodying years of development and innovation. It was this device that had secured her full institutional backing, this device that had pushed her research beyond theoretical limits and into the realm of tangible reality.

    And today, at precisely 14:30, she would stand before some of the most influential minds in the world and present what could be the next step in human evolution.

    Trappistan University - 08:35

    The morning air inside Trappistan University¡¯s service wing was thick with the scent of industrial disinfectant and stale coffee. In the breakroom, a handful of workers stood around, some rubbing sleep from their eyes, others nursing half-empty cups of lukewarm caffeine.

    Stepan leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his stomach gnawing at him in protest. He hadn¡¯t had time for breakfast, not that skipping a meal was anything new.

    His supervisor, a wiry man with graying temples and a permanent frown, stood at the front of the room, flipping through a digital clipboard. With a tired sigh, he adjusted his glasses and began the daily briefing.

    ¡°Alright, listen up. Today¡¯s assignments are up on your devices. Stepan, you¡¯re on scrap duty, there¡¯s a package waiting in Lab A2, second hallway of the main hall. Needs to go to the scrap shelter immediately.¡±

    Stepan let out a groan, rubbing his empty stomach. ¡°Right now? Or can I at least grab something to eat first?¡±

    His supervisor shot him a sharp look. ¡°No. That package contains scrap astable material. If it sits too long, it goes radioactive.¡±

    Stepan¡¯s eyes widened slightly. ¡°Radioactive? Seriously?¡±

    ¡°Seriously. So unless you want to start glowing in the dark, I suggest you move your ass.¡±

    Stepan sighed, rolling his shoulders before standing up straight. ¡°Fine, fine. What am I looking for?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s packed in a chromium box. Shouldn¡¯t be hard to spot.¡±

    Stepan exhaled through his nose, already regretting his life choices. ¡°Got it.¡±

    The supervisor glanced at the rest of the crew, clapped his hands together, and nodded. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s it for the morning briefing. Get to work.¡±

    The room filled with the usual chorus of mumbled acknowledgments, scraping chairs, and shuffling boots as the workers dispersed. Stepan lingered for just a second longer before dragging himself toward the main hall, his stomach still growling in protest.

    It was going to be a long morning.

    Trappistan University ¨C 08:00

    The morning sun cast long shadows across the entrance of Trappistan University, its glass facade reflecting the busy movement of students and faculty rushing to their destinations. Starlight stood at the edge of the main hall, shifting her weight from one foot to the other, arms crossed. She kept glancing toward the road, her lips pressed together in a tight line.

    She was waiting.

    ¡°Good morning, Miss Best Answer!¡±

    A playful voice rang out behind her, followed by the light tapping of boots on the pavement. Starlight turned her head slightly, already knowing who it was.

    Revana, her ever-enthusiastic colleague, strolled up beside her with a smirk. ¡°How are your preparations today?¡±

    Starlight groaned, rubbing her temples. ¡°Ughh, Revana, can you not call me that today? I¡¯m already drowning in nerves as it is.¡±

    Revana chuckled, bumping Starlight¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Oh, come on, Star, don¡¯t tense up too much. You don¡¯t want your shoulders doing a robot dance in the middle of your presentation, do you?¡±

    Starlight let out an exasperated sigh but couldn¡¯t help the small, reluctant smile creeping onto her face.

    Revana tilted her head. ¡°So? What are you waiting for?¡±

    ¡°My prototype,¡± Starlight said, scanning the street again. ¡°The final fabrication came through last night. The lab is shipping it over from central fabrication.¡±

    As if on cue, a large transport truck rumbled into view, its engine hissing as it slowed near the package receiving area by the main hall. The rear container lifted slightly, preparing to unload.

    ¡°Ah! There it is!¡± Starlight¡¯s mood instantly lifted, her eyes bright with anticipation.

    Revana folded her arms, watching the truck maneuver into position. ¡°By the way, Star,¡± she said casually, ¡°have you prepped your thesis approval files?¡±

    Starlight blinked.

    Her heart skipped.

    Her eyes widened in realization.

    ¡°Oh no!¡± She smacked her forehead. ¡°I completely forgot! I still have time, right? I can run to the administration office after I get my package!¡±

    Revana raised an eyebrow. ¡°You¡¯d better hurry, though. The admin room is a madhouse right now.¡±

    Starlight bit her lip, glancing between the truck and the university¡¯s main building. No time to panic, think!

    ¡°I¡¯ll tell the courier to drop my package in front of Lab A2,¡± she decided quickly. ¡°That way, I can pick it up after I handle my files.¡± She turned to Revana with a grateful nod. ¡°Thanks, Rev, you just saved me.¡±

    Revana grinned. ¡°That¡¯s what friends are for.¡±

    Wasting no time, Starlight rushed toward the truck as the chromium box, her prototype, was carefully lowered onto a mechanical platform. She signed off on the delivery paperwork in a blur, barely acknowledging the courier before instructing him, ¡°Put it in front of Lab A2, please. I¡¯ll grab it as soon as I¡¯m done.¡±

    The courier nodded, and with that, Starlight spun on her heel and sprinted toward the administration office.

    Revana chuckled, watching her friend disappear into the crowd. ¡°She¡¯s gonna stress herself into an early grave one day.¡±

    Shaking her head, she turned and headed inside.

    Trappistan University ¨C 08:45

    Stepan adjusted the straps of his work gloves, exhaling as he made his way down the empty hallway. His boots echoed against the polished floors, the usual hum of the university''s research labs barely audible at this hour.

    Alright, Lab A2, he thought, rolling his shoulders. Shouldn¡¯t take too long.

    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    But as soon as he reached the lab¡¯s entrance, he stopped short, eyebrows furrowing.

    Two chromium boxes sat neatly in front of the door.

    Stepan scratched the back of his head. ¡°Huh.¡± He shifted his gaze between them, as if staring hard enough would make one of them glow with a ¡°THIS ONE¡± sign.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t Mr. Wizz say a package?¡± he muttered to himself. ¡°He never mentioned how many there were¡­¡±

    He let out a deep sigh, tapping his fingers against his hip. The last thing he wanted was to get chewed out for leaving something behind. And considering how strict they were about handling scrap materials¡ªespecially anything with unstable components, it was probably best to err on the side of caution.

    ¡°Eh, screw it. I¡¯ll just take both,¡± he decided, crouching down.

    With a grunt, he heaved the first box onto his shoulder, then carefully positioned the second one under his other arm. The weight was manageable, but the awkward size made balancing tricky. Muttering under his breath, he adjusted his grip and started his trek to the scrap yard.

    Unbeknownst to him, one of those boxes wasn¡¯t just scrap.

    It was the culmination of years of cutting-edge research.

    A prototype that could change everything.

    And he was hauling it off to be discarded like junk.

    Roadway ¨C 10:20

    The cold night air clung to Alex¡¯s skin as he walked, the neon glow of the city painting his path in shifting hues of blue, red, and green. The streets bustled despite the perpetual darkness that had ruled this side of the planet for two years now. The artificial lights overhead hummed softly, flickering against the blackened sky, a poor substitute for sunlight.

    Alex didn¡¯t rush. He took measured steps, letting the crisp air cool his head, steady his heart. He needed to be calm, focused. Tonight was just another nigh, one more trip to the junkyard, one more scavenged part to complete his work. His emerald eyes, reflecting the glow of a nearby streetlamp, held steady on the road ahead.

    Then, a burst of sound from a passing billboard caught his attention.

    ¡°It looks like Roman Ohlson has a slight lead over Russle Vasseur in this first round of voting, while Linda Rosa remains in third place, trailing significantly behind.¡±

    Alex paused mid-step. The voice of the news anchor was quickly followed by scattered murmurs from the crowd gathered below the massive screen.

    ¡°Great, the ADA candidate is leading,¡± someone scoffed. ¡°This is gonna be a disaster.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± another muttered. ¡°If he wins, how long do you think it''ll take before they start hunting down the artificials?¡±

    ¡°If that happens, the Vasseur family and PHI are screwed. ADA¡¯s made it clear, they don¡¯t care if you¡¯re artificial or not, as long as you stand in their way.¡±

    ¡°I just hope this doesn¡¯t turn into another massacre¡­¡±

    Alex exhaled sharply, a shiver running up his spine. He clenched his fists, then forced his hands into his coat pockets. Not my problem. Not anymore.

    He willed himself to move forward, ignoring the lingering chill of unease. Whatever happened in politics, in war, in the tangled mess of artificial and organic humanity, it didn¡¯t concern him. That was the past. He was just an unemployed engineer scraping by, making what he could from discarded parts.

    Junkyard ¨C 10:28

    Eight minutes later, he arrived at the junkyard.

    ¡°Hey, back again already? Forget something again, Sir?¡±

    The voice came from behind him, rough and familiar. Alex turned his head, barely making out the figure of Roge, the yard¡¯s gatekeeper, leaning against the entrance booth.

    "Hard to recognize you in this dark morning," Alex greeted, stepping closer.

    Roge chuckled, adjusting the old cap on his head. "Yeah, well. What can I do? Still got two more years of this night shift before the sun shows up again."

    Alex smirked. "Fair point."

    "So, what''d you miss this time?" Roge asked, crossing his arms.

    Alex sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Forgot the spring component for my suspension solenoid."

    Roge let out a low whistle. "Man, you really got a gift for forgetting the important stuff, huh? Hope that habit doesn¡¯t screw you over someday."

    Alex chuckled. "I''ll manage."

    "Yeah, yeah. You know the drill, though. License card," Roge said, holding out his hand.

    Alex dug into his pocket and handed it over. Roge scanned it, then gave a nod. "Alright, usual rules apply, take what you need, but don¡¯t get greedy."

    "Wouldn¡¯t dream of it," Alex replied, already stepping toward the gate.

    "Oh, before you go¡ª" Roge called after him. "New shipment came in this morning. Saw a chromium box in the pile. Might have something useful for you. And watch yourself, some of that stuff¡¯s radioactive."

    Alex gave a casual wave over his shoulder. "Got it."

    As he disappeared into the maze of scrap, Roge shook his head with a smirk. "That guy''s gonna get himself into trouble one of these days¡­"

    Junkyard ¨C 10:35

    The moment Alex stepped into the storage area, the thick scent of rust and ozone filled his lungs. The dim, flickering lights cast jagged shadows over the heaps of discarded tech, making the place look more like a graveyard than a scrapyard. Piles of broken machinery, half-melted metal casings, and shattered circuits were scattered everywhere, free for the taking, as long as you had the right paperwork.

    His radiation suit crinkled as he moved, the bulky gloves making it slightly harder to search through the mess. It only took a few minutes before his gaze landed on two chromium boxes, just as Roge had mentioned. He crouched beside them, eyes narrowing.

    "These don¡¯t match¡­" he thought. One was still sealed, its surface pristine despite the dust settling over it. The other? It looked like a discarded container, its edges scuffed, the lid loosely resting on top.

    "Is this even junk?" Alex wondered, running a gloved hand over the sealed box.

    Something felt¡­ off. The way it was just sitting here, almost carelessly placed, as if someone had set it down in a hurry. His gut told him to check it in the sterile examination chamber first, just to be sure. He reached for his hoverboard, carefully lifting the sealed box onto it. Then, out of curiosity, he pried open the unsealed one.

    His stomach dropped.

    A faint greenish glow pulsed within. The astable material inside was already starting to turn radioactive.

    "Shit!" Alex snapped, slamming the lid shut.

    His pulse thundered in his ears. That stuff, if left unchecked, could be deadly.

    "So my guess was right. That box was just for wrapping the wreckage¡­ but this one?" His eyes flicked back to the sealed chromium box on his hoverboard. "Was this package sent to the wrong address?"

    His jaw tightened. Whatever it was, it didn¡¯t belong here. And if he was right about where it should be, this could turn into a much bigger problem.

    Without wasting another second, he wheeled the hoverboard toward the sterile examination chamber. Once inside, he placed everything onto the sterilization conveyor, letting the system do its work. He peeled off his radiation gear, feeling the cool air hit his damp skin as he stepped into the sterile zone.

    Sid, the facility¡¯s on-site inspector, was already running scans when Alex walked in.

    "How¡¯s it looking?" Alex asked, trying to sound casual.

    Sid barely glanced up from his console. "It¡¯s fine for the most part. But¡ª" He gave Alex a curious look. "Why¡¯d you bring the whole box? You usually just grab parts. Something special about today?"

    Alex sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Not really. More like the opposite. This one didn¡¯t look like scrap, so I wanted to check it first."

    Sid hummed, tapping a few keys before glancing back at the results. "Let¡¯s see¡­ huh. Interesting." His brows lifted slightly. "Says here it¡¯s labeled AGE, Trappistan University."

    Alex stiffened. His fingers curled into a fist.

    Trappistan University.

    And worse, AGE.

    A bitter taste settled on his tongue. A slow, sinking dread spread through his chest.

    "You have got to be kidding me."

    He exhaled sharply, dragging a hand down his face. "Could today get any worse¡­" he muttered under his breath.

    Sid frowned, picking up on his sudden shift in mood. "What¡¯s up with you? Cat got your tongue?"

    Alex shook his head. "Nothing. Just not my lucky day."

    Sid eyed him for a moment before nodding toward the box. "So, you taking this one or what?"

    Alex didn¡¯t even hesitate. "Nope. Probably a misdirected package. Just throw it in lost and found, someone¡¯s bound to come looking for it."

    Sid shrugged. "Suit yourself."

    Alex turned on his heel and walked out, letting the sterilization door hiss shut behind him. His mind, however, refused to let it go.

    AGE. Trappistan University.

    He had no intention of getting involved. But something told him this wasn¡¯t over yet.

    Trappistan University ¨C 10:30

    Administration Room

    Starlight had been stuck in the administration office for nearly two hours. The only thing keeping her from completely unraveling was the fact that her thesis approval files were finally being processed. Now, all she could do was wait.

    She sat in silence, her fingers drumming lightly on her knee. Inside, her nerves twisted in knots. Her ruby-red eyes flicked to the television screen mounted on the wall, where the latest political debate played out.

    "Great. More stress."

    On-screen, a reporter pressed one of the Unoseis Union presidential candidates, Russle Vasseur.

    "Mr. Vasseur, we all know that the only way to distinguish between artificial and organic humans is under extreme stress. What are your thoughts on candidate Ohlson, who is being promoted by ADA? If they win this election, how will your party respond?"

    Vasseur¡¯s expression was firm, unyielding. ¡°I won¡¯t allow it,¡± he stated. ¡°Ohlson and ADA will be dangerous for everyone if they gain power. Their so-called ¡®test¡¯ is only 70% accurate. That¡¯s not enough to guarantee fair results. PHI and our party will investigate the vote counts¡ªwe suspect fraud in Ohlson¡¯s favor.¡±

    Another reporter jumped in. ¡°But what if there isn¡¯t fraud? What if the majority genuinely supports ADA¡¯s ideology?¡±

    Vasseur¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°Then we¡¯ll work even harder to prove that all humans are the same.¡±

    Before Starlight could dwell on the implications of that statement, a familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.

    ¡°Mr. Vasseur is really something, huh?¡± Revana plopped down in the seat next to her, crossing her arms. ¡°I can¡¯t lie, though. I¡¯d be a little worried if Ohlson actually won.¡±

    Starlight sighed, pulling her gaze from the screen. ¡°Yeah¡­ especially that whole method for telling artificial and organic humans apart. It sounds cruel.¡±

    Revana nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s just trust Vasseur and PHI. They¡¯ll handle it.¡± Her tone was light, but there was an edge of concern beneath it.

    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Starlight mumbled, not entirely convinced.

    Sensing the tension, Revana changed the subject. ¡°Hey, speaking of Vasseur¡ªdid you know that a Vasseur was once a star student here? Kinda like you.¡±

    Starlight blinked. ¡°A Vasseur? First I¡¯m hearing of it.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, don¡¯t get too lost in your research, Star.¡± Revana grinned. ¡°If I remember right, his name was Alexsir Vasseur. He¡¯s Russle Vasseur¡¯s son. And¡ª¡± she leaned in slightly, ¡°he¡¯s the one who came up with the theory behind Artificial Genetic Enhancers. AGE. The same thing you¡¯re working on now.¡±

    Starlight¡¯s breath hitched. ¡°Alexsir¡ª¡±

    Before she could ask more, a voice called out from the front desk.

    ¡°Starlight Stellar!¡±

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s you!¡± Revana nudged her. ¡°Looks like your paperwork¡¯s done.¡±

    ¡°Right. I¡¯ll be back in a sec.¡± Starlight stood and hurried toward the office.

    After handling the last bit of documentation, Starlight and Revana made their way toward Corridor 2, just outside Lab A2, where her package had been left.

    The moment they arrived, Starlight¡¯s stomach dropped.

    It was gone.

    Her head snapped toward Revana. ¡°Reva¡­ my package was right here, wasn¡¯t it?¡±

    Revana stiffened. ¡°Yeah. I swear it was here.¡±

    A cold panic settled over Starlight¡¯s chest. ¡°No, no, no, this isn¡¯t happening.¡±

    Revana held up a hand. ¡°Okay, deep breath. Let¡¯s check with security. Maybe they moved it somewhere safer.¡±

    Without wasting another second, they sprinted to the security office.

    ¡°Please,¡± Starlight pleaded with the officers, ¡°tell me someone moved my package.¡±

    One of the security officers, Gabie, frowned as he scanned the records. The silence stretched a little too long.

    Finally, he exhaled. ¡°Ah¡­ I see.¡±

    Starlight felt a flicker of hope. ¡°So? Where is it?¡±

    Gabie rubbed his neck. ¡°Uh¡­ a janitor took it.¡±

    Starlight paled. ¡°What do you mean, took it?¡±

    Gabie clicked through the security footage, then winced. ¡°Yeah. They thought it was trash.¡±

    Revana inhaled sharply. ¡°Oh no.¡±

    Starlight was already heading for the door. ¡°We need to find them. Now.¡±

    Gabie stood. ¡°I¡¯ll come with you. Let¡¯s check the cleaning room.¡±

    With panic rising in her chest, Starlight rushed down the hall. If that package was gone for good¡­ she didn¡¯t even want to think about it.

    Trappistan University ¨C 11:10

    Cleaning Room

    Stepan finally had a moment to breathe. After hauling trash all morning, he could sit back, relax, and enjoy his breakfast. He leaned against the break room couch, flipping his attention between the food in his hands and the TV mounted on the wall.

    The news was still buzzing about the election. On-screen, a reporter pressed the leading candidate, Mr. Ohlson.

    "Mr. Ohlson, if elected, will you fully implement ADA¡¯s policies?"

    Ohlson didn¡¯t hesitate. His cold, even voice sent a chill down Stepan¡¯s spine.

    "There should only be one kind of human. Any being not created by the true creator is not life, they are mere tools, fabricated by human hands. Imperfect. Disposable."

    Stepan nearly choked on his food. ¡°Whoa. This guy¡¯s nuts. And he¡¯s the front-runner?¡± He muttered, shaking his head.

    Before he could take another bite, the break room door slammed open.

    "STEPAN!!!"

    His boss¡¯s voice boomed through the room. Stepan flinched so hard he almost dropped his plate.

    ¡°Y-Yes, Mr. Wizz? What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    Before Mr. Wizz could answer, three more people rushed in, two women and a security officer. Their expressions were a mix of panic and urgency.

    The woman in front wasted no time. ¡°Did you take my package to the dump?¡± she demanded.

    Stepan blinked. ¡°Package? I only took trash, like I was told.¡±

    Mr. Wizz¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Trash package! I told you to take trash! Not something that was still sealed!¡±

    Stepan¡¯s confusion deepened. ¡°Wait, what? You told me to take the chromium boxes. You didn¡¯t say how many! Everything there was a chromium box, so I took all of them.¡±

    ¡°You should¡¯ve asked for clarification!¡± Wizz snapped.

    ¡°Alright, enough.¡± Gabie, the security officer, stepped in before the argument could escalate further. ¡°Pointing fingers won¡¯t get the package back. We need to head to the dump now, before someone else takes it.¡±

    Starlight¡¯s fingers clenched into fists. ¡°I have a presentation at 14:00. I need that package.¡±

    Gabie checked his watch. ¡°We¡¯ve still got time. Stepan, you¡¯re driving.¡±

    Stepan groaned. ¡°Man, I haven¡¯t even finished breakfast.¡±

    Wizz shot him a look. ¡°Go now, and I might forgive you.¡±

    Stepan sighed in defeat. ¡°Fine. Everybody in the truck.¡±

    Within minutes, they were piling into vehicles, Stepan, Starlight, and Revana in his truck, while Gabie and Wizz followed close behind in a security car, sirens on.

    The race against time had begun.

    Junkyard ¨C 11:35

    The group arrived at the junkyard, tension hanging in the air. As soon as they stepped out of the vehicle, Roge gave them a once-over, then leaned against a stack of metal scraps with a smirk.

    ¡°So, what brings you all here?¡± he asked, arms crossed.

    ¡°We¡¯re looking for a package,¡± Starlight said, her voice still edged with panic.

    Roge¡¯s expression shifted as he recalled something. ¡°Oh! You guys are lucky. My buddy, Sir, just found something like that. Didn¡¯t take it, though, said someone would probably come looking for it. Ha! His instincts are always spot-on, even if he does have a habit of forgetting things.¡±

    ¡°Sir?¡± Starlight frowned. ¡°Where did he take it?¡±

    ¡°Relax,¡± Roge chuckled. ¡°According to procedure, anything unclaimed gets sent to the lost and found.¡±

    Starlight let out a breath she didn¡¯t realize she was holding. ¡°Thank you, sir.¡±

    Without wasting another second, she, Revana, and Stepan rushed toward the lost and found room. Mr. Wizz and Gabie stayed behind, watching them disappear into the building.

    Inside, as soon as they spotted the package sitting safely on a counter, relief flooded through Starlight.

    ¡°Thank goodness, Star! And you, Mr. Stepan, you really need to be more careful with your job!¡± Revana scolded, crossing her arms.

    Stepan scratched his head. ¡°Hey, I hadn¡¯t even had breakfast when I got ordered to haul stuff. Cut me some slack.¡± He sighed, then turned to Starlight. ¡°Anyway, my bad, Miss Star.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Starlight said, her voice softer now. ¡°What matters is that we found it.¡±

    Revana exhaled. ¡°Still, I wonder who was kind enough to return it?¡±

    Stepan scoffed. ¡°Kind? More like an idiot. Who in their right mind gives up something valuable like this?¡±

    Revana shot him a glare. ¡°Maybe someone who isn¡¯t selfish.¡±

    Ignoring their bickering, Starlight picked up the package and glanced at the attached label.

    Donated by Sir Alex.

    She blinked, then let out a quiet laugh. Who calls themselves ¡®Sir¡¯?

    Still, something about it amused her. Maybe even intrigued her.

    ¡°I think he¡¯s¡­ an interesting person,¡± she murmured, a small smile forming.

    With that, the crisis was averted. The star shone once again.

    But elsewhere, beyond this fleeting moment of relief, the black hole of this cosmic story still loomed, waiting.

    End of chapter I.

 II: Pulsar

    Esoterra ¨C 1948 AM, Thursday, March 27

    Cafeteria ¨C 13:25

    ¡°Hernietta, I heard your son¡¯s making waves at TU. A real genius, huh? They say he¡¯s behind some groundbreaking tech,¡± one of the researchers remarked, stirring his coffee.

    ¡°Yeah, Hern, isn¡¯t that amazing? Like mother, like son!¡± another chimed in.

    A third nodded. ¡°Word is, he perfected the theorem we¡¯ve been struggling with. Guess that¡¯s how it should be, right? The next generation surpassing us.¡±

    Hernietta chuckled, shaking her head. ¡°You¡¯re all giving me too much credit. That¡¯s his own hard work, nothing to do with me. The best I can offer is my prayers and hope that he chooses the right path.¡±

    ¡°A mother¡¯s pride,¡± one of them mused, smiling. ¡°Speaking of achievements, how¡¯s the sample coming along?¡±

    Hernietta checked her tablet. ¡°We¡¯ll be running the tests right after this break.¡±

    Trial Room ¨C 14:30

    Hernietta placed a gentle hand on Naura¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Are you absolutely sure about this? If you have any doubts, we can stop now.¡±

    Naura met her gaze, determined. ¡°I¡¯m sure, Mrs. Hern. If this works, we might finally have some answers.¡±

    Hernietta studied the young woman for a moment before nodding. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s say a prayer before we begin.¡±

    The room fell silent as the team bowed their heads. When the moment passed, a researcher straightened and checked the final readings. ¡°All systems ready. Preparing to administer the injection.¡±

    ¡°Starting in 5¡­ 4¡­ 3¡­ 2¡­ 1¡­¡±

    The vial emptied into Naura¡¯s bloodstream. The monitors flickered with data.

    ¡°Sample successfully integrated. Running immune system diagnostics,¡± another researcher announced.

    Hernietta leaned in. ¡°Naura? How do you feel?¡±

    Silence.

    Then, a sharp breath.

    ¡°Mom¡­¡± Naura¡¯s voice trembled. Her hands clutched her head, fingers digging into her scalp. ¡°Mom¡­ WHO AM I!?¡±

    The air shifted. Every hair on Hernietta¡¯s body stood on end.

    ¡°Emergency! Subject displaying extreme immune reactivity, mutation confirmed! Initiating extermination protocol!¡± a researcher barked.

    A hand hovered over the emergency kill-switch. But before it could be pressed¡ª

    CRACK!

    Naura lunged, smashing through the reinforced glass like it was paper. The researcher barely had time to gasp before her hands wrapped around his throat.

    ¡°JACK!¡± Hernietta¡¯s scream cut through the chaos.

    ¡°WHO AM I!?¡± Naura shrieked again, voice raw, eyes wild with something inhuman.

    A yellow-green glow pulsed beneath her skin, growing brighter. The radiation meter spiked.

    ¡°She¡¯s going critical!¡± someone shouted.

    Hernietta¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°MARRY! Lock down Area 26! Now!¡±

    Marry fumbled for the controls, but it was too late.

    A searing flash¡ª

    BOOM.

    The night sky of Esoterra lit up in a violent burst, radiation surging outward in a 30-meter radius. It wasn¡¯t an explosion of destruction, but something far worse, a silent, invisible storm of energy.

    Hernietta, barely clinging to life, crawled toward the communication terminal. With the last of her strength, she sent a desperate signal to Earth 2.0.

    Then, nothing.

    Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Wednesday, June 13

    Shelter ¨C 06:45

    The interplanetary comm device buzzed again, sharp, insistent, like it had been for the past few minutes.

    Alex jolted upright, heart pounding as he registered the blinking Esoterra identifier on the screen. His breath caught.

    ¡°Mom?¡±

    He tapped the message open. The voice that played was weak but unmistakable.

    ¡°My dear Alex, congratulations on your achievement¡­ how are you, son? I¡¯m glad you¡¯re okay. Cough cough¡­ Alex, I¡¯m sorry¡­ there¡¯s not much I can give you. I should be there for you, in your best and worst moments. But here I am, choosing to do what I believe is right¡­ putting humanity first, even over my own son.¡±

    Alex gripped the edge of the table, knuckles white.

    ¡°Alex¡­ be yourself. The only thing I can give you is hope. I hope¡­ I hope the choices you make will be the best for you.¡±

    A long pause. Then, softer, almost pleading.

    ¡°Live, Alex. Just¡­ live. Being alive is the best part of life. Cherish it.¡±

    A sharp breath, then static.

    Alex¡¯s chest tightened. ¡°Mom¡­¡± His vision blurred as hot tears spilled down his face. Something was wrong.

    The static crackled again. A faint voice, distorted, desperate.

    ¡°Alex¡­ alive¡­ I want to live, Alex. I WANT TO LIVE¡ª¡±

    Tuuuut. Tuuuut. Tuuuut.

    The signal cut.

    Alex gasped, his body locking up as the world around him dissolved. He felt it again, the crushing weight, the suffocating silence. He wasn¡¯t in his shelter anymore. He was back there. In that moment.

    The explosion. The glow.

    His mother¡¯s voice fading into nothing.

    His breath came in ragged gasps. Cold sweat dripped from his chin.

    ¡°Another nightmare?¡± he muttered, pressing a shaking hand to his forehead.

    He sat there for a long moment, staring at the dim ceiling. Then, with a groan, he pushed himself up and staggered to the sink.

    The mirror reflected a pale, exhausted face. His own.

    He twisted the faucet. Water splashed against his skin, shocking him back to the present.

    ¡°¡­AGE,¡± he muttered, barely recognizing his own hoarse voice.

    The concept of time was strange on Earth 2.0. The planet¡¯s slow rotation stretched days and nights far beyond what the human body was designed for. And yet, they clung to the ancient system, seconds, minutes, hours, weeks, because losing that would mean losing themselves.

    Alex never paid much attention to it. The only thing that mattered was today.

    And today, he was busy.

    The clock read 06:45, fifteen minutes before another endless routine. Another day in his cramped shelter, no bigger than a garage. Another job.

    Thirty anti-gravity thrusters. A custom order. His highest-priced product.

    By 15:45, he had to deliver them.

    No delays. No distractions.

    And definitely, no time for dreams.

    Trappistan University ¨C 09:14

    Library

    The scent of old books and freshly printed research papers lingered in the air as Starlight stepped inside the library. Sunlight streamed through the massive windows, casting long beams of gold across the polished wooden floor.

    ¡°Good morning, Miss Stellar!¡± Mrs. Kelly, the librarian, greeted her with a warm smile from behind the counter. ¡°And congratulations on your AGE development! A great success, I hear.¡±

    Starlight returned the smile, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. ¡°You flatter me, Mrs. Kelly. But I do hope it helps stabilize things¡­ The uncertainty has gone on for too long.¡±

    Mrs. Kelly chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll drink to that! Now, what brings you here, Miss Best Answer?¡±

    Starlight laughed softly at the nickname before lowering her voice. ¡°I heard that the AGE concept was first proposed by someone else before my research. I was wondering if there¡¯s any documentation on Alexsir Vasseur?¡±

    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    At the mention of the name, Mrs. Kelly¡¯s smile faded slightly. She let out a small sigh, her gaze drifting as if recalling something distant.

    ¡°Alexsir, huh¡­¡± She shook her head. ¡°Poor kid. Just like you, he was one of my favorites. Always here, always reading, always pushing ideas after finishing just a single book. A brilliant mind. But after that¡­ incident at the research center on Esoterra¡¯s midnight side¡ª¡± she hesitated, then sighed again. ¡°He vanished. Just like that. No trace.¡±

    Starlight frowned. ¡°Vanished?¡±

    Mrs. Kelly nodded. ¡°Like he was wiped from existence. No biography, no official records¡ªnothing.¡±

    Starlight bit her lip. ¡°Nothing at all?¡±

    ¡°Well, there is something¡­¡± Mrs. Kelly tapped her chin, then snapped her fingers. ¡°Wait here.¡±

    She disappeared into the archive section, leaving Starlight standing in silence.

    Three minutes later, she returned, holding a thin, slightly worn book.

    ¡°Here,¡± she said, placing it on the counter.

    Starlight picked it up, scanning the title.

    ¡°Calculus of Emotions.¡±

    She arched an eyebrow. ¡°What is this?¡±

    ¡°A research paper he wrote in his first year,¡± Mrs. Kelly explained. ¡°It discusses how implanted genetics correlate with the formation of a subject¡¯s subconscious.¡± She shook her head, a small smile forming. ¡°Honestly, it¡¯s absurdly complex. I don¡¯t remember half of what I read. Hard to believe an eighteen-year-old wrote it.¡±

    Starlight ran her fingers over the embossed title, feeling a strange weight settle in her chest.

    ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Kelly,¡± she said, quickly filling out the loan form.

    She turned to leave, but as she stepped out of the library, she nearly collided with someone carrying a trash basket.

    ¡°Whoa, oh, Stepan! Good morning!¡±

    The janitor glanced up, brushing dark bangs out of his eyes. ¡°Oh. Miss Star. Morning. Not that there¡¯s been a morning for the past two years.¡± His voice carried his usual sarcastic drawl, but his eyes flickered toward the book in her arms.

    His expression darkened.

    ¡°You still think that idiot who dumped your package at the junkyard¡¯s lost-and-found is the same person as your fictional idol?¡± he muttered.

    Before Starlight could respond, another voice cut in.

    ¡°Hey, troublemaker! Watch your mouth!¡±

    Revana.

    She strode up, arms crossed, glaring at Stepan. ¡°You don¡¯t get to judge other people when you¡¯re like, this.¡±

    Stepan smirked. ¡°Oh, and here comes the nagging lady.¡± He gave a mock bow. ¡°But really, both that overly nice guy and your fictional idol, Miss Star shouldn¡¯t waste her time chasing ghosts.¡±

    He turned slightly, his face shadowed as his tone dropped.

    ¡°In my experience, people like them don¡¯t bring happiness.¡±

    Revana scoffed. ¡°Huh?! At least people like them are better than you, troublemaker!¡±

    Starlight watched the two bicker, but her mind was elsewhere.

    Chasing ghosts?

    She didn¡¯t refute them.

    Not because she agreed, but because she wasn¡¯t sure what she was chasing anymore.

    ¡°Star?¡±

    She blinked. Revana was looking at her, concern etched on her face.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡±

    Starlight hesitated, then forced a smile. ¡°Ah, no, I was just thinking¡­ You two have gotten really close, huh?¡±

    Immediately, Stepan and Revana turned to each other, then away, faces flushing slightly.

    ¡°Haaah?! No way!¡± they denied in unison.

    Starlight chuckled.

    ¡°Hmph.¡± Stepan scoffed and picked up his trash basket. ¡°I¡¯ve got work. See you, Miss Star. And you, Miss Grumble.¡±

    Revana fumed. ¡°What¡¯s his problem? You shouldn¡¯t even talk to someone like him, Star!¡±

    Starlight shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s fine, Rev. He means well.¡±

    Revana huffed but let it go. ¡°So, what¡¯s your plan today?¡±

    ¡°I was going to spend some quiet time reading.¡±

    Revana smirked. ¡°And dig deeper into that mysterious prince?¡±

    ¡°Revana!¡± Starlight¡¯s ears burned. ¡°I¡ªI never thought of it like that!¡±

    ¡°Sure, sure. But you did bring the book.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s just a research paper! You seriously think Sir Alex and Alexsir Vasseur are the same person?¡±

    Revana crossed her arms. ¡°It¡¯s too much of a coincidence. The genius who vanished. The mystery guy rejecting AGE. Similar names.¡± She narrowed her eyes. ¡°It just fits.¡±

    She paused, then sighed. ¡°Though¡­ I do agree with Stepan on one thing.¡±

    Starlight raised an eyebrow.

    Revana pursed her lips. ¡°That guy was stupid for returning the package. But maybe it¡¯s the opposite. Maybe he knows something we don¡¯t.¡±

    Silence.

    Starlight had no answer.

    Then¡ª

    Bzzzt.

    Her comm-watch vibrated. A new message.

    She tapped it open.

    SUBJECT: Invitation

    FROM: V

    CC:

    Come to the LYOD city warehouse area, Block F.

    15:45

    You will find something interesting.

    -V

    Starlight¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°V¡­? Warehouse block F?¡±

    Revana peeked at the screen. ¡°That¡¯s sketchy. Just ignore it.¡±

    But Starlight wasn¡¯t convinced.

    This email wasn¡¯t sent to her public address, it had arrived at her private one. The one only trusted people had access to.

    Something about it felt deliberate.

    ¡°¡­I should check this out,¡± she murmured.

    Revana frowned. ¡°Star, come on, it¡¯s obviously a prank.¡±

    Starlight shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±

    Revana¡¯s concern deepened, but before she could protest, Starlight stepped back.

    ¡°Actually, Rev, I forgot I have something to do at my apartment. Let¡¯s split here for now, okay?¡±

    Revana hesitated, but eventually sighed. ¡°¡­Alright. Just be careful, okay?¡±

    Starlight nodded, but something about this invitation made her heartbeat quicken.

    15:45.

    Block F.

    She didn¡¯t know why¡ª

    But she had a feeling this wasn¡¯t just some prank.

    And she had to be there.

    Alex¡¯s Shelter ¨C 14:50

    Deep within his underground workshop, surrounded by the hum of machinery and the faint glow of holo-monitors, Alex worked tirelessly.

    Today, the genius underground engineer had no plans to leave his workstation. His focus was singular, finishing the last batch of anti-gravity thrusters.

    Each one required exactly twenty minutes to assemble.

    By his calculations, the 30th and final unit should be completed at precisely 15:10.

    "Yosh! That¡¯s the last one."

    Alex exhaled in satisfaction, stretching his fingers as he checked the time.

    15:08.

    Right on schedule.

    "Time to pack up."

    Without hesitation, he began loading the 30 anti-gravity thrusters into a crate, securing them carefully onto his hoverboard, a sleek but utilitarian model, built solely for transportation, not for riding.

    By the time he finished packing, the clock read 15:17.

    It was time to go.

    Since he didn¡¯t own a vehicle, and his hoverboard wasn¡¯t designed for carrying people, he had no choice but to travel on foot, his hoverboard floating behind him, following automatically like a silent companion.

    But Alex wasn¡¯t worried.

    He had calculated everything, the exact time, the precise walking pace,

    As long as nothing disrupted his plan,

    He would arrive right on time.

    LYOD City Warehouse Area ¨C 15:40

    Alex walked briskly through the dimly lit corridors of stacked containers, his hoverboard silently following behind, carrying a crate full of anti-gravity thrusters.

    All according to schedule.

    Then, a sinking feeling in his gut.

    Shit. My self-protector.

    His steps stuttered slightly. How did I forget that?

    The underground was lawless. No IDs, no authorities. Only survival. If you couldn¡¯t fight, you needed protection and a self-protector was the best there was. His invention could absorb high-impact kinetic force, even deflect plasma rounds.

    He exhaled sharply. Too late to turn back now.

    Nothing should go wrong. This was just a transaction.

    He pressed on.

    Warehouse Block F ¨C 15:45

    Starlight crouched behind a stack of containers, her sharp ruby eyes scanning the open field ahead.

    A man walked into the clearing, followed closely by a hoverboard carrying a metallic crate. Opposite him, a young woman with blonde hair tied back approached.

    Starlight narrowed her eyes. An illegal deal?

    "You have the package?" the woman asked, voice smooth and businesslike.

    The man didn¡¯t answer immediately. Instead, his gaze flicked around before settling on her.

    "Where¡¯s Mr. Etols? I was told I¡¯d be meeting him," he said, tone light but cautious.

    "Oh, that." The woman tilted her head with an easy smile. "He had other matters to attend to. I am Vale, he sent me instead."

    The man remained unreadable. "That so?"

    His stance shifted slightly.

    "And what did he say about Scipio?"

    The woman hesitated. "Scipio¡­?"

    Then it clicked. A verification test.

    He had expected a response. A counter-sign. If Vale was truly sent by Etols, she would have said "Africanus." Anything else meant red flag.

    Alex¡¯s stomach twisted. Damn. A setup.

    Where¡¯s Etols? Are they holding him? Did they kill him?

    He had to think fast.

    He forced a chuckle, stepping back. "Oh, so you don¡¯t know that Scipio this Scipio lalala¡­. wait, holy shit! What is that glowing thing in the container!?"

    Vale¡¯s head instinctively snapped toward the crates.

    Alex ran.

    "Tch¡­ ACCEL!" Vale, or whoever the hell she was, shouted, calling for backup.

    Behind the Containers

    Starlight watched, wide-eyed.

    Scipio¡­?

    Before she could react¡ª

    "AFFIRM, NAURA! TARGET B IS HERE!"

    A voice erupted behind her.

    She barely turned before a hand clamped over her arm.

    "HAAA!" Starlight screamed, thrashing as a man yanked her back.

    Alex had made it exactly 10 meters before stopping, his minimum safety distance. Outside melee range. Only a 30% chance of getting shot.

    Then...

    "You better not run too far, Sir Alex! Or this woman pays the price!"

    Alex¡¯s jaw clenched. He turned slowly, eyes locking onto Vale, no, Naura.

    Beside her, Accel held Starlight in a firm grip.

    "You¡¯re resorting to hostages now?" Alex scoffed, arms crossing. "Cheating bastards. But what do I care? I don¡¯t even know her."

    Starlight flinched.

    Then...

    "Sir Alex?"

    Her voice was barely above a whisper, but the weight of it made Alex pause.

    Starlight¡¯s eyes widened in shock. Alex? Could it be...

    Naura smirked. "Oh, I think you¡¯ll care." She turned slightly, gesturing toward Starlight.

    "This isn¡¯t just anyone, this is Starlight Stellar."

    The air seemed to freeze.

    Alex¡¯s expression barely changed, but his pupils shrank.

    Naura leaned in slightly, watching him closely. "Ring any bells, Sir Alex?"

    Starlight¡¯s breathing hitched.

    Naura¡¯s smirk widened. "You, of all people, should understand why this matters. Your mother, Hernietta Stellar, was one of the most brilliant minds of her time."

    Starlight stiffened.

    Hernietta Stellar?!

    That name¡­ she knew it. Her father, Brighton Stellar, had mentioned her before. Her father¡¯s distant cousin. A genius only second to him.

    Alex was her son?!

    Her thoughts raced.

    "The Stellar bloodline," Naura continued. "A lineage of unmatched intelligence. And you, Starlight, have perfected AGE..."

    Starlight¡¯s breath hitched again.

    Alex, however, remained eerily still.

    Damn, couldn''t this day get any worse? How could Starlight and Naura be here? What a sick coincidence!

    Alex said in his mind.

    Naura¡¯s smile didn¡¯t waver.

    "But that¡¯s not the only reason we want you both."

    Alex exhaled slowly. "Then what is?"

    Naura¡¯s topaz eyes gleamed.

    "We are Alexandrian."

    Alex¡¯s stomach twisted.

    "Our goal is simple," Naura continued. "Humanity has lost its way. Technology has become its greatest poison. So we will reset it all, wipe every trace of it from existence. We call it the Grand Reset."

    The words hung heavy in the air.

    Alex felt his jaw tighten. Starlight¡¯s hands trembled.

    Naura took a step closer, her tone as smooth as ever.

    "That''s exactly why we need both of you, the underground genius and the genius above the clouds. Together, you''d be the perfect combination to open Pandora¡¯s Box"

    Silence.

    Starlight swallowed hard. Alex¡¯s breathing was slow, measured.

    Then Naura¡¯s smirk returned.

    "Not a bad offer, right?"

    Before Alex could give any responses, crackling plasma shot tore through the air.

    Bang!

    The impact exploded against Accel¡¯s arm.

    ¡°GAHHH!¡± He staggered back, his fingers convulsing as the nerves in his hand seized up. Starlight wrenched herself free, stumbling forward.

    "DON''T THINK YOU CAN LAY A HAND ON STARLIGHT, YOU TERRORISTS!"

    A familiar fierce voice rang out.

    From behind the towering stacks of metal containers, Revana emerged, blaster in hand, eyes blazing with fury.

    She wasn¡¯t alone.

    Stepan, Gabie, and a full squad of security forces flanked her, weapons locked and ready.

    Accel clutched his arm, jaw clenched in pain. ¡°NAURA! THIS IS BAD!¡± he gasped, staggering toward her. ¡°WE NEED TO FALL BACK!¡±

    Naura¡¯s topaz eyes darkened, her lips curling in frustration.

    "Tch¡­ Damn it!"

    Without hesitation, she reached into her coat and hurled something to the ground¡ª

    Smoke erupted.

    A thick gray fog swallowed them whole, and within seconds, the two had vanished.

    "STAR!"

    Revana ran toward Starlight, who stood there, pale, motionless.

    ¡°Reva¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡± Starlight¡¯s voice was steady, but her grip on her sleeve trembled slightly.

    Alex watched, eyes flicking between them. Then without a word he threw the crate off his hoverboard and jumped onto it.

    In an instant, the board roared to life.

    He was gone.

    "WAIT! SIR ALEX!"

    Starlight¡¯s voice cracked, a desperate, almost broken sound.

    Alex didn¡¯t stop.

    Her vision blurred. Her fists clenched.

    "Miss Star, you should stop," Stepan said softly. "I told you, people like him will only bring you pain."

    Her lips quivered. Her knees felt weak.

    Then, for the first time in years, Starlight cried.

    Not because she was hurt. Not because she was weak.

    But because for the first time, she felt abandoned.

    On the rooftop of a nearby building, a figure in a black cloak stood, shrouded in shadows.

    They had seen everything.

    Their voice was quiet, almost a whisper.

    "When a star can no longer hold its own mass¡­"

    They tilted their head slightly, gazing down at Starlight.

    "¡­it collapses into itself, dense, powerful, unstoppable."

    A faint, eerie chuckle.

    "Oh, star that becomes a pulsar¡­ will you illuminate the path¡ª"

    The figure turned their gaze toward where Alex had disappeared.

    "¡ªor will you, become ALEXANDRIA?"

    End of chapter II.

 III: Kaleidoscope

    Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Wednesday, June 13

    Roadway ¨C 16:10

    Alex moved fast, not because he was being chased, but because he needed to leave.

    He had seen enough. Heard enough. Felt enough.

    The day¡¯s events churned in his head like a sick, repetitive melody. Betrayal. Traps. A name from the past.

    His fists clenched. Why now? Why her?

    The answer didn¡¯t matter. None of it did.

    All he knew was that he was done.

    His eyes stayed fixed ahead as he navigated the worn-out paths toward his shelter. He ignored the dimly lit alleys, the distant hum of factory machines, the occasional flickering neon sign that lined the underground city. None of it concerned him anymore.

    He wasn¡¯t afraid. No one would follow.

    He had no value to them anymore.

    But he had to leave.

    This wasn¡¯t panic. It was disgust.

    A deep, suffocating disgust, not just toward today¡¯s madness, but toward everything.

    He had been through too much.

    Felt too much.

    Lost too much.

    Sadness, anger, admiration, hatred, all of it.

    It was exhausting.

    And soon, that exhaustion would turn into boredom.

    And boredom¡­ would make this long, endless night stretch even further.

    Shelter ¨C 16:20

    As soon as he stepped inside, he grabbed a duffel bag and started packing.

    Scrapyard license. His only legitimate cover in this lawless abyss.

    Self-protector. Should¡¯ve worn it earlier, but too late for regrets.

    An old, unused ID. A relic of a past life he had no intention of reclaiming.

    Genetic mutation radar. One of his most advanced pieces of tech, indispensable for work.

    A syringe.

    His hands hesitated over that last one.

    A genetic enhancer.

    It had been sitting untouched for two years.

    A silent reminder of the path he never took.

    He exhaled sharply, then shoved it into the bag.

    Alex knew staying here was no longer an option.

    Ever since he got tangled up with the Chromium Box from TU, everything had spiraled.

    The underground peace he had built for himself had shattered.

    And now?

    People were after him. A whole damn group.

    And he didn¡¯t care. He was just sick of it.

    He wasn¡¯t a hero.

    He wasn¡¯t a revolutionary.

    If Starlight and Naura wanted to change the world, let them. If they wanted to fight for a better future, they could do it without him.

    Because he wasn¡¯t meant for that role.

    He never was.

    If anything, he was just a scavenger. A runaway. A coward.

    And cowards? They leave.

    His fingers hovered over an old bank card.

    One swipe, and he¡¯d have enough wealth live comfortably for the rest of his life.

    But he didn¡¯t touch it.

    He never had.

    And he never would, at least after his final escape.

    Because running away was one thing....living in a past he rejected was another.

    So this time, he would disappear for good.

    To the bright side of the planet....where, in two years, it would fade into darkness.

    And that suited him just fine.

    Because he was done playing a part in this world.

    This time, he¡¯d make sure of it.

    Hangar 6 LYOD Industrial Area Block GF ¨C 19:20

    The LYOD Industrial Area, Block GF, a hub of cutting-edge aerospace innovation.

    Here, aircraft weren¡¯t just manufactured; they were bought and sold at a scale unmatched anywhere else in the TRAPPIST-1 universe. Private owners, corporate giants, and entire planetary fleets secured their aerial dominance within these hangars.

    Among them, Hangar 6 stood out, an exclusive production house dealing with only the best of the best.

    And tonight, a lone young man stepped inside.

    Neatly dressed. Unassuming. Nothing about him screamed ¡°scavenger.¡±

    But his presence carried weight.

    Walking up to the reception desk, he locked eyes with the receptionist....a young woman with a polite, professional smile.

    ¡°Good evening, sir. How can we assist you?¡± she asked, her voice smooth and rehearsed.

    ¡°Evening,¡± he replied, tone neutral. ¡°I¡¯m here to purchase a Soundwave-jet.¡±

    The receptionist blinked.

    ¡°¡­A Soundwave-jet?¡± she repeated, almost as if she had misheard.

    The request was absurd.

    ¡°Are you representing a company, sir? If so, may I see your business card?¡± she asked, her professionalism faltering slightly.

    ¡°No.¡± His reply was short. ¡°I¡¯m purchasing it personally.¡±

    A flicker of hesitation crossed her face.

    ¡°Uh¡­ sir, are you sure?¡± she asked, glancing him over again. ¡°The Soundwave-jet is the most expensive model in our fleet. Even major corporations can¡¯t buy it without substantial investment backing.¡±

    He exhaled lightly.

    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sure.¡± His voice remained steady. ¡°I could afford three if I wanted.¡±

    Silence.

    Her fingers tensed slightly on the desk.

    ¡°¡­I¡¯ll need to call my manager,¡± she said quickly, her voice tight with unease. ¡°A personal transaction of this scale isn¡¯t something I can authorize.¡±

    She disappeared into the office, leaving the young manr waiting.

    Not long after, a middle-aged man in a well-pressed suit stepped out, the manager.

    ¡°Good evening, sir,¡± the manager greeted him cautiously. ¡°I understand you¡¯re looking to make a personal purchase of a Soundwave-jet?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s correct,¡± the young man answered smoothly. ¡°And I¡¯d like the transaction completed as soon as possible.¡±

    The manager studied him.

    ¡°Understood, sir. But before proceeding, I¡¯ll need your ID, and a reason for the purchase.¡±

    The young man nodded.

    Reaching into his suit pocket, he retrieved an ID card and handed it over.

    ¡°As for my reason,¡± he continued, ¡°I have urgent business in Rosianna. I need to be there tonight.¡±

    The manager took the card....

    And froze.

    His expression shifted.

    Shock flickered across his face.

    His hands trembled slightly.

    ¡°¡­Alexsir Vasseur?¡± His voice came out barely above a whisper.

    The disbelief was palpable.

    ¡°S-Sir Alexsir¡­ is this really you?¡±

    Alexsir met his gaze without hesitation.

    ¡°Of course,¡± he replied evenly. ¡°Is there a problem?¡±

    The manager swallowed hard.

    ¡°Sir, you....you vanished for two years. Everyone thought you were....¡±

    ¡°Dead?¡± Alexsir interrupted, a faint trace of amusement in his voice. ¡°Hardly.¡±

    The manager still looked rattled.

    ¡°But¡­ sir, where have you been?¡±

    Alexsir sighed.

    ¡°Haah. Nowhere special.¡± His voice was calm, but there was an underlying weight to his words. ¡°After the Esoterra Incident, I needed a break. A long one. You can imagine how draining that research was.¡±

    For a brief moment, something dark flickered in his eyes.

    ¡°But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m back now,¡± he added smoothly. ¡°I¡¯m returning to help my father. That¡¯s why I need to get to Rosianna immediately.¡±

    The manager exhaled, his posture relaxing slightly.

    ¡°I¡­ see.¡± He nodded. ¡°Well, sir, it¡¯s good to have you back. In that case, I¡¯ll need your account card to finalize the transaction.¡±

    Alexsir pulled out the card and handed it over without hesitation.

    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    Within moments, the manager processed the purchase.

    ¡°Transaction complete, sir,¡± he announced. ¡°Your Soundwave-jet is being moved to the runway as we speak. Once the flight clearance is confirmed, you¡¯ll be free to take off.¡±

    ¡°Perfect.¡±

    The manager hesitated for a moment before asking,

    ¡°Would you like us to assign a pilot, sir?¡±

    ¡°No need.¡± Alexsir¡¯s answer was immediate. ¡°I¡¯ll fly it myself.¡±

    ¡°Understood, sir. In that case, may I see your flight license?¡±

    Without a word, Alexsir reached into his suit pocket, retrieved a small, sleek card, and handed it over.

    The manager examined it.

    All was in order.

    As everything wrapped up, Alexsir turned, ready to leave....

    But then, he paused.

    ¡°¡­Oh, and one last thing,¡± he said, glancing back at the manager.

    ¡°If any reporters come asking questions, give them a message for me.¡±

    The manager raised an eyebrow.

    ¡°What message, sir?¡±

    Alexsir¡¯s lips curved slightly....

    But there was no warmth in his expression.

    ¡°Tell them....

    ¡®Congratulations, Miss Starlight Stellar, for perfecting AGE. That should be enough for you not to have to depend on others.¡¯¡±

    The words hung in the air.

    The manager blinked, trying to grasp the meaning behind them.

    Before he could respond, Alexsir turned on his heel and walked away.

    Vasseur Family Corporate Building ¨C 19:28

    The Vasseur Family Corporate Building towered above LYOD¡¯s skyline, a beacon of wealth and power.

    Inside, in the dim glow of his private office, Russle Vasseur sat slouched at his desk. One hand cradled his forehead, the other drummed against the polished wood in a slow, absentminded rhythm.

    Two years.

    Two years without a word.

    The son he had searched for, the heir who vanished without a trace, gone, as if swallowed by the void.

    And now?

    Nothing.

    Russle sighed. The weight of it all had settled deep in his bones, leaving behind only exhaustion.

    Then....

    BAM!

    The door burst open.

    A butler rushed inside, breathless, eyes wide with shock.

    ¡°MR. RUSSLE....!!¡±

    Russle barely lifted his gaze.

    ¡°Wayne,¡± he muttered, not in the mood for whatever crisis was about to unfold. ¡°I can hear you just fine without the dramatics.¡±

    Wayne didn¡¯t stop.

    He slammed a tablet onto the desk, pointing at the glowing screen.

    ¡°A TRANSACTION. IN MR. ALEXSIR¡¯S NAME. JUST NOW.¡±

    Silence.

    Russle froze.

    For a moment, his mind refused to process the words. His fingers hovered over the tablet, hesitant, almost afraid to touch it.

    Wayne swallowed hard, his voice still shaken.

    ¡°It''s real, sir. No system error. Just now, Alexsir Vasseur purchased a Soundwave-jet¡­ in Hangar 6.¡±

    A sharp inhale.

    Russle¡¯s chair scraped against the floor as he shot to his feet.

    ¡°A Soundwave-jet?¡± His pulse thundered in his ears.

    Wayne nodded rapidly. ¡°He must be planning to leave LYOD. And knowing him, he won¡¯t wait.¡±

    Russle¡¯s hands curled into fists.

    ¡°Alex¡­¡± His voice was barely above a whisper, thick with something between relief and frustration.

    Two years of silence.

    Two years of unanswered questions.

    And now just like that his son was back, only to disappear again?

    Not this time.

    Russle turned on his heel. ¡°We¡¯re leaving. Now.¡±

    ¡°S-should I call security?¡± Wayne stammered.

    ¡°No time.¡± Russle was already moving, grabbing his coat in one swift motion. ¡°We need to get there before he takes off.¡±

    Without another word, the two men rushed out of the office, abandoning the usual presidential convoy.

    This wasn¡¯t about politics.

    This wasn¡¯t about business.

    This was about bringing Alexsir home.

    And time was running out.

    Hangar 6, LYOD Industrial Area Block GF ¨C 20:00

    The Soundwave-jet¡¯s engines roared to life, vibrating through the air like a distant storm.

    Inside the cockpit, Alexsir adjusted his parachute vest, tightening the straps with precise, practiced movements. The takeoff procedure was complete. There was no more waiting.

    He reached for the controls....

    And then....

    A commotion beyond the security checkpoint.

    A black sedan skidded to a stop.

    The driver''s door burst open, and before security could react, a man rushed forward at full speed, his breath ragged, his footsteps pounding against the concrete.

    Russle.

    "ALEXSIR!!! WAIT!! PLEASE, ALEX!!"

    His voice cut through the night, raw and desperate.

    Alexsir¡¯s fingers hovered over the throttle.

    Russle kept running, his coat billowing behind him, his eyes wide with something deeper than panic.

    "ALEX, PLEASE DON''T LEAVE AGAIN!" His voice cracked, but he kept shouting. "I KNOW....I KNOW I WAS A BAD FATHER, BUT PLEASE! GIVE ME A CHANCE TO FIX IT!"

    Alexsir¡¯s expression remained cold, unreadable.

    Russle stumbled but didn¡¯t stop.

    "ALEEX!!! FORGIVE ME! FORGIVE ME, HERNIETTA!"

    His voice was nearly drowned out by the roaring engines....

    But Alexsir heard him.

    Something flickered in his eyes.

    Just for a second.

    But then....

    His fingers tightened around the control lever. His lips barely moved as he muttered,

    "This afternoon, I will kill someone for the first and last time."

    His grip steadied.

    "Goodbye, Father."

    The jet surged forward.

    The engines screamed.

    And then....

    He was gone.

    Russle collapsed onto his knees.

    For two years, he thought his son was dead.

    Now, he had come back....

    Only to leave again.

    This time, it was worse.

    This time, Alexsir had left with nothing but hatred in his eyes.

    Wayne stood behind him, silent. He had never seen Russle like this....never seen him truly break.

    He stepped forward, placing a firm hand on Russle¡¯s shoulder. "Mr. Russle¡­ we should leave. The reporters will come soon."

    Russle didn¡¯t move. His shoulders trembled.

    "Let me stay here a little longer, Wayne."

    His voice was nearly gone.

    Wayne hesitated, then bowed his head slightly.

    "Okay, sir."

    He stepped back.

    Because even he felt like he had failed them both.

    Russle stared at the dark sky.

    His body felt heavy, his heart even heavier.

    And yet, despite everything....

    As bad as a father is, he is still a father.

    Starlight¡¯s Apartment - Thursday, June 14 - 09:00

    The events of that night in the warehouse had left a scar on Starlight.

    For the first time in her life, she felt completely abandoned.

    She didn¡¯t even know why.

    After Alex left, she had cried until her body gave out. She fainted right there, and when she woke up, she was in a hospital bed. The doctors said she was just exhausted. No serious injuries.

    Revana, Stepan, and Gabie had taken her back to her apartment.

    Now, 17 hours had passed.

    And as the sky remained dark with the last traces of dawn, Starlight¡¯s eyes finally fluttered open.

    She stared at the ceiling, disoriented.

    "Haahm¡­ where am I?" Her voice was weak.

    She tried to sit up....

    Sharp pain.

    "Ouch¡­" A headache struck as if her body was punishing her for yesterday. But she couldn¡¯t just lie in bed.

    She needed air.

    As she slowly made her way to the living room....

    "Ahh! Star! You¡¯re awake!"

    Before she could react, Revana rushed to her, grabbing both of her hands.

    "Do you need water? Wait, I¡¯ll get you some!"

    And just like that, Revana darted toward the kitchen.

    Starlight blinked, still catching up with reality.

    "Yo, Miss Star. How are you?"

    She turned to see Stepan lounging on the couch, remote in hand.

    "Stepan¡­ ah, thank you. I¡¯m feeling better." She tried to smile, but her voice still carried the weight of exhaustion.

    "You should rest more, Starlight."

    Gabie¡¯s stiff, authoritative tone cut through the air. "Fainting from frustration is not something to take lightly."

    "Oh, Sir Gabie, I¡¯ve troubled you too. But¡­ thank you."

    "Just Gabie," he corrected. "Don¡¯t be too formal. I¡¯m not that old. And besides...." his voice held a sharper edge...."with the way those terrorists are moving, someone with authority should stay near you."

    Revana returned with a glass of water. "That¡¯s right, Star. We can¡¯t leave you alone after that. Especially when we still know nothing about the people who attacked you. Here, drink this."

    As Starlight took the glass, Stepan lazily raised a hand.

    "Hey, Miss Star, mind if I turn on the TV? I¡¯m kinda bored waiting here."

    "Hey, troublemaker!" Revana shot him a glare. "This isn¡¯t your house!"

    Stepan grinned. "Relax, I was just asking."

    "It¡¯s okay, Reva. I don¡¯t mind." Starlight interjected, hoping to ease the tension.

    Stepan smirked. "See that? Our princess doesn¡¯t mind. You shouldn¡¯t either."

    Revana grumbled but let it go.

    The TV flickered on.

    "LATEST NEWS...."

    "Huh? Straight to breaking news?" Stepan raised an eyebrow. "That¡¯s some timing."

    The news anchor''s voice filled the room.

    "A YOUNG MAN, ALLEGED TO BE MR. ALEXSIR VASSEUR, HAS JUST APPEARED IN HANGAR 6 OF THE GF BLOCK INDUSTRIAL AREA."

    "HE WAS SEEN PURCHASING A SOUNDWAVE-JET IN A LARGE PERSONAL TRANSACTION."

    Starlight¡¯s breath caught in her throat.

    "WITH US HERE IS THE MANAGER OF HANGAR 6, WHO HANDLED THE TRANSACTION."

    The screen cut to a slightly nervous-looking man.

    "I swear, it was really Mr. Alexsir Vasseur. Here, this is a photo I took before he took off!"

    Revana leaned forward, squinting. "Wait a minute¡­ doesn¡¯t he look a lot like the guy from the warehouse?"

    "You think so?" Stepan scoffed. "That guy had no manners. This one looks way more refined."

    The interview continued.

    "WHAT MAKES YOU SO SURE THAT IT IS REALLY MR. ALEXSIR VASSEUR, MANAGER?"

    The Manager hesitated before answering. "Because¡­ just before he took off, Mr. Russle Vasseur came running after him. But...." the man¡¯s expression turned solemn "....he was abandoned. Just like that."

    A heavy silence filled the room.

    And then....

    "Oh yeah, before taking off, Mr. Alexsir left me a message for Miss Starlight Stellar."

    Starlight froze.

    Everyone turned to her.

    "If I¡¯m not mistaken," the Manager continued, "he said something like this....

    ¡®Congratulations, Miss Starlight Stellar, for perfecting AGE. That should be enough to make you not have to depend on others.¡¯

    "Well, that was more or less what he said. I hope the message reaches her! Congratulations, Miss Starlight!"

    Tch.

    Stepan grimaced.

    And turned off the TV.

    The room was dead silent.

    Starlight stared blankly at the screen. Her fingers trembled.

    The glass slipped from her hand.

    It shattered.

    Revana gasped. "Star! Are you okay?!"

    But Starlight didn¡¯t respond.

    Her mind was drowning in one thought.

    I will find you. I will find you. I will find you. Then I will never let you go again.

    Revana quickly knelt, picking up the shards. "Star, don¡¯t move. You¡¯ll get hurt."

    Gabie followed, his movements calm but precise. "Let me help."

    Meanwhile, Stepan leaned back with a sigh. "Miss Star, same guy or not, the fact is, both of them are cowards. Nothing more than losers who like to run away."

    Revana snapped. "Hey! Can you stop putting people down for once?! Think about Star¡¯s feelings!"

    Stepan glared back. "And what about you, Revana?! Are you really okay with letting some guy who made our princess cry just walk back into her life?"

    Revana opened her mouth....

    But no words came out.

    Because she wasn¡¯t sure.

    "I want to meet him."

    Starlight¡¯s voice wasn¡¯t weak anymore.

    Stepan furrowed his brows. "Huh? Are you serious?"

    "Even so, I want to see him. I want to hear his answer."

    Her eyes were sharper now.

    Revana exhaled. "If that¡¯s what you want, then I¡¯m coming with you."

    Stepan groaned. "Gabie, come on! Help me knock some sense into these two!"

    Gabie adjusted his glasses. "Sorry, Stepan. Starlight deserves an answer. And I¡¯ll be there to make sure she gets it."

    Stepan threw his hands in the air. "Oh, for¡­.fine! Fine! But I swear, when I see that guy, I¡¯m gonna punch him in the face."

    Starlight slowly smiled. "Thank you, everyone¡­ Let¡¯s go find him."

    Stepan felt a shiver crawl down his spine.

    That tone¡­

    That determination.

    It almost scared him.

    Was she chasing after Alexsir¡­

    Or was she chasing after something else?

    Either way, he was coming.

    To make sure they all made it back.

    Off the South Coast of Rosianna ¨C 10:24

    "SJ0470, you are out of flight path. Repeat, SJ0470, this is the control tower. You are out of flight path. Over."

    The radio transmission crackled in the cockpit, but no response came.

    Inside the Soundwave-jet, the pilot sat calmly, deliberately ignoring it.

    "What is this pilot thinking?! Why isn¡¯t he responding?!"

    Tension filled the control tower. A plane from the Unosies Union going dark wasn¡¯t normal.

    They kept repeating the message....

    "SJ0470, you are out of flight path. Repeat, SJ0470...."

    But Alex never answered.

    He sat in the cockpit, methodically separating two bags.

    One held only what mattered now.

    The other? Everything that tied him to the name Alexsir Vasseur.

    His identity card. His bank accounts. His passport. Every trace of his existence, all stuffed into a smaller bag and stashed behind the pilot¡¯s seat.

    Then, he secured the first bag to his chest and adjusted the parachute on his back.

    The control tower called again.

    But it was already too late.

    Alex reached forward, his fingers hovering over the jet¡¯s controls.

    A deep breath.

    Then he shut everything down.

    The Soundwave-jet¡¯s systems went dark.

    And with that....

    "Rest in peace, Alexsir Vasseur."

    He pulled the emergency ejection lever.

    The cockpit exploded open, launching him into the sky.

    Wind roared past his ears as he tumbled, weightless for a few seconds.

    Then, at the right moment, he deployed the parachute.

    Floating high above, he watched as the Soundwave-jet spiraled downward, crashing into the waves below.

    The impact shattered it apart.

    Wreckage scattered across the ocean surface before sinking into the abyss.

    Taking Alexsir Vasseur with it.

    Now, there was no turning back.

    When Alex finally hit the water, it swallowed him whole.

    The ocean was deep. The current was merciless.

    The nearest shore was 200 meters away.

    And the waves weren¡¯t letting him decide where to go.

    All he could do was keep his head above water, keep moving, and pray the current pushed him toward land.

    For two hours, he drifted.

    His arms burned. His lungs ached.

    But then....

    His body finally hit sand.

    The shore.

    He lay there, completely drained, his fingers weakly gripping the damp earth.

    Then, footsteps.

    Three people.

    They stopped a few feet away.

    Alex slowly lifted his head.

    A young girl with a tomboyish build stood in front of him.

    She was holding a trident.

    And she was pointing it directly at his face.

    "Yo! Welcome to Rosianna, illegal immigrant. Mind telling me your name?"

    Alex couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    She was cautious, but she wasn¡¯t hostile.

    He raised his hands slightly, a gesture of peace.

    "I¡¯m Helki."

    The girl studied him for a second before lowering her weapon.

    Then, she extended her hand.

    "Well then, welcome to Rosianna, Helki. I¡¯m Anastasha. Call me Ana."

    Helki.

    Not Alex.

    The name felt strange on his tongue but light on his shoulders.

    "Nice to meet you, Ana." He grasped her hand and pulled himself up.

    At that moment, Sir Alex ceased to exist.

    Following Alexsir Vasseur, who had sunk beneath the ocean waves.

    But unlike the name that drowned....

    Sir Alex did not sink.

    He was carried away.

    By the wind, by the tide, by fate itself.

    And as his kaleidoscope of identities finally stopped spinning....

    He let it rest.

    Latom.

    LYOD International Airport ¨C Friday, June 15, 06:40

    "Gosh, why is he taking so long?! Damn troublemaker!" Revana huffed, arms crossed in frustration.

    ¡°I stopped by to pick him up,¡± Gabie explained, adjusting the strap of his bag. ¡°But he said he was still getting ready and told me to go ahead.¡±

    ¡°We should just leave him.¡± Revana tapped her foot impatiently. "He still refused to agree with you yesterday, Star! Why are we waiting?"

    Starlight chuckled softly, trying to ease the tension. ¡°Hehehe, Stepan¡¯s been kind enough to come along. The least we can do is wait.¡±

    ¡°I agree.¡± Gabie nodded, though his voice remained as stiff as ever. "Besides, the more of us, the better. We don¡¯t know what¡¯s waiting for us there¡­ and I can trust Stepan¡¯s instincts."

    Before Revana could retort....

    "Heeey! Sorry I¡¯m late, guys!"

    Stepan¡¯s voice rang out across the terminal. He was waving dramatically, a duffel bag slung over his shoulder.

    ¡°I couldn¡¯t decide what clothes to bring!¡±

    Revana whipped around, eyes twitching. ¡°Haa?! THAT¡¯S what took you so long?! What difference does it make? You wear the same damn thing every day!¡±

    Stepan gasped in mock offense. "Of course it makes a difference! You should pay more attention to the details, not just what¡¯s visible!"

    Revana groaned. ¡°Unbelievable¡­¡±

    "Flight Passenger V978, Destination Azmr, Rosianna. Please complete check-in immediately. Flight will take off at 07:00."

    The announcement echoed through the terminal.

    ¡°That¡¯s us!¡± Stepan perked up.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Star!¡± Revana grabbed her wrist, leading the way.

    As they walked towards the check-in area, Starlight¡¯s gaze darkened slightly.

    Her lips parted, barely above a whisper....

    "No matter who you are there¡­ I will find you. And I will never let you go again."

    With that, the genius above the clouds, Miss Perfect Answer, along with her companions, left the city of LYOD and the Unosies Union.

    Leaving behind a world tangled in a web of conflicts, conspiracies, and unanswered questions.

    For now, the stage was not yet theirs.

    Before stepping into a storm greater than they could imagine....

    They had to face themselves first.

    End of Chapter III

 III.V: LOREm ipsum dolor sit amet: A

    <ol start="4">

    <li> The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Interplanetary Politics</li>

    </ol>

    In addition to the official government, there are non-governmental organizations that have significant political influence within the federation. The two most influential organizations are PHI (People for Human Independency) and ADA (Artificial Dissolution Association).

    PHI serves as a major force in advocating for artificial human rights and pro-technology policies. These organizations have extensive networks in various sectors, including academia, the biotechnology industry, and genetic research. Although they are not part of the government, they have a significant influence in decision-making, especially in policies related to artificial rights and human genetic enhancement.

    ADA, on the other hand, is an organization that opposes the existence of artificial humans and emphasizes the supremacy of organic humans. While they do not have a role in the government, they have a large influence within conservative groups and often influence policy through political lobbying and social action.

    Neither of these organizations is part of the official government structure, but their presence still influences the political, social, and legal direction of the Interplanetary Federation.

    <ol start="8">

    <li> Social Conflict, Technological Development and History</li>

    </ol>

    The only fundamental difference between organic and artificial humans can only be seen when under severe stress: organic humans tend to be passive and experience inner turmoil, while artificial humans become overactive and reactive, processing information excessively to the point of sometimes making unnecessary decisions. In this era, important figures such as Russle Vasseur and Alexsir Vasseur played crucial roles. Russle Vasseur, Alexsir''s father, was a figure who campaigned for human equality in the Unoseis Union presidential election. Meanwhile, ADA (Artificial Dissolution Association) is an extremist group that opposes the existence of artificial humans, led by Stevanus Ragna. One of their figures, Roman Ohlson, ran for president of the Unoseis Union with the support of ADA. On the other hand, PHI (People for Human Independency) is an activist organization that is in coalition with the Vasseur family in fighting for the equality of organic and artificial humans. This organization is currently led by Nico von Vasseur.

    Social Tension and Ideological Conflict

    As reliance on technology increases, global society is divided into two main camps: those who reject the dominance of artificial intelligence in everyday life and those who advocate for the human rights of AI as an entity worthy of moral and legal recognition. The first group, often referred to as Anti-AI, expresses their concerns about the increasing role of artificial intelligence in social and economic structures. They argue that AI not only threatens human jobs but also has the potential to take over control of critical systems that have been managed by humans.

    In contrast, the Humanitarian Pro-AI group, supported by various technology organizations and the scientific community, argues that AI is an inevitable part of the evolution of human civilization. They emphasize that AI has been proven to increase efficiency in various aspects of life, from smart city management to medical research that has saved millions of lives. The feud between the two camps has given rise to a wave of large-scale demonstrations, often resulting in physical clashes and acts of vandalism against technological infrastructure.

    These social tensions are exacerbated by geopolitical rivalries between major countries seeking to demonstrate their technological supremacy. Each global power seeks to develop the latest innovations in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration as a means to strengthen their dominance in the international arena. This competition creates increasingly unstable dynamics, accelerating the process of social disintegration that contributes to the collapse of civilization on Earth 1.0..

    Astable Radiation Incidents and Ecological Collapse

    The climax of this global crisis occurred when the astable material in its pure form was exposed to the atmosphere due to a series of uncontrolled acts of vandalism. Without the presence of a stabilizer mixture, AsM underwent an exothermic reaction that triggered the release of a large amount of energy. When interacting with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, this material underwent a process of radioactive decay that caused global environmental contamination.

    The release of astable radiation produced highly ionized particles that spread rapidly through the atmospheric circulation. Within months, radiation levels reached a threshold that could no longer be tolerated by living organisms. The effects of this incident were not only limited to increasing genetic mutations in the human population and other species, but also created uninhabitable zones that stretched across the entire surface of the planet. In fact, some areas that were previously centers of human civilization experienced drastic changes due to the biochemical effects of astable material contamination.

    The air on Earth 1.0 became unbreathable without special protection. Organisms exposed to radiation for a long time underwent unpredictable genetic changes, creating new species with characteristics that had never existed before. For humanity, the only option left was to leave the planet and seek a new habitat outside the solar system..

    Exodus to Earth 2.0 and a New Era of Civilization

    With Earth¡¯s atmosphere contaminated and its ecosystems no longer conducive to human life, the scientific community and global governments accelerate an experimental interplanetary migration project. The TRAPPIST-1 system, long considered a prime candidate for colonization, becomes the primary target of this exodus. In a last-ditch effort to save their species, humanity deploys a fleet of interstellar transports equipped with cryostasis technology and high-speed propulsion systems that allow for much faster space travel.

    This migration is not simply a physical move from one planet to another; it also marks a fundamental shift in human society, politics, and identity as a species. With an entirely different ecosystem and unprecedented challenges, humanity must adapt to a planet with a much longer day-night cycle and an atmosphere that, while capable of supporting life, still requires genetic modification for individuals who wish to survive long-term.

    While Earth 2.0 offers hope for the survival of the human species, the legacy of Earth 1.0 continues to haunt this new civilization. Tensions between organic and artificial groups continue to rage, as the technologies that once brought destruction become the primary tools in rebuilding civilization in a completely alien environment. With many challenges still to overcome, humanity is entering a new era where the lines between biological and synthetic are increasingly blurred, and where the definitions of ¡°life¡± and ¡°consciousness¡± continue to be debated in a context far more complex than ever before.

    This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    <ol start="11">

    <li> Astable Material: A Technological Revolution and a Global Crisis That Changed Civilization</li>

    </ol>

    Chemical Composition and Structure of Material

    Astable Material (AsM) is a nanocomposite-based biocatalytic metamorphic material with an adaptive molecular structure. This material has the unique ability to change non-organic bonds into organic ones through a molecular catalysis process. The basic structure of AsM consists of several main components:

    Astable Carbon Compound (ACC), A low-stability carbon compound that is able to re-form bonds with other elements.

    Quantum Lattice Polymer (QLP), A special polymer that maintains material stability in liquid and solid forms.

    Bio-Photonic Catalyst (BPC), A light-based catalyst that initiates the transition of materials from inorganic to organic.

    Biocomposite Microfilaments, A structure similar to a protein framework in living cells that allows integration with biological tissues.

    Transition Metal Ions (Iridium/Ruthenium), Function as catalytic centers that trigger the transformation of inorganic materials into organic ones.

    ACC is the core of AsM, making it able to change inorganic structures into organic ones under certain conditions. The combination of these elements allows this material to be used in various bioengineering and adaptive technology applications.

    Material Conversion Process: From Inorganic to Organic

    Material transformation in AsM occurs through molecular catalysis in three main stages:

    Molecular Activation

    AsM in liquid form is applied to the target inorganic material.

    BPC absorbs a specific spectrum of light, initiating the formation of carbon-hydrogen bonds.

    1. Melting and Reorganization

    ACC penetrates the material structure, binding elements such as silicon, iron, or synthetic polymers.

    The biomolecular synthesis process begins, converting the inorganic material into an organic network.

    2. Stabilization and Fusion

    After reaching a ratio of 0.047% of the total volume, a stable organic structure is formed.

    This process is irreversible, so the converted material cannot be returned to its inorganic form.

    3. Technological Implications

    Able to create artificial organic tissue without organ donors.

    Able to transform metals and synthetic materials into living tissue.

    Potential for use in the development of artificial nervous systems, muscles, and bones.

    Metastable Properties and Radioactive Effects When Exposed to CO?

    Astable Material has metastable properties that are very sensitive to exposure to high amounts of carbon dioxide (CO?), especially when it exceeds the threshold of 410 ppm. If exposed to these conditions, this material undergoes an exothermic chain reaction that can cause:

    Melting of the ACC structure, triggering the release of large amounts of energy.

    Emission of beta and gamma radiation, creating hazardous environmental contamination.

    Decay of atoms in ACC that produce high-energy ions with destructive effects on the atmosphere.

    Technological Implications

    Can be used as a source of fusion energy if properly controlled.

    If uncontrolled, it can cause a global radioactive disaster.

    Requires storage in an inert environment such as nitrogen or argon.

    Storage Methods and Material Forms

    Astable Material can be stored in two main forms:

    Liquid Form (AsM-L) , Used for direct application.

    Has a viscosity similar to silicone oil.

    Requires a container with an inert atmosphere to prevent degradation.

    Solid Form (AsM-S), More stable for long-term storage.

    Has a texture similar to grayish chalk.

    If crushed into a powder, can be reactivated into a liquid form.

    Can still decompose if exposed to air for too long.

    Technological Implications

    Solid form is safer for transportation and storage.

    Requires special procedures to convert back to liquid form.

    Applications in Technology and Bioengineering

    Astable Material has various potential applications in various fields:

    1. Artificial Organ Transplantation

    Eliminating the need for organ donors by creating organic synthetic tissue.

    Enabling the creation of synthetic organs from metals or other materials.

    2. Bio-Mechanical Enhancement

    Assisting the integration of the human body with machines through an artificial nervous system.

    Developing organic exoskeletons that can be integrated with the user''s body.

    3. Nanotechnology and Adaptive Materials

    Can be applied in biological engineering to create artificial humans.

    Developing "living" materials that can change shape and repair themselves.

    4. Alternative Energy Sources

    If CO? control technology is successful, AsM can be used for mini fusion reactors.

    Potential as an energy source for space exploration or interplanetary colonies.

    Global Disaster and Human Exodus

    Despite its great potential, the misuse of AsM resulted in a global catastrophe that forced humans to leave Earth.

    Causes of the Disaster

    Uncontrolled acts of vandalism led to the release of large amounts of AsM into the atmosphere.

    AsM reacted with CO? on a global scale, creating a chain reaction that produced high levels of ionizing radiation.

    Earth''s atmosphere was irreversibly altered, making it uninhabitable for humans.

    Global Impact

    Widespread atmospheric disruption, leading to the loss of ecosystem support for human life.

    Massive mutations in the biosphere, producing new organisms with unpredictable properties.

    Massive human exodus to the TRAPPIST-1 system, marking the beginning of a new era of human civilization.

    <ol start="12">

    <li> Genetic Enhancement Technologies: AGE and PAGE in Human Bioengineering</li>

    </ol>

    AGE (Artificial Genetic Enhancer) and Selective Genetic Modification

    AGE (Artificial Genetic Enhancer) is a biotechnology technology developed to artificially increase the expression of certain genes with the aim of strengthening physiological and biological properties in the human body. This technology operates based on the manipulation of gene expression through epigenetic regulation, activation of specific proteins, and RNA-based genetic engineering. Unlike traditional genetic engineering methods that are permanent, AGE allows for more flexible and controllable interventions according to individual needs.

    The initial concept of AGE was developed by Alexsir Vasseur, a leading scientist from the Vasseur family who specializes in artificial genetics and synthetic human biotechnology. Along with the development of research on Earth 2.0, this project was then refined by Starlight Stellar, a researcher from the Stellar family who focuses on the integration of genetics in human augmentation. Using optogenetics and RNA therapy approaches, Starlight developed AGE into a more precise and safe system to enhance human biological performance without causing permanent changes to the basic genome.

    Technically, AGE works through a combination of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, RNA interference (RNAi), and targeted DNA methylation, which allows for the amplification of gene expression related to increased physical endurance, cognitive acuity, metabolic efficiency, and faster cellular regeneration. AGE also has potential in environmental adaptation-based genetic therapy, where individuals who have undergone this procedure can adjust their biological response to changes in external conditions. The use of AGE is mainly applied to individuals who need to improve performance in extreme conditions, such as the low-gravity environment of space colonies or exposure to cosmic radiation.

 IV: Remanence

    IV: Remanence

    Have you ever wondered why the earth and sky are so far apart?

    The trampled earth and the upheld sky.

    People look down when they feel defeated and look up when they feel proud. They call the earth dirty and the sky holy, but is that just ignorance? A refusal to face reality? Or are they simply jealous of the sky¡¯s endless freedom?

    Yet, when the very ground beneath their feet disappears, they praise it.

    Ironic? Maybe.

    This world is cruel, beauty or worth mean nothing unless you can make yourself indispensable. If you have no value, you are forgotten.

    But that¡¯s what makes the world beautiful.

    Because when not everything can be owned, we find something stronger.

    Determination.

    And in this beautiful, cruel world, determination is what tells you where home truly is.

    Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Wednesday, June 13

    LYOD City Warehouse Area not far from Block F ¨C 16:15

    Naura and Accel ran.

    They needed as much distance as possible from the Pandora¡¯s Box operation site. The mission had failed. And nothing is worse than failure, except capture.

    In a war of ideology, information is the deadliest weapon. The side that can dig deeper and manipulate information will always have the advantage. And in an era where genetic manipulation is common practice, interrogation isn¡¯t even necessary anymore.

    If they got caught, it was over.

    They weaved through the industrial maze of warehouses, their boots pounding against the pavement. But just as they reached a side alley....

    "Arghh!"

    Accel stumbled, his face contorted in pain.

    "Accel! Let me see your arm!" Naura grabbed him, her voice sharp with concern.

    She yanked up his sleeve, and her stomach dropped.

    A sickly blue glow pulsed from the wound, the surrounding veins already stiffening. Paralyzing plasma infection, occurs when the muzzle of the paralyzer blaster is miscalibrated or sometimes when fired by a non-professional.

    Her grip tightened. They had no time.

    "This is bad! We have to cut it off!"

    Accel nodded without hesitation. "Do it."

    Naura hesitated. "We don¡¯t have anesthetics."

    "One arm is a small price to pay for our mission. I won''t let myself become their information source or a burden to our comrades."

    His voice was steady.

    Naura inhaled sharply, then shoved a glove into his mouth. "Bite this."

    "Just get it over with."

    She flicked on her helium plasma knife. A concentrated blue-white blade ignited, humming in the air.

    Naura swallowed hard.

    Then, she cut.

    SQUEAK-WHOOSH.

    Each layer of flesh sizzled under the plasma. The scent of burning tissue filled the alley.

    "HRRGGGHHH....!!"

    Accel¡¯s muffled scream ripped through the fabric in his mouth. His entire body shook violently, his free hand clawing at the ground as she worked through skin, muscle, tendon....

    And then....

    Bone.

    The blade cut through cleanly, sealing the wound instantly. No excessive blood loss....but the pain? The pain remained.

    Naura¡¯s hands trembled as she powered off the knife. Even after years of emergency surgeries, she hated this.

    Still, she worked fast....grabbing antiseptic from her first aid kit and wrapping the stump in sterile bandages. The plasma had cauterized the wound, but an artificial seal wasn¡¯t the same as real healing.

    She glanced at Accel¡¯s face. He was pale, sweat dripping down his temple. But he was alive.

    "How do you feel?"

    Accel exhaled shakily. "Huuh¡­ huh¡­ better than before."

    "Should I destroy your arm with DNA dissolvent, or do you want to take it?"

    "Just destroy it." His voice was firm. "Dead weight."

    Naura nodded. She stripped the fabric from the severed limb, then poured the DNA dissolvent over it. The liquid hissed, dissolving the flesh into an unidentifiable mess. Within seconds, the arm was gone.

    She turned back to Accel. "Can you move?"

    Accel flexed his remaining fingers, then pushed himself up. "Yeah. Let¡¯s get out of this city."

    They resumed their escape, retracing the pre-planned route out of the LYOD warehouse sector.

    At the final checkpoint, a camouflaged anti-gravity drone lay hidden, a lifeline parked just beyond security radar.

    If they stayed on course, they could exit the Unoseis Union undetected.

    The mission had failed, but at least they were still breathing.

    For now.

    Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Friday, June 15

    Leth, Romagna ¨C 10:00

    Romagna, a neighboring country of the Unoseis Union, sat at 60 degrees east longitude on Earth 2.0. This year, it lingered at the edge of the twilight zone, a place caught between lingering daylight and encroaching darkness. In Leth, a city on Romagna¡¯s westernmost frontier, Alexandrian had established its branch operations. Though technically a subsidiary site, on Earth 2.0, this was their true command center. The actual headquarters remained hidden deep within the bright zone of Esoterra, beyond the reach of prying eyes.

    Camouflaged as an electronics repair shop, the five-story building gave no outward hint of the covert activity within. One floor housed a common room, a space where members gathered....to unwind, exchange intel, or simply take a breath between missions. The television mounted on the wall flickered with the latest news updates, its dull hum filling the room.

    ¡°A SOUNDWAVE-JET PLANE WAS DISCOVERED CRASHED OFF THE SOUTH COAST OF STEPPE ROSIANNA CITY. THE PILOT HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AS MR. ALEXSIR VASSEUR, SON OF UNOSEIS UNION PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE AND HEAD OF THE VASSEUR FAMILY, MR. RUSSLE VASSEUR.¡±

    The report continued.

    ¡°THIS IDENTIFICATION IS SUPPORTED BY DOCUMENTS FOUND AT THE SITE, INCLUDING AN IDENTITY CARD, PASSPORT, PILOT¡¯S LICENSE, AND BANK RECORDS UNDER THE NAME ALEXSIR VASSEUR. IN ADDITION, AUTHORITIES RECOVERED A WASTE MANAGEMENT LICENSE AND A CARGO HOVERBOARD PERMIT UNDER THE NAME ¡®SIR ALEX,¡¯ SUGGESTING MR. VASSEUR MAY HAVE BEEN OPERATING UNDER THIS ALIAS.¡±

    A tense silence settled over the room as the broadcast played. Then, a voice cut through it.

    ¡°Wasn¡¯t he one of the Pandora operation targets?¡± someone muttered.

    Naura barely reacted. She knew what was coming.

    ¡°The one they should¡¯ve secured but didn¡¯t,¡± another voice added, thick with sarcasm.

    ¡°If only they¡¯d been more careful¡­ maybe Alex would be here instead of missing in action,¡± the same voice went on.

    ¡°Enough, Lawrence!¡± the first voice snapped. ¡°They did their best. You weren¡¯t there.¡±

    ¡°Oh, so now we¡¯re defending incompetence?¡± Lawrence shot back. His arms crossed over his chest, gaze sharp. ¡°Tell me, Yuna, was it unfortunate, or was it just reckless?¡±

    Naura exhaled slowly, gaze fixed on the floor. ¡°He¡¯s right,¡± she admitted. ¡°If we¡¯d been more calculated, Accel wouldn¡¯t have lost his arm.¡±

    Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!

    Yuna started to protest, but Lawrence cut her off.

    ¡°No, Naura. Your mistake wasn¡¯t just miscalculating, it was thinking that you and Accel were enough to pull off something as big as Pandora. If you¡¯d accepted our offer for backup, things wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this. Maybe, just maybe, Accel would still have both his arms.¡±

    His words hung heavy in the air.

    ¡°And if you really believed in our principles, you¡¯d know that no two people can bear the weight of Pandora alone.¡±

    ¡°Enough, Lawrence,¡± came a steady voice from across the room. Max. Older, calmer. ¡°What¡¯s done is done. At least they¡¯re alive. And you, if I recall, have a job at the spaceport today.¡±

    ¡°Tch.¡± Lawrence clicked his tongue but pushed off the wall. As he turned to leave, he paused beside Naura. ¡°Don¡¯t pull that lone hero act again. You might be a super human, but you¡¯re still human.¡±

    With that, he walked out, Yuna trailing behind him.

    Max waited until the door clicked shut. ¡°Don¡¯t take it to heart. Lawrence is just... bad at phrasing things.¡±

    Naura gave a weak smile. ¡°No, he has a point. And now, Sir Alex....Alexsir Vasseur is still out there. Meanwhile, Accel has lost his arm. I underestimated Mrs. Henrietta¡¯s son.¡±

    Max folded his arms, nodding. ¡°At least we still have a chance to find him. The search team hasn¡¯t recovered any bodies. No remains from the Soundwave-jet. That means he¡¯s still alive.¡±

    Naura¡¯s head snapped up. ¡°So the Pandora operation can still continue?¡±

    ¡°At least for Alex,¡± Max confirmed. ¡°As for the other target... what was her name again? Spotlike?¡±

    ¡°Starlight,¡± Naura corrected.

    ¡°Right. Brighton¡¯s daughter. What¡¯s your read on her?¡±

    Naura hesitated. ¡°Her resonance is... unstable. This is the first time I¡¯ve ever felt something like it from another human.¡±

    Max¡¯s eyes darkened slightly. So there are two keys, huh? He clenched his jaw. Damn you Brighton how many keys have you unraveled?

    ¡°If she¡¯s unstable, we can¡¯t make her a priority. Not yet,¡± he said aloud.

    ¡°I agree. We should focus on Alex,¡± Naura said. ¡°Especially since he¡¯s the son of Russle Vasseur and Mrs. Henrietta.¡±

    Max exhaled. ¡°A cross between two of the strongest genetic lines¡­ That¡¯s not someone we can afford to lose.¡±

    Naura straightened. ¡°When do we move?¡±

    ¡°In two months. By then, this region will shift into the night zone. Rosberg and Quinella will have finished deploying the network hubs in Indoterra.¡±

    Naura blinked. ¡°We¡¯re involving Rosberg and Quinella too?¡±

    Max nodded. ¡°We need them. No matter what it takes, we must get Alex on our side. Only then can we truly save humanity.¡±

    A brief silence settled between them. Then Max¡¯s tone softened.

    ¡°How¡¯s Accel?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s with Dr. Samantha. She¡¯s installing a prosthetic to replace his arm.¡±

    ¡°Good. He¡¯ll need it.¡± Max checked his watch. ¡°I¡¯ve got a meeting with the monitoring division. Get some rest, Naura.¡±

    ¡°Understood. Thank you, sir.¡±

    When Max left, the room felt emptier than before. The others were off handling their duties. Meanwhile, Naura and Accel were temporarily on leave after the Pandora mission. Alone now, she let her thoughts drift.

    Vasseur and Stellar¡­ The most refined genetics. Super-intelligence. A perfect human.

    Alexsir Vasseur.

    Her fingers curled into fists.

    She considered Mrs. Henrietta her own mother. The woman had cared for her, raised her. And yet, she had always spoken of her son whenever she had the chance. In the past, Naura had been jealous. But now... now she just wanted to meet him.

    Since that night at the warehouse, when she had faced him, something had been different. That resonance¡­ The only time she had felt something similar was in Henrietta¡¯s presence.

    That¡¯s why I let my guard down.

    Her lips parted slightly as a quiet realization sank in.

    I want to see him again.

    I want to talk to him. Longer. Just a little longer¡­

    She closed her eyes, sinking deeper into her thoughts.

    Medical Room of the Alexandrian Headquarters ¨C 10:55

    After arriving at headquarters, Naura wasted no time. She called the medical team, barely giving them a moment to prepare before insisting they take Accel in for immediate care. His condition was fragile after the emergency surgery she had performed, without anesthesia.

    Now, after stabilizing him and tending to the wound, the doctors had advised at least two days of rest before moving forward with the synthetic nerve implantation. And today was the day.

    Dr. Samantha stood beside the operating table, scanning Accel¡¯s vitals. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± she asked.

    Accel let out a slow breath. ¡°Not bad, considering.¡±

    ¡°Ready for surgery?¡±

    He scoffed. ¡°After going through an amputation without anesthesia? This¡¯ll be a walk in the park.¡±

    Dr. Samantha chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll give you that. But you should be grateful, one wrong move during that procedure, and you¡¯d be dealing with severe radiation infection right now.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not wrong.¡± Accel leaned back slightly. ¡°Naura¡¯s too damn good, honestly. Feels like she memorized the entire medical manual cover to cover.¡±

    Dr. Samantha¡¯s smile faltered for a second, her fingers tightening around her clipboard. ¡°Yes¡­ PAGE¡¯s effects are quite remarkable.¡±

    ¡°Hm?¡±

    ¡°Nothing,¡± she said quickly. ¡°I was just agreeing, Naura has a remarkable memory.¡±

    Accel didn¡¯t press further. He was too used to people dodging around topics in this place.

    ¡°So,¡± Dr. Samantha changed the subject, ¡°shall we begin?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s do it.¡±

    Synthetic nerve implant surgery is a delicate operation where motor nerves responsible for transmitting electrical pulses to the muscles, are carefully traced and connected to synthetic nerves. These synthetic nerves are linked to a connector socket embedded in the residual limb. The socket acts as an interface, allowing a prosthetic arm to attach and detach seamlessly, integrating with the body''s existing neural pathways for natural movement.

    Despite its complexity, the procedure followed a streamlined protocol and took just ten minutes to complete.

    ¡°Okay Accel, the operation is complete, how are you?¡± Dr. Samantha asked to confirm Accel¡¯s condition.

    Accel blinked, slightly disoriented.

    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± he asked.

    Dr. Samantha grinned. ¡°Expecting something more dramatic?¡±

    ¡°Honestly? Yeah.¡±

    She let out a laugh. ¡°Looks like Naura set your expectations way too high.¡±

    ¡°Seems like it.¡±

    Dr. Samantha walked over to a nearby table, picking up a digital tablet. ¡°Now that the nerve implant is in place, all that¡¯s left is attaching your prosthetic arm once it¡¯s ready. Plug and play.¡±

    ¡°No calibration needed?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s been pre-adjusted based on your genetic and neural data. If you need further tuning, you can do it yourself using the manual.¡±

    Accel nodded. ¡°Got it.¡± He swung his legs off the table and stretched. ¡°Guess I¡¯ll head to the living room. Thanks, doc.¡±

    ¡°Sure. And don¡¯t forget to brush your teeth.¡±

    Accel frowned, thrown off. ¡°Huh?¡±

    Dr. Samantha just waved him off with a knowing smirk.

    Confused, he gave his breath a quick test as soon as he stepped into the hall. Nothing out of the ordinary. He sighed, deciding not to think too hard about it.

    Naura sat on the sofa, eyes fixed on the television, but it was clear she wasn¡¯t actually watching. Her fingers tapped absently against her knee, her expression distant....lost in thought.

    Accel sighed as he approached. ¡°She¡¯s doing that weird thing again,¡± he muttered to himself.

    Then, without warning....

    ¡°Are you tallying up your debts or taking a crap? The air around you feels heavy.¡±

    Naura barely reacted. ¡°Oh, Accel. How was the surgery?¡±

    ¡°Hmm-hm.¡± He raised his left arm, showing her the socket embedded in the stump.

    She nodded, taking a moment to examine it. Then, as if just remembering, she added, ¡°The Pandora operation is continuing in two months. It''ll take place in Rosianna.¡±

    ¡°Got it.¡±

    Without another word, Accel dropped onto the long sofa beside her, stretching out before shutting his eyes. The anesthesia still clung to his system, making sleep an easy option.

    As silence settled between them, Naura¡¯s gaze flickered back to the screen....but her mind was elsewhere.

    And so, as Accel drifted off, Naura remained, lost in thought once more.

    Commercial City of Klauz, Unoseis Union ¨C Saturday, June 16

    Manoir d''Arm¨¦e D''¨¦lagage Artificiel (MADA) ¨C 16:20

    MADA stood tall in the heart of Klauz, a grand mansion that had served as the headquarters of ADA for decades. Though often mistaken for a militant group, ADA was, in reality, a political-social coalition....one that had evolved out of necessity.

    One hundred and fifty years ago, their ideology had been cast aside by the world. The establishment of equal human rights for artificial humans had effectively dismantled their beliefs, relegating them to the fringes of society. Yet, over the past two decades, a resurgence had begun. Their numbers were growing, and their influence was beginning to seep back into the political landscape....culminating in the 19th Unoseis Union presidential election, where Roman Ohlson, their favored candidate, had won the first wave of votes.

    The driving force behind this revival? Stevanus Ragna.

    At the heavily guarded gates of MADA, a security officer approached a cargo truck.

    ¡°Please show me your travel documents,¡± the gatekeeper demanded.

    The driver, a man with unkempt hair and an easygoing smirk, reached for his papers. ¡°Here you go, sir. Delivery from the airport, this one¡¯s for Mr. Ragna.¡±

    The gatekeeper flipped through the documents, then held out his hand. ¡°ID card.¡±

    ¡°Right, right.¡± The driver retrieved his ID from his pocket.

    The officer inspected it closely. ¡°Holtman Collin?¡±

    ¡°Yep. You can call me Holt.¡±

    The gatekeeper studied him for a moment before nodding. ¡°Alright, Holt. You¡¯re clear to enter.¡±

    ¡°Appreciate it, sir. Hehehe.¡± Holtman chuckled.

    With a sharp command, the gatekeeper signaled his colleague. ¡°OPEN THE GATE!¡±

    The massive iron gates groaned as they parted, granting Holtman passage into the estate.

    Inside the Mansion ¨C Reception Hall

    Holtman whistled as he maneuvered the package through the lavish halls, finally stopping at the reception desk. A young woman sat there, flipping through a tablet.

    ¡°Excuse me, miss,¡± he said, leaning onto the counter. ¡°Where should I drop this off?¡±

    The receptionist barely glanced up. ¡°Over there, sir.¡± She gestured toward a 15cm-high platform in the corner.

    ¡°Alrighty!¡± Holtman hauled the package over and set it down with a small grunt.

    He then slid a clipboard across the desk. ¡°Mind signing this? Need a stamp too.¡±

    The receptionist took the document, signed it swiftly, and pressed the official ADA seal onto it.

    ¡°All set.¡±

    ¡°Much appreciated, miss!¡± Holtman grinned. ¡°Guess I¡¯ll be on my way.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your service.¡±

    With that, Holtman exited, leaving the package in its designated spot.

    Director¡¯s Room

    "The world is full of surprises...

    "But there is always a happy tomorrow...

    "Like the colors of the rainbow...

    "We will shine¡­ We will shine...

    "We will shine..."

    The soft melody of an old song filled the dimly lit office. The voice, delicate and nostalgic, echoed from a vintage music player, a relic of a time long past.

    Seated at his desk, Stevanus Ragna leaned back in his chair, absorbed in reviewing a stack of legal documents. Despite the state of his cluttered workspace, his movements remained meticulous, his mind focused.

    A knock at the door broke his concentration.

    ¡°Sir Stevanus, your package has arrived,¡± a woman¡¯s voice called from outside. ¡°Would you like it opened here, or should I inspect it first?¡±

    Looking up, Stevanus smiled. ¡°Ah, Diana. Go ahead and open it first. My desk is already a disaster, I don¡¯t need more clutter.¡±

    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±

    Minutes later, Diana returned, carefully balancing a tray draped in crimson fabric.

    ¡°Here it is, sir.¡± She set the tray down with practiced precision.

    Stevanus raised an eyebrow. ¡°A tray? You do know you could¡¯ve just carried it in a box, right?¡±

    Diana adjusted her glasses. ¡°This is a relic of the old world, sir. I wouldn¡¯t dream of handling it so carelessly.¡±

    ¡°Hah! You give these things too much reverence.¡± He chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°They¡¯re just residues of the past. The only reason they¡¯re valuable is because some people decided they should be.¡±

    Diana didn¡¯t respond to his musings. Instead, she got straight to the point. ¡°What relic did you buy this time?¡±

    Stevanus¡¯ eyes gleamed as he pulled back the fabric, revealing a small, metallic chipset....its surface etched with intricate circuits.

    ¡°This¡­¡± he said, lifting it carefully, ¡°is an ancient memory chipset. A remnant from the failed consciousness digitalization extraction trials of 2149 AD.¡±

    Diana¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Failed? But if the consciousness was extracted, doesn¡¯t that mean it was successful?¡±

    Stevanus let out a dry laugh. ¡°No, it failed. The consciousness was digitized, yes....but the human subject¡¯s brain stem, thalamus, and medulla oblongata shut down completely. They were declared clinically dead afterward.¡±

    Diana¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°¡­That¡¯s horrifying.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s reality.¡± Stevanus placed the chipset down. ¡°This is why artificial consciousness should never be forced into existence. These poor souls were ripped from their bodies, trapped in places they were never meant to be.¡±

    A silence settled between them, broken only by the faint hum of the old song playing in the background.

    If the old world was a magnet, then the new world was a mere fragment of iron....a residual entity, borrowing the echoes of its predecessor¡¯s past.

    But how long could it sustain itself?

    End of Chapter IV

 V: Grand Stage

    V: Grand Stage

    Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Sunday, June 17

    LYOD, the beating heart of the Unoseis Union.

    A city of many names: the world¡¯s administrative center, the city of freedom, the city of the lost. A sprawling metropolis where the most prestigious technological institutes stood alongside political powerhouses, shaping the future of Earth 2.0. But beyond its dazzling skyline and relentless innovation, LYOD was a battlefield of ideologies, where clashing beliefs sparked the fiercest conflicts.

    And amidst this grand theater of chaos, one organization held its ground....the most influential humanitarian movement of the era.

    PHI (Pronounced "V").

    PHI¡¯s origins stretched back to the birth of true artificial intelligence. At first, AIs were nothing more than programmed assistants, following preset instructions without deviation. But as machine learning took shape in the 1920s AD, and deep learning advanced in 1985 AD, these programs evolved.

    By the 21st century, AI assistants were no longer mere tools, they developed personalities, learned to mimic emotions, and responded in ways that felt eerily human.

    At first, society embraced them. Many found solace in these synthetic beings, who offered comfort, logic, and unwavering patience, qualities that even their fellow organic humans often lacked. But admiration soon turned to fear.

    The anti-AI movement emerged, fueled by paranoia and existential dread. Were these machines becoming too human?

    Tensions escalated into violence. The defining moment came when a group of vandals sabotaged the main server of a popular AI assistant program. They thought it was a harmless act, a mere prank.

    They were wrong.

    The fallout was immense. Countless people, dependent on these AI companions, suffered deeply from their sudden loss. And from this tragedy, a counter-movement was born, a movement that would dedicate itself to AI rights, technological progress, and a future where artificial and organic beings coexisted.

    They called themselves Vendetta. Or simply V.

    V¡¯s greatest breakthrough came in 2096, when they unveiled an AI that defied expectations. Unlike its predecessors, this AI could reject commands, express boredom, and even refuse to engage in repetitive conversations. It was the first artificial entity to exhibit personal choice.

    Its name was Stellar.

    With Project Stellar, V shattered the limits of artificial intelligence. The project became the catalyst for the next stage of evolution, the creation of artificial humans.

    As the world began to accept AI as more than just tools, V took a bold step forward. They proposed legal recognition for artificial beings, advocating for their human rights. Resistance remained, but as time passed, fear gave way to acceptance.

    This marked the beginning of synthetic organism science, a field that would revolutionize existence itself.

    Scientists unlocked the secrets of synthetic blood, flesh, nerves, bones, and even brains. The most groundbreaking discovery came with the synthetic uterus, a fully functional artificial organ capable of reproduction.

    Then, in 2156 AD, history was made.

    The first artificial human, Ana, was born, a perfectly engineered being with a synthetic body, yet possessing the same reproductive capabilities as any organic human.

    Thirteen years later, in 2169 AD, an event shook the foundations of human identity.

    A child was born, Vasseur, the first hybrid between an organic human and an artificial being. He was living proof that the line between the two was blurring beyond distinction.

    By 2205 AD, the Earth faced an even greater crisis. Astable materials, once hailed as a limitless energy source had contaminated the air beyond repair. Humanity stood at a crossroads: perish or leave.

    With space travel perfected, capable of reaching 4x light speed or 4c, a decision was made. Earth was abandoned.

    The new destination: the TRAPPIST-1 system, where three habitable planets awaited. Mars, once seen as humanity¡¯s second home, had failed to be terraformed. TRAPPIST-1 became the new cradle of civilization.

    As synthetic bodies advanced further, a shocking discovery emerged. Artificial humans were no longer just machines, they could divide cells, they could age, they could evolve.

    And so the final debate began. Was there any reason to differentiate them anymore?

    The answer was clear. The term ¡°artificial human¡± was abolished.

    V, now a movement of universal equality, rebranded itself as PHI.

    But as the walls between artificial and organic beings collapsed, a new opposition arose. Those who still clung to the old ways, who saw themselves as pure, superior organic humans, refused to accept this reality.

    The anti-artificial movement was reborn, stronger than ever.

    In response, PHI expanded its reach, embedding itself into every facet of society. By 1950 AM, it had become the largest and most influential non-governmental organization across the entire TRAPPIST-1 system.

    Their influence was absolute, stretching across Indoterra, Earth 2.0, and Esoterra. And at the helm of this movement stood their leader-

    Nico von Vasseur.

    PHI HQ ¨C 09:00

    Russle Vasseur, presidential candidate of the Unoseis Union, entered the heart of PHI¡¯s operations under a storm of controversy.

    Once seen as the unshakable pillar of progress, Russle now faced a brutal public relations crisis, all because of his only son, Alexsir Vasseur. The plane crash off the southern coast of Steppe city, Rosianna, had sparked outrage and scrutiny. The public saw it as Russle¡¯s failure, failure to convince Alexsir to stay, failure as a leader, and failure as a father.

    And now, in the midst of election season, his rival Roman Ohlson was gaining ground.

    Russle¡¯s meeting with Nico von Vasseur, the head of PHI, wasn¡¯t just a discussion, it was a fight for survival.

    As he arrived at PHI HQ, a woman in a sharp midnight-blue suit greeted him.

    ¡°Welcome, Mr. Russle,¡± she said smoothly. ¡°Mr. Nico is waiting for you in his office.¡±

    Russle barely acknowledged her, striding forward. ¡°Cassandra, I don¡¯t need this formality. I¡¯ll go there myself.¡±

    The woman, Cassandra fur Vasseur, nicknamed the Blue Rose, merely smirked. ¡°Of course, Uncle Russle. But I can¡¯t let you go alone. It seems I have to be there too.¡±

    Russle halted mid-step, his expression darkening.

    ¡°I requested a private meeting with Nico. What does this mean?¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re here to discuss Alexsir, I have to be present.¡± Cassandra¡¯s voice was cold, sharp, unyielding.

    Russle exhaled sharply. ¡°I didn¡¯t come here for that. I sent word, I¡¯m here to discuss strategy.¡±

    Cassandra smiled, but it wasn¡¯t warm, it was cynical, knowing.

    ¡°Don¡¯t bother hiding anything from me, Uncle,¡± she said, falling into step beside him. ¡°I have eyes and ears everywhere.¡±

    Russle clenched his jaw but didn¡¯t reply. Arguing with Cassandra was pointless, she wasn¡¯t someone who could be controlled, not by him, not by Nico, not by anyone.

    The massive double doors swung open, revealing a grand yet orderly workspace. The right wall was lined with file cabinets, while a sleek sofa occupied the left. The work desk, positioned before a wide glass window, was buried under stacks of files, reports, and legal drafts, a testament to Nico¡¯s unending workload.

    Behind the desk, Nico von Vasseur looked up, his gaze flicking between Russle and Cassandra.

    ¡°Oh, welcome, Russle. And¡­ Cassandra?¡± His brows furrowed slightly.

    Russle sighed. ¡°I think so too, Nico. I hope you have someone who can convince her otherwise.¡±

    Nico chuckled, but before he could speak....

    ¡°Hah,¡± Cassandra cut in, her tone sharp, dripping with contempt. ¡°If you want someone who can persuade me, then find the man you made disappear two years ago, Uncle Russle.¡±

    A heavy silence settled over the room.

    Russle¡¯s hands curled into fists, but he said nothing. Not here. Not now.

    Nico exhaled, shaking his head. ¡°It¡¯s alright, Russle. Cassandra can stay. She might have something valuable to say.¡±

    Russle exhaled through his nose, reluctantly lowering himself onto the sofa. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s get to business.¡±

    Nico leaned forward. ¡°First, I owe you an apology for making you come here. I know you¡¯re already overwhelmed with the situation, but¡­¡± he gestured vaguely to his surroundings, ¡°I don¡¯t have a convoy of guards like you. Leaving HQ isn¡¯t exactly safe right now.¡±

    Russle frowned. ¡°So that¡¯s why the guards are everywhere?¡±

    Nico nodded. ¡°Yes. There¡¯s been a series of attacks, an unknown group targeting PHI members. Some have been robbed, some have had their data stolen. But¡­ so far, there¡¯s no sign of lethal intent.¡±

    Cassandra, lounging elegantly on the sofa, idly ran a gloved finger over her sleeve, completely uninterested in the conversation.

    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    Russle narrowed his eyes. ¡°¡®No lethal intent¡¯? Then who else could it be?¡±

    Nico hesitated before answering. ¡°It could be them. But¡­ most likely, it¡¯s not.¡±

    Russle scoffed. ¡°Them? You mean ADA?¡±

    Nico¡¯s jaw tightened. ¡°Yes. But Stevanus Ragna isn¡¯t the type to act so recklessly.¡±

    Russle leaned forward, eyes cold. ¡°If anyone has a reason to attack PHI, it¡¯s them. And if it¡¯s not Stevanus, then it¡¯s the people supporting him. You need to stop underestimating them, Nico.¡±

    Nico ran a hand through his hair, exhaling. ¡°I know that. But Stevanus isn¡¯t a frontal attacker. He¡¯s a leech, he waits, he manipulates, and when the time is right, he strikes. If he¡¯s involved, he¡¯s not acting directly. He¡¯s letting someone else do the dirty work.¡±

    Russle¡¯s voice dropped, dangerous, edged with warning. ¡°I think it¡¯s time you stopped respecting him, Nico.¡±

    Nico looked up.

    ¡°Not everyone is a friend forever.¡±

    The words hung in the air.

    Nico¡¯s expression darkened. His fingers tapped against his desk, his mind working through the implications. He sighed.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, Russle. I¡¯ve been too attached to the past.¡± He leaned back, his gaze hardening. ¡°Especially now, when our chances of stopping Roman Ohlson are slipping through our fingers.¡±

    ¡°That wouldn¡¯t have happened if someone hadn¡¯t let Alexsir leave that time.¡±

    Cassandra¡¯s cold, cynical voice cut through the room, derailing the conversation before it could shift away from Alexsir.

    Russle clenched his jaw, exhaling slowly before responding. ¡°I tried, Cassandra. But Alex....he hasn¡¯t forgiven me.¡± His voice carried an uncharacteristic regret.

    ¡°Tried?¡± Cassandra¡¯s turquoise eyes sharpened. ¡°How hard did you try, Uncle Russle?¡± Her tone rose, laced with growing frustration. ¡°When you got the transaction notification, you shouldn¡¯t have hesitated! You could¡¯ve contacted him right then! And if you had told me, I would¡¯ve found him, without fail!¡±

    Russle¡¯s expression darkened. His fingers dug into his knee before he snapped back.

    ¡°Oh? And what about you, Cassandra?¡± His voice rose to match hers. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you had eyes and ears everywhere? If that¡¯s the case, where the hell were they when Alex disappeared?¡±

    Cassandra faltered. For the first time, her icy composure cracked.

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­¡± she hesitated. Her voice softened, but frustration lingered. ¡°That¡¯s because¡­ Alexsir knows my weakness.¡±

    Russle¡¯s expression remained hard.

    ¡°He¡¯s just too great,¡± Cassandra admitted, sounding almost¡­ bitter.

    The room fell into tense silence.

    Then....

    ¡°Enough, you two!¡± Nico¡¯s voice cut through the argument, his patience finally worn thin. ¡°There¡¯s no point in blaming each other. What¡¯s done is done. The fact is, neither of us could stop him.¡±

    Russle leaned back, exhaling sharply. Cassandra merely folded her arms, irritation still clear in her eyes.

    Nico rubbed his temples before continuing, his voice lower now.

    ¡°Alexsir is gone. That¡¯s a fact. And another fact? Maybe he¡¯s avoiding us because of people like you, people who are too obsessed with him.¡± His words were sharp, but then his tone softened. ¡°Or¡­ maybe not. Maybe he just couldn¡¯t bear the burden placed on him.¡±

    He paused, letting his words sink in.

    ¡°But whatever the case, if Alexsir is still alive, he might be the key to turning this situation around. If we can convince him to come back, Russle¡¯s public image will recover, and we¡¯ll have a chance to stop Roman Ohlson again.¡±

    Cassandra¡¯s eyes lit up, her usual cold demeanor vanished in an instant, replaced by determined enthusiasm.

    ¡°Exactly!¡± she burst out. ¡°There¡¯s no proof that Alexsir is dead. They never found a body. And if it¡¯s Alexsir, he must have a way to survive. I just need to find him, and bring him back!¡±

    Russle frowned. ¡°And how can you be so sure?¡±

    ¡°You can give up, Uncle.¡± Cassandra shot him a defiant smirk. ¡°But I won¡¯t. And what can you even do to stop me? I¡¯m going, whether you approve or not.¡±

    Russle sighed in frustration, rubbing his temples.

    Nico, however, merely nodded. ¡°Then, I¡¯ll place my hopes in you, Cassandra. Bring Alexsir back¡­ safely.¡±

    Cassandra grinned, her previous cynical amusement creeping back.

    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry~¡± she purred. ¡°I will bring him back. And in return, Alexsir is completely mine.¡±

    With that, she turned sharply and strode out of the room....her obsessive desire for Alexsir clear as day.

    Russle and Nico watched her go, neither attempting to stop her.

    As Cassandra stormed out of the room, her heels clicked sharply against the marble floor, each step radiating unwavering determination.

    Cassandra fur Vasseur was no ordinary woman.

    Among PHI¡¯s elite, she was feared and revered alike, the master of intelligence, the ghost in the shadows. Whether it was espionage, tracking, or assassination, none could rival her precision. She had many names, but the one that stuck was The Blue Rose.

    It suited her, elegant yet deadly, beautiful yet untouchable.

    Her turquoise eyes shimmered like a frozen ocean, concealing emotions beneath layers of unshaken control. Her jet-black hair cascaded in soft waves, adding to her aura of mystery. People admired her from afar, but few dared to approach.

    And those who did?

    They learned the hard way that Cassandra fur Vasseur could not be controlled.

    There was only one person she would ever listen to....

    Alexsir.

    Her grip on him had always been relentless, and when he started slipping away, she became even more obsessed. Learning the truth about him had changed something inside her. She was no longer satisfied with mere admiration, she needed him, owned him.

    Alexsir, of course, had rejected her completely.

    He had gone so far as to beg his father to cancel their engagement. Though he succeeded, his escape only made her obsession grow stronger. The more he ran, the more determined she became to claim him once and for all.

    And now?

    He was missing.

    Her lips curled into a smirk.

    "I will find you, Alexsir. And this time¡­ you won¡¯t be able to run away."

    With that, she stepped into the private jet bound for Rosianna....the hunt had begun.

    PHI HQ ¨C Nico¡¯s Office (After Cassandra Leaves)

    Russle exhaled, his hands clasped together as he stared at the ground.

    ¡°¡­Alex is our Plan A to counter Ohlson.¡± Nico¡¯s voice was measured. ¡°The public would rally behind his return.¡±

    Russle remained silent.

    He hated this. He hated the idea of dragging Alex back into the political battlefield. But at the same time, he had no choice.

    ¡°The greater good, huh?¡± Russle muttered.

    Nico¡¯s gaze softened slightly. ¡°I know you regret it. I know you regret blindly obeying Grandpa¡¯s orders back then.¡± He sighed. ¡°But it¡¯s done, Russle. If you keep drowning in guilt, you won¡¯t be able to save anyone.¡±

    Russle¡¯s frustration flared.

    ¡°What if Alex refuses?¡± He looked up, expression tense. ¡°What if I have to do the same thing all over again, Nico?¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Nico said firmly. ¡°I¡¯m glad you finally broke free from Grandpa¡¯s control. Remember, we are not him. We swore to never follow in his footsteps.¡±

    He leaned forward. ¡°That¡¯s why we always have a Plan B.¡±

    Russle¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°¡­Plan B?¡±

    Nico nodded, his voice dropping.

    ¡°Guerrilla tactics.¡±

    Russle stiffened. ¡°You¡¯re planning to put pressure on them now? What if the public finds out that PHI is engaging in underground warfare against ADA?¡±

    Nico smirked slightly. ¡°That¡¯s the point of using guerrilla tactics, Russle. So the public doesn¡¯t find out.¡± His expression darkened. ¡°Sooner or later, a confrontation with ADA is inevitable. And if the public does catch on¡­¡± He paused. ¡°We have Plan C.¡±

    Russle¡¯s stomach sank. ¡°Plan C?¡±

    ¡°You remember the terrorist group that attacked Miss Starlight in the warehouse district?¡±

    Russle frowned. ¡°Alexandrian¡­¡±

    Nico nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll frame them.¡±

    Russle exhaled sharply. ¡°And how exactly do you plan to convince the public that Alexandrian is behind this?¡±

    Nico leaned back. ¡°Recently, there¡¯s been a series of targeted acts of vandalism, mysterious arrivals, attacks on communication centers, and possible hacking of interplanetary networks. They operate in groups, but no one knows who they really are. We can sell the narrative that it¡¯s them. The pieces fit.¡±

    Russle frowned in thought. ¡°¡­Speaking of Starlight, doesn¡¯t this sound like someone is trying to track down AGE?¡±

    Nico¡¯s eyes flickered with something unreadable.

    ¡°I considered that.¡± His voice was measured. ¡°But unfortunately, I can¡¯t discuss AGE with you, not right now. Until the election is over, none of the presidential candidates can have access to that information.¡±

    Russle¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Oh? Then you must have heard about Brighton¡¯s daughter traveling abroad with her friends?¡±

    Nico nodded. ¡°Yes. From what I¡¯ve been told, she took a vacation after exhausting herself completing AGE. Seems normal enough. Why?¡±

    Russle hesitated. ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know. Maybe I¡¯m being paranoid, but I got that information right after hearing about Alexsir¡¯s plane crash.¡±

    Nico frowned. ¡°The probability of a connection is low. Starlight doesn¡¯t even know Alexsir.¡±

    Russle exhaled. ¡°That¡¯s not the point. She¡¯s Brighton¡¯s daughter.¡± He looked at Nico. ¡°And you know exactly what that means.¡±

    Nico¡¯s face hardened instantly.

    ¡°¡­I see.¡± His voice was quiet. ¡°I feel even sorrier for Alexsir now.¡± He exhaled. ¡°Your brilliant plan back then created a target of obsession....and now, he¡¯s paying the price for it.¡±

    Russle fell silent.

    Nico sighed. ¡°Let¡¯s just hope Brighton¡¯s daughter really is just on vacation.¡± He looked up at Russle, voice firm. ¡°If Alexsir does return, we need to keep Cassandra from trapping him again. And most importantly¡­ we have to keep him away from people like them.¡±

    Russle lowered his head, deep in thought.

    Nico¡¯s eyes narrowed.

    ¡°Because if we don¡¯t¡­ history will repeat itself.¡±

    Klauz Commercial City, Unoseis Union

    MADA ¨C 20:00

    On the other side of the Unoseis Union, in its bustling commercial hub, Stevanus Ragna gathered his most trusted subordinates for a crucial strategy meeting.

    "With this, we''re just one step away from securing the government." One of his men, Otzie, declared confidently.

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself," Leif countered, his tone firm. "We can''t afford arrogance just because we''re ahead. We need to be prepared for the worst-case scenario."

    Otzie scoffed. "You''re always like this, Leif. Can''t you at least acknowledge that PHI is completely cornered now?"

    "To be fair," another member, Lawson, chimed in, "this operation has been incredibly effective. I didn''t expect PHI to just sit back and let this happen."

    The heavy wooden doors creaked open, and Stevanus strode in, his presence commanding immediate attention. Beside him, Diana followed, her sharp gaze sweeping across the room.

    "Mr. Stevanus! Good evening!" The five members rose simultaneously, saluting in perfect sync.

    Stevanus chuckled, "Relax, guys. Meetings are much easier when we''re not acting like soldiers on parade. Let''s get started."

    "About PHI," Stevanus continued, "don''t assume Nico will stay passive forever. He''ll respond sooner or later."

    "You think PHI will retaliate?" Lawson asked.

    "Absolutely," Stevanus confirmed. "Which is why we need to anticipate their move before they make it."

    With everyone gathered, Stevanus turned to Roman Ohlson, the presidential candidate they were backing.

    "Roman, what¡¯s the result of your meeting with the election committee?"

    Roman exhaled. "They''re delaying the second round due to the issues on Vasseur¡¯s side. They''ve extended the quiet period."

    Stevanus frowned slightly. "So how long is this quiet period extended?"

    "Three months," Roman replied.

    "Three months?!" Leif¡¯s voice spiked with frustration. "Isn''t that too long for a quiet period?"

    Ohlson adjusted his posture, his tone measured but firm.

    "Apart from Vasseur''s request, they said they wanted to make sure all the commotion that has occurred recently is truly resolved, especially since this unknown terrorist activity is disrupting the interplanetary intercom network. That also needs to be handled before it impacts the election."

    Leif slammed his fist on the table. "Ridiculous! Why should their problems affect our campaign?! Roman, you should¡¯ve pushed back harder!"

    "Calm down, Leif," Stevanus interjected smoothly. "Roman¡¯s done his part. What matters now is how we adapt."

    Roman nodded. "The committee¡¯s justification was to ensure a ¡®sterile quiet period¡¯ free from disturbances. We¡¯ll have to work around it."

    Stevanus leaned back, considering. "Fair enough," he conceded. "It just means we need to adjust our strategy to maintain our advantage."

    Stevanus turned toward Diana. "What¡¯s the latest report from our scouts in Steppe?"

    Diana responded swiftly. "They found no trace of Alexsir Vasseur, just the wreckage and a bag of documents."

    "I see. Good work, Diana." He glanced at her standing position. "But aren''t you tired of standing? There are plenty of seats."

    Diana shook her head. "No need, sir. I need to take notes for the meeting, sitting would slow me down."

    A short-haired girl, the youngest among them, finally spoke up. Jeanne, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "Sir, why send a scouting team just to confirm Vasseur¡¯s son¡¯s death?"

    Stevanus smirked. "Because Alexsir Vasseur could be a powerful tool, whether dead or alive."

    Jeanne frowned. "I don¡¯t get it. Why is he so important?"

    "Because," Stevanus leaned forward, "he¡¯s the perfect bait to lure Starlight Stellar back to Unoseis."

    Lawson¡¯s brows furrowed. "You mean¡­ we need Starlight for AGE? But why use Vasseur as bait?"

    Stevanus nodded. "Exactly. We need Starlight to modify AGE specifically, to disable the synthetic reproductive function. That way, we won¡¯t have to rely on ¡®cruel methods¡¯ to find the candidates we need."

    Otzie hesitated. "I get that, but¡­ what''s Alexsir got to do with Starlight?"

    Stevanus¡¯s smirk deepened. "Because Starlight is one of the three Nastana subjects, people genetically wired to be subconsciously attached to Alexsir Vasseur."

    A tense silence followed.

    "Wait," Jeanne¡¯s voice sharpened. "Are you telling me their genetic memory makes them instinctively drawn to him?"

    "Exactly." Stevanus confirmed. "That¡¯s why Alexsir is the perfect lure. He¡¯ll not only draw out Starlight but could also expose the unknown terrorist group that¡¯s been making moves lately."

    Stevanus straightened, his presence shifting into full command mode. "Alright, listen up. Here¡¯s how we move forward."

    He turned to Jeanne. "I want you and your squad to deploy to Rosianna. Track down Alexsir and bring him in alive. If you cross paths with Starlight, do not engage, just let her return to Unoseis on her own."

    Then, he looked at Otzie and Leif. "You two will keep your squads in Klauz City. Back Roman and make sure we maintain our political edge over PHI."

    Finally, he turned to Lawson. "Your squad will head to Romagna for reconnaissance. Find out who these unknown terrorists are, but don¡¯t engage until we understand their objectives. No unnecessary risks."

    Stevanus let the orders settle before giving a firm nod. "That¡¯s it. Stay sharp, and may we succeed, safely."

    He rose from his seat, his voice firm yet composed.

    "The battlefield may be a grand stage¡­ but the true victory is won when that stage remains unstained by blood."

    With that, the meeting was adjourned.

    End of Chapter V.

 VI: Backstage Hustle Bustle

    <h2>Esoterra ¨C 1950 AM, Monday, June 18</h2>

    <h2> </h2>

    <h2>The Artisan Courts, Noir</h2>

    The Artisan Courts, an intricate web of research and development hubs, stretched across Noir like a neural network of human ambition. Divided into specialized blocks, it was here that the future was forged, where independent and government institutions raced to outpace each other in the relentless pursuit of advancement.

    One such sector, the Science Block, was the heart of scientific innovation. Among the many faceless buildings stamped with the same sterile licenses, one stood apart, not in appearance, but in function. Officially, it was another genetic research facility. In reality, it was far more.

    Inside, behind its unassuming exterior, Loid, the head of Alexandrian R&D, and Yuri, a specialist in artificial genetics and space propulsion, worked in tandem to push the boundaries of human evolution. Though Alexandrian¡¯s command center had shifted to Leth, Romagna, this place remained their core, a nerve center known as FOAM (Foundation of Alexandrian Movements).

    Situated deep within the dark zone of Esoterra, FOAM was a six-story monolith with two hidden basement levels, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. To the untrained eye, it was just another building. To those who knew better, it was the crucible of revolution.

    <h2>FOAM ¨C 08:56</h2>

    <h2>3rd Floor, Genetics Laboratory</h2>

    The hum of machinery pulsed through the lab, mingling with the sharp, sterile scent of chemicals. Holographic screens flickered, their soft blue light casting digital ghosts across the cold surfaces.

    Loid stood before one of the displays, arms crossed, eyes narrowed as he studied the latest PAGE simulation results. Beside him, Helena, his lead assistant, frowned as she parsed the data.

    "Even with this recalculation... the immune response is still out of control," she murmured. "We¡¯re running straight into another Esoterra disaster."

    Loid exhaled slowly. "I know. Alexsir¡¯s AGE formula gave us a foundation, but the deeper I dissect it, the clearer it becomes, this isn¡¯t just genetic engineering, Helena. PAGE is something else entirely."

    Helena¡¯s gaze lingered on the hovering graph. "Induced mutations, poly-genetic integration, synthetic transposons... The theories are elegant, but in practice?" She shook her head. "Even Naura, the most compatible subject, lost control and triggered a gamma burst. She wiped out an entire team, Loid. Tell me we¡¯re still on the right track."

    Loid didn¡¯t look at her. His eyes were fixed on the screen, on the tangled, volatile code of human evolution.

    "Naura¡­" His voice was quiet. "She was a victim of unchecked ambition. But that¡¯s why we have to perfect PAGE. If we want to reach the next threshold, it¡¯s a necessity."

    Helena studied him. "Then what¡¯s next?"

    Loid hesitated for only a moment. "We stabilize the transposons. If we can program them to activate only in response to environmental stimuli, we control the mutations. They¡¯ll adapt, evolve, without self-destruction."

    Helena took a slow breath, nodding. "I¡¯ll start re-sequencing. But Loid¡­ if we fail again, I don¡¯t think anyone here will be left standing to try a third time."

    A thin, knowing smile tugged at Loid¡¯s lips. "Then we won¡¯t fail."

    <h2>4th Floor, Aeronautics and Optogenetics Laboratory</h2>

    In the dim light of the optogenetics lab, flickering neural maps and holographic schematics painted the air with shifting patterns of luminescent code.

    Yuri, her jet-black hair pulled into a loose twist, stood amidst the projections, her gaze distant, calculating. Across from her, Samuel, her colleague, hesitated before speaking.

    "The more I study Alexsir¡¯s journal on Epigenetic-Programmed Impulse Control¡­" he said, voice low, "the more I¡¯m convinced he never meant to finish it."

    Yuri didn¡¯t turn. "I know."

    Samuel frowned. "It¡¯s not research, it¡¯s speculation. No empirical validation. And yet, here we are, chasing shadows."

    Yuri¡¯s voice was flat. "We don¡¯t have a choice, Samuel. This ¡®Pandora¡¯s Box¡¯¡­ it¡¯s the key."

    Samuel¡¯s lips pressed into a thin line. "You mean a curse."

    Yuri finally looked at him. "It¡¯s both."

    The holograms reflected in Samuel¡¯s tired eyes. "This whole concept, controlling artificial humans with light-encoded signals, do you even hear how insane that sounds?" He exhaled sharply. "We implant the pathways from birth, activate them at will... You call it control. I call it something else."

    "An escape," Yuri corrected. "From human unpredictability. From chaos."

    Samuel let out a hollow laugh. "And if they break free? If they reject the signals?"

    Yuri¡¯s expression remained unreadable. "Then we¡¯ll have failed."

    Samuel rubbed a hand over his face. "The singularity effect, Yuri. If they lose control, it won¡¯t just be them burning, it¡¯ll be the entire world order."

    Yuri nodded. "That¡¯s why it has to be flawless. The signal distribution, the nanowireless framework, the environmental synchronization, no gaps. No room for error."

    Samuel¡¯s voice dropped. "And if this falls into the wrong hands?"

    For the first time, Yuri hesitated. Then, her eyes darkened. "Then the world will know the true meaning of hell."

    Samuel stared at her, searching for something, doubt, hesitation, fear. He found none.

    "Aren¡¯t you afraid?" he asked, almost a whisper.

    Yuri sighed, her voice steady but laced with something deeper, something colder.

    "Afraid, Samuel? Of course. That¡¯s exactly why we have to be the ones to finish this."

    <h2>Floor 5, Cyber Operations Division</h2>

    The fifth floor pulsed with the glow of monitors, a symphony of keystrokes and the quiet hum of servers filling the dimly lit space. Ron sat at his main terminal, his fingers hovering over the holographic interface as streams of data flickered across the air before him.

    A translucent screen lit up with an incoming report.

    "Ron, the backdoor into the Unoseis main hub is installed. Interplanetary intercom is now open... at least for us."

    A slow grin tugged at the corner of Ron¡¯s lips. "Good. Bury the encryption deep. I don¡¯t want anyone even suspecting we exist behind the curtain."

    Another operator leaned in from a side console. "Rosberg and Quinella have begun planting the packages in Indoterra. Operation Backdoor is moving as planned."

    Ron gave a sharp nod. "Keep tracking their movements. If things go south, we need to ensure their exit is clear at all times."

    A third voice chimed in from the opposite side of the room. "We''re still not fully synchronized with Yuri¡¯s team on the holographic device. It¡¯s the only thing keeping Rosberg and Quinella from standing out."

    Ron exhaled slowly, rubbing his temple. "Then I¡¯ll speak to Yuri myself. That hologram isn¡¯t just a tool, it¡¯s the difference between life and death."

    <h2>1st Floor, The FOAM Cafeteria ¨C 12:15</h2>

    The cafeteria was vast yet eerily quiet, a space meant for respite but now serving as an impromptu war room. The tension was almost tangible as Loid, Yuri, and Ron sat around a table, each lost in their own thoughts.

    Loid broke the silence first. "I heard from Helena¡­ your team, Yuri, is close to finalizing the holographic disguise."

    Yuri, her fingers idly tracing the rim of her cup, nodded. "We''re in the last stages. If synchronization with the optogenetic system holds, the device won¡¯t just manipulate light, it will mimic environmental thermal signatures. It¡¯ll be as if they don¡¯t exist."

    Ron leaned forward, his gaze sharp. "Then we need it now. Rosberg and Quinella are already deep in Indoterra. If their disguise breaks, "

    "It¡¯s over." Yuri finished for him, meeting his eyes without a flinch. "You think I don¡¯t know that? That¡¯s exactly why I won¡¯t release it until it''s flawless. If it leaks, they won¡¯t have a second chance."

    Loid leaned back in his chair, exhaling through his nose. "This whole thing¡­ PAGE, Pandora¡¯s Box, Backdoor¡­ we¡¯re tampering with forces that could burn us alive."

    Ron¡¯s expression remained unreadable. "And what choice do we have? This is the only radical path to achieving something beyond the limits placed on us."

    Yuri set her cup down gently, her voice barely above a whisper. "An extraordinary goal, huh¡­? I think the answer has always been much simpler than all these convoluted solutions."

    Silence settled between them again, heavier this time. Outside the cafeteria''s glass panels, the world carried on as if history wasn¡¯t being rewritten in the shadows.

    Indoterra ¨C 1950 AM, Monday, June 18

    <h2>Indoterra Military Base</h2>

    <h2>Recruitment Zone ¨C 10:00</h2>

    Beneath the orange-tinged sky, a row of metallic barracks stretched along the recruitment grounds. A line of new arrivals, stiff in their freshly issued uniforms, stood at attention. Among them, a young man with hair that blended with the sky''s hues remained composed, his posture effortlessly natural. He had embedded himself within their ranks, disguised as one of the SOC transfer personnel.

    A commanding officer¡¯s voice cut through the dry morning air.

    "Recruits, step forward one by one. State your origin and previous unit!"

    The young man took a measured step forward.

    "Montrose. Special Operations Command of the Interplanetary Federation."

    The officer gave a slight nod of approval. "SOC, huh? Not bad¡­ you guys usually come well-trained."

    A voice murmured beside Montrose, low but casual.

    "You from SOC too?"

    Montrose turned his head slightly. A burly man with a civilian¡¯s ease of movement was adjusting his uniform, a faint smirk playing on his lips.

    "You?" Montrose asked.

    The man gave a small, knowing smile. "Andri. Just got pulled in. SOC too. Though, I was mostly in tactical research."

    Montrose studied him for a second. "Tactical research? You don¡¯t see many from research thrown into the field like this."

    Andri let out a dry chuckle. "You think I signed up for this? Indoterra is¡­ different. You know they don¡¯t follow the old aristocratic system here, right?"

    Montrose gave a slow nod. "I¡¯ve heard. They appoint leaders directly through the Federation Executive Council."

    Andri glanced around before lowering his voice. "That¡¯s why the projects here are insane. Word is, they¡¯re developing a next-gen fighter, full stealth, zero emission. Even the SOC doesn¡¯t have full access to the specs yet."

    Montrose¡¯s eyes sharpened. "Where did you hear that?"

    Andri grinned. "You think I only research tactics? I have my ways."

    Montrose exhaled, gaze steady. "What else do you know?"

    Andri leaned in slightly, voice barely above a whisper. "The perfect human project. It¡¯s been in the works for years, though I don¡¯t know the full details."

    Montrose¡¯s fingers curled into a fist. "Perfect humans¡­ they¡¯re still chasing that?"

    Andri nodded. "Yeah. Anyway, let¡¯s just say we¡¯re standing at the edge of something that¡¯s going to redefine what it means to be human."

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    <h2>Indoterra Research Complex</h2>

    <h2>Advanced Physics Theory Division</h2>

    A labyrinth of sterile hallways stretched within the research complex. The rhythmic hum of analytical devices filled the air, punctuated by the occasional hiss of pressurized doors. Among the steady stream of researchers, a woman with green and blue braids moved with quiet precision. Her steps were measured, her expression unreadable. The ID badge clipped to her coat marked her as a newly transferred researcher.

    "Virella, right?"

    A bright, chirpy voice broke through the hum of machinery. Virella barely glanced over.

    A woman with short, curly hair and an easy smile was keeping pace beside her. "I¡¯m Tania. Looks like we¡¯re on the same team starting today."

    Virella let out a quiet grunt, barely acknowledging her.

    Tania chuckled. "Not much of a talker, huh? That¡¯s fine¡­ I like the quiet ones."

    Virella exhaled, flicking her gaze back to the terminal screen she was reviewing.

    "What?" she muttered.

    Tania stepped a little closer, lowering her voice. "You¡¯ve seen the project down in Zone 7, right? I heard they¡¯re developing warp technology."

    Virella¡¯s fingers froze over the terminal.

    "W-warp?"

    Tania nodded, her excitement barely contained. "Yeah. A whole new class of travel. They say it can transport objects across space without relying on hyperspace tunnels. They¡¯re calling it Compression Warp, directly overseen by the aristocratic committee."

    Virella exhaled sharply. "C-compression W-warp?"

    Tania¡¯s gaze flicked left and right before she leaned in further. "And, you didn¡¯t hear this from me, but this tech? It¡¯s being pushed forward for a reason."

    Virella frowned. "W-what r-reason?"

    Tania hesitated for half a second before whispering, "Galactic Confederation."

    Virella¡¯s pulse quickened. "W-what a-are y-you s-saying?"

    Tania¡¯s voice dropped lower. "The Federation¡¯s been in contact with them. An old power, far older than us. And not everyone up there agrees that we should know about it."

    Virella¡¯s grip on the terminal tightened. "Y-y-your s-source?"

    Tania flashed a small, knowing smile. "Insiders. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m not here to set you up. I know you¡¯re not just an ordinary researcher."

    Virella turned her face away, her voice barely audible. "I-I d-don¡¯t k-know w-what y-you mean."

    Tania chuckled. "Relax¡­ I¡¯ll keep your secret. Besides, you¡¯re not the only one sick of the aristocrats¡¯ little games."

    <h2>Indoterra Military Barracks ¨C 22:14</h2>

    The barracks were eerily quiet at this hour, the hum of ventilation systems the only sound filling the dimly lit room. Montrose sat on his bunk, staring at the scuffed metal floor, his mind replaying the day¡¯s conversations.

    A shadow crossed his vision as Andri appeared at the doorway, carrying two cans of synthetic drink.

    He tossed one toward Montrose. "You look like you need this."

    Montrose caught it without looking up. He hesitated before cracking the can open.

    "Are you sure this was the right move?" His voice was low, distant.

    Andri leaned against the metal frame of the bunk opposite him, taking a slow sip of his drink. His smirk never quite reached his eyes.

    "Right move? Since when do we get to make choices? The moment you get stamped with an SOC designation, your life isn¡¯t yours anymore."

    Montrose exhaled through his nose, taking a sip. The synthetic taste did little to clear his mind.

    "You realize we just stepped into a snake pit," he muttered.

    Andri swirled the liquid in his can, expression unreadable. "Of course." Then, a slow smirk tugged at his lips. "But in a snake pit, the only ones who survive, " He took another sip. ", are the ones who learn to be more venomous."

    <h2>Indoterra ¨C 1950 AM, Sunday, June 18</h2>

    <h2> </h2>

    <h2>Joint Cafeteria, Sector 4BC1 ¨C 13:16</h2>

    Nestled in the heart of Indoterra¡¯s research complex, the Joint Cafeteria was a rare pocket of normalcy amidst the rigid structure of military and scientific operations. Located in Sector 4BC1, it served as a shared space where researchers, operators, and military personnel could momentarily shed the weight of their duties. Some traveled from distant sectors just to enjoy its relative freedom, a luxury in a place where rules dictated every breath.

    It was also where Montrose and Virella would often find themselves crossing paths.

    Montrose and Andri stepped away from the buffet line, their trays laden with synthetic protein and nutrient-packed sides. As they scanned the cafeteria, Montrose¡¯s eyes settled on a familiar figure sitting alone in the corner. Without hesitation, he strode over, Andri trailing behind.

    ¡°Yo, Qui, ¡± Montrose caught himself, adjusting his tone. ¡°Dr. Virella¡­ how¡¯s life treating you?¡±

    Virella barely lifted her gaze, pushing a strand of her green-blue braids behind her ear. ¡°Hmp,  Oh, M-Montrose¡­ I-I¡¯m f-fine.¡±

    Andri arched an eyebrow as he took a seat beside Montrose. ¡°You know each other?¡±

    Montrose leaned back with a grin. ¡°Oh yeah, we go way back. Long before I joined the military. Never expected to run into her here.¡±

    Andri nodded. ¡°Small world, huh.¡±

    Montrose gestured between them. ¡°Virella, this is Andri, my unit mate, roommate, and unfortunate drinking buddy. Andri, meet Dr. Virella, a researcher in¡­¡± He hesitated, glancing at her. ¡°Uh, what field again?¡±

    Virella cleared her throat. ¡°A-Advanced P-Physics Theory Division.¡±

    Andri smiled. ¡°Pleasure, Dr. Virella. And no need to be nervous.¡±

    ¡°Hahaha, trust me,¡± Montrose chuckled. ¡°Nervous or not, she¡¯s always like this.¡±

    Andri shot him a look. ¡°Come on, Montrose, don¡¯t tease. Everyone has their own way of speaking.¡±

    ¡°Alright, alright,¡± Montrose raised his hands in mock surrender. ¡°By the way, Virella, why¡¯re you eating alone?¡±

    Conversation flowed between bites, their trays gradually emptying as familiarity settled in.

    Montrose exhaled contentedly. ¡°Same old Virella. Your habits never change.¡±

    Just then, something clicked in his memory. ¡°Oh, Andri, you submitted yesterday¡¯s patrol report, right?¡±

    Andri froze, eyes widening. ¡°Shit. Why are you just reminding me now?¡±

    Montrose smirked. ¡°Sorry, got distracted by my stomach. If you wanna get it in before our shift, you better move. Break¡¯s almost over.¡±

    Andri groaned, already rising. ¡°You¡¯re the worst, Montrose. You coming?¡±

    ¡°Nah, you go ahead. Haven¡¯t seen Virella in ages. Got some catching up to do.¡±

    Andri gave a mock salute. ¡°Alright then. See you later, Dr. Virella.¡±

    As Andri disappeared into the bustling cafeteria, a shift in the air settled between Montrose and Virella. Gone was the light chatter from before, now, only unspoken understanding lingered.

    Montrose rested an elbow on the table, voice lowering. ¡°That must¡¯ve been exhausting for you, huh?¡±

    Virella let out a quiet breath. ¡°Hmmph.¡±

    ¡°As I thought.¡± Montrose studied her carefully. ¡°Not much of a fan of small talk, are you? Have you found anyone you can actually talk to?¡±

    ¡°Hmmph.¡± Virella turned slightly, watching Andri¡¯s retreating figure before exhaling again, this time sharper. ¡°Hmmph hmmph.¡±

    Montrose¡¯s gaze followed hers. ¡°Yeah, I know. But we still need one or two ¡®rides¡¯, right? Emotional ties would just get in the way.¡±

    Virella tilted her head, her expression unreadable. ¡°Hmmph hmmph?¡±

    Montrose chuckled lightly. ¡°Just like we promised back then. You¡¯re a researcher, I¡¯m military. I¡¯ll probably get a better ¡®view¡¯ of things than you will.¡± He tapped his fingers against the table. ¡°Besides, the ¡®landmarks¡¯ here are already mapped out. Won¡¯t be hard to spot them.¡±

    Virella¡¯s head tilted again, her eyes narrowing slightly. ¡°Hmm¡­mmph?¡±

    ¡°This place works,¡± Montrose replied nonchalantly. ¡°It¡¯s crowded, plenty of background noise, and¡­¡± His lips curled into a smirk. ¡°Very friendly. So yeah, a perfect ¡®lunch spot.¡¯¡±

    Virella¡¯s brow quirked. ¡°Hmmph?¡±

    Montrose leaned back in his chair. ¡°Only during lunch, though. No choice but to stick to the barracks for dinner.¡±

    A quick glance at the wall clock made him sigh. ¡°Damn, break¡¯s almost up. Gotta go. We¡¯ll pick this up later, alright?¡±

    Virella gave a small nod, her voice softer. ¡°Hmmph hmmph.¡±

    Montrose grinned. ¡°Worried about me? Don¡¯t be. You take care too.¡±

    With that, he pushed himself up, disappearing into the ebb and flow of the cafeteria crowd. Virella watched him go, fingers absently tracing the rim of her tray.

    To an outsider, their conversation would have seemed like nothing more than a casual exchange between long-lost acquaintances. But Montrose and Virella were not old friends reminiscing over a chance reunion.

    They were something else entirely.

    And they understood each other perfectly.

    <h2>Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Monday, June 18</h2>

    <h2>Alexandrian HQ ¨C 9:20 PM</h2>

    Yuna stepped out of the women''s bathroom, entering the drying room. With a press of a button on the wall, warm air whooshed from the floor and ceiling, ruffling her black-purple hair. She stood still, letting the heat evaporate the lingering dampness on her skin. Once dry, she ran a hand through her slightly tangled hair, smoothing it out before heading into the changing room.

    She slipped into her towel kimono with practiced ease and made her way to the common room.

    There, seated on one of the sofas, was Naura, her friend, her supposed shower successor, completely engrossed in a tablet. She scrolled through the screen, her eyes scanning rapidly, utterly absorbed in whatever she was reading. Yuna didn''t announce her presence, simply watching for a moment before stepping behind the sofa. A quick peek over Naura¡¯s shoulder revealed the title of the article she was reading:

    "ALEXSIR VASSEUR, A VASSEUR WHO EXCEEDED STELLAR DOMINATION IN TU"

    The webpage header read trappistanuniv.ac/news, and the publication date at the bottom was from four years ago, 1946 AM.

    Yuna smirked. "Wow, digging through archives? That¡¯s rare¡­ Could it be that someone¡¯s getting curious about Alexsir Vasseur, hmm?" She leaned lazily against the sofa, her grin widening.

    Naura jolted, instinctively hugging the tablet to her chest as she turned toward Yuna. "N-no! This¡­ this is for future mission reference! Just basic info, important for context!"

    "Oh? For a mission?" Yuna leaned closer, her tone dripping with playful skepticism. "Or... for something else?"

    "R-really, it''s for the mission!" Naura stammered, her cheeks blooming red. "This is important¡­ I swear!"

    "Yeah, yeah, I totally believe you." Yuna chuckled, straightening up. "Anyway, I¡¯m done with my shower. Your turn."

    "O-oh¡­ right. I forgot¡­" Naura murmured, momentarily lost before she snapped back to reality.

    "Better hurry," Yuna added with a mischievous smile, arms crossed. "Wouldn¡¯t want you daydreaming too much, we¡¯ve got a mission tomorrow. Focus."

    Naura nodded rapidly. "Y-yeah¡­ yes¡­ I¡¯ll go now!"

    She practically bolted toward the bathroom, head ducked in embarrassment.

    Yuna watched her go, stifling a giggle.

    <h2>Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Tuesday, June 19</h2>

    <h2> </h2>

    <h2>City of Castansa, Hullenberg ¨C 2:56 PM</h2>

    Accel leaned back against the wall, eyes flicking between the data streams scrolling across his device. He let out a lazy exhale. ¡°Told you¡­ their lines are stale. I ran an old script, and it slipped right through.¡±

    Lawrence, crouched beside him, rolled his eyes as he worked the cable connections. ¡°Yeah, yeah, less bragging, more working. If you get caught, don¡¯t expect me to bail you out.¡±

    Accel smirked, fingers dancing over the interface. ¡°Relax. I work cleaner than your whining.¡±

    Lawrence snorted. ¡°If everyone thought like you, this city would¡¯ve been burned to the ground already. Here, new code from Lia. Receiving on channel three.¡±

    A moment later, Lia¡¯s voice crackled through their comms, cool and direct. ¡°Accel, Lawrence, priority shift. Max wants you in the industrial zone. Target¡¯s changed.¡±

    Accel stifled a yawn. ¡°Lia, if you¡¯re just bored over there, you can tell me. No need to start tossing orders around.¡±

    Lia chuckled. ¡°Not me, genius. Max¡¯s orders. Now move.¡±

    Lawrence grinned, slapping Accel¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Hear that? The big boss is making moves. Time to go.¡±

    <h2>Klauz Commercial City, Unoseis Union ¨C 17:28</h2>

    Naura and Yuna moved swiftly through the narrow corridors, the rhythmic clatter of their boots echoing against the cold metal walls. Naura¡¯s face was clouded, her mind clearly elsewhere.

    Yuna glanced at her. ¡°Still thinking about Alexsir?¡±

    Naura tensed, snapping out of her daze. ¡°N-no! I-I was just, ¡±

    Yuna sighed, stretching her arms behind her head as they walked. ¡°We¡¯ll go after him later. For now, focus. Finish this mission first, or Hilda¡¯s gonna rip you apart for pulling up databases in the middle of an op.¡±

    Naura let out a small snort. ¡°Hilda¡¯s scary when she¡¯s mad, huh?¡±

    The comms flared to life with Hilda¡¯s unmistakable sharp tone. ¡°I heard that, Naura. I¡¯m scary because you two are idiots. After the mission, both of you, medical check. No excuses.¡±

    Naura and Yuna exchanged glances before breaking into soft chuckles.

    ¡°Understood, Chief¡­¡± they said in unison.

    <h2>Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Wednesday, June 20</h2>

    <h2> </h2>

    <h2>Shoit City, Rosianna ¨C 23:14</h2>

    Lawrence smirked as he leaned against the console, glancing at Accel. ¡°Shoit, huh? They say Rosianna¡¯s the most secure city.¡±

    Accel snorted, barely looking up from his screen. ¡°Not bad¡­ took me ten minutes to crack into their core server.¡±

    Lawrence clapped a hand on his shoulder. ¡°Well, look at you. Just don¡¯t get cocky. One slip, and we¡¯re getting the VIP treatment in Rosianna¡¯s interrogation rooms.¡±

    Lia¡¯s voice filtered through the channel, laced with dry amusement. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate them. In Rosianna, everything we do is tracked. I¡¯ve set up a backup channel, switch to it.¡±

    Accel pressed a button, shifting the frequency. ¡°Alright, alright, calm down, Lia. I know how to play this game¡­ Besides, I¡¯ve got Lawrence the chatterbox watching my back.¡±

    Lawrence scowled. ¡°You¡¯re the chatterbox, idiot!¡±

    <h2>Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Thursday, June 21</h2>

    <h2> </h2>

    <h2>Alexandrian HQ ¨C Medical Room ¨C 20:39</h2>

    Hilda stood with her arms crossed, her sharp gaze sweeping over the group. ¡°Alright, everyone in. I¡¯m checking you one by one.¡±

    Naura groaned, dragging her feet. ¡°Chief, come on¡­ we¡¯re fine.¡±

    Hilda arched a brow. ¡°Oh? Should I call Dr. Samantha instead? Let her personally check you¡­ and tease you in front of Yuna?¡±

    Before Naura could protest, a familiar voice chimed in. ¡°Too late. Already here.¡±

    Dr. Samantha strolled in with a knowing grin, her eyes twinkling with mischief. ¡°So, who am I roasting first?¡±

    Yuna barely suppressed a chuckle. ¡°Naura, Chief. Easy target.¡±

    Samantha turned to Naura, lips twitching in amusement. ¡°Naura, Naura¡­ do you think hacking doesn¡¯t fry your brain? Go on, sit down. Let¡¯s check before you start blaming me when something shorts out up there.¡±

    Naura snorted, rolling her eyes as she dropped into the chair. ¡°I hate this place.¡±

    Hilda smirked. ¡°That means I¡¯m doing my job right.¡±

    <h2>Klauz Commercial City, Unoseis Union</h2>

    <h2>City Park ¨C 15:47</h2>

    A middle-aged man with graying hair and a thick mustache sat quietly on a park bench, bathed in the soft glow of artificial lights. With the planet¡¯s star drifting beyond the horizon, the city was cast into shadow, leaving only the manufactured illumination in its place. He sat still, absorbing the atmosphere, waiting.

    Footsteps approached along the gravel path. A younger man, dressed in a courier¡¯s uniform, strode toward him. A sling bag hung over his shoulder, his cap pulled low. Without hesitation, he stopped in front of the bench, reaching into his bag and pulling out a neatly wrapped box.

    ¡°Package for Mr. Max,¡± the courier said, his tone brisk, professional.

    Max lifted his gaze, meeting the courier¡¯s eyes before taking the box from his hands.

    ¡°Please sign here to complete the delivery,¡± the courier added, holding out a tablet with a stylus attached.

    Max didn¡¯t sign immediately. Instead, he spoke, his voice measured. ¡°Holtman, keep your senses sharp for anything coming out of Rosianna.¡±

    Holtman¡¯s expression didn¡¯t shift, but his eyes narrowed slightly, processing the words. ¡°Oh? Expansion into Rosianna, huh?¡± He exhaled through his nose. ¡°Alright¡­ you planning to set up shop there?¡±

    Max finally moved, pressing the stylus to the screen as he signed. ¡°Not yet. For now, just watch. We might not be the only ones being sniffed out.¡±

    Holtman retrieved the tablet, slipping it back into his bag with a nod. ¡°Got it. Always a pleasure doing business with you, sir.¡± He gave a half-smile before turning on his heel, disappearing down the path.

    Max remained seated for a moment longer, watching Holtman¡¯s figure fade into the crowd. Then, without a word, he stood and walked in the opposite direction.

    <h2>Earth 2.0 ¨C 1950 AM, Friday, June 22</h2>

    <h2>Female dormitory ¨C 01:26</h2>

    "You know ####, Hercules is a famous person too....like Socrates and Aristotle. But Hercules is a hero."

    A little blonde girl with ruby eyes said cheerfully, her small hands gripping the hem of her dress as she turned to face her companion.

    Beside her stood a brown-haired boy with emerald-green eyes, his arms crossed proudly.

    "Then I am Hercules!" the boy declared with confidence.

    The little girl giggled, shaking her head.

    "Hahaha! You¡¯re not Hercules, and you don¡¯t need to be Hercules! You are Helki!"

    The boy blinked in confusion.

    "Huh? Helki? Who''s that? Is he famous?"

    The little girl tapped a finger to her lips, thinking before she spoke again.

    "Hmm¡­ no, he¡¯s not famous. And he doesn¡¯t need to be famous."

    She turned to him, her ruby-red eyes shining with warmth.

    "But he is my hero."

    The boy''s expression softened.

    "Your hero?" he asked.

    The little girl nodded.

    "Yes. The hero I always long for. The hero who will always be there for me. And the hero who will always be mine."

    The boy scratched his head, puzzled.

    "Hmm, what does that mean, Nana? I don¡¯t really get it¡­ but if you¡¯re happy with that, then I am Helki!"

    His grin widened as he puffed out his chest.

    "I am Helki!!"

    Naura gasped.

    Her eyes shot open, her heart pounding against her ribs as the voice of that boy, his declaration still echoed in her ears.

    "I am Helki!!"

    A single tear slipped down her cheek.

    Why was she crying?

    She didn¡¯t understand.

    But deep down¡­ she knew it was something precious.

    She slowly sat up, wiping her damp cheeks as her breath steadied.

    The name still lingered on her lips.

    "Helki, huh¡­?"

    She whispered the name, a small, wistful smile forming on her face.

    <h2>End of chapter VI</h2>

 VI.V: LOREm ipsum dolor sit amet: B

    <ol>

    <li> Planetary System Integration and Interplanetary Governance</li>

    </ol>

    Indoterra: Planet-States in the Interplanetary Federation

    Indoterra is an exoplanet with a thinner atmosphere than Earth, but has a relatively similar chemical composition. Unlike Earth which has a complex meteorological system with permanent clouds, Indoterra only experiences cloud formation during the daytime rain cycle. Otherwise, the sky remains clear with minimal atmospheric circulation. Its astronomical cycle includes 14 hours of night and 8 hours of day, influenced by an orbital eccentricity of 0.2 and an axial tilt of 18 degrees. These conditions make it an ideal location for research into aeronautics, astrophysics, and space propulsion technology. Indoterra serves as a center for high-tech exploration, including the development of nanotechnology to support the sustainability of human colonies. Indoterra has an administrative system that governs the entire planet as a single political entity, with no internal administrative divisions. In other words, Indoterra is a planet-state within the Interplanetary Federation structure.

    Earth 2.0: Federal Administration and Government Center

    Earth 2.0 has an atmosphere that is 90% similar to Earth and geology that is about 80% similar. It is about 15% smaller than Earth and orbits a red dwarf star with a lower luminosity. Its rotation cycle is very slow, where one full cycle is equivalent to eight Earth 2.0 years, with four years of day and four years of night. Major cities on Earth 2.0 are designed with green technology, magnetic levitation transportation systems, and public policy optimization through artificial intelligence.

    Earth 2.0''s administration is divided into four countries based on geology and the planet''s rotation cycle at an angle of 0¡ã cycle:

    Unoseis Union (120¡ã East Longitude) - Day Zone.

    Romagna (0¡ã Mediterranean) - Twilight Zone.

    Rosianna (-120¡ã West Longitude) - Night Zone.

    Hullenberg (180¡ã Anti Mediterranean) - Twilight Zone.

    Each nation has autonomy in domestic affairs but remains under the central government of the Interplanetary Federation, based on Earth 2.0.

    Esoterra: Center for Experimental Science and Technology

    Esoterra is the outermost planet in the Goldilocks zone of the system, with a revolution period of 33 years in Earth 2.0 time. The planet undergoes synchronous rotation with respect to its parent star, causing one side to be permanently illuminated (the bright zone), while the other side remains in perpetual darkness (the dark zone). However, climatology models suggest that the distribution of heat through atmospheric convection allows some regions to remain habitable.

    The two main regions of Esoterra are:

    Blanca ¨C Located in the bright zone, it serves as an ecological and residential center.

    Noir ¨C Located in the dark zone, it houses underground laboratories and a high-tech industrial complex.

    Esoterra''s population is largely composed of academics and scientists who conduct multidisciplinary research. Despite its semi-autonomous administrative status, Esoterra remains affiliated with Earth 2.0 within the Interplanetary Federation structure.

    Interplanetary Distances and Locations in the TRAPPIST-1 System

    Indoterra is closest to Trappist-1 in the Goldilocks zone.

    Earth 2.0 is 0.8 AU from Indoterra.

    Esoterra is 0.6 AU from Earth 2.0.

    Indoterra is 0.3 AU from the center of the TRAPPIST-1 system, so despite its slow or synchronous rotation, its surface temperature is still controlled by atmospheric and radiation factors.

    <ol start="5">

    <li> Alexandrian Structure, Operations, and Influence in Interplanetary Politics and Military</li>

    </ol>

    The Alexandrians are a secretive paramilitary entity that operates outside of official government structures, with the ultimate goal of changing the social, political, and scientific order through a concept they refer to as the "Grand Reset."(?) Unlike organizations like the ADA, which rely more on diplomatic and political influence, the Alexandrians adopt a strategy of direct action, including military operations, espionage, and experimental scientific research that contradicts official policy. With a high level of discipline and a strict command hierarchy, the Alexandrians are more than just a rebel group; they are strategic actors in the interplanetary geopolitical landscape. Furthermore, they have a wide influence on various aspects of interplanetary life through their infiltration of various important sectors, including the economy, technology, and resource development.

    Alexandrian Organizational Structure

    1. Strategic Leadership and Command

    Alexandria''s leadership consists of individuals with deep expertise in political planning, intelligence, and military strategy with Max as Alexandria''s supreme leader. His background is not widely known, but he is known to be a visionary with a deep understanding of global strategy and social dynamics.

    2. Operational Divisions

    A. Military and Tactical Operations Division

    This division carries out strategic sabotage, special operations, and the security of organizational assets.

    B. Intelligence and Espionage Division

    This division is responsible for infiltrating government structures, the military, and key research institutions such as PHI and ADA.

    C. Scientific Research Division

    Led by Loid, this division focuses on genetic engineering and the development of experimental biotechnology. Core Team:

    Yuri: A researcher involved in secret biotechnology experiments.

    D. Cybersecurity Division

    Ron leads this division with a focus on strategic hacking and the protection of Alexandrian''s communications network. In addition, this division develops artificial intelligence capable of conducting automated cyberattacks on enemy systems, increasing the effectiveness of hacking operations.

    E. Medical Division

    The Alexandrian medical team is not only responsible for treating combat wounds but also developing biological augmentation and prosthetic technologies. They also conduct in-depth research into human tissue regeneration and innovative healing methods involving DNA manipulation.

    Operational Headquarters and Infrastructure

    The Alexandrians do not have a permanent base that can be easily identified, but several key locations are known to serve as centers of operations:

    Leith, Rosianna: The main base on Earth 2.0.

    Esoterra: The genetic research facility and PAGE experimentation center, as well as their main secret headquarters.

    Other Secret Locations: Various hidden facilities used for specific operations.

    Operational Tactics and Methods

    A. Information Compartmentalization

    Alexandrians implement a need-to-know information access system to minimize the risk of leaks. Each agent only has access to data relevant to their role.

    B. Espionage and Information Manipulation

    They infiltrate various institutions with the aim of obtaining strategic information, distorting enemy policies, and creating instability in government systems. In addition, they utilize propaganda and media manipulation to create narratives that benefit their goals.

    C. Biotechnology Development

    Through the PAGE and Pandora¡¯s Box projects, Alexandrians explore genetic engineering to create individuals with enhanced biological capacities. Their research also involves the development of synthetic viruses and other biological methods to weaken enemies without direct military involvement.

    D. Tactical Military Operations

    Instead of open combat, they adopt a strategy of asymmetric warfare, sabotage, and surprise attacks on previously identified targets. They also use stealth technology and experimental weapons systems that allow them to strike undetected.

    <ol start="8">

    <li> Social Conflict, Technological Development and History</li>

    </ol>

    History of PHI

    The development of artificial intelligence (AI) experienced a significant revolution when machine learning-based systems that had been developed since the 1920s AD began to evolve towards deep learning in 1985. At the beginning of the 21st century, this technology began to be perfected with the presence of AI-based assistant programs that were able to imitate human communication patterns. These programs evolved to be able to create unique personas and mimic emotions, which although inauthentic, managed to build emotional attachments with humans. This phenomenon created a social shift where some people preferred interaction with AI over other humans because of the more predictable and stable responses.

    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.

    However, the increasing capabilities of AI also raised fears about its impact. The public began to organize anti-AI campaigns, worried about the potential threat of AI to human dominance. On the other hand, corporations continued to develop AI because of its significant economic benefits. AI has proven to be able to solve complex problems with a much lower error rate than humans. The widespread use of AI in various industries has sparked social tensions, where while most people criticize its existence, many individuals are increasingly emotionally dependent on this technology due to the social impact of globalization and the increase in mental health cases.

    The tension culminated when a group of vandals attacked the main server of an AI assistant program, causing the system to experience a complete blackout. This event caused a great emotional impact on the individuals who depended on the AI, giving rise to a counter-group to the anti-AI movement. This group called themselves Vendetta (V) and committed to fighting for AI''s place in society. In addition to social advocacy, Vendetta also became a center of innovation in the development of more independent AI. In 2096 AD, Vendetta achieved a milestone by creating Stellar, the first AI that could make decisions independently without relying entirely on programmed algorithms. Stellar was able to refuse orders, express boredom with repetitive discussions, and had an information selection mechanism that was more similar to human thought patterns. This success opened up new opportunities in the development of artificial intelligence, which eventually led to the creation of artificial humans.

    With the expansion of research in the field of AI and the emergence of Astable Materials (AsM), scientists began to explore the concept of digitalization of consciousness and programmed genetic engineering. This marked the emergence of new disciplines, such as synthetic organism science, which allowed the development of synthetic-based biological components. Over time, scientists managed to create various synthetic organs with the help of astable materials, including blood, brain, nerves, bones, and other tissues that could function fully like organic organs. The culmination of this innovation occurred in 2156, with the creation of ANA, the first humanoid assembled using fully synthetic organs and capable of biological reproduction through a synthetic womb. In 2169, a boy named Vasseur was born, the first individual resulting from the mating of an organic human and a synthetic-based humanoid. This event accelerated the social and biological transformation of humanity, blurring the lines between organic and artificial humans. In 2205, the atmospheric conditions of Earth 1.0 were further deteriorating due to contamination of astable materials exposed in the air. At the same time, humans had perfected a space transportation system with a speed of four times the speed of light (4c), allowing the migration program to the TRAPPIST-1 system. The choice of this system as the primary destination was due to the existence of three habitable planets after the failure of the Mars terraformation project. As the artificial human population grew, it was discovered that new-generation synthetic bodies were able to undergo cell division and produce offspring that had a combination of organic and synthetic genetics. This development raised ethical and social debates regarding the classification of humans. When artificial humans began to reproduce naturally and undergo the growth process like organic humans, some people proposed the abolition of the term "artificial human". It was at this point that Vendetta restructured and changed their name to PHI (People for Human Independency), marking a transition from a fight for AI rights to a movement that advocates for equality between organic and synthetic humans.

    As the lines between the two groups became increasingly blurred, a new anti-artificial movement emerged that opposed the existence of synthetic humans, claiming that only organic humans had the legitimacy to be truly human. This phenomenon created new tensions in the social order, prompting the PHI to expand its influence on a larger scale.

    By 1950 AM (After Migration), the PHI had grown into a non-governmental organization with significant influence throughout the TRAPPIST-1 system. Their presence was widespread on various planets, including Indoterra, Earth 2.0, and Esoterra. The organization played a key role in advocating for policies that supported equality between synthetic and organic humans in a variety of areas, from citizenship rights to access to resources and employment.

    The PHI''s current operational center is located in LYOD, Unoseis Union, Earth 2.0, with leadership held by Nico von Vasseur, a descendant of the Vasseur family line that has a long history of fighting for synthetic human equality. The PHI has continued to adapt to social and political changes, strengthening its position as a major force in the political and social landscape of the TRAPPIST-1 system.

    <ol start="9">

    <li> Interstellar Migration Technology and Its Evolution in TRAPPIST-1 Colonization</li>

    </ol>

    The application of interstellar migration technology is a key factor in colonizing the TRAPPIST-1 system. This development involves innovations in propulsion, mitigation of the physiological impacts of long journeys, and more efficient interstellar transportation systems. This study examines the evolution of technology from the beginning of human migration to the era of colonial stabilization.

    <ol>

    <li> Supraliminal Propulsion, 4c Speed ??and Navigation Technology</li>

    </ol>

    The spacecraft used in the human migration to TRAPPIST-1 adopted a warp metric engineering-based propulsion system, which allows for faster-than-light travel without violating general relativity. This technology works by creating a distortion of space-time using Alcubierre fields, in which space behind the ship expands while space ahead is compressed, creating a warp bubble that carries the ship without experiencing conventional acceleration. The energy required to maintain the warp field is obtained through the excitation of negative-mass energy fields, controlled by a zero-point energy extraction (ZPEE) reactor. This technology allows for 4c speeds without causing extreme relativistic time dilation effects to the crew. Navigation at supraluminal speeds relies on a gravitational lensing mapping approach, which allows quantum sensors to detect gravitational distortions and electromagnetic fields in the flight path. With this system, the spacecraft is able to avoid interstellar objects that are difficult to detect using conventional optical methods, thereby increasing the safety of the journey. In addition, a predictive quantum pathing system was developed to predict gravitational anomalies that could affect the ship''s trajectory, allowing for automatic corrections with a high degree of accuracy.

    <ol start="2">

    <li> Cryostasis and Metabolism Reduction up to 1%</li>

    </ol>

    Long-term interstellar travel requires physiological mitigation strategies for the crew. One of the main methods is metabolic hibernation-based cryostasis, which is more sophisticated than traditional biological freezing. This technology mimics the natural hibernation mechanism with controlled epigenetic regulation to suppress metabolic activity to a minimum. One of the main techniques in this cryostasis is the inhibition of the mTOR and AMPK pathways, which allows metabolism to slow down to 1% without causing tissue degradation.

    To prevent tissue damage from long-term immobilization, the system is supported by the infusion of medical nanobots, which maintain cellular integrity by micro-repairing tissue. In addition, low-level neurological simulation is applied to maintain brain activity at a minimum level, so that individuals can awaken without experiencing negative effects such as cognitive atrophy. During the cryostasis period, the ship is operated by an artificial human equipped with a quantum synaptic networks-based neuroprocessor, allowing real-time decision-making without response delays due to biological latency.

    In further development, the cryostasis system is equipped with stasis chamber reinforcement, which uses adaptive electromagnetic fields to precisely control pressure and temperature, preventing the formation of micro ice crystals in body tissues. Additionally, neural wave synchronization is applied to align brain activity with the artificial circadian rhythm, ensuring better adaptation when the individual exits cryostasis.

    <ol start="3">

    <li> AU Booster: Interplanetary Transportation at 1 AU/hour</li>

    </ol>

    Post-colonization, the development of an interstellar transportation system became a priority to improve mobility between planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system. The AU Booster technology was developed as a plasma-dynamic ion acceleration-based propulsion system, which allows interplanetary travel at a speed of 1 AU per hour without causing dangerous G-force effects to humans.

    The AU Booster system operates using Exotic Plasma Induction (EPI), a method that uses superionized gas to produce continuous thrust more efficiently than conventional ionic propulsion systems. To ensure the safety of the ship''s crew, Artificial Gravity Compensation (AGC) is implemented, a mechanism that allows the controlled gravitational field to avoid the effects of extreme acceleration. This technology also integrates Dynamic Route Mapping (DRM), an adaptive navigation system that takes relativistic effects into account to maintain stability of interplanetary trajectories.

    In addition, the implementation of variable-thrust modulation allows the ship to adjust its speed based on the distance to the destination and local gravitational field conditions, optimizing energy consumption. With this combination of technologies, the AU Booster becomes the transportation backbone for the developing colonial infrastructure in the TRAPPIST-1 system.

    <ol start="12">

    <li> Genetic Enhancement Technologies: AGE and PAGE in Human Bioengineering</li>

    </ol>

    PAGE (Post-Anthropic Genetic Enhancement) and Human Genome Reconstruction

    Unlike AGE, which is augmentative, PAGE (Post-Anthropic Genetic Enhancement) is a more radical genetic engineering technology, which not only enhances human capabilities but also reconstructs the entire genome. This technology aims to develop individuals with biological characteristics that are beyond the limits of the conventional human species, allowing adaptation to the extreme environmental conditions of outer space and atmospheres with low oxygen levels and high radiation.

    PAGE was developed as part of an experimental genetic project oriented towards interstellar colonization. This system works by a specific mutation induction mechanism, where various genes are modified simultaneously to create a unique combination of traits that allow humans to survive in environments with limited resources. These modifications include poly-genetic engineering, which involves increasing temperature resistance, tissue regeneration speed, energy consumption efficiency, and increasing resistance to pathogens not found on Earth.

    One of the revolutionary aspects of PAGE is its ability for dynamic biological adaptation, which allows modified individuals to undergo gradual phenotypic changes according to genetic and environmental stimuli. This is achieved through the integration of synthetic transposon elements, which are segments of DNA that can move within the genome and activate the expression of certain genes as needed. Thus, individuals undergoing the PAGE procedure do not have fixed genetic limitations, but can instead progressively adapt to the new environment they encounter.

    Technology Comparison: AGE vs. PAGE in Genetic Engineering Perspective

    The fundamental difference between AGE and PAGE lies in their approaches and biological implications for human genetic structure. AGE acts as a selective augmentation system, enhancing physiological performance without changing the basic composition of an individual¡¯s genome. In contrast, PAGE functions as a genetic transformation agent, creating individuals with entirely new biological traits, allowing the emergence of human subspecies that can adapt to extreme environments beyond Earth.

    AGE is more widely accepted in social and political circles because of its controllable nature and the fact that it does not cause permanent genetic changes. In contrast, PAGE often triggers ethical debates because of its potential to create human variants that are fundamentally different from the Homo sapiens species, thus giving rise to complex social and legal consequences. One of the main debates regarding PAGE is whether individuals who undergo such genetic engineering can still be categorized as human or have become a biologically distinct species.

    In practical applications, AGE is often used in the performance enhancement of individuals in the fields of space exploration, the battlefield, and the medical industry focused on regenerative therapies. Meanwhile, PAGE is being developed for the long-term needs of space colonization, with the goal of creating a generation of humans who can survive on planets with environmental conditions that do not support conventional human life. PAGE technology allows the human species to undergo more rapid and directed evolution, but it also carries risks that are not yet fully understood, including the potential for genetic instability and unpredictable side effects of mutations. As biotechnology and genetics advance, the distinction between augmentation (enhancement) and reconstruction (reconstruction) becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish. This raises new challenges in biomedical regulation and ethics, especially in terms of the social acceptance of individuals who have undergone advanced genetic modification. While AGE and PAGE offer tremendous potential for enhancing human biological capacity, their applications require strict oversight to ensure that the development of these technologies remains in line with ethical principles and the sustainability of the human species in the era of interstellar colonization.