Me (thoughts): Hm… Liran shouldn’t be too far from here. I’ll check if he’s finished with that researcher.
I began walking in the direction that would lead me to the room where Liran and the researcher were located.
After a few minutes of walking, I finally reached the door that led to the room. To my surprise, there was someone standing near the door, and it was Liran.
Liran noticed my presence and greeted me.
Liran: Hey… How was it?
Myself: It was… quite an unusual experience. What about you?
Liran: Same here. It’s been an intriguing encounter. Now, let’s continue exploring this place.
Myself: Alright.
We proceeded to stroll through the hallways, encountering researchers, deities, and various other entities. I couldn’t help but notice that some of these beings were whispering among themselves about us. It seemed like we had become somewhat of a popular duo within this facility, which was quite an extraordinary sensation.
As we continued walking, we eventually stumbled upon a massive door that led to a chamber.
Myself: ?... What could that be?
Liran: Let’s approach it and find out.
We continued our approach towards the door, but just before reaching it, a voice called out to us.
???: Don’t go in!
We halted in our tracks, and as I turned around, I laid eyes upon a colossal god-like figure, standing at an impressive height of 16 feet. It appeared that this imposing being was also a researcher.
Myself: What lies beyond that door?
Researcher: Beyond that door resides a formidable entity, one that should not be trifled with. I implore you, do not enter the chamber!
Liran: Can you provide more information about this entity?
Researcher: The entity is a servant hailing from the palace of the Black King. Encountering it would be perilous… it could result in your demise.
Liran: I see… Has it claimed the lives of others?
Researcher: Yes, it has. It is an immensely powerful being that Epsilon managed to capture.
Myself: Epsilon, you say? The same Epsilon who is renowned as one of the most formidable entities within the foundation?
Researcher: Precisely. Epsilon possesses unparalleled strength, enabling ‘him’ to capture and contain such mighty entities with ease…
LIRAN’S POV:
So, Epsilon is indeed a formidable being, capable of reaching the palace of the Black King and capturing and containing the Black King’s servants. Epsilon’s strength is truly remarkable.
Myself: Allow me to enter… I believe I can confront and handle that entity.
Researcher: What?! Are you willing to sacrifice your life?
Myself: I am serious. Please let me in.
After a brief moment, the researcher responded.
Researcher: If that is truly your desire…
Follow me.
The researcher approached the door and opened it.
Researcher: Come, follow me.
As I peered beyond the door, I discovered a hallway stretching before me. At the end of the hallway, there was another door leading to a room. Additionally, on the left side of the hallway, there was a glass panel offering a glimpse into the contents of the room.
The researcher proceeded into the hallway, waiting for me to follow suit.
After a short pause, I joined the researcher in the hallway, following closely behind.
Researcher: You are about to confront an entity of immense power. Its mere presence has the potential to erase you from reality…
As you can observe through the window, there is a smaller room within the expansive chamber we are about to enter. The entire chamber is safeguarded by the powers of the gods.
After a few seconds, we arrived at the door that led to the massive room. The researcher opened the door, allowing me to pass through.
Researcher: Are you truly certain about this?
Myself: Let me proceed.
Researcher: Very well, you may enter… I will be observing from here.
I stepped into the vast room, and as I entered, the researcher closed the door behind me.
My attention was immediately drawn to the smaller room within the chamber. It possessed a door that could be easily opened.
Approaching the door, I turned the handle and was suddenly faced with an entity devoid of color. It launched itself at me, attempting to intimidate or attack, but to no avail. I remained entirely unfazed.
This entity lacked a tangible form, appearing purely abstract. However, I could still perceive its presence.
Without hesitation, I delivered a powerful punch to the entity, sending it tumbling back into its own chamber.
Researcher: ?!...
Myself: Hey… if you intend to attack me, you’ll need to put up a better fight than that.
The entity fixated its attention on me.
Entity: Do not be foolish. I will erase you from reality.
It attempted to unleash its formidable powers upon me, only to find them rendered useless.
The entity appeared profoundly shocked and surprised.
Entity: ?!... How is this possible?
Undeterred, I entered the room, closing the distance between myself and the entity.
Myself: I have heard that you have attempted to claim the lives of others within this space, is that true?
The entity: It is none of your concern-?!...
THE ENTITY LOST THE PSYCHOLOGICAL BATTLE.
Myself: I will ensure that you are permanently removed from this place…
Raising my hand, I balled it into a fist and struck the entity with a powerful punch. Though I could have sworn that I heard it scream, it mattered little.
Upon striking the entity, a brilliant flash of light illuminated the room. And when the radiance dissipated, the entity had vanished completely.
It was as if the entity ceased to exist, no longer present in any form or space.
A few moments later, the researcher opened the door behind me, and I turned to face them, stepping out of the smaller room I had been in. I observed the researcher’s expression, a mixture of surprise and astonishment.
Researcher: Oh my, this is unprecedented! I have never witnessed anything like this before. It’s absolutely incredible!
I must inform the others of this remarkable occurrence. It’s truly amazing!
How did you manage to achieve this?
Myself: I possess my own secrets, but they are not relevant at this moment. What matters is that I have dealt with the entity successfully, and that is what counts.
Researcher: I see… I am immensely impressed. It’s truly astonishing to witness a human like yourself defeat such a powerful entity.
Now, please follow me. Let us exit this chamber.
Myself: Alright.
The researcher initiated their stride towards the chamber’s exit, and after a few moments, I began following suit, walking behind them.
After a few minutes, we found ourselves outside the chamber. I noticed Derek engaged in conversation with one of the researchers. As our eyes met, he immediately recognized me.
Derek: Hey there… you managed to defeat that entity?
Myself: Of course I did. It was quite an experience, haha.
How about we go somewhere? Maybe the cafeteria?
Derek: Sounds good to me.
We began walking in the direction that led to the cafeteria, ready to unwind and discuss our recent encounters.
EPSILON’S POV:
I was seated on my throne, engaged in conversation with the other council members. Suddenly, a researcher entered the room, clearly excited.
Researcher: Sir! Liran has successfully defeated one of the captured beings! It’s truly remarkable!
Myself: I am already aware of this accomplishment. You are not the only one who has brought me this information.
Researcher: I see. What shall we do with Liran now?
Myself: We shall conduct tests and experiments on both Liran and his friend. There is much to learn from them, and it would be beneficial for our understanding.
Researcher: Yes, sir!
The researcher then left the room, carrying out their assigned tasks.
Myself: Liran… what an intriguing individual he is.
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Chapter 51: an old “enemy”:
LIRAN’S POV:
After vanquishing the formidable entity emanating from the abode of the ebony monarch, my companion, Derek, and I made the decision to visit the dining hall.
Following a few minutes of traversing, we ultimately arrived at the imposing double doors that led to our destination. We stood before them, opened their grand entrance, and stepped into the expanse of the cafeteria.
Contrary to our previous encounter, this particular cafeteria was distinct—it was an auxiliary one.
This base is of such immense proportions that it harbors numerous such dining halls, chambers, corridors, and more.
Derek and I cast our gazes about, beholding the grandeur of colossal chairs, tables, and counters. Moreover, we beheld the presence of other deities and scholars, perambulating within this space. Some were engaged in conversations, while others were satiating their hunger.
Indeed, it was an impressive spectacle.
Derek: I am overcome with hunger… let us procure sustenance.
Subsequently, we approached the counter. As we did so, a towering deity, bearing an uncanny resemblance to Rythmeus, who stood behind the counter, drew near to us.
This being regarded us from above as it spoke:
Waiter: I am your server. Do you require any assistance?
Myself: Might we have two portions of steak, if it pleases you?
Waiter: Certainly.
With a mere snap of its fingers, the colossal deity conjured forth two mammoth plates, materializing out of the ether. They levitated before us, suspended in mid-air.
As we beheld these dishes, each one boasted a gargantuan steak.
Without hesitation, I took hold of one of the plates… and so did Derek.
Myself: Thank you!
Waiter: You’re most welcome.
Subsequently, we made our way towards one of the smaller tables designated for human use.
Upon reaching it, we carefully set the plates upon its surface and settled into the chairs adjacent to it.
Derek: Oh, my goodness! These steaks are absolutely massive…
Myself: Indeed, they appear to be around 12 pounds each… Quite astonishing.
Derek: Well, let us indulge ourselves!
After a brief pause, we commenced our feast. The steaks were utterly delightful, with tantalizing flavors and a masterful degree of culinary preparation.
Following a few minutes of savoring our meal, we decided to cease, for our appetites were satiated and we had consumed as much as we could manage.
Derek: Oh, my… I have an immense fondness for steak.
Myself: Likewise… It was truly satisfying.
At that moment, a custodian approached us, a deity who bore a striking resemblance to the waiter who had attended to us earlier. When the custodian drew near, they addressed us: Custodian: Have you both finished with your meal?
Myself: Yes, you may collect the plates.
Upon uttering those words, the custodian snapped their fingers, causing the plates to vanish and the table to regain its pristine cleanliness, as if no repast had taken place.
Myself (inwardly): How remarkable…
We then rose from our chairs, standing upright.
Myself: Thank you. Farewell, until we meet again.
Custodian: Likewise, Liran. I shall anticipate our future encounter. Goodbye.
We proceeded towards the exit of the cafeteria and within a matter of seconds, we stepped out, finding ourselves in the corridor.
Derek: What should be our next course of action? Will they subject us to further tests or similar endeavors?
Myself: Hm… It’s possible that we may encounter more of these entities they are dealing with.
However, I have a particular curiosity.
Derek: What’s on your mind?
Myself: I’m wondering if there are any “flesh faces” available here. Essentially, lifelike masks made of flesh…
Derek: I’m not sure… Why do you ask?
Myself: I have a feeling that I might come face-to-face with someone. Could we inquire about the existence of such masks within this facility?
Derek: Alright, let’s find out.
Subsequently, we commenced walking along the corridor. As we proceeded, we noticed a researcher strolling about—the same individual who had registered me in that previous room.
I called out to them:
Myself: Hey! Could you provide us with some assistance, please?
The researcher turned towards me and began to approach, closing the distance between us.
Researcher: Liran? Do you require assistance?
Myself: Yes, but before we proceed, could you please share your name?
Researcher: I go by many names, but you may refer to me as “Astralux.”
Myself: I see. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Astralux.
I glanced at Derek for a moment before speaking again:
Myself: Derek, would you mind staying here for a while? I may need to handle and meet this
“someone” on my own.
Derek: I understand. It’s your decision. I’ll explore this place in the meantime. See you later.
Derek then walked away, leaving me alone with Astralux. I turned my attention back to Astralux.
Myself: So, Astralux, do you happen to possess any “flesh faces” that are artificial yet lifelike?
Astralux: Indeed, we do. May I ask why?
Myself: I have a feeling that I will be encountering a specific individual very soon, and I might require such a “fake face.”
Astralux: I see. Very well.
Astralux then snapped their fingers, summoning something into existence—an ethereal orb of cosmic nature. After a brief moment, the orb floated towards me, coming close enough for me to grasp.
Astralux: Take this orb and place it upon your face. It should create a lifelike “fake face” made of flesh.
Myself: Am I able to remove this “fake face” at will?
Astralux: Indeed, you can remove it at your discretion. Though I must warn you, it may appear rather gruesome and gory. Enjoy your newfound appearance.
I grasped the orb and placed it on my face. As I did so, the orb transformed, adhering to my skin and forming an additional layer of flesh, which soon became my new “face.”
Wearing the “mask” felt surprisingly normal and comfortable. I expressed my gratitude to Astralux.
Myself: Thank you. I will see you later.
Astralux: I am glad to have been of assistance. Farewell for now.
Astralux returned to their duties, walking away from the scene.
A few minutes had elapsed, and I found myself walking the streets. Although I had a peculiar sense that I would encounter someone significant, I couldn’t locate them among the bustling crowds.
Continuing my stroll, I noticed an alleyway and instinctively decided to venture into it. As I stepped into the narrow passage, I found myself alone. Leaning against the nearby wall, I took a moment to relax.
Myself: …
After a few minutes of quiet contemplation within the confines of the alley, I heard a voice—a voice that sounded oddly familiar, all too familiar.
Myself (thoughts): ?...
I directed my gaze towards the source of the voice and beheld a woman passing by the entrance of the alley. As our eyes met, a rush of recognition surged through me. I knew this woman all too well. She paused for a moment, locking her eyes with mine, and spoke:
???: Liran?
I couldn’t believe my eyes. The woman who stood before me, turning to face me, was none other than Eve herself.
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Chapter 52: am I beautiful?:
There she stood, Eve, the girl I had known since middle school, the one who had been rude to both me and Brock. Yet, here she was, just a few meters away from me.
Myself: Eve? Is that really you?
Eve: Of course. What brings you here?
I couldn’t help but notice that Eve seemed different. She appeared calmer and more at ease, as if she had undergone a transformation. There was a newfound sense of peace about her.
Myself: Just taking a moment to relax here, you know, the usual.
Eve: Really? I’ve never seen you in one of these alleys. Can we talk, perhaps?
Myself: Sure, go ahead.
Eve entered the alley and made her way towards me. Within seconds, she was standing beside me.
Eve: Liran, it’s been a while… after everything that happened…
Myself: Heh, I know. Those were crazy times. So, how have you been?
Eve: I’m doing fine. I’ve distanced myself from those “friends” of mine. They were just a bunch of jerks. I don’t need fake friends in my life anymore.
I was taken aback by her statement. Eve had left behind her fake friends, which surprised me in a way, but also filled me with a sense of pride. She had once sought attention and centered her life around those superficial relationships. Now, hearing that she had broken free from that toxic cycle, it felt like a positive change for her.
It was heartwarming to witness Eve actively making changes to improve her life. Her desire for personal growth was admirable.
Eve: What about you, Liran? What have you been up to lately?
Myself: I’ve been keeping busy, engaging with different activities and meeting new people.
Overall, things are going well for me.
Eve: That’s good to hear. You know, after all that has happened between us, I just want to apologize…
Myself: ?...
Eve: I apologize for everything I’ve done, for making you feel bad and worthless, for attacking you and your friends, and for being rude to you and Brock. I’m sorry for all the hurtful things I did to you.
I was taken aback once again. Eve, the girl who had been so harsh and disrespectful to me and my friends, was finally offering her sincere apology.
I didn’t know how to react at first, but a sense of pride and peace washed over me upon hearing her words. I responded:
Myself: Eve, it’s alright. I forgive you.
I then looked up at her towering figure. Eve was an exceptionally tall woman, standing at 9 feet with a curvaceous physique. I hadn’t paid much attention to her size in the past, but now I began to understand why she sought the validation of those fake friends.
As I gazed up at Eve’s face, I noticed a genuine smile spreading across her features. She appeared genuinely happy.
Eve: Thank you… Thank you so much.
Myself: You’re welcome.
Eve moved even closer to me, crouching down to bring herself to my level. Without hesitation, she embraced me tightly, holding me close. Her knees touched the ground as she enveloped me in her arms, and I reciprocated the hug.
She pressed my head against her ample bosom, continuing to rub my back with a soothing motion.
Myself: ?...
I hadn’t expected such an intimate embrace from Eve, but I found myself comforted by it. I allowed myself to remain in her embrace, feeling the weight of her remorse and her desire for reconciliation.
Myself: Eve, it’s alright… I forgive you.
After our extended hug, Eve eventually released me and stood back up, regaining her towering height and size. She peered down at me, her cheeks adorned with a bright blush.
Myself: Are you feeling better now?
Eve: Yes, I am… Thank you.
She hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts before speaking.
Eve: There’s something I want to tell you…
Myself: What is it?
Eve: You know, despite how I acted towards you in the past, I’ve always liked you. You’re so cute…
I was taken aback once again by her words. I recalled hearing that sometimes when girls tease or annoy you, it might actually be a sign that they have feelings for you. I wasn’t sure if that was the case back in middle school, but now, as she stood before me blushing, it seemed like it could be true all along.
Myself: Really?
Eve: Yes, really. Even though I acted like a… well, let’s say not very pleasant person towards you, deep down, I’ve always liked you. You’re such a nice human being, cute, small, and smart…
Myself: I… I’m glad to hear that. Can I show you something even better?
Eve: Really? Show me…
Myself: Watch my face closely…
Eve fixed her gaze on my face, displaying a mix of curiosity and anticipation.
I: So, am I deemed aesthetically pleasing, I ponder?
Subsequently, I gently rest my hands upon my countenance… and commence to vigorously abrade my visage with forceful intensity.
Eve: ?!... Pray tell, what are you engaging in?!
Without faltering, I persist in escalating the ferocity of my facial abrasion, causing fragments of epidermis to dislodge from my countenance, accompanied by rivulets of crimson.
Eve’s countenance adopts an expression of profound horror and astonishment, beset by trepidation…
Eve: Cease this at once!
Despite Eve’s valiant attempts to wrest my hands away from my countenance, her efforts proved futile.
I persisted in the relentless act of scratching my face, unyielding to her interventions. As a result, copious amounts of blood and fragments of dermal tissue cascaded from my visage, reducing it to a grotesque and bloodied spectacle.
Eve, engulfed in escalating horror, exhibited an expression on her countenance that hinted at an impending scream of terror…
Eve: Cease this madness immediately!
Her terror grew exponentially as she observed my self-inflicted carnage. I continued to ruthlessly rend my face apart, extracting my very “eyes” and other anatomical features. My once pristine countenance lay in ruins, an abomination of flesh.
Then, I raised my gaze towards Eve’s visage…
Me: Do you find me beautiful now?
Overwhelmed by sheer terror, Eve’s scream pierced the air, prompting her to flee. Just as she was about to escape the confines of the alley, I called out to her: Me: Eve! Wait!... I was jesting!...
Eve halted her escape and turned back to face me, her expression a mix of confusion and disbelief.
Eve: What?!...
Me: It was all a prank!... I was merely jesting!
Swiftly, I tidied up the remnants that adorned my face, and within moments, my countenance was restored to its original state.
Eve: ?!...
My face returned to its normal appearance—my eyes, mouth, and all other features intact. Eve glanced downward, surveying the floor strewn with blood and fragments of flesh and skin.
Eve: What!?... Was this all a fabrication?
Me: Indeed, it was. In actuality, it is quite an amusing tale. Allow me to explain. Come closer.
Eve cautiously approached until she stood before me.
Eve: What have you done?
Me: Well, I had a premonition that our paths would cross again… thus, I decided to orchestrate a practical joke.
Eve: And that object on your face… was it some sort of lifelike mask?
Me: Something along those lines. I intended to startle you momentarily… and, well, it worked!
Haha!
Upon hearing this, Eve’s hand swiftly met my cheek in a resounding slap.
Eve: You despicable person! Do you have any notion of the sheer terror and dread you instilled in me?!... You frightened me to no end!
As Eve’s hand connected with my cheek, I didn’t flinch or display shock. Truth be told, I felt a sense of deserving that repercussion after subjecting her to such a distressing prank.
Me: Hehe, I sincerely apologize for my actions. I fully understand why you felt the need to slap me…
Do you find it in your heart to forgive me?
Eve: Fine… solely because you apologized genuinely, I will forgive you…
I noticed a lingering trace of displeasure in her demeanor following the prank. After a few seconds, she unexpectedly embraced me once again…
Eve: I’m sorry for striking you like that. Just promise me that you won’t engage in such pranks with me again, alright?
Me: Of course. Hehe…
After a brief moment of embracing, she gently released herself from the hug, positioning herself in front of me.
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