“Think I could get a drink?” I ask, and a hidden door slides open, with a robot rolling in and bringing me a glass of water. “Ballin’.” I say, slowing down to get some sip before returning to my new coding ventures.

-√Z2-

I cough out more blood- “Jeez…” I sigh, as I stand up, and walk out of the alley. “Hey! Are you a mutant?!” Someone asks, surprising me- I look up to spot a man with wings, and feathers for facial hair…

“Hey…” I say, stepping back as he jumps down from the building… “I’m Oliver. What’s your name?” He asks, and I look down. “I don’t really…” I begin, only to be interrupted- “You look like a Bill. I’m gonna’ call you Bill.” He says, annoying me a little…

“How did you find me?” I ask, moving back a little more, and reaching for one of my drawings… “My friend Ling, he can detect psychic powers. What’s yours?” He asks, and I look at my drawing, awakening it.

“I can bring my art to life.” I say, as a cartoon rocket with artistic effects flies from the wall and explodes in the sky with fireworks, the words: “Boom!” “Bang!” “Kaplewey!” appearing in the sky as we watch it explode.

“Do you have one?” I ask, and he shrugs. “Yeah. I can awaken dormant powers.” He says, as I fold my arms… “So why did you come looking for me?” I ask, and he leans against the wall. “Eh. I just wanted to make sure you were doing okay.” He says, now confusing me.

“There’s lots of mutants like us out there. We gotta’ watch out for each other. I won’t lie, from the looks of it… You don’t seem like you’re in a favorable position…” He says, as he extends his hand out to me…

“Come on, you don’t have to stay here. I’ll get you looked at by a doctor, then I’ll help set up a future for you.” He says, as I look at my coat sleeve, it’s badly stained and almost black from my blood… “O-Okay…” I say, taking his hand…

…

We exit the building, a small box strapped to my wrist. “The doctor said that this box will… Heal my insides, he said they didn’t grow quite right in the first place, that’s why I had to have the surgery…” I tell him, as I show him the aforementioned box.

“Good to hear it. Now, I would put you through school… But it’s hard to find a good one that accepts mutants…” He says, as we walk away from the hospital. “Right… When is your next checkup?” He asks. “About a month from now.” I answer, as we make our way down the sidewalk.

“Alright. Better remember that- Robs?” He asks, looking at a bracelet around his wrist. “Thanks.” He says to it. “So uh… What now?...” I ask, a little lost… “Well, we get YOU a place to stay.” He begins. “I’ve been working on a sort of temple, if you would.” He continues, looking at me again.

“If you like, you can come stay with me, until you find a place.” He finishes, and I consider it… “I guess it’s either that, or my old alleyway.” I say, and he gives me a thumbs up- “Alright! Just wait ‘till you meet my friends, dude. He’ll love you.” He says, piquing my interest…

“Just head this way with me. Oh- And you can fly. Right?” He asks, and I nod. “Yes, I know how to use my wings.” I answer, placing my hands on my hips as his wings spread open, surprising me with their size… “Hah. Let’s see if you can keep up, then.” He says, and his wings blast the ground with wind pressure, shooting him into the sky…

His wings are massive, and they flap with incredible speed… Luckily… So do mine. I shoot into the sky, flapping my wings very quickly as I actively feed into my mana-reserves. “Not bad! At that speed, you’ll be flying for about three hours!” He calls out to me, his voice booming over the billowing wind…

We raced each other for a couple hours, I flew as fast as I could, and he still had to slow down for me, to the point he started riding on this giant orb…

We land on a tall plateau, ending close to a kilometer above the cloud lair. I look around, it’s a sort of settlement, a few large houses are connected by roads, and the area is heavily decorated, contrasting with what should be a settlement-type-feel.

“Guys, come on out! Come meet Bill!” Oliver says, reminding me of the name he gave me… A moment later, someone rushes out of a door- It’s a man made of green slime, with a stone eye in the middle of his body…

“Oliver! You found him!” He says, his wood sandals clacking against the stone path that surrounds a fountain, and leads to different houses… “Hello. I’m Bill. Your name?” I ask, surprising him as I hold out my hand, and he takes it.

“Oh, your name’s weird like mine. I’m Ling.” He says, and I nod. “Man, you should’ve been there, Ling. He had to go through some intense surgery, kid was screaming bloody-murder.” Oliver says, embarrassing me a little…

“W-Well, it’s only because I’m so tough… My doctor said so.” I say, folding my arms as I feel my still-new organs working away inside me… “Didn’t they put you on any sort of anesthetic?” Ling asks, and I kind of shrug.

“They tried, ‘said I was immune to anything that wouldn’t hurt me…” I answer, as he folds his arms. “Well, it’s good to know you’re safe, and among your own kind now.” He says, as another door opens, and a weird sheep-girl steps out, she’s a little younger than I am…

“Hey! Sorry I took so long! I was kind of in the middle of a game with Foozy!” She says, as her fox friend walks out next to her. “Ah KE~WL!” He says, after having spotted me- “He’s just like Oliver!” He shouts, stamping his feet as he runs over to me as fast as he can-

He runs over with his arms spread out, only to then clamp them around me like a vice- “Ah-” I say- “New brother!” He says, rubbing his fluffy cheek against mine…

“Oliver, there’s another, she’s thirty miles that way.” Ling tells Oliver as he points in a seemingly random direction. “Right, thanks Ling. I’ll get going, you guys help get Bill settled in.” He says, before shooting into the air again, his orb following closely behind him.

-√Z3-

I feel something… A distant calling… What is this power? I can feel the presence of hundreds, maybe even thousands of these things calling to me… This feeling, it just appeared… I don’t understand it. Not yet, at least.

I finish constructing the new wall in my cave, the brick-work supported by the nicely decorated beams I made from the forestry… I inspect the finished room, and realize it’s missing something, just like the rest…

As to what that something is? I’m not sure- “Someone’s here!” I think to myself, as my eyes dart around, and I rush to the entrance of my dungeon! I rush to the front, and spot two people standing there… “So this is what a dungeon is like?” The male asks, as his eyes land on me…

“The heck is that?” He asks, pointing at me as the female turns so she too may take a look… “I think he’s some type of mutated slime… I didn’t even know that was possible… The Dungeon Core must have hired him at some point.” She says, and I walk over, watching as they create words with their mouths…

I try to make a noise, but it’s no use… I poke where my mouth should be- “Hey, you okay?” The male asks, and I look at him again. “I see, you can’t talk.” He says, as he sits down, and so do I. “Listen, you just need vocal cords, that’s all.” He says, as he leads into teaching me how to make vocal cords…

“Ahh- AHH- Rggh- Vvvuu-orrgh-” I word, as I continue to mess with my new vocal cords, while he draws diagrams and builds sculptures for me to base off of…

And finally, after an hour, I finally got it… “H-Hello?” I ask, and he nods. “Yeah, hi. I’m Oliver. What’s your name?” He asks, and I look at my hands, only for the answer to come to me- “Ling. I’m Ling.” I say, and he folds his arms, with an inquisitive look.

“What kind of name is that?” His friend asks. “I don’t know. I just know it’s mine.” I say, shrugging as she nods. “Well, I’m Colvarasantra. Do you know who the master of this dungeon is?” She asks, and I look around, then shake my head.

“I… Don’t know…” I answer, unsure of who they could be talking about… “Oh. Maybe it doesn’t have one. The master must have abandoned it, or died at some point.” She says, as she inspects the rest of the room.

“Hey Ling.” Oliver says, making me jump a little- “Yes?” I ask. “What kind of creature ARE you, anyways?” He asks, and I hold my hand in front of my face again… “I don’t know.” I answer, again. “He must be some type of amorphous slime, Oliver.” Colvara says, as she walks back up to us.

“He might be a type of mutant, actually. You wanna hang out with us, Ling?” She asks, and I consider it- “Yeah, I’ve got a much better place you could stay, compared to this dusty old crypt.” He says, as I look back at the door I made a few years ago…

“Will I get to continue my architecture?” I ask, surprising him- “DUDE! Totally! I’m an architect too! We can compare notes! I’d love to show you my work!” He says with infectious excitement- “O-Oh! Okay! Yeah!” I agree, as Colvara folds her arms, and sighs.

“Alright boys. Ling, I’ll help you pack up your stuff. Oliver, you go tear open a rift.” She says, grabbing my arm, and tearing it off- “Oh…” I say, as I reach down for it, but it slides past my hands, refusing my touch…

“Sorry, Ling…” She says, and I stand up again… “Now, come on already.” She says, making me leave it behind. “Okay…” I mutter, following her into the next room. “Another empty room.” She says, before guiding us into the next room.

“And another. Where’s your room?” She asks, an annoyed look on her face, as she shrugs. “I’m not sure.” I say, shrugging again… “Do you HAVE a room?” She asks, and I shake my head. “Do you have ANYTHING?” She asks, resting her elbow on her hip…

“No.” I answer, and she continues to stare with a blank expression. “Sorry.” I say, as I look at my missing hand. “Hey, it’s okay. You’re just uncertain, right? Moving is a big thing.” She says, as she sits down, and beckons me to sit down with her…

“When Oliver came into my life, one of the most powerful men in the world came with him.” She says, surprising me. “He told me my whole world was changing, I was so excited… I think I just went with it…” She continues, as she leans on her arm.

“Anyways, he said I’d probably only spend a couple hundred years with Oliver. And admittedly… It’s been off and on, but he and I have known each other for over two thousand years now.” she says, amazing me with the prospect of all those years…

She looks at the roof- “Now I can’t imagine how my life would be without him… Don’t be too afraid to follow someone else’s path, Ling, you’ve got lots of time. This is just the beginning for you.” She says, sparking a newfound sense of adventure in me…

“R-Right. Okay. I like that.” I say, nodding as she stands up and I follow. “Come on then, let’s get out of here.” She says, and we quickly exit the crypt, arriving at the big bright outside world… “Ey~! Travelin’ light, huh?” Oliver asks, as we walk over to him.

“Eh. He doesn’t own anything, turns out.” Colvara says, before stepping through the rift… “Come on, then. Allow me to introduce you to the sanctuary. A safe place for mutants of our kind.” He says, as I stare at the super massive barren mountain…

“Oliver! Who’s that?” A short pig-guy asks, as he looks up at us. “Ey~! Slade! I’m glad to see you! Meet Ling, he’s my new friend.” He says, referring to me, as something activates inside of him… “Hey.” I say, grabbing his shoulder-

“Something changed- You are different.” I say, his expression changing from surprise to nervosity. “O-Oh. What happened?” He asks, as I touch his face. “I… I don’t know… I can feel it though- INSIDE of you-” I say, and he steps away from my grasp…

“Do you feel it anywhere else?” Colvara asks, and I look around. “Yes, forty miles that way, twenty-two over there, two hundred that way, multiple thousand down there.” I say, pointing in random directions, as they watch and stare…

“Okay…” Slade begins, rubbing his chin. “So you can detect something. You must have awoken a psychic power. I see it all the time.” He says, surprising me. “But what’s he detecting?” Oliver asks. “Shit if I know.” Slade answers.

Colvara hums… “What if he can detect other psychic powers?” She asks, and I focus on Oliver- “OH!” It comes to me as I focus on my power, telling me what his power is! “You can awaken powers in others!” I say, and his own eyes widen!

“NICE!” He cheers! “Oh, cool. Do me.” Slade says, and Oliver crouches to grab Slade’s arm- “Okay. Alright. How do I do that?” He asks, looking at Colvara and I. “Meh-urh.” Colvara mutters as she shrugs, and then I mimic.

“Alright. Alright. I got this.” He says, rubbing his hands, before throwing his open palms forward- “Super-Powers activate!” He says, and Slade looks at his hands. “I don’t feel any different. Ling?” He asks, and I shake my head.

“No.” I say, and I walk over, placing Oliver’s hands on Slade. “Focus on the ability, Olly. Then I’m next.” Colvara says, and he really focuses, and Slade’s power activates! “It worked!” I say, and Slade glides back, as I focus on him.

“Mirror-” I say, and he raises an eyebrow. “Some kind of… Mirror power…” I expand on, and he tries it out, focusing as hard as he can, but it just won’t work… He sighs, kicking the ground, and cracking the mountain- “Dammit all! I guess I should have known this wouldn’t work.” He says, sitting down.

“Sorry, Slade… Anyways… The Sanctuary is in need of a lot of work, but as you can see, I’ve finished the foundation.” He says, gesturing to the now slightly-used mountain.

“Oliver! Over here! I want a new power too!” Colvara says, tapping her feet impatiently as we look over. “Right.” Oliver says, placing his hand on her shoulder, and doing for what he did for Slade. “Alright, done.” He says, and I focus on her…

“Stasis.” I say, and she looks at me. “How’s it work?” She asks, and I shrug. “It can hold stuff still.” I answer, and Oliver kicks up a rock, allowing her to catch it with stasis. “Here wait.” Slade says, before throwing another rock at it. The rock shatters upon contact but the floating one is practically untouched.

“Alright, let it go.” He says, and it launches from zero one-hundred in an instant, disappearing in a trail of fire… “Alright, so it can transfer energy. Nice.” He says, as Colvara tries it on a few other rocks. “LAME! Whatever. I’m sure I can find some way to use it.” She says, as she stares at her hand.

“Well, you two have fun. Ling and I’ll get to work on the sanctuary. I am so excited to work with you, dude.” He says, and I nod quickly, as we move on to the planning phase…

We worked hard for days, quickly realizing how little I actually knew. And so he tried to teach me about Architecture, showing me all kinds of inspiration, and helping me realize I actually have more interests than just architecture.

Although, I didn’t forget to thank him for his teachings, and I still got to help him with the terraforming, at least. After that, he would go on to create buildings and massive temples, introducing many different mutants from all walks of life, as his little mountain expanded into a small town for mutants, and mutants only.

-√Z-

“Congratulations!”

The screen says, almost confusing me before I realize what’s happening… “Oh…” I say, as I let go of the console, and walk over to the gateway… “I’m finished, I guess…” I say, as Colvara walks up to me. “Yeah, I don’t get all that coding stuff. But I’m sure you did a good job.” She says, as I look back at it…

“Well, yeah. I guess it’s time to go.” I say, as the portal opens up, and we leave. A couple years later, while I was in the middle of putting another temple and its landscape together, Liyoxis came to me again. “Oliver! There you are! Come on, I’ve got something to show you!” He says, and I walk over.

“Yeah, sure. What’s up?” I ask, heading over to the portal. “So Colvara got into that college?” He asks, and I nod. “Yeah, the Celestial one actually.” I say, and he nods with an impressed look on her face. “Wow. Tell her I’m proud, next time you see her.” He says, as we enter the portal.

“I saw the Celestial College in her future, but it looked really unlikely at the time, so I’m happy to hear that it went really well for her.” He says, as I look around a room of many different characters of all shapes and sizes.

“Who are they?” I ask, as they look at Liyoxis and I. “Some old friends of mine. They were all very important in the project. Just like you.” He says, as I notice Lianlovloragram on the other side of the room. “Alright everyone! We’re all here!” He says, as he walks up to her, and she stands up.

“Now, allow me to introduce you to Oliver. This would not have been possible without him.” He says, as the wall behind him suddenly splits open, and the walls around us begin to move, the roof raising up, as we watch a giant metal segmented orb covered in tubes and wiring with a single black eye staring at us comes into view…

“What is that?” Someone asks, as Liyoxis steps away, and I realize just how massive that machine is… “We’re on a raised observatory I had built into the wall so we can watch the prototype. Welcome to Project-Synthesis.” He says, as the eye glows a bright white.

He turns to the machine, and opens his arms. “Now, bring us the miracle of life.” He says, and the white light changes to a deep purple hue… “And finally, Lian, our first child is born.” He says, as everyone stares at it, as it does nothing else.

“Please, come to me.” Lian says, as a robot hands her a blanket and a child appears inside of it. “A girl?” Liyoxis asks, and Lian smiles with a nod. “Are you watching, everyone? I now finally have a child of my own- Robin, right?” He asks, glancing at Lian and making her laugh-

“Yes. She’ll call herself Robin.” She says, and Liyoxis thanks her. “Right. Alright. Robin… She is… Empty, for now. But fully capable of conscious thought. All we need to do is… Raise her.” He says, as Lian stands up and they hold Robin together…

A lady with a spider body- An Arachne! “Liyoxis!” She calls out to him, as she climbs down to the lower floor, and crawls over to him. “So this is what you were working on this whole time? What you wanted all that silk for?” She asks, as she circles the two of them, and her eyes focus on the child…

“Would anyone else like to see her?” He asks, and everyone stands up. Some leaving, others walking toward him to see the newborn. For hours they talk, as I watch, feeling a little awkward in this place- “Are you still new?” A feminine voice asks, as I look around-

“Right here.” She says, as I turn around again and look at a glowing orb. “What are you?” I ask, and she floats around me. “Asura. I’m a demigod.” She says, surprising me. “Really? How does that work?” I ask, as I stare at her.

“It’s… Hard to explain. What’s your name?” She asks me, and I look over at Liyoxis again, then back at her. “Oliver.” I answer, still unable to discern any facial features or actions. “That’s an interesting name…” She says, as I watch her float around.

“Did you know Liyoxis is twenty-two-thousand years old?” She asks, and I take an involuntary step back- “Come seek me out, if you want more information.” After that, she flew off. That was the first and last time I would ever see her.

I waited a couple more hours, and finally, Liyoxis was alone. He walks up to me, his child in hand, as I stare at her… “I would have brought some gifts, and even told Colvara if I had known… Sorry, Liyoxis.” I say, and he opens his hand, showing me a screen with Colvara on it-

“Oh.” I say, and she waves at me. “Hey guys. I got to see everything. Now I need to get back to work, but I’ll be sure to come visit as soon as possible.” She says, as Robin’s eyes open, and she stares at me.

“Don’t worry about gifts, there is quite literally nothing you could give me that I don’t already have, sadly…” He says, and I fold my arms. “Fair enough. Still… You made a kid, huh?” I ask, and he looks at her. “Yeah. I’m not exactly capable of having kids, after all.” He says, surprising me.

“Really?” I ask, and he gives me an annoyed stare- “Let’s move on. I figured you’d want to say hello to Robin, before you headed off.” He says, showing her to me again. “Oh. Yeah. Hey kid.” I say, waving at her as she grabs my hand-

“Ah.” I mutter, moving back a little. “She’s got me.” I say, and he chuckles. “Yeah, she’s got a bright future. Anyways, I’m sure you’re busy, my friend. Thank you again for your help.” He says, and I rub the back of my head. “Hey, no problem. Maybe I can be her godfather or something.” I say, chuckling to myself.

“I could share all kinds of stuff with her from my old world.” I say, as she continues to stare at me. “Would you like that, Robin? Yeah, I bet you WOULD.” I whisper, poking her tiny little cheek. “Well, you’re right. I better go for now.” I say, and he nods before walking off, as I return to the gateway I came in through.

It opens up, and I walk through- “Hey!” Someone says, just as it closes behind me, before I can even turn around… “I wonder who that was.” I say to myself, as I scratch my head, and prepare to get back to work…

-√Z4-

“There you are!” I shout, surprising him as I run up- “Uh- Hey. What’s up, kiddo?” He asks me, as I jump around in front of him. “Oliver! You’re Oliver! The architect! You made all those cool places!” I say, surprising him as he crouches down in front of me.

“Yeah, I sure am. What’cha need?” He asks, and I poke my fingers together… “I was hoping you could maybe make me a nice place… I was recently kicked out of my home, you see… I can’t pay you, but I would be grateful.” I say, making him laugh.

“Listen, big guy. Just tell me where you live, I’ll have a talk with your parents.” He says, and I nod. “Over at the Azolvock research facility. I was trying to help out the doctors, but I’m a bit of a cluts, you see…” I say, as he rubs his chin and nods along.

“They kind of got tired of running me through experiments and tests, I guess…” I say, and he sits down. “Right… You wanna’ come hang out with my group and I? It’s a safe haven for mutants. Just like you and I.” He says, my eyes widening with excitement!

“Yeah!” I cheer, and he stands up. “Right, we’re not too big, but I think it’ll be better than that place.” He says, opening a portal and guiding me through. “You want me to awaken your power?” He asks me, as I look around at the large grassy area, a single fountain surrounded by houses and a castle, with stone paths leading to all kinds of different fixtures, utilities, and parks.

“I have one?” I ask, and he nods. “Yeah, everyone does. It just takes some longer than others to activate.” He says, and I nod quickly! “YEAH!” I say, and he kneels down to my level again, placing his hand on my shoulder.

“Alright. Go ahead and give it a try.” He says, and so I do, placing a simple drawing on the floor… “What’s it do?” I ask, looking up at him questioningly. “I don’t know. Ling! You here?! I need help!” He says, and a man made of green slime opens a door and walks over to us.

“What is it? Oh. Hello.” He says, crouching down to say hello to me. “Hi. I got a new ability. Do you know what it does?” I ask, and he stares at me for a moment. “It’s some sort of rune ability. You can create runes with weird effects.” He says, and I place one on my hand, and it clasps the other, landing with a smack!

“Oh!” I say, as I pull them apart, and then they clap together again! “I can clap my hands now!” I say, using it to make very loud hand-claps! “So what’s your name anyways?” Oliver asks, and we look at him. “You didn’t think to ask his name?” Ling asks-

“Foozy! My mom gave me that name, she said it was because I’m such a fuzzy boy!” I say, making him laugh, as he stands up again. “Fair enough, Foozy. You should go meet the other children, you’ll probably get along with them better.” He says, as a girl exits one of the houses-

“Hey!!!” I call out, scaring her as I run up and lunge at her! “Hello!” I say, and she lifts me up. “I’m Foozy! What’s your name?!” I ask her, as she stares at me with complete shock and surprise on her face!

“H-Horonva… Nice to meet you, buddy…” She says, as she picks me up, and puts me back on the ground… “Did Oliver bring you here?” She asks, and I nod quickly! “Yeah! Isn't this place just the BEST?!” I ask, as I run around her!

“Do you have an ability too?! Do you know how many trees there are?! Do you like video games?! Will you play with me?” I ask, climbing up her front, as she begins to laugh- “Oh my god, you are so energetic, dude- Alright, just stop running around so much.” She says, picking me up again.

“I’ve had the ability to talk to ghosts ever since I was born. Not sure how many trees- I play a few games… And sure, I can play.” She says, as I look around at the empty town… “Why’s it so empty?” I ask, and she looks around too.

“Oh, everyone’s usually off doing whatever. But they come by to visit every now and then.” She says, as I follow her into her house. “Where’s Ling?” I ask, only now realizing he disappeared… “I don’t know. He doesn’t like hanging out with kids or something.” She shrugs, as she shows me around.

“So when do I get my own place?” I ask, and she shrugs again. “Whenever Oliver returns to make you one. For now, you can just stay with me.” She says, and I hug her. “Yay! New sister!” I say, making her giggle- “My goodness- Just pick a game already.” She says, pointing at the games.

-√Z5-

I sit here and hover my hand over some dust, charging it with my power, and firing it into the night sky, only for it to explode with world-shaking booms… “I’m so damn bored.” I say groaning, as my back hits the roof.

I stand up and jump down from my house. “That’s it. I’m leaving. My parents couldn’t protect me if they tried anyways.” I say, as I use my power to float, and fly off! I fly over a lake and wave my hand through it, spinning as I use my power to slice and kick up a thin wave of water that shoots into the sky.

Just as I turn around to take a look at it, I accidentally crash into something- We fall down, and I crash into the ground, managing to slow myself down with warp, as the other guy is knocked through multiple trees…

“Hey!” I shout, as I stand up and run over! “I’m okay! All’s good!” He shouts, as I watch a tall man with wings stand up… “A demihuman?” I ask, and he looks at me… “Hello. I’m Oliver.” he says, dusting himself off and holding out his hand…

“No…” I say, declining his handshake. “Shame. Anyways. I’m looking for a young girl with a psychic power. My friend said it’s pretty strong.” He says, surprising me. “Oh. I think that’s me.” I say, as I pick up a rock, and use warp to destroy the lake.

He stares in awe of my power output, his arms slack as he looks at me again- “How old are you, exactly?” He asks. “Twelve. Are you jealous?” I ask, raising an eyebrow as he stares… “Dude, that power is SO much better than mine! Of course I’m jealous!” He says, making me laugh.

“Huh. You’re actually funny.” I say, as I fold my arms. “So what’s yours?” I ask, and he looks away. “Oh, I call it awaken. I can activate latent powers in other people.” He says, surprising me. “Wow. You meet any other cool ones?” I ask, and he nods.

“Totally. I met a girl with the power to talk to ghosts. This other guy can detect psychic powers. This other one I saw can warp your size.” He says, reminding me of the name I gave mine- “Oh. I actually call mine warp.” I say, and he thinks about it for a minute-

“Yeah, that’s kinda’ fitting, huh? Well… Anyways… You don’t seem to be a mutant, so I better get out of your hair.” He says, surprising me, as his wings jet out- “Hey. What’s that supposed to mean?” I ask, stopping him in place with my power.

“Oh. I’m Oliver the Architect. I’m a mutant, you see. I’ve been building a sanctuary for mutants.” He says, as I fold my arms. “Can I see it?” I ask, and he looks away nervously… “I’m sorry… Besides, your parents might get worried…” He says, and I float a rock over to me…

“I wanna see it.” I say, as I grab the rock, and charge it in my hand… “Kid, you’ve got an incredible ability.” He says, as I throw it and it’s shot down- “What-” I involuntarily say, as I look up to notice a bright blue star floating there, with segmented stone pieces floating around it.

“But it’s not nearly enough to stop me.” He says, as he flaps his wings, completely overpowering my ability- “Hey!” I say, as I shoot into the air and follow him- I grab some small marbles from my pocket, and throw them at him!

His orb shoots them down one by one with energy waves that curve in and out of it- He flies towards me, and I charge warp around my fist, only to throw it forward at him and send a warp induced shockwave! He avoids it, and even powers through the rushing wind-

“Robin! Now!” He shouts, and I turn around to spot a woman standing behind me- “What?!” I ask, as her index and middle finger tap my forehead and I feel my consciousness fade…

…

I awaken on top of my house, and look around. “You shouldn’t just attack people on a whim like that.” He says, as I stand up… “That could have been the end of your life. Are you aware of that?” He asks, and I fold my arms.

“Whatever. Shut up.” I say, and he walks over to me. “I mean it, kid. A lesser man would have taken that chance to kill you. Now. I’m going to tell your parents. Come on.” He says- “No! Don’t tell them!” I shout, as I run over to stop him-

He picks me up by scruff of my coat- “Put me down, you big jerk!” I scream, as I thrash around in his arms, and lean away from me, like I’m a smelly rag or something- He knocks on my front door, and my parents come out…

“This yours?” He asks, and I fold my arms. “Oh my… Did she attack you? I’m so sorry.” My mom says, as he sits me down in front of them… “I think you should talk to her more about running off on her own like that. She could have gotten herself hurt.” He says, as I walk past my parents and back into my house.

“We try, you see. But she refuses to listen… I think she might hate us...” My mom says, as I roll my eyes, and walk off, and use my power on the window on the other side of the room to open it up, and fly out. I don’t have to take this…

-√Z-

I finished constructing this bridge, cutting a few indents into the wooden poles, to make them look a little more worn- “Oliver! I’m here!” Slade says, surprising me. “Slade! Finally! Colvara’s graduating today, man! Come on!” I say, running over to him.

“Hey! Robin! Portal, please!” I call out, and Orion’s ring shoots a laser onto our location, opening one up! “Jeez. No time to say hello?” He asks, and I pick him, and jump through the portal, rushing to the college as fast as I can!

“Absolutely! You took WAY too long!” I shout, and he rolls his eyes as I carry him under my arm, running through the college hallways and a gate looks at me! “Oliver and Slade! We’re Colvara’s best friends!” I say, showing Slade to it.

It blinks, then opens the door. “Thank you!” I say, as I throw Slade into one of the chairs, and jump into one myself! A few randos later, and Colvara finally steps out in front! “I would like to thank my parents. And Liyoxis himself for pushing me to achieve my dreams.” She says!

“I would also like to thank my friend Oliver, -who’s sitting over there- for being present, but not really doing anything. I appreciate that.” She continues, making Slade and everyone laugh at me as I sit here and glare at her.

“Also for encouraging me… Of course… I wouldn’t be here without you, man.” She says, waving at me as I smile… After that, we waited out the rest of the graduation, and left the college… “So what’d you learn anyways?” Slade asks, and she looks at him.

“All kinds of stuff, adventuring skills, science, tech, forgeworks, just about everything I could get my hands on. I even trained like hell, the headmaster said I had a bright future in front of me.” She says, as she shows off her now surprisingly buff arm.

“Damn, good job.” Slade says, as we look at him again. “Hey, Slade. Let’s arm wrestle, I bet I’m stronger than you now!” She says, and he looks at her again, then folds his arms. “Fine. I WOULD like to know how strong you got.” He says, before kicking his foot into the ground, in the same way Colvara did all those years ago-

“Alright!” He says, and they clasp hands! I grab them, and count three-two-one before they begin! They’re evenly matched, Colvara barely managing to overpower him for a moment, before he brings it back around on her-

He hits the ground and wheezes for a moment… “You okay?” I ask, as he picks himself up… “How are you so strong?!” Colvara asks, as she looks at her arm… “I used so many damn enhancements!” She says, as I take a step back, while he looks at her.

“I refused to lose.” He says, and she just stares at him with a defeated look on her face… “Good lord…” She says, landing on her butt before rolling onto her back. “If it means anything, I really thought I was going to lose for a minute.” He admits, and her head snaps into position- “Yes, actually. It kinda’ does.” She says, folding her arms…

“Hey, have you seen the news? Ryleth was attacked, the royal family was murdered.” Someone says, surprising me as I accidentally overheard their conversation…

“You ever heard of Ryleth?” I ask Colvara, and she looks at me. “Oh yeah, that place is really pretty. I bet you could get some hellacious inspiration for your architecture, Oliver. Why do you ask, though?” She asks.

“I overheard some people talking about an attack?” I ask, a little curious. “Oh yeah. The old Queen was killed by some kid named Arigold, before she could kill the new one.” She says, as she walks up to me.

“It was all over the news, dude.” Slade says, surprising me. “Really? How come I didn’t notice?” I ask, and Colvara slaps her head- “Because you don’t check the news, dummy. You spend all your time working on those landscapes.” She says, and I just shrug.

“I’m busy, alright?” I say, and she folds her arms. “Doesn’t matter. Anyways… I heard the family got wiped out, but the princess might be alive. Some people claim to have spotted her walking around with another girl.” She says, as I nod along…

“Right… Sounds terrible. So Arigold just went in there and committed regicide?” I ask, and she nods. “Yeah, he’s like, eight or something. She’s a kraken, and he still tore her apart.” She says, as we begin walking down the sidewalk again…

“Aren’t Krakens supposed to be strong? Was the queen young?” I ask, and she shakes her head. “NO… She was over two thousands years old, dude. Krakens are among the most powerful of legendary creatures.” She explains.

“Yeah, I’ve fought a few myself. Even young adults give me trouble.” Slade says, as it dawns on me… “Kid’s human too. Nobody can actually figure out how he did it.” Colvara says, as she chuckles to herself.

“I mean seriously… What’s the point with someone like him around?... Still, he DID save the new queen, so at least he’s a good guy.” She says, and I decide that I’m inclined to agree. “Fair enough.” I say, folding my arms.

I look at the communicator Robin gave me... “Hey Robin. Do you know anything about this?” I ask it, and she appears next to me- “Yeah, actually.” She says, having appeared next to me- I sputter for a moment, falling on my butt as Colvara and Slade look over.

“Hey Robin.” Slade says, and she waves at him. “Eyup. Yeah, it’s my kid sister, you see.” She explains, surprising us. “Demistar, right? What’s going on?” I ask, and she leans on her hip, seemingly unsure of what to say for once…

“You see… It’s… Mmh…” She hums to herself, as she gestures nervously… “So you know how Liyoxis and Lian can see the future, and stuff?” She asks, and I fold my arms. “Should we take this somewhere more private?” I ask, and she looks around…

“I would appreciate that, yes- Alright, I bought us a hotel.” She says, surprising Colvara and Slade again. “She can just do that? Aren’t hotels expensive here?” Colvara asks, and Robin shrugs. “Daddy’s money.” She says, making me laugh.

We arrive at the Hotel’s room, and she leans against the wall. “Right… You see… Not everything Liyoxis does is pretty. But it has to be done.” She says, trying to gently make her way into the truth… “... You see, the princess is supposed to die…” She says, and it finally clicks-

“Isn’t she just a kid?! Did he SERIOUSLY ask her to kill that girl?!” I ask, grabbing her shoulders- “I know- I know… We don’t have a choice, Oliver. Liyoxis TOLD us that either she dies NOW, or the world goes with her.” She says, as the other two just stare in a mix of shock and disbelief.

“But WHY? What’s this one little girl going to do?” Slade asks, and Robin just looks around- “I don’t know?! Liyoxis won’t tell us.” Robin answers, as she stands up from the wall. “He’s even considering using the ring to strike her from orbit…” She admits, and I run over to the large window to see if I can spot the ring-

One of the arms of the ring fires a laser… You wouldn’t have even realized it happened if you didn’t know to look for it… “Oh, so that wasn’t a threat…” She says, as we turn to look at her… “What did he do?” I ask, and she just stares at us.

“He just glassed a city. A satellite city to Valhalla known as the Crying City. He knew it was important, and he wiped it clean off the map…” She says, taking a knee as she grips her head- “I’m sorry, Oliver. I have to go- Legal stuff.” She says, before disappearing again…

“Well if she’s not lying, Liyoxis DID just commit a war crime.” Slade says, as he folds his arms. “Can he get away with that?” I ask, as Slade and I look at Colvara. “Believe it or not… Yes.” She says, as she sits on the window sill…

“But- That place was important, right? It must have been densely populated…” I say, still in disbelief that so many people could so easily be wiped out without consequences… “You’re completely right, Oliver. From what I can tell, I think he might have killed millions of people.” She says, gesturing with her hands…

“But there’s nothing we can do about it. He’s Liyoxis HIMSELF. He’s so powerful, he’s legally INVINCIBLE.” She says, as I finally come to realize just who these world powers are… I walk over to the bed and sit down.

“I don’t like this.” I say, and they look at me. “Why does HE get to get away with stuff like this?” I ask, and Colvara looks out the window. “Well, it’s not just Liyoxis… The other world powers have been known to do MUCH worse.” She says-

“That doesn’t make it BETTER!” I shout, and she covers her face- “Well what can we REALLY do to stop them?! You saw that dreadnought… Imagine what a SUPER-Carrier could do.” She says, and I sit back down to try and figure something out…

“Do they really expect us to just ACCEPT this?” I ask, and she shrugs then nods. “Yeah, I guess. Besides, he’s Liyoxis. He wouldn’t have wiped out that city, if he didn’t have a good reason.” She says, as I place my head in my hand…

“I really don’t see what threat those people were posing.” Slade cuts in. It looks like he’s already over the shock and dread of this… “I know… I shouldn’t defend him… All those people, children… Would he kill us too?” She asks, hugging her legs to her chest.

“If he had to… Probably.” Slade says, shrugging with a look of acceptance on his face. “When he invited me to be present at the birth of Robin, he convinced me that he truly WAS more than just some… Machine. Running the numbers, deciding who lives and dies…” I admit, as they stare at me.

“I’m sorry, Oliver… I believed it too…” Colvara says, standing up and walking over to me. “I didn’t. Someone that smart can’t be trustworthy.” Slade says, resting against the glass of the window as we stare at him…

Colvara fires a bolt at the window, destroying it, while Slade falls backwards- “Dah- Shit.” I say, running over to catch him-

-√Z3-

“Alright, Ling… Be careful, I have something to show you.” Colvara says, grabbing my arm after I crystalize it. “Okay… What is it?” I ask, and she places my hand on her belly, of which has been getting quite large lately-

A sudden pulse reverberates from it. “What is that?” I ask, looking at her, making her laugh at me a little- “I’m pregnant, dummy.” She says, and I fall back- “What- How?!” I ask, and she laughs a little more…

“It’s Oliver’s, Ling. He wanted you to be the first to know.” She says… “Me?” I ask, and she nods. “Where is he now?” I ask, and she looks at the door. “Out. He’s getting stuff for me. Our baby will grow big and strong.” She says, as the door opens, and a stark white woman with purple streaks in her hair walks in.

“Hey, Colvara. I’m here for your checkup- Oh, hey.” She says, looking at me, as she takes a knee, and stares at Colvara for a minute- “So… Any updates?” Colvara asks, and Robin looks at her and smiles. “Super healthy. Would you like to know their gender?” She asks, and Colvara looks at her belly…

“Yeah, alright. I’ll surprise Oliver when he gets home.” She says, and Robin stands up. “He’s a boy. I should also advise that you allow him to develop a little longer, before giving birth to him.” She says, showing us a picture of the still developing infant.

“Absolutely, thanks again, Robin.” She says, as Robin folds her arms. “Yeah, no problem. Still, you really could’ve gone in a little earlier. Getting life magic off of Serif is NOT easy, you know.” She says as she hands Colvara a small capsule.

“This should double your life-span, which’ll be super helpful for your little boy.” She says, as Colvara downs it with a glass of water. “I know. Thank you AGAIN, Robin.” Colvara says, rolling her eyes.

“Right… I’ll be back in about a week, whatever time Liyoxis says is good.” She says, and Colvara looks down, then at her, and nods again. “Right… Liyoxis stresses me out, man. I can’t imagine what he must go through on a daily basis…” She says, but Robin stops her-

“Try not to think about it. He told me everything is as it should be, so you just focus on your kid.” She says, before walking over to the door and grabbing the hand. “Oh, Ling, you should keep an eye on her. In case anything comes up, give her one of those.” Robin says, pointing at a box I only now realized she left on the table…

She continues to stare at me… “He heard you, he just has a hard time emoting. You can go, Robin.” Colvara says, and Robin nods as she leaves the room. “Ling, over here.” She says, and I focus on her- “I know you heard me, get over here.” She says, and so I walk over.

“Do you need something?” I ask, and she grabs my arm- “If you could share some of your mana.” She says, and so I do, feeling flow through and out of my arm. “Thank you. If you could get me some water, now.” She says, and I walk off to go do that.

“Beep-boop!” She calls out from the other room, annoying me a little. She said I act like a robot, when I’m unsure. I finish pouring water from the faucet, and into the cup, and of course bring it back to her… “Here.” I say, but she waves her hand at it-

“No. I don’t want it anymore. Just leave it on the table.” She says, and so I do, making a class lid to cover it… “Is there anything else I can do?” I ask, and she shifts a little- “If you could get me another pillow, and see if you can find something for me to watch.” She says, and off I go to find a pillow, and figure out how to fulfill the second request.

I looked around at the landscape, the houses, everything we’ve been working on for Oliver’s safe haven… “Ling!” “Speak of the devil” I think to myself- “There you are.” Oliver says, as he lands next to me. “Do you know how to make a pillow?” I ask, making him chuckle.

“For Colvara? Got some with me. Here you go.” He says, as I harden my hand to accept the pillow. “Oh.” I say, looking at it. “Thank you.” I say. “No problem. Come on.” I say, following him into the house. “Ling found that pillow you asked for.” He says, as I follow him into the room-

“No, that’s okay, I just got comfortable. Find me something to watch.” She says, and Oliver puts everything next to the door, before opening some sort of intangible screen that displays images. “Here you are.” He says, as I just sit here and hold the pillow, a little disappointed…

“Actually, give me the pillow after all.” She says, and I hand it to her. She hugs it against her chest, propping her chin on it- “Oliver, come sit me up a little.” She says, and so he runs over to do so. “Alright, tell me when you’re good.” He says, slowly moving her, until she tells him to stop…

“That’s everything, you two can go for now.” She says, and Oliver gives her a simple salute, before walking off with me- “Oh.” I say, still so unsure, yet annoyed with the entire situation… “She’s got us giving her the royal treatment in there, man.” Oliver says, as his head hits the table…

“Indeed. I was worried there would be no time for relaxation.” I say, and he laughs into the table. “Yeah… Don’t worry, dude. You should have seen what it was like in my world. Most men had to work while doting on their wife. Imagine having to juggle THAT.” He says, and I find myself in disbelief…

“It must have been impossible. How did you survive?” I ask, and he looks at me. “Life finds a way, dude. You’re very lucky you get to be who you are, in this world.” He says, and it really begins to hit me just how indeed lucky I am…

“Oh- The girl named Robin came in before you got back.” I say, a quick update as he nods lightly. “Of course, she’s been a huge help. Especially with how busy she has been lately. Liyoxis always has her doing SOMETHING.” He says, standing up and walking over to the sink.

“Colvara! You want I should make you a drink?!” He quickly calls out- “Something that’ll go down easy!” She says, and he begins preparing something that I assume would go down easy… “Right, I should also prepare her something to eat.” He says, as he looks over at the fridge.

“Ling, if you could get out some of the meat, eggs, broccoli, lettuce too, oh and the milk if you wouldn’t mind.” He says, lots of things to grab, too many things to grab. But I try my hardest anyway, and bring most of it to him.

“Good job, preheat the stovetop.” He says, and I put it up halfway. “Go check on Colvara for me.” He says, and so I do, walking in there to look at her… “Ling, a capsule, if you wouldn’t mind. And some of your mana.” She says, and I walk over to grab one of the capsules, handing her the water-

“Is this what you wanted the water for?” I ask, excitement coming to me as I realize she was planning ahead- “Oh- Yeah. Of course. Definitely.” She says, making me happy- “Yes. I’ll be stepping down in a few years. Once I die, my son will be born.” A man says, on the holographic monitor.

“What’s going on?” I ask, as I stare at it. “That’s Typhon, the beast king. He’s one of the powerful people on the planet, Ling. His son will be too.” Colvara says, as she points at him. His body is black like obsidian, with glowing red veins.

A trail of smoke swirls around his body, with large white baggy pants and cuffs around his legs. The smoke trail follows his arms and legs, forming an arch over his head. “I… I like how he dresses.” I say, and she looks at me.

“Oh yeah? Maybe we can do something like that for you, some day.” She says, and I nod. “Right.” I say, as we continue to watch- “Oh, I should mention. I have chosen Baoth to be his caretaker. To keep him passive as he learns to control his power.” Typhon explains, as a veiled woman surrounded by giant guards barely a foot shorter than Typhon walks up with a single little girl, holding the hand of the veiled lady.

“Ah, Eve. Thank you for coming today.” He says, kneeling down to allow her to hug him- “Of course, old friend.” She says, as her guards stand close watch. “Sorry about them, they couldn’t help themselves.” She says, gesturing to the aforementioned guards, as a chair is brought up to the stage by an attendant.

“Thank you deer.” She says, sitting down, as the man runs off. “Baoth, please, say hello to the world.” She says, letting go of the little girl, so Typhon can pick her up, and hold her to the microphone.

“Hello.” She says, and the audience cheers- “That’s cute… Makes me hopeful for my child.” Colvara says, as she moves her pillow, and looks at her own belly… “He’ll grow up big and strong, I can see it now.” She says, placing her hands on it, before putting the pillow back.

“I, Baoth, in honor of the material world, the spiritual, the gods, and the white-lady herself, promise to guide us all in the name of the great pantheons that have guided Eve, I, and our predecessors before us.” She says, grabbing the microphone as everyone stares at her.

“I will personally wipe clean the world of the heretic, the mutant, and the sinner. The old world will be washed away with holy fire, and from the ashes it will be reborn in my vision. Where the unholy will burn eternally in MY purgatory.” She continues, as the air grows silent…

Oliver had arrived for the speech, it seems… I was too busy watching to have even noticed… He and Colvara are both speechless. “With the coming of the new world, I promise eternal splendor for all who walk the righteous path.” She says, as we watch everyone ELSE on the stage just stare at her…

“It is by MY will and mine alone that I will assume the position of Arc Priestess immediately. Even now I hear the ringing of my holy bell, the eternal harbinger of OUR arrival.” She says, and Eve herself suddenly stands up, before falling forward, and as I can only assume…

She was killed… “Eve!!! No!!!” Typhon shouts, as her guards lift her… “What is the meaning of this?!” He roars, as he glares at Baoth, a nervous look forming on her face- “Arigold!!! I invoke your name!!! Protect me!!!” She screams, as the beast king fires a unholy wave of fire from his mouth-

A foot slams into his head, slamming it shut, and making Typhon quite literally eat his own attack- “You had your chance to go quietly. Now you have betrayed your high priestess, Typhon. You have your mission, Arigold. Slay the heretic scum.” She says, and the two of them disappear.

“Lady Eve!” One of the guards shouted, as they looked amongst each other… “By the gods! Serif! Helvetica! Anyone! Save her!!!” The guard cries, as Baoth steps up in front of them, and rests her hands on the deceased priestess. “You taught me well, mother. Goodbye.” She says, before Eve turns into a mass of feathers that blow away, as the guards reach and try to collect them…

“No! Stop this! Please!!!” The guard screams, as the feathers flutter past his armor, making him stand over what I am now unsure of is a little girl. “Do not weap for the stupid, you’ll be here all day, Angelos. We have much work to do, now that I am in control.” She says, as he looks down at her…

She walks forward, then snaps her fingers. “Come now. The High Templar betraying his CHARGE? Do you DARE disgrace the names of all who came before you? How they must scowl in disgust watching you falter.” The tiny girl says, staring up at the defeated giant…

“Stand up, and obey your priestess. I speak to the gods, I am their WORD. Fall in line!” She shouts, and he stands up, as everyone watches… “Of course… My priestess…” He says, kneeling before her, and she nods her head lightly.

“Looks like you’re not the failure I thought you were going to be. Now bring me home, you fools! We have to prepare for the arrival of MY charge!” She screams at them, quickly rallying them all into action…

The live feed instantly cuts off, and the door slams open, but Oliver and Colvara are stock still, stunned silent… “Hey!” Robin shouts, having just arrived as they turn to look at her… “Robin… Oliver…” Colvara says, as she looks at him and reaches for his face…

“Hey. Calm down. It’s okay.” Oliver tells her, stress horribly ridden on her face… “The others and I are currently taking care of everything. Calm down, we won’t let her do what she wants.” Robin explains, as she walks up to us.

“Everything will be okay. I promise.” She softly says, as Colvara lies back again… “Do you mean it, Robin?” Colvara asks, as her and Oliver stare at the girl. “Absolutely. Oliver is still important. Not even the ruler of hope itself can change that.” She says, and Colvara pulls her arm in, fully resting again.

“I’m going to check on her, make sure everything is as it should be.” Robin says, as she walks up and stares at Colvara's belly. “Kid’s about as close to perfect as it gets. I think the stress might have startled him, but otherwise. Nothing has changed.” She says, and Colvara sighs with relief, as though the baby would die from this somehow.

“What does this all mean?” I ask, and they look at me. “Ling… That child just assumed the position of one of the twelve most powerful people in the world. Trillions were watching, the whole world is going to change before your eye.” Robin says, as I stare at her…

-√Z-

…

“Dad! Look! There’s people on tee-vee!” Oliver’s son shouts, grabbing his attention, and making him walk over. “Kiddo. What’cha got here?” He asks, staring at the screen with mild amusement that quickly turns to shock. “I didn’t think… They’re alive?”

On the holographic monitor, Arigold walks forward, toward the screen, dragging a taller man with skin of charcoal… “Are you watching, Baoth? Mission… Complete…” he says, before falling forward, as the feed quickly pans downwards and shuts off.

“He did it.” Oliver says, as he comes to realize the horrendous magnitude of what has happened on this day. “He slayed the beast king himself… A single man… Against impossible odds…” Oliver says, mostly to himself as the young boy listens closely.

“Dad?” His son asks, surprising him as he looks down before picking him up. “It’s alright. You hungry, big guy?” He asks, and the young boy smiles at him. “Yeah!” He says, as his father nods and carries him off. “Alright, let’s see what I can find, Brimmy.” Oliver said, as he walked away with his son in his arms.

End of Chapter: 13√Z5 “Zealous Awakening.”

Thank you for reading.

“Mhmhm~... You’re certainly a- Oh? Okay?... THANKS?...”

“Oh, you found me pretty quick… -You CHEATED? But HOW?... … Fair enough. Thank you!”

“I can’t find her anywhere- What? Sir, if you know where she is…”

“I don’t have time for some survey, my daughter is missing!”

“Totally. Thanks.”

“You too, huh? I’m sorry to hear. -What’s the point?”

“Thank you, deers.”