The first rays of sunlight filtered into the room, casting a warm glow over the sleeping figures. Anik woke to the sound of soft footsteps. Luna was already up, her hair tied loosely as she quietly prepared breakfast in the adjoining kitchen. She turned and saw him sitting up, her face lighting up with a warm smile.
"Good morning," she whispered. "Feeling any better?"
Anik nodded slowly, his expression softer than before. "A little. Thanks to you."
Rina stirred awake at the sound of their voices, rubbing her eyes and smiling sleepily at Anik. "Brother, did you sleep well?"
"I did," he replied, ruffling her hair gently.
Arpan stretched on the mattress nearby, yawning loudly. "Morning, everyone. What's for breakfast?"
Luna smirked. "Why don't you help me find out?"
Arpan groaned but got up to help, while Rina giggled at their banter. Anik watched the scene unfold, his heart feeling just a bit lighter.
As they sat down for breakfast, Anik glanced at each of them, his newfound family. He realized he didn't have to face his struggles alone anymore. He had people who cared, who had faced their own hardships and come out stronger.
Maybe I can too, he thought.
As the meal went on, Anik spoke for the first time about his plans, his voice steady and filled with quiet resolve. "I don't know what the future holds, but I promise I'll do everything I can to protect those I care about."
Luna looked at him with pride. "We're with you, Anik. Always."
Arpan raised his glass of juice with a grin. "To new beginnings."
The clink of glasses echoed in the room, marking a small but meaningful step forward for Anik. The past still lingered, but for the first time in a long time, the future didn't seem so bleak.
The dining table was filled with the warm aroma of breakfast as the family enjoyed their meal. Laughter filled the room as Arpan leaned back in his chair, grinning at Anik.
"Anik, today you're coming with me," Arpan declared, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "We'll explore the town together, and you can tell me all about your life and adventures!"
Anik raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "You're already making plans for me, huh? What makes you think I'll agree?"
"Because you're my brother now, and brothers stick together," Arpan replied confidently, crossing his arms.
Luna, sipping her tea, chimed in with a playful smile. "Don't forget to include me. I'm not missing out on the fun."
Arpan rolled his eyes in mock annoyance. "Fine, you can come, but don't slow us down, Luna."
Luna shot him a teasing glare. "Me? Slow you down? We both know who's the real slacker here."
Anik watched their banter with a faint smile, feeling a warmth he hadn't experienced in a long time. For the first time in what felt like forever, the atmosphere was light, almost normal. Rina, seated beside Luna, giggled softly, her cheeks rosy from the cheerful mood.
Just as the plans were growing more elaborate, Maya's voice boomed from the kitchen. "Luna! Arpan! Did you forget about school? Get ready quickly! I've packed your tiffin, and your uniforms are in your room!"
Arpan's face immediately fell, his excitement replaced by a dramatic groan. "Mom! Today I don't want to go to school! I have guests, remember? It's a special occasion!"
Maya appeared in the doorway, her hands on her hips, wearing a knowing smile. "Oh, no, young man. Special occasions don't mean skipping school. You'll have plenty of time to spend with Anik and Rina after classes."
Luna laughed at Arpan's exaggerated pout. "She's right, Arpan. Let's go to school. Afterward, we'll have even more fun!"
Arpan flopped back in his chair, arms crossed. "Oh, come on, Luna! You're supposed to back me up here!"
Luna smirked and ruffled his hair playfully. "I'm just being responsible. You should try it sometime."
Anik chuckled softly at their sibling-like dynamic. "Looks like you're outnumbered, Arpan. Better get ready."
Arpan groaned again but finally stood up, muttering under his breath about how school was overrated. He shot a grin back at Anik. "Don't think this gets you off the hook. When I get back, you're telling me everything."
"Sure," Anik replied, a hint of amusement in his voice.
As Luna and Arpan left the room to get ready, Rina turned to Anik, her eyes curious. "Brother, will we really stay here while they're at school?"
Anik looked at her, his expression softening. "Yes, Rina. We'll stay here for now. You need rest, and I... I need to think about what's next."
Rina nodded, her small hands clutching her teacup. "It feels safe here."
Anik glanced out the window, watching the sunlight spill across the town. For the first time in a long while, he felt a sliver of peace.
Luna and Arpan left for school, Arpan still grumbling under his breath about how unfair life was, though his complaints were no match for Luna's persistent cheer. In the quiet aftermath of their departure, Anik sat at the dining table, sipping his juice thoughtfully. His mind swirled with questions.
"What should I do next? Where do I even begin?" he thought, gripping the glass a little tighter. The weight of responsibility pressed against him like an immovable force.
Maya, busy clearing plates, noticed the silence and turned to Rina, her expression warm. "Rina, would you like to come with me? I was thinking of watering the flowers in the garden. You can help me if you'd like."
Rina glanced at Anik, silently seeking his approval. Anik met her gaze and gave a small nod. "Go ahead, Rina. It'll be good for you."
Rina smiled and turned back to Maya. "Sure, mother, I'd love to help!"
As the two left for the garden, Maya paused at the doorway and looked back at Anik. "Anik, did you ever go to school? Or were you taught differently?"
Anik looked up from his glass, a faint smile crossing his lips. "My father used to teach me everything I know. He believed it was his responsibility. I didn't attend a school, but I imagine it's quite an experience."
Maya's eyes softened. "It is, indeed. If you're curious, you should visit Arpan's school one day. I'm sure it would be interesting for you."
Anik chuckled lightly. "Perhaps I will. Thank you for the suggestion."
Maya nodded and stepped outside with Rina, leaving Anik to his thoughts once again. He stared into his juice, lost in memories of his father and the weight of the legacy he had left behind.
Moments later, Thomas walked in, his face serious but kind. He took a seat across from Anik. "I can tell you're troubled," he said, his voice steady. "Come with me to my study. I think I might have something that can help."
Anik blinked, curiosity flickering in his eyes. Without hesitation, he stood and followed Thomas down the hallway to his study.
Thomas's study was an organized chaos of intellect and discovery. Bookshelves stretched from floor to ceiling, filled with tomes that seemed older than the house itself. Maps of worlds and galaxies adorned the walls, and a sleek, advanced computer hummed softly in the corner. Artifacts and trinkets—each holding untold stories—were scattered across the room.
Anik's gaze wandered over the collection. "You must love studying history," he remarked.
Thomas chuckled as he pulled out a chair. "I do. I'm a historian, after all. But history isn't just about the past—it's also the key to understanding our future."
Anik took a seat across from him. "I see. But how can history help me with what I'm facing?"
Thomas reached for a massive leather-bound book on his desk. Its title read, Mysteries of the Multiverse. Placing it in front of Anik, he said, "This book contains my life's work—everything I've discovered about the multiverse, its rulers, its secrets, and its dangers."
Anik traced the intricate design on the cover. "It's impressive. But how will this help me take my father's place? He's gone now, and it's my responsibility to take over."
Thomas nodded solemnly. "To become the Ruler of the Multiverse, the first step is to return to the Paradise of Eternity. That place holds answers that no book or teacher can provide."
Anik's eyes narrowed in thought. "Paradise of Eternity…" he murmured, gripping the table slightly.
Thomas leaned forward, his tone softening. "Anik, I can see the weight you carry. Your journey won't be easy, but it's necessary. And you don't have to face it alone."
Anik looked up, his voice tinged with curiosity. "Why are you helping me? Why is your family treating me and Rina so kindly? You barely know us."
Thomas smiled, leaning back in his chair. "It's simple. Humanity, at its core, is built on kindness, forgiveness, and the drive to help others. That's how we've survived, even in the darkest times. You and Rina have faced unimaginable pain. Helping you isn't just the right thing to do—it's the human thing to do."
Anik's grip on the table loosened, his heart softening at Thomas's words. He thought of the humanity he had encountered in his travels, both its beauty and its flaws.
Thomas continued, "Besides, your struggle is more than personal. What you're dealing with could endanger the entire multiverse. How could I, or anyone, turn away from that?"
Anik's expression shifted to one of determination. "Thank you, Thomas. Your words mean more than you know."
Thomas chuckled, reaching for another book. "I'm glad to help. Now, let me explain something. You asked earlier if this planet is inside a star. It's not. You arrived here through a portal, correct?"
Anik nodded.
"Well," Thomas explained, "our technology has advanced to the point where we've transformed many stars into portals for interstellar travel. It's far more efficient than the old Dyson Sphere method. This planet is a Type 3 civilization world, thriving on infinite clean energy. We've chosen to focus on nature's beauty instead of overwhelming technological growth."
Anik's eyes widened as he absorbed the information. "That's fascinating. It's incredible how far humanity has come. It reminds me of Earth…a Type 2 civilization." His voice grew softer as he thought of his time there with Rose.
Thomas noticed the shift in his tone but pressed on. "One more thing—you asked if Rulers of the Multiverse are respected or feared. The answer is complicated. Today, they're respected for their wisdom and power. But in the past… they were feared, often seen as conquerors or tyrants."
Anik's jaw tightened. "I don't want to be feared. I want to honor my father's legacy and protect the multiverse, not rule it through fear."
Thomas smiled approvingly. "Then you're already on the right path. You have the heart of a true leader, Anik. The journey ahead will test you, but I believe you'll find your way."
Anik nodded, resolve hardening in his chest. As he looked at the book in front of him, he realized he wasn't just learning about the multiverse—he was discovering his purpose within it.
Anik leaned back in his chair, his mind still reeling from the new information Thomas had shared. The complexities of ruling the multiverse and the legends of its past weighed heavily on his thoughts. He looked up at Thomas, his brow furrowed as he asked, "Why were these rulers feared in the past? And why do people respect them now?"
Thomas sighed deeply, the weight of history clear in his eyes. "I don't know much about the specifics, Anik. But my grandfather told me a story about a ruler named Lucian, a man who once wielded immense power over the multiverse. He was known as the Great Lucian, but many believed he was the Fallen Guardian. Lucian was a hero at first, a protector of the multiverse. But as he grew stronger, his power corrupted him. What started as a mission to protect, became a reign of terror. For years, he ruled with fear. People died in the infinity numbers.
That's why, in the past, rulers were feared—because of what Lucian became. But time passes, and new rulers come to restore balance. Now, the rulers are respected instead of feared."
Anik's expression grew more serious, the weight of the past settling in his chest. "Now I understand why they were feared... But why do they call Lucian the Fallen Guardian?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
Thomas hesitated, as if the question was as much a mystery to him as it was to Anik. "I'm not entirely sure," he said slowly. "There are many myths surrounding it. Some say that the multiverse, as we know it, exists in the Mortal Realm. Above this realm, there's a God's Realm. Guardians once lived there, beings of immense power who were tasked with protecting both realms. But it's just stories—myths. To be honest, I don't put much stock in them. I believe in what I can see and study, not what others claim to know."
Anik absorbed this information, his thoughts churning. He had heard whispers of such legends before, but hearing it from Thomas made it feel more real—more urgent. The idea that Lucian had once been a guardian, a protector, and yet had fallen into corruption sent a shiver down Anik's spine. Could he, too, be vulnerable to such a fate? Was this the kind of leader he was destined to become?
After a moment of reflection, Anik looked up with a determined expression. "So, what do I do now?"
Thomas gave him a knowing smile. "First, you need to find your inner strength and power. You can't lead the multiverse without understanding what you're truly capable of.
For that, you'll need to return to the Paradise of Eternity. There, you'll find the answers you need. But, before you go back, I suggest you stay here for a while. Arpan and Luna have really taken to you and Rina. This will be good for both of you."
Anik thought for a moment. He had been so focused on the weight of his responsibilities that he hadn't fully considered the value of taking a break. A chance to connect with others—like Arpan and Luna—might help him clear his head and refocus. "Alright," he said with conviction. "I'll stay here for a few days. And I want to read all these books. There's so much I still don't know."
Thomas nodded, his eyes lighting up at Anik's enthusiasm. "That's the spirit. The more you learn, the more prepared you'll be for what's ahead."
Anik then asked, a curious glint in his eye, "But what's your next research topic? What are you working on now?"
Thomas leaned back in his chair, looking at the stacks of books surrounding them. "I've been researching the nature of universes themselves, and the questions I've encountered are fascinating. For example, I've been digging into the idea of parallel timelines and parallel universes.
Many people believe in these theories, but I've found evidence that they might not be true. There's something deeper and more complex going on with the structure of the multiverse than anyone realizes." He paused, clearly excited by the topic. "And one interesting thing I've discovered, which I almost forgot to mention, is a unique ability of humans here on this planet."
Anik raised an eyebrow. "What ability?"
Thomas smiled, as if sharing a secret. "It's something really remarkable. When two people touch foreheads, they can share their memories. It's not a common ability, but it exists naturally in our species. It's a way to connect with one another in the deepest possible way."
Anik's eyes widened. He could sense how powerful such a connection could be. The ability to share memories… it was a bond that transcended words. "That's fascinating," he murmured. "Imagine being able to experience someone else's entire life—everything they've seen, felt, and learned. It could change everything about how we understand one another."
Thomas chuckled softly. "Yes, it's a beautiful gift. But like all things, it can be misused if not respected. But it's a gift that I believe helps us understand the world in ways nothing else can."
Anik leaned back in his chair, absorbing everything Thomas had said. His mind raced with possibilities. This planet, with all its wonders and mysteries, was far more than just a peaceful place to rest. It was a place of discovery, of hidden talents and untapped knowledge. And Anik realized, more than ever, that his journey had only just begun.
"Good luck with your research, Thomas," Anik said with a smile, a spark of determination in his eyes. "I'll be here, reading everything I can and finding my inner strength. I won't fail."
Thomas gave a proud nod, his voice filled with encouragement. "I believe you, Anik. Don't forget that you're not alone in this journey. You have people here who care about you—and that can make all the difference."
Anik's heart warmed at the thought, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, he could overcome the challenges ahead.
As Anik prepared to leave, Thomas stopped him with a warm yet serious expression. "Come with me to the garden," he said. "There's a peaceful spot where you can meditate and find your inner strength. I have a feeling you possess special abilities—perhaps more than even you realize."
Anik nodded thoughtfully. "You might be right. I've felt my powers before, but I've never been able to use them properly. Maybe meditation will help me focus and control them."
Thomas led Anik to the backyard of the house, where a beautiful garden stretched out under the open sky. Vibrant flowers swayed gently in the breeze, and in one corner stood a towering tree, its branches spreading wide like a natural canopy. The serene atmosphere was enhanced by the crisp, cool air flowing through the garden.
As they walked, Anik noticed Rina playing joyfully with a butterfly, her laughter echoing softly. She spotted him and waved excitedly. "Anik, come play with me!"
Anik gave her a kind smile but shook his head. "Not now, Rina. I'm busy."
Thomas gestured toward the tree with a reassuring smile. "You can sit under the tree. The weather is perfect, and the cool air will help you relax. Let your mind find its balance."
Anik settled beneath the tree, sitting cross-legged, his back straight as he closed his eyes and tried to focus. The world around him faded as he turned inward, seeking the core of his strength. Thomas stood a short distance away, silently observing, ready to step in if needed.
At first, Anik struggled. His thoughts wandered, and no matter how much he tried to concentrate, nothing happened. Frustration began to creep in, but he refused to give up. Time passed, and slowly, something shifted.