Leonardo in the hospital — October 25, 2015, four days after the incident.
Leonardo begins to narrate a memory of his.
Leonardo (thinking):"A long time ago, I remember going to the park with my family. We were playing with the ball—my father, my sister, and I. I wasn't very good with the ball, but I loved spending those little moments with them. There was one time when I scored a really good goal… maybe too good for my age. I remember that when I touched the ball, I felt something run through my veins, a kind of energy. The ball shot towards the goal, scoring. My father was amazed that time, haha. I don't know why I remembered this."
(After recalling that, he was hit by flashes of the night his family passed away.)
—Leonardo opens his eyes, seeing the same place where he had been three days ago.—
Leonardo: ...
He looks around the room, searching for any sign of life. Quickly, after observing everything, the door opens, revealing a woman with straight hair of a purple hue.
???: Good morning, patient… —glances quickly at the sheet she's holding—
???: Leonardo, that is your name, correct?
Leonardo: Yes, that's correct.
???: Nice to meet you, Leonardo. My name is Samantha Ruvalcaba, and my duty today is to show you around the facility. But first, let me do a quick analysis to see how your recovery is going.
Leonardo: That's fine, take your time, Samantha.
Sam: Hehe, you don't have to be so formal, Leonardo. From now on, we're colleagues. You can call me Sam. Do you mind if I call you Leo?
Leo: Not at all, Sam.
Samantha began examining Leonardo's body using a device that scanned his entire system. On the screen appeared his organs, blood type, infection levels, and every detail of his physical condition. It was an advanced machine capable of analyzing every cell in the human body in seconds. What was astonishing was that Leonardo's body was completely renewed, despite the attack that had almost cost him his life.
Sam: I see! Wow! You've truly recovered completely. That's incredible, especially considering the situation you went through.
Sam: You've recovered fully and in an utterly abnormal way. Let me give you an example: when someone suffers a deep wound, it usually takes weeks, even months, to fully heal. But with you… it was different. The wound on your chest healed enormously in just four days since you were brought here. No one else would have survived.
Leo: Wow… what you're saying really confuses me a little. I don't understand how that was possible.
Sam: Don't worry. I think you'll understand more later. There are many things I'll explain to you throughout the day. But first…
Samantha walked over to a drawer in the corner of the room, pulled out a set of clothes, and gently tossed them to Leonardo.
Sam: Get dressed.
Leo: —Get dressed? Where are we going?—
Sam: —I'll show you the facilities, like I mentioned before. There are things you need to see for yourself.—
Leo nodded as he carefully stood up. He felt slightly dizzy as he got to his feet, as if his body still wasn't fully used to moving again. The clothes Sam had given him were simple: a white T-shirt, gray pants, and a new pair of sneakers, not a single mark of wear on them.
Leo (thinking):"Where am I really?... This place doesn't seem like an ordinary hospital."
Once he finishes getting dressed, Sam waits by the door with a calm smile, though her eyes reveal a hint of fatigue.
Sam: —Come on, I'll show you the basics first.—
They both step out of the room. The hallway is long, with metallic walls and cold lights flickering occasionally. The floor reflects their silhouettes, as if they were walking on glass. In the distance, they hear echoes of voices, but none are clear enough to understand.
Leo: —There don't seem to be many people here… how many staff members work in this hospital?—
Sam: —It depends on the area you're in. Not all personnel have access to the same sectors.—
Leo: —Sectors?—
Sam: —Yes, this facility has multiple research and recovery areas. We don't just treat patients; we also… study special cases.— she pauses and glances at him —Like yours.
A shiver runs down Leo's spine. The air grows heavier, and as they continue walking, he notices some doors sealed tightly with digital panels. On one of them, a sign reads: "Containment Area — Level 3."
Leo: —Sam… what's in there?—
Sam stops for a second, looks at the door, then back at him.
Sam: —That one, Leo… is an area you shouldn't approach yet.—
Leo stares at it with uncertainty. Curiosity mixes with a sense of looming danger. As they keep moving, he feels a faint vibration beneath his feet, as if something is stirring on the lower levels of the building.
Leo (thinking):"What the hell is this place?..."
As they walked, they arrived at a door that began to open automatically as they approached. A bright light flooded the hallway, forcing Leo to shield his eyes. When the light subsided, he could see a huge open space: a common area with a dining hall full of people, physical training courts, rest rooms, and even a small indoor garden with artificial trees illuminated by solar lamps.
Leo: —Wow… this place is massive.—
Sam: —Exactly. This is the recreation zone, where staff and patients can spend their free time. As you can see, people wear different uniforms. Each color represents a different area of the complex.—
Leo: —And here… what kind of research is actually conducted?—
Sam: —Well, there are several sectors. One works on developing advanced weapons to face the dangers threatening us today. Another consists of doctors experimenting with medicines that can accelerate healing or temporarily boost human energy.— she pauses, her tone turning serious —And there's also a specialized team for cases… like yours.—
Leo: —Cases like mine?—
Sam: —Yes, Leo. I haven't told you everything… Actually, you're not an ordinary person.
Leo: —I don't understand what you mean, Sam.—
Sam: —Let me explain. Inside your body, there's a very special material… a substance that reacts to what you've already witnessed. Many people call them "ghosts," "demons," or "apparitions," and although it sounds like superstition, they're not entirely wrong.—
Leo listened in silence, trying to process every word.
Sam: —These entities are not simple spirits. They are fragments of residual energy, corrupted souls that attach themselves to living bodies —humans or even animals. When they do, they alter their biology, multiply their strength, and accelerate their regeneration. They wield a dark power we call "malignant aura."—
Leo: —And you're saying they're more active now?—
Sam: —Yes. Their presence has multiplied over the past few months. They seem to be searching for something… or someone.—She looks at Leo firmly. —They're looking for you, Leo. You possess an energy core that attracts them, something that, if it falls into their hands, could unleash absolute chaos.—
Leo: —Why me? What do I have to do with this?—
Sam: —It's not just you. There are seven other people who, like you, carry this core. The rest of the people here are normal, but they have been trained and genetically altered to be able to face these creatures.—
They passed through another door, where large windows revealed multiple training rooms. Inside, men and women executed coordinated movements, lifted weights with superhuman ease, and faced combat machines.
Leo was impressed by what he saw: people running at incredible speed, fighting with surgical precision, swords flashing blue light with each strike, and firearms seemingly fusing energy with metal. The gear they wore was imposing, tight to their bodies, covered with glowing lines that pulsed with every movement.
Sam: —This is the training hall, Leo. As you can see, state‑of‑the‑art technology is used here. The equipment they're wearing allows their bodies to withstand extreme impacts, as well as the high speeds and pressure our combatants handle. Without it, their bodies would collapse under the strength they now possess. Let's just say their biology was genetically modified for battle.—
Leo: —And were you modified too?—
Sam: —Not to their level. My role isn't to fight, but to keep them alive… although— she glances at him with a slight smile —I can defend myself if necessary.—
Leo gazes again through the glass. One of the soldiers, wielding a massive sword, spins in mid‑air and splits a metallic creature‑shaped machine in two. The impact shakes the floor beneath Leo's feet.
Leo (thinking):"Genetically altered?…"
Leo: —Will I also be genetically altered at some point?—
Sam: —Hahaha, no, there's no need for that in your case, Leo. Tell me, have you ever felt like your body… bursts with energy? As if, for a moment, everything inside you ignites, and you suddenly feel stronger, more alive?—
Leo (thinking):"Something that made me feel like that?…" —he recalls the dream he had earlier—
Leo: —Oh… now that you mention it, yes. Many years ago I went to the park with my father and my sister. We were playing with a ball, and suddenly, when I kicked it, I felt something shoot through my whole body… an intense energy. The ball launched toward the goal as if someone else had kicked it for me.—
Sam: —Exactly, Leo. That's what I mean. Your body already has that resistance, that latent strength. You just don't know how to control it yet.—
As they spoke, background voices echoed—orders from the instructors and the metallic clanging of weapons striking the training dummies. The atmosphere vibrated with every impact, as if the floor itself were breathing with them.
Suddenly, the soldiers inside the hall stopped their training. Alarms buzzed lightly, and everyone began exiting hurriedly, still wearing their combat gear.
Leo: —Oh! They've left the training field.—
Sam: —That's right. They receive direct orders whenever there's an emergency with the Eidorans.—
Leo: —Eidorans?—
Sam: —That's what we call those paranormal creatures. Whenever one appears, the team must mobilize immediately to contain it before it causes any chaos.—
Leo: —Sam… there's something I've been wondering this whole time.—
Sam: —Tell me, Leo.—
Leo: —How is it possible I never knew about the existence of these beings?—
Sam: —Good question.— She smiles faintly, though her tone grows serious as she continues —You see, when we receive a signal of anomalous activity, we send a squad to the exact point. The first thing we do is restrict the area under the guise of "urban maintenance," like we're fixing potholes or pipelines. Then we place an acoustic barrier to prevent any sound from escaping to the outside.—
Sam: —We make sure there are no civilians in the area. When everything is over, a special team cleans the place and leaves it exactly as it was. No evidence is left behind. And if anything somehow leaks online, our tech department erases it in seconds.—
Leo fell silent for a moment, trying to process the absolute control they had over information and the magnitude of what this cover-up implied.
Leo: —But, Sam, I don't understand… wouldn't it be better if everything came to light? That way, people could be aware, prepared.—
Sam: —Listen, Leo… we do this because—
Before she could finish, the ceiling lights started flickering. Suddenly, the entire hallway was bathed in a crimson hue as a deafening siren echoed off the metal walls.
Leo: —What's happening?!—
Sam: —Something went wrong… we need to evacuate immediately. Quick, Leo, f—!—
Samantha reached out to grab Leo's hand, but her voice broke off suddenly. Her gaze froze, filled with horror. Leo frowned, confused by her sudden expression… until he felt something warm splash across his face.
Instinctively, he looked down… and saw Sam's body collapse to the floor, decapitated. Blood gushed out, staining the metal floor.
Leo: —AHHHHH!! What's happening!? Why!? I don't understand!!—
He stumbled backward, his heart racing, the echo of his own scream bouncing off the hallway walls. Then, he collided with something. His body froze instantly. Behind him… there shouldn't have been anything. The contact wasn't cold or solid like a wall—it was warm, wet, and pulsing.
He slowly turned his head, trembling. His breathing became uneven. And when he looked, his eyes widened in absolute terror.
In front of him, a humanoid creature stared. Its skin dripped with thick blood, its body deformed, muscles exposed like raw flesh. In its hand, it held Samantha's head, her eyes still wide open, while the beast ran its long, black tongue over her face as if savoring her fear.
Leo fell to his knees, paralyzed with terror. His hands shook, his breathing came in short gasps, and his mind couldn't process what he was seeing.
The creature, with empty, hungry eyes, lifted Samantha's head… and in one bite, devoured it. The sound of the skull cracking echoed down the hallway, bouncing off the metal walls. This wasn't just a being… it was monstrous, powerful, and fast.
In an instant, the beast turned its gaze toward Leonardo. Its muscles tensed, and with a guttural roar, it lunged at him with superhuman speed.
Leo: —No, no, no…!—
But before he could react, a metallic sound cut through the air.
SHHIIING!
The edge of a sword sliced through the darkness, and the creature's arm flew off, crashing into a nearby wall as black blood splattered everywhere.
—BUAAAAAAAAAGHHH!!—
The roar shook the foundations of the place. Leo, still trembling, lifted his gaze… and amid the flickering red lights, he could see the silhouette of someone standing before him, wielding a sword glowing with a bluish energy.
José looked at Samantha's mangled body—or what was left of it. Her face had been lost in the blood and torn flesh, devoured by the creature. Yet, in José's empty stare, a hint of sorrow lingered, a heavy silence that chilled the air. Only a soft groan escaped his lips before his expression shifted entirely, revealing the fury contained in his eyes.
José: Was this thing the one that did this?
Leo, still trembling but unable to speak, nodded.
José: I see… —he exhaled a long breath; the vapor from his mouth mingled with the dense, metallic air of the room.
He assumed a firm stance, leaning slightly forward as his sword emitted a faint bluish glow. The beast, barely recovered, turned its grotesque head toward him and roared in fury. Then it propelled itself toward the walls, leaping from wall to wall, from ceiling to floor, like a wild, unleashed predator.
José didn't move. He waited patiently, his eyes locked on the monster, until it was close enough.
SHHHIIING!
A single movement was enough. The sword sliced through the air with impossible speed, and in an instant, the creature's head was severed from its body. The sound of the cut rang sharp and clean, followed by the dull thud of the body collapsing to the floor.
The monster's dark blood spread across the floor, staining the metallic shine. José remained still, his sword still raised, as the echoes of the fight faded among the alarms still blaring in the distance.
José: Listen carefully, kid! You can't stay frozen—that won't help us. You have to show courage. I know you have no battle experience, that you've never faced one of these creatures, but you must. You have to prove that you can fulfill your duty! Think of your family. This is just one of many experiences you'll face. You'll see comrades die, innocent people... but you cannot lie there, ever! So stand up. If you want to live, if you want to succeed… stand up and follow me!
—As José spoke, he kept his eyes fixed on the creature, which began to rise from the pool of blood on the floor. Despite having no head, its body continued to move. As it barely lifted itself, it launched an attack toward José, who dodged with precision and, with a quick spin, drove his sword into the beast's chest, slicing it in half. This time, it did not rise again.—
—Leonardo was stunned by what he had just witnessed, and in his eyes shone a spark of hope, fueled by José's words.—
—Silence reclaimed the place, broken only by the constant drip of blood hitting the floor. The air had grown heavier, filled with the metallic scent and ash. Leonardo kept staring at the creature's split body, trying to process what he had just seen.
José wiped his sword with a dark cloth; the blade gleamed again with that bluish hue as he exhaled slowly.
José: Tsk... even without a head, this thing kept moving. They're getting more resilient every time...
—He approached Samantha's lifeless body, covering her with his military jacket. For a few seconds, he remained silent, bowing his head.—
José: Rest in peace, Sam...
—Leo lowered his gaze, clenching his fists, still trembling.—
Leo: I… I couldn't do anything.
José: Nobody can the first time —he replied without looking at him—. But the important thing is that you're still alive. Now understand this, Leonardo: after today, there's no turning back. You've seen what no one should ever see.
—José pulled a small metallic capsule from his belt and threw it to the ground. Blue smoke began to spread throughout the room, covering everything like a thick fog.—
Leo: What is that…?
José: A tracking eraser. The smoke wipes all thermal and biological traces of the confrontation. No one will know we were here. Come on, follow me.
—Leonardo got up from the floor and started walking alongside José down a somewhat long metallic corridor, older than the rest, with rusted walls and flickering lights.—
Leo: Where are we going? —he asked, still shaken—
José: To find a way out. We're currently surrounded by many creatures… I don't know how the hell they found us.
—They kept running until they spotted a door at the end of the corridor. José kicked it open, and what they found on the other side left them frozen. An immense hallway, the size of a recreation room, had turned into a battlefield: soldiers firing, creatures tearing apart bodies, blood flying everywhere. Chaos reigned supreme.—
José: Tsk! Follow me! I'll clear the way!
—Leonardo could barely process the scene. He ran after José, dodging debris and corpses, trying to reach the door at the end. But before he could make it, an explosion stopped them. The shockwave threw them backward. From the cloud of smoke, a silhouette emerged—
José (gasping): …It can't be…
—The smoke slowly cleared, revealing a tall man, his torso covered in scars and a macabre smile painted across his face. His right arm gleamed with dark metal, and his eyes glowed a deep crimson.—
Nexar: HAHAHA! Long time no see, José!
—Before José could react, Nexar appeared in front of him with inhuman speed, throwing a punch straight at his face. José barely managed to block it with his sword; the impact echoed like thunder.—
José: Damn it! —he growled, dragging his feet backward from the force of the blow—
—Leonardo could only fall to the ground, stunned by the strike.—
Leo (thinking): What the hell is happening? Who is this guy…?
—José and Nexar clashed with overwhelming fury; each strike of their weapons resonated like an explosion, shaking the air.While Leo watched the fight, a creature slithered up behind him. Seeing it, José kicked Nexar back and, without missing a beat, ran to Leonardo, slicing the beast into pieces with superhuman speed.—
José: You need to be more alert, kid!
Nexar: What the hell are you doing, José? Don't get distracted! Let him handle it himself. After all, he can take down anything if he sets his mind to it.Come on, fight me, José!
José: Tsk… You're so annoying.
Suddenly, a cheer rose among the combatants. A woman appeared, cutting through the creatures as if they were made of tofu.Her silver hair shone under the dim light, and her blue eyes radiated an icy calm. She wielded her katana with elegance; every movement was a precise, beautiful… and lethal dance.Within seconds, the chaos dissipated: all the creatures around her fell, and silence reigned for a moment.
José: Hehe… you took your sweet time, Yamileth.
Yamileth: Ha, don't say that, José. It's one of the few times I see you dealing with something.
José let out a laugh, and between them, a familiar, almost competitive tension was noticeable. But it didn't last long.
Nexar: What annoys me the most… —he growled— is that you don't listen when I'm talking to you.
With a roar, Nexar launched himself again. The blow was brutal.José was thrown against the wall, creating a massive crack in the stone.
Yamileth: Who the hell are you, inferior creature?
She said as a white, icy aura emanated from her body.Then, as if reflecting the previous impact, she returned the force of that strike with a devastating kick.Her movements were so fast that Leo could barely follow them; in his eyes, Yamileth disappeared and reappeared in flashes, facing Nexar with almost invisible speed.
Meanwhile, from the smoke of the previous impact, José emerged, his body covered in dust and a annoyed expression on his face.
José: What the hell… attacks when I'm not paying attention.
He muttered under his breath, raising his sword and making a cut so precise that even the smoke seemed to split before him.
José: Then I guess I can do the same.
In the blink of an eye, he vanished from his position, reappearing right in the middle of the fight between Yamileth and Nexar.The three moved at impossible speeds: Nexar barely managed to defend himself, using his metallic arm to block attacks coming from both sides.The sound of metal rang like thunder, sparks illuminated the air, and for a moment, Leo felt the ground itself trembling beneath his feet.
Nexar: GRRR! ENOUGH WITH THE NONSENSE!
He planted both feet firmly on the ground, and upon receiving the simultaneous impact of the two katanas on his metallic arm, he released a dark, terrifying aura.A shockwave spread throughout the area, throwing José and Yamileth several meters back. The air grew heavy… and a sinister silence filled the zone.
—And the ground began to quake from the aura surrounding Nexar, as if he were transforming. But before it could escalate further, a figure appeared behind him, placing a hand on his shoulder.—
???: You should calm down, Nexar.
—José, Yamileth, and Leonardo couldn't help but be shocked; none of them could tell where the person had come from. However, a second presence emerged beside him, radiating an even darker aura. The three immediately tensed, maintaining their combat stances.—
Yamileth and José (thinking):Who is this guy…? Where did he come from?
—The stranger stepped forward, radiating an unsettling calm.—
???: Relax, we didn't come to fight you… for now. We're only here for something that interests us greatly. In fact… it's that person behind you.
—He said it with a cold smile, as if nothing they had done up to that point mattered.—
José:Haha, well, too bad, my friend. Unfortunately for you… that person isn't leaving here today.
???: I see. So… that's how it will be.
—In the blink of an eye, the man vanished from his spot. José barely managed to react, tilting his head just in time to avoid a deadly strike aimed at his temple, though a scratch appeared on his cheek.—
José:Oops… couldn't quite hit me, my friend. I think you're still a bit slow.
José (thinking):He's fast… too fast. I barely managed to dodge that attack.
Leonardo didn't fully understand the situation; he didn't know how to help. His inexperience was only a hindrance: he couldn't keep up with anyone's movements—they were faster than he could perceive. He just clenched his jaw in frustration at his own helplessness.
José:Don't worry, kid. Just watch and stay safe. We'll handle everything; this isn't something you can deal with right now.
—Leonardo heard those words, but he still felt like a burden.
???: —sighs—They really want to make this more complicated than we planned. So… they leave me no choice. —smiles slightly—
???:Come out, my little ones.
—A thunderous crash filled the room, knocking down walls and raising a massive cloud of smoke. Amid the chaos, a brutal scream echoed. When the smoke cleared, two giant creatures, identical to each other, were revealed—
Yamileth:What the hell is that?!
—Both turned toward the commotion. Leonardo, who was behind them, was grabbed by the mysterious figure. José and Yamileth reacted too late, their concern evident—
José (thinking):Damn it, I wasn't paying attention!
—José, trying to prevent Leonardo from being taken, launched an attack, but one of the two giant creatures blocked him—
—The creature stopped José's strike with a swing of its enormous arm, raising a cloud of debris that sent him flying several meters back—
José (thinking):I can't let them take him… I have to stop them.
—Yamileth lunged at the other creature, dodging a strike that would have smashed the wall behind her. With agility, she hit the monster's leg hard, trying to make it lose balance—
Yamileth:I won't let them take him!
—Meanwhile, Leonardo was being hoisted mercilessly by the mysterious figure. Each step they took made the ground tremble, and the strength with which they held him stole his breath—
Leonardo (thinking):No… I can't stay like this… I have to do something!
—José tried to bring down the creature blocking his path, throwing kicks and punches with precision, but each blow seemed to only graze the monster's thick hide—
José (shouting):Yamileth, cover me while I advance!
—Yamileth answered with a leap, dodging a strike and landing a powerful punch to the creature's head. The beast roared, but it didn't stop—
—The mysterious figure watched with a smile, showing no effort as they carried Leonardo with ease—
???:It seems the boy wants to make this interesting… no matter, he will be mine.
—Leonardo struggled, kicking and fighting, but the grip that held him was too strong. His eyes filled with determination as he searched for something, anything, that might help—
José (thinking):I can't lose him! I have to keep these things occupied!
—José and Yamileth kept fighting with everything they had, dodging and striking; every movement was calculated to buy seconds, while Leonardo was carried farther and farther away, disappearing gradually from their reach—
Leonardo (thinking, angry):I won't give up! I'll do something, even if it's right now!
—The mysterious enemy, noticing the boy's rage and determination, tightened his grip, but a faint glow began to appear in Leonardo's hands—
???:Kids, you should disperse now that I have the boy. And Nexar, don't do anything stupid; just go back to the base, understood? —he said with a terrifying smile—
Nexar:Tsk, whatever. —He broke through the wall, disappearing into the smoke—
—The other person also vanished, moving straight ahead, while the mysterious one veered onto another path—
—The boy, thinking he didn't want to be a burden all the time and knowing he had to free himself from the person holding him, began to remember that night when he felt a force surge through his body from his stomach to his veins, and that punch he had thrown at the woman who massacred his family—
Leo (thinking):Remember! Remember how you felt back then! Remember what you did to hit her like that!
???:Very well, young one. Now that we're alone, let me tell you what will happen next: you'll be taken to a place where we'll extract something very important from you. —He turned to look at him, only to be struck by the boy's fist, with a force that sent him flying—
—The mysterious figure slammed against the wall with a crash that shook the ground. Dust and debris flew everywhere, but Leonardo stood firm, breathing heavily as the pulse of energy coursed through his body—
Leo (thinking):Yes… this is it! I did it!
—His fist continued to glow faintly, and with each passing second, the energy seemed to expand, flowing through his arms and legs, filling his entire being with power—
—The mysterious figure emerged from the smoke—
???:I didn't like that one bit. —angrily—
—In another scene—
—José dodged a blow from the monster and countered with a precise slash that sparked as it grazed the creature's tough skin. The beast roared and swung its arm to block, but José twisted with agility to evade the attack—
—Yamileth, on the other hand, leaped onto the other creature, driving her sword hard into the monster's shoulder. The blade got stuck, and Yamileth had to push with both hands to free it, while the creature roared in fury—
José (thinking):We have to keep them busy! Leo can't fall into their hands now!
—The clash of steel against the creatures' thick skin, the roars, and the dust raised by the strikes created absolute chaos. José and Yamileth fought with determination, using every maneuver and slash to try to defeat them and reach Leonardo quickly—
—One of the creatures, bigger and stronger, raised its arm like a mace and swung it at José. He rolled across the ground just in time, but the impact lifted a cloud of debris, obscuring his vision—
—Yamileth took advantage of the distraction to leap onto José's creature, striking its shoulder with her sword and forcing the beast back a few steps—
José (shouting):Keep pressing! We can't let them take him!
—Both continued attacking fiercely, cutting and dodging, every strike of their swords making the creatures' thick skin vibrate, but it wasn't enough to defeat them—
José:Tsk, we can't waste any more time. Yamileth, I'll have to use a technique that will drain my energy, so I'm counting on you to rescue Leonardo.
Yamileth:You're going to use that… on these things?
José:Yes, we don't have time. Hurry. I… will take care of this trash.
Yamileth:Alright. Be careful, José.
—Yamileth ran down the hallway where Leonardo had been taken, while on the other side, José prepared himself, adopting another combat stance—
José:Ahh… it's been a long time since I last used this technique. I hope I still remember how to execute it perfectly.
—His armor began to emit a bluish smoke around him. At the same moment, his sword enlarged and his aura blazed with intensity. The armor tightened under the strain of this ability, and his eyes turned white as he prepared to unleash the strike—
—The creatures lunged at him, but José sighed, concentrating all his strength into a single slash. The explosion that followed completely devastated the room, reducing the creatures to rubble and dust—
—After the technique, only the sunset could be seen illuminating the remains of the place, while José collapsed to the ground, gazing at the golden light—
José:Truly… exhausting…
—José fell unconscious, drained by the effort of his technique. Meanwhile, Yamileth ran down a long corridor, panting, her sword still in hand—
Yamileth (thinking):Could they be too far ahead already? Damn… those creatures were way too tough. We wasted so much time… where the hell could they be?
—Suddenly, a loud crash echoed in the distance, making the hallway walls tremble—
Yamileth (thinking):What was that? Could it be them? I have to hurry!
—She ran with all her strength until she finally reached the end of the hallway. Before her, the air was filled with smoke, dust, and shattered debris. In the middle of the chaos, Leonardo stood, his gaze fixed ahead—
Yamileth (thinking):What… happened here? And the person? Did the boy… do all this?
—Through the smoke, a silhouette began to move slowly. A rough voice broke the silence—
???Ahhg… —sighs irritably— I didn't like that one bit, bastard.
—The stranger emerged from the smoke, rage etched across his face. Without hesitation, he lunged toward Leonardo with overwhelming speed. Leonardo instinctively stepped back, but it was too late to dodge the attack. Just before impact, Yamileth appeared in front of him, sword drawn—
¡CLANG!
—With a precise movement, Yamileth cut the attacker's arm, causing him to step back with a roar of pain as dark blood stained the floor—
??? —Ohh —surprised by the girl's skill—Tell me, girl, how did you do that? —smiles— You're very good with a katana, aren't you?
—As he spoke, the arm lying on the ground shot back toward him, reattaching to his body as if it had never been severed—
Yamileth (thinking):For some reason, I can't let my guard down against this person… I feel like I'd die if I did.
???Exactly, girl. If you let your guard down in front of me, you'd be in pieces right now.
Yamileth (thinking):What!? He can hear my thoughts? No… it's like he can predict what I'm thinking.
Yamileth:I don't know what you're talking about. Actually— —lowers her guard— —I could stand here in front of you all day. You're not worth it.
—The stranger smiled and began to clap at the girl's words—
???Haha, I see, I see. I like it, you've got spirit, girl. But…
—A kick suddenly appeared inches from Yamileth's face. She dodged it and, keeping her composure, remained in a low stance—
Yamileth (mocking):Heh. Too slow, idiot.
—The stranger showed astonishment—(thinking) Could she dodge that kick? I see… yes, she could be that girl.
—He smiles—Tell me, by any chance… didn't you have a little one you'd adopted as a sister?
—Yamileth froze at the question, wondering how he knew—
???:Oh, I guessed right, didn't I? Wow… I'm so sorry for your loss. I seem to recall that she was trampled until she—
—Yamileth, consumed by uncontrollable fury, assumed a stance no one had ever seen from her—
Yamileth:SHUT UP! DON'T CONTINUE, OR YOU'LL TRULY REGRET YOUR WORDS!
—Leonardo watched in silence—
Leonardo (thinking):She had a sister? Is he trying to make her lose control?
—The stranger smiled diabolically—YES. YOUR SISTER WAS TRODDEN BY MANY DEMONS WHILE YOU COULD ONLY WATCH BECAUSE YOU WERE NOTHING BUT A PIECE OF SHI—
—Before the word could finish, a white flash, like snow, flew toward the stranger. He managed to dodge with effort but still got scratched on the cheek—
???:Hehe, that's it! THAT'S IT! SHOW YOUR FANGS!
—Yamileth stood on the other side of the stranger, surrounded by a silver aura that enveloped almost her entire body. Her suit, matching the color of her hair, seemed to glow with the light of her energy. Her personality had completely changed: no longer was she the calm, restrained girl, but someone consumed by pure fury, an insatiable anger provoked by the words of that man—
—Leonardo watched the scene, unable to do anything. The yellow glow that had previously surrounded him began to fade slowly—
Leonardo (thinking):Has she… changed? She seems stronger… and somehow, something inside me tells me I mustn't move.
—The stranger lunged at the girl without hesitation, initiating a battle so violent that the floor cracked with every impact. Walls shook, glass shattered, and stones flew in every direction—
—Leonardo could only watch, powerless, as Yamileth and the stranger exchanged fierce strikes, slashes, kicks, and blocks. Each clash of their weapons unleashed waves of energy that shook the entire hallway. The air grew dense, charged with raw power and a palpable hatred—
—Metallic sparks illuminated the place, and every time Yamileth's blade grazed her enemy, a dull echo spread, making the debris vibrate. Her silver aura intensified more and more, as if with each passing second her power grew alongside her rage—
ChatGPT dijo:
—The stranger smiled, enjoying the fight, as his movements became even faster and more aggressive. Yamileth, with her gaze cold and focused, blocked without flinching, returning every attack with deadly precision—
???:Yes! That's how I like it! Show me that hidden strength of yours!
—The clash of their swords echoed with such force that the ceiling began to crack—
Leonardo (thinking):This… this is too much. If they keep going… the whole building will collapse!
Leonardo (thinking):Is this… what I'll be facing from now on? They're insane! I… I couldn't do it. No. Everyone until now, without even knowing me, has done everything to get me out of here. The only way I can help is like this.
—The place emanated a brutal cold from the power radiating off Yamileth's suit. They kept fighting until the stranger unleashed a technique that hurled Yamileth backward. Both stared at each other intently—
???:You are the perfect rival, Yamileth, but I'm afraid this will have to end here.
—The stranger assumed a stance; the floor beneath his feet cracked. His aura transformed brutally, creating an atmosphere that made Leonardo's breath catch—
Leonardo (thinking):What is this? It's like I can't breathe. Is it this person's technique? Can he even still be called a person? Looking closely… his skin tone… like that of the girl in the house. He is, without a doubt, one of them.
Yamileth:How do you know my name, damn it? You're right: this ends here.
—Yamileth assumed another stance. Her sword became enveloped in ice, just like the floor beneath her. Both, facing each other, ready to end it with a single strike, lunged forward; the impact shattered the starting point completely. But before they could collide, they were stopped by another person—
???:I'm sorry, Yamileth. But right now, you must get Leonardo and José out of here. The planes are waiting outside. Get them out alive.
—Yamileth saw the person: a woman with long red hair, an imposing figure, and an aura radiating fire—
Yamileth:BUT, ADRIANA! THAT PERSON IS TOO POWERFUL. LET ME HANDLE HIM, HE COULD…
Adriana:Don't worry, Yamileth. I'll take care of it.
—Yamileth could only watch, unable to argue. In the distance, Leonardo observed the scene with doubt and awe—
Leonardo (thinking):That person… seems to have a high rank. Could she be Yamileth's superior? But… can she really face that guy?
—The stranger slowly rose, brushing the dust off his clothes with a confident smile—
???:Well, Miss Adriana… or should I say, teacher?
—Adriana looked at him with weariness, her gaze showing more fatigue than surprise—
Adriana:It's been a long time, Javier.
—Yamileth opened her eyes, shocked—
Yamileth (thinking):Javier…? He's Javier!? But… he…
Leonardo (thinking):Javier? They know each other… Now that I think about it, Mr. José also faced another strong guy… and they knew each other too. Could it be from previous encounters?
—A heavy silence fell over the place, broken only by the creaking of the shattered walls and the echo of fire radiating from Adriana—
Javier:I didn't expect to see you again, teacher. Although I admit… I was curious to see if that fire still burned within you.
Adriana:The fire is still alive, Javier… but what once was your humanity, no longer is.
—The tension escalated. Yamileth and Leonardo could feel the weight of history between them, a past marked by something they didn't yet understand. The air trembled with opposing auras: Adriana's intense fire against Javier's dark, dense energy—
Leonardo (thinking):This… feels different. It's not just a fight… there's something more between them.
Adriana:—Yamileth, take Leonardo and get out of here. Oh, and one more thing… "that thing", level 3 has been released.
—Yamileth was shocked, but quickly grabbed Leonardo's hand and went after José. Carrying him on her back, Yamileth and Leonardo hurried to escape. Meanwhile—
Javier (laughing with a smile bordering on madness):—HAHA! IT REALLY IS YOU, MASTER! I'm so glad to see you after all this time… although, haven't you aged a bit?
—Adriana looked at him with a calmness that contrasted with the intense fire surrounding her. Every step she took made the ground tremble; the air seemed to burn around them.—
Adriana (coldly):—I see you're still the same, Javier… arrogant as ever. I must admit, I'm surprised you're still alive after what you did.
Javier (laughing, with a deep, broken voice):—Alive? Master, that no longer applies to me. You yourself condemned me, don't you remember?
—Adriana clenched her fist; her eyes shone with a golden light, and the fire around her flared violently.—
Adriana (harshly):—I had no choice. You betrayed everything we stood for… you killed your own comrades.
Javier (exalted):—For my freedom! For not blindly following the orders of that rotten organization you so fiercely defended!
—The walls began to crack under the pressure of both powers. Outside, Yamileth and Leonardo could barely stay on their feet as the ground trembled.—
Leonardo (thinking):—That energy… I can't even imagine what would happen if either of them loses control.
Yamileth:—Quick, Leonardo! If we don't get out now, this place is going to collapse.
—Leonardo nodded, but before fully exiting the building, he glanced back one last time… and saw Adriana launching herself at Javier, engulfed in a whirlwind of fire and light that illuminated the entire hallway.—
Javier:—Come on, master! Show me if you're still worthy of your title!
—The crash of their powers collided with a force that shook the building's foundations, while Yamileth, José, and Leonardo moved toward the light outside.—
—As Yamileth, Leonardo, and José stepped out, several ships appeared, looking like they came from the future, something never seen before. Leonardo was stunned, but they had to board quickly.—
Yamileth (thinking):—Hang in there, master… please, don't die.
—An intense fight consumed the room; it was no longer just a display, this time they were truly fighting for their lives. Adriana and Javier held nothing back. The floor was shattered, along with many other areas. The fire left behind by Adriana and the darkness emanating from Javier turned the place into a war zone.—
Adriana (thinking):—She's become stronger… of course, he's no longer that person.
—Javier, noticing that Adriana was distracted, took the opportunity to launch a powerful strike.—
Javier:—What's the matter, master? Not your usual self? Have you become weaker? No… I'VE BECOME STRONGER!
Adriana (thinking):—He's out of control… I can't hold back against him, it would be the end for me. I'll have to use all my strength… but… I don't understand how this happened…
—The roar of fire clashing against darkness faded for a moment, while in Adriana's mind, an image from the past emerged among the flames.—
15 years ago
—A facility covered with metal walls, filled with steam, sweat, and the echo of blows. The "Alpha Control Center," one of the first bases of the organization in charge of containing the initial appearances of the Entities.—
Instructor:—Adriana! New recruit assigned to your team!
—The metal door creaked open, and a young man with dark hair, a defiant gaze, and a firm stance entered the room.—
Young Adriana:—You're the new recruit?
Javier:—Yes, Javier Cortéz. They told me you were the best… though you don't look like it.
—Adriana raised an eyebrow, smiling with a mix of teasing and patience.—
Adriana:—You'll have to prove it before talking so much, kid.
Javier (crossing his arms):—That's exactly what I plan to do.
—From that day on, grueling training began. Adriana pushed him to his limits every session, and he never gave up. Day after day, amid sweat, shouts, and injuries, a connection began to grow between them.—
Adriana:—Again! Don't let your guard down! If you do in front of a level 2 Entity, you won't even have a chance to scream.
Javier (panting):—I know! But if I follow your path… someday I'll be better than you!
Adriana (laughing):—Then you'll have to try for the rest of your life.
—And so it was. Over the years, Javier became one of the best. Their relationship evolved, moving from master and apprentice to battle partners. They had each other's backs on every mission, trusting each other blindly.—
Javier:—Hey, Adriana… have you ever thought about what it would be like if all this ever ended?
Adriana:—End… no. These things don't disappear. They only change faces.
Javier (looking at her calmly):—Then I'll keep fighting as long as you keep fighting too.
—That was the last time they laughed together.—
—An anomaly was detected in the north of the country. A research team was sent, led by Javier Cortéz.—
The marked area was an old underground complex buried beneath a layer of dry, reddish soil.The air smelled of rust and dust. There was no wind. No life.Only silence.
Javier advanced at the front with his squad: six researchers, two armed agents, and a sensor operator.His flashlight illuminated the cracked walls of the corridor as they descended into the abandoned structure.
—There are no records of this facility —muttered one of the men, checking a tablet—. It's as if it never existed.
—That's why we're here —replied Javier, keeping his voice firm—. Collect data. We go in, document everything, and get out. No unnecessary risks.
But as they went down, the sensors started to buzz.
—Beep… beeeep… beeeeeeeeeep—
—Captain… I'm reading something huge —said the operator, his face going pale—. Unknown energy. It's moving… toward us.
Javier raised his fist, signaling everyone to stop.Everyone tensed. Flashlights pointed ahead.
Then…
Ssshhhk.
The light flickered.
Ssshh—KKRRAAAASH.
Something crossed the corridor at an impossible speed.A shadow with no clear shape.A wet sound.A muffled scream.
And when the lights came back…
The bodies were already on the floor. Shattered.Everything had happened in less than a second.
—WHAT WAS THAT?! —shouted one of the agents, trembling as he raised his weapon.
There was no answer.
Only the shadow behind him.
CRACK.
His neck snapped like a dry branch before he could fire.
Javier stood frozen.His heart pounded in his chest.His hands were sweating.But he didn't run.He couldn't. Something… was watching him.
The lights failed again.And in the darkness, two enormous eyes opened in front of him. No pupils. White. Unnatural.
An impossible voice, like a whisper inside his mind, murmured:
—Human… chosen…
Javier could barely breathe.
—W-what… are you…?
But there was no answer.
He only felt the claws of that entity wrapping around him.His body was paralyzed.
His vision blurred.
And as he was dragged into the darkness, his last thought was the name of one person:
"Adriana..."
After that, there was only silence.
—Three days after the disappearance of Javier Cortéz—
The northern part of the country was sealed off as a black zone. No civilians, no regular military, no press. Only Operation E.47, led by the only person who insisted on going:
Adriana Vael.
She descended through the same corridor that Javier and his team had traversed. Her squad—eight elite agents and three trackers—followed behind her. The flashlights cut through the darkness, revealing walls marked by claw scratches that did not match any cataloged creature.
A trail of dried blood painted the floor.
One of the trackers swallowed nervously.
—Ma'am… do you think Captain Cortéz is still alive?
Adriana stopped walking without turning around.
—Javier is strong. I don't consider him dead… not until I see his body.
But her eyes said otherwise: fear and anger.
The sensors started to vibrate.
Piiiiip... piiiiiip... piiiiiiiiiiiiiiip—
—Unknown energy approaching —reported the technician—. But… it's not as strong as the previous signal.
—Prepare yourselves —ordered Adriana—. Do not fire without my signal.
The ceiling cracked.
KRAAASH.
A creature fell in front of them: skeletal, gray-skinned, with long white eyes and shallow breathing. It wasn't the same entity that took Javier, but its energy… came from the same source.
—Contain it! —shouted Adriana.
Electric shots. Cables. Containment seals.In less than twenty seconds, the creature hit the ground writhing, immobilized under the energy fields.
Adriana approached slowly.
The creature looked at her… and spoke in a rough voice, as if it had never used vocal cords before.
—You… the teacher…
The agents raised their weapons, tense.
Adriana held her gaze.
—Where is Javier Cortéz?
The creature smiled. A broken, unnatural smile.
—Javier… is no longer one of you.
A heavy silence filled the corridor.
Adriana clenched her fists.
—Answer me. Is he alive?
The creature tilted its head, as if confused by the question.
—Alive… no.Dead… neither.Elevated… claimed… reformed.He no longer walks with humans.Now he belongs to Him.
The creature tilted its head again, and in an almost macabre tone said:
—The next time you see him… he will no longer remember you as such.
The silence hit harder than any roar. Adriana felt something in her chest break, though she didn't let it show.
—Why? —she asked in a thin voice, trying to maintain her composure.
—Because now… he is no longer yours, nor on this side —whispered the creature, as the containment unit began to vibrate with dark energy.
—It's destabilizing! —shouted one of the technicians— Back up!
Before dissolving into a cloud of black vapor, the creature left its final sentence:
—When you find him… he will be your enemy.
BOOM.
The explosion shook the underground tunnel. The agents stepped back, but Adriana did not. She remained standing amid the smoke and sparks, staring at the void where the creature had been.
In a low, pained voice, barely audible, she whispered:
—Javier… what did they do to you?
—In reality—
PUM.
A blow hit with such force that it echoed throughout the place. Adriana and Javier exchanged strikes until she had to retreat. Adriana, bruised and with blood dripping from the corner of her lips, was breathing heavily; her suit was damaged, and exhaustion weighed on her.
Javier:Tsk. What a shame… I was really having fun. But you're no longer in any condition, teacher.I wasn't in condition either, and they sent me to die. But I was transformed! Renewed!Join us, teacher. That way, you can live a better life.
Adriana (thinking):It's impossible… he's completely out of his mind. He doesn't know what he's talking about… Javier…
—I remember—
Javier:Teacher, is it really possible to transform a human into one of those creatures?
Adriana:Yes… it is. Unfortunately, most of those creatures were once humans. They transform them by injecting a cursed parasite, a kind of corrupted soul. They steal their life, their humanity… they become one of them.—She clenches her fists in anger— They don't care how many lives they destroy.
Javier: —looking at her—Teacher, if one day I become one of them, I would want you to kill me.
Adriana: —shocked, looks at him; then smiles—That will never happen. I won't allow it.
Javier: —returns her smile—
—In the present—
Adriana began to summon a flame that spread throughout the place; there was no way out without being incinerated. A firm step echoed on the cracking ground. An intense and unwavering aura rose above her. Javier observed the surroundings, confused; he looked at Adriana, who was shedding tears, and a shiver ran through his body.
Javier:—YOU'RE CRAZY! YOU CAN'T DO THAT! YOU'RE GOING TO DIE TOO! STOP JOKING, ADRIANA!
Adriana: —she could only manage a smile——Go on… you should let go, Javier.
Javier:—JAVIER DOESN'T EXIST ANYMORE! YOU SICK BITCH! I'M LEAVING, NO MATTER THESE FILTHY FLAMES!—He tries to escape through the fire, but when he touches it he's thrown backward, engulfed in flames——AHHGGH!
Adriana:—It's useless. YOU WON'T GET OUT OF HERE! NOT ALIVE!
Javier (thinking):—She's crazy. SHE'S INSANE! I have to get out of here, no matter how. I'll leave alive!—He starts pounding the ground, digging, searching for an exit—WUOOAAAGH!
—Adriana remained calm, her thoughts fixed on her pupil—(Javier… I couldn't protect you before, but I will honor your request as my apprentice… no, as something more. You were someone very important: arrogant in battle, humble with the weak. In just a few years you earned everyone's affection. Now I will free you from your pain.)
—Adriana's determination fused with the flame; the fire swelled as if fueled by her will——I WILL FREE YOU FROM YOUR PAIN!
Adriana:—AAAAARRRRRHHHH!
—A flame erupted from Adriana's body, consuming her as she screamed in rage and the agony caused by her own technique. The blaze launched toward Javier. He, who had barely dug a few meters, could only see a light at the bottom of that hole that looked like his own grave.
Javier:—YOU CRAZY BITCH! AHHHHHHHH!!
BOOM.
—The place exploded into a thousand pieces. In the distance, Yamileth and José, inside the ship transporting them, could only remain in shock, staring out the window.—
Yamileth:—MASTERRR! —she screamed with heart-wrenching anguish.—
—José stared blankly, as if all hope had been extinguished along with the explosion.—
—Leonardo could only watch the explosion, with Yamileth's sobs echoing in the background.—
Leonardo (thinking):—It seems that person was very important to them. I understand the pain they must be feeling… but I can't do anything. Maybe, if I became stronger—if I could control this power—everything would be different. No one would have died. Not even…—A fleeting memory of his family crossed his mind.—
—During the entire flight, no one spoke a single word.The silence was as heavy as the loss itself. Only the constant hum of the ship cutting through the sky could be heard, while pain, rage, and helplessness hovered between the three like an inescapable ghost.
—October 26, 2025, unknown location, 12:00 A.M.—
—The ship landed on an open field, covered in grass and barely illuminated by the moon. The wind blew strongly, making the night feel even colder and more silent.—
—All the occupants disembarked from the ship, remaining in absolute silence. Each step on the ground echoed uncomfortably.—
—José finally broke the silence, with a forced smile, trying to ease the group's tension.—
José:—Come on, we can't stay like this forever… we're still alive, aren't we? Come on, a little cheer, even if it's just out of obligation.
—Leonardo and Yamileth looked at him, their expressions reflecting exhaustion, sadness, and the weight of what had happened the previous night, but José's attempt made the heavy air feel, for a brief moment, a little more… breathable.—
—From the shadows, several figures began to emerge, approaching with steady but relaxed steps.—
???—Yo, what's up, brothers? You don't seem very cheerful. Did something happen? —he said with a wide smile, radiating confidence.—
—José and Yamileth, recognizing him, bowed respectfully, as did the others present. Leonardo hesitated, but José urged him to follow the custom.—
All:—Welcome, sir!
???—Come on, come on, you know I don't like you doing that all the time —he said, laughing—. After all, we've spent too much time together for you to greet me like I'm a stranger.—
—The atmosphere began to ease slightly, though the tension from the previous night still weighed on them. José exchanged a glance with Yamileth, both assessing the newcomer's attitude.—
???—Hehe, well… then why do you all look so down? —he said, looking at everyone with curiosity and a hint of concern in his voice.—
Yamileth(with contained anger and sorrow):—Miss Adriana has… —her voice broke for a moment, the mix of fury and grief palpable— …is no longer with us.
—Leonardo swallowed hard, realizing that what he had seen from the ship was not a simple accident. José clenched his fists, maintaining composure while his gaze reflected both rage and helplessness.—
???—…I see… —the man said, narrowing his eyes, his expression turning serious—. So all this… was worse than I imagined.
—The night wind continued to blow, rustling the grass around them, as if nature itself shared the weight of the tragedy they had just experienced.—
???—Oh… and that person, who is he? —he said, staring at Leonardo, who was standing in front with Yamileth and José.—
—Leonardo felt uneasy under the man's gaze, unsure how to respond. Yamileth stepped forward, slightly shielding the boy.—
Yamileth:—He… is Leonardo. He's with us.
???—Hmm… I see —the man said, studying the boy carefully—. Looks like we'll have to bring him up to speed. It's not the time to keep him in the dark.
—José let out a soft sigh, while Leonardo could barely process the seriousness of the atmosphere and the authority radiating from the newcomer.—
???—Well, I understand why this situation has you like this. After all, she was one of the best people and teachers we ever had… yes. But we can't stay out here. It's late, the wind is freezing, and unless you want to die of cold, it's better to go inside.
—Leonardo looked around, searching for the place the man referred to, but all he could see was open field and grass swaying in the wind.
Leonardo(thinking):—Go inside? Where?
???—Come on, don't just stand there. Follow me.
—The man took just three steps into the dark field. Leonardo frowned. There was nothing: no doors, no cabins, no paths—just grass moving with the wind. Yamileth and José followed naturally, as if they already knew what would happen. Confused, Leonardo followed closely.
—Suddenly, the man placed his hand in the air before what seemed like nothing and spoke softly:—
???—Code: Elysium. Access authorized.
—The ground vibrated. An almost imperceptible wave shook the field, and before Leonardo's eyes, the air cracked like glass, revealing a massive underground structure hidden by an invisibility field. A luminous opening appeared in the ground, descending like a platform.
Leonardo(pensando):—¿Qué… es este lugar?
—José, sin mirarlo, murmuró:—
José:—Welcome to Refuge Elysium. Our "home"... and the operations base.
—The group began descending the platform. The wind stopped as they crossed the threshold, and once the access closed behind them, the outside light vanished—only metallic hallways, white ceiling lights, and a cold atmosphere contrasting with the intensity of the field outside remained.
—Leonardo shivered.
???(glancing at him while walking ahead):—Relax, kid. You're not in danger here… as long as you don't do anything stupid.
—Leonardo gritted his teeth. He wasn't sure if it was a joke or a warning. Yamileth walked beside him, still with red eyes, too drained to speak. No one spoke.
—Finally, the man stopped in front of a massive door marked with the number 07.
???:—Before moving on, everyone needs rest. It's been… a long day. —Then he fixed his gaze on Yamileth—. Tomorrow, you'll tell me everything in detail: what happened there… and how Adriana ended up.
—Yamileth lowered her gaze without replying.
—Leonardo swallowed hard. "Tomorrow"… that meant the hell of questions was just about to begin. Deep down, he knew he wouldn't sleep a bit that night.
October 26th, 2025, 10:00 A.M. — Unknown Zone
—José and Leonardo are shown walking toward the dining area, while José lets out a yawn.—
José:—Wow, I slept so well last night! I didn't feel a thing and rested perfectly. —He said with a huge smile—
—Meanwhile, Leonardo looked exhausted, with deep dark circles under his eyes—
Leonardo(thinking):—Of course you slept well! You spent the whole night snoring and babbling nonsense in your sleep…
José:—What's wrong, Leo? You look tired. You should've slept more last night.
Leonardo(thinking):—This guy!
—Upon arriving at the cafeteria, they served their plates and sat down—
José:—Wooah! —He looked at his plate eagerly— I'm starving, and the food here is amazing.
Leonardo(asking):—What is this place?
—José, with his mouth full, could barely manage a few words—
Leonardo:—Uh… I don't quite understand.
—José took a sip of water, swallowed a bite, and let out a burp—
José:—Ahh… this place is far more than just a refuge, Leo. It's the origin base of the entire organization, the heart where everything is planned and controlled. Here, they carry out advanced research you couldn't even imagine: from new combat techniques to studying the entities and their abilities. The space is massive, with corridors that seem endless, labs full of strange devices, and training areas that will let you improve your skills quickly.
—He pauses and smiles, pointing toward some buildings in the distance—
José:—Also, there's a special institution for newcomers like you. There, you'll receive training, learn to control your powers, and get prepared for upcoming missions. You'll spend a few months there, but believe me, each day will be an opportunity to become stronger. It's a safe place, Leo… though that doesn't mean it isn't demanding.
José:—And I know better than anyone that you can become really strong, kid! —He smiles hopefully, looking him straight in the eyes—.
—Leonardo watches him, feeling a surge of motivation from those words. But then… José starts eating so fast that he ends up choking. Leonardo just stares with a poker face, unable to react in time.
—José began coughing desperately, pounding his chest as he struggled to breathe—
José:—Agh—! cough cough Water… wateeeer! —he babbles with teary eyes.
—Leonardo, completely serious, just looks at him for a few seconds with the perfect mix of disappointment and resignation—
Leonardo:—…You're a complete disaster.
—Finally, he hands him his glass, and José drinks it almost in one gulp, regaining his breath as if he had come back from the dead.
José:—Hahh… That… was close. —He settles back in his chair, smiling as if nothing happened—. Well, haha… where were we?
—Leonardo just watched him without blinking, his face frozen in the classic "this can't be real" expression—
Leonardo:—You mean, supposedly, I can become strong.
José:—Ah, yes! That! —he raised a finger like he'd just discovered the cure for the universe—. I meant it seriously, Leo. If you train, push yourself, and follow the path… you can become someone truly incredible here. I'm not just saying it. I saw it in your eyes on the first day.
—His tone shifted, adopting for the first time a sincere seriousness—
José:—But you also need to understand something… —he glanced at his plate for a few seconds, lowering his voice—. This place is not a game. If you truly join the organization… you'll see things unlike anything you've ever experienced outside. And it will be tough. Very tough.
—Leonardo, this time without humor, held his gaze—
Leonardo:—I know. And even so… I want to continue.
—José watched him silently, then smiled proudly—
José:—Then… welcome to the most beautiful hell in the world, partner.
—The dining hall doors burst open. Yamileth entered slowly, her eyes heavy, hair disheveled, as if her spirit had been trapped in another dimension.
—Yamileth (exhausted, defeated):I'm… alive… I think…
—She collapses onto the table in front of Leonardo and José.
José (surprised):An interrogation?
—Yamileth weakly nods, too drained to speak.
—Behind her appears the mysterious man from the previous night. He smiles, exuding confidence and ease, completely contrasting the heavy atmosphere.
??? :—Uff! Three straight hours and she can still walk. That deserves respect. —he chuckles softly— It was fun watching her answer the same questions twenty times.
—Yamileth (looking at him with a lifeless gaze):They asked me… the same… damn… questions… every… single… minute…
Leonardo (confused):What did they ask you?
—Yamileth:"'What did you see?' 'What did you feel?' 'What did you do?' 'Why him?'" —she rolls her eyes, worn out— I'd answer it again, but I think my brain already jumped out the window.
—The man ignores the sarcasm and fixes his gaze on Leonardo with a special gleam, like a scientist observing an experiment walk for the first time.
??? :—So… you're Leonardo Saldaña. —he smiles— One of the Seven Members, huh?
Leonardo (blinking):Seven… what?
??? :—Interesting… very interesting. —he adjusts his voice, mimicking a narrator— Alright, Leonardo. Show me.
Leonardo:Show… me what?
??? :Your powers. Come on, show me what you've got inside.
—The cafeteria falls completely silent. José watches with expectation. Yamileth barely lifts her head. Leonardo takes a deep breath, stands up, and tries to focus.
Leonardo (thinking):Come on… I know it's there… that energy…
—He clenches his fists. He focuses. He tries…
—…but nothing happens.
—Not a single spark.
—The atmosphere turns awkward.
José (muttering):Uh… that's it?
Yamileth (weary sigh):I didn't expect much either…
—The man crosses his arms, analyzing with coldness and a hint of disappointment.
??? :I see… then it will be necessary to use that.
ChatGPT dijo:
The world around him suddenly distorts. A dry wind lashes his face. When he opens his eyes again, he's no longer in the cafeteria. He stands alone in the middle of an immense hall.
His mouth hangs open in surprise.
Leonardo (thinking, stunned):Where the hell am I? What… what is this place? Why are there so many people? Is… is this a school? It's enormous…
The hall is colossal: a perfect circle outlined by platforms, tall stained glass windows letting in imposing light, and hundreds of students seated in the stands surrounding the center, staring at him as if he were part of a performance. Murmurs ripple through the crowd, some curious, some mocking, some intrigued. Everything indicates he's been placed right at the center of the stage.
Grand Hall — Origen Academy
Official Voice (resonating throughout the hall):—Welcome, new aspirants! We commence the Induction Ceremony of Origen Academy.
Leonardo, still dizzy from the sudden change of location, looks around.
José (poking his shoulder with a smile):Welcome to the academy, Leo.
Yamileth (collapsing onto a bench):I need… sleep… three days…
The slender man walks to the center of the hall. As he raises a hand, all murmurs immediately cease.
??? :This generation… will be different. Among you are key pieces for the future. And some… will make history.
Leonardo swallows hard.
Unwittingly…
His war had just begun.
The man steps forward, his gaze firm, his voice deep and commanding.
Master:—Before you celebrate your "admission"… you must understand one thing clearly. Here, no one is a warrior just for arriving. Origen Academy is not a refuge… it is a filter. And only the worthy will remain.
The students in the stands fall silent. No one breathes easily.
Master (continuing):—During the next three days, you will participate in the Classification Trial. It consists of three stages:
He raises three fingers, enumerating calmly:
Master:—Day 1: Endurance. We will see how much you can withstand… physically and mentally.—Day 2: Strength. No tricks. No special weapons. Only your body… and your will.—Day 3: Skill. Here you will show what makes you unique: technique, intelligence, power… or whatever you have.
Tension thickens in the air. Some students swallow hard, others smile confidently.
Master:—At the end, each of you will receive a total score. Based on it, you will be assigned to one of the three divisions of the Academy:
He extends his hand, and three emblems appear in the air, glowing like holograms.
Master:—Bronze Division: For low scorers. Those who… will need more work.—Silver Division: Mid-level. Stability, control, and average potential.—Gold Division: Only for the best. Those who will step onto the real field first.
A murmur spreads through the crowd. Some in Bronze lower their gaze. Those aiming for Gold clench their fists with ambition.
The Master looks directly at Leonardo, as if he can see him even among thousands.
Master:—The Academy does not judge your origin… nor your past. Only your results. And believe me… not everyone will end up where they started.
Leonardo feels a chill run down his spine.
Master (concluding):—Rest while you can. Tomorrow, at dawn… the trial begins. Your true life in Origen starts now.
The hall resonates with one last magical, ceremonial announcement.
Official Voice:—ADMISSION CEREMONY CONCLUDED!
The students rise. The atmosphere is a mix of fear, excitement, and rivalry.
Leonardo (thinking):Three days… one single chance. I can't fail.
When the ceremony ended, the students began leaving the Grand Hall in groups. Leonardo, still dizzy and unable to spot José or Yamileth, walked through the crowd without paying attention to where he was going. That was when he bumped into someone.
Aggressive Student — a guy about 1.75 m tall, short red hair, amber eyes, fair skin and a small scar on his right eyebrow. His arms were covered in black tribal tattoos. He had an imposing glare.
Aggressive Student (threatening):—Huh? You looking for a beating? Come on then!
Leonardo took a step back, shocked.
Aggressive Student (snarling):—You bumped me first! I'm gonna kill you! I'll remember your face!
The boy stepped forward like he was going to strike, but someone appeared behind him, quickly grabbed his arms and yanked his ears hard upward, stopping him in his tracks.
Intervenor — a taller young man, about 1.85 m, lean but fit, straight black hair down to his shoulders, blue eyes, no visible tattoos. His uniform was immaculate, as if he were too proper to be there.
Intervenor (dragging the aggressive kid by the ears):—That's enough. Let's go!
Aggressive Student (writhing and screaming):—AH! LET ME GO, DAMN IT! YOU'RE RIPPING THEM OFF! HE HIT ME FIRST! I'LL KILL HIM! I SWEAR I'LL REMEMBER YOU!
Leonardo froze, a mix of discomfort and trauma on his face, watching them walk away while the aggressive kid kept kicking.
When he finally breathed again, someone else appeared beside him and gave him a light tap on the shoulder.
It was another boy, completely different: light brown, messy hair; green eyes; a confident smile; about 1.78 m tall, no tattoos, with a casual, easygoing air.
Friendly Guy (smiling casually):—Don't worry. I don't think he'll do anything to you… well, at least not today.
—…you left me alone while everyone else scattered! —he finished, still in shock—.
José raised an eyebrow, holding back a mix of scolding and amusement.
José (sighing):—Bah! Doesn't matter. Just follow me. I don't want to lose you again before the trial.
Cristian, crossing his arms and still smiling, looked at Leonardo with an amused expression.
Cristian:—Wow, Leo… looks like your first day at Academia Origen isn't going to be very calm, huh?
Leonardo (thinking):—Calm… that's the last thing I can expect here.
José began walking toward a hallway lit with white lights, and Leonardo followed, with Cristian jogging beside him, still wearing that confident smile that seemed to ignore any danger.
Cristian (whispering to Leonardo):—Don't worry. If you survive your first encounter with Ragnar, you can handle almost anything that comes… and believe me, nothing here is easy.
Leonardo swallowed hard, looking down the seemingly endless hallway ahead, aware that his real trial was just beginning.
José (interrupting, nervous):—Shh-shh! Doesn't matter. The important thing is that you don't wander off again. Come on, there are things you need to know.
Cristian raised his hand in farewell, still smiling.
Cristian:—See you later, Leo. And think about the equipment, here that's everything.
José gently nudged him toward the exit of the hall.
José (muttering as they walked):—You can't go alone, man. This place is full of weirdos… and some are even worse.
Leonardo glanced back for just a moment, seeing Cristian disappear into the crowd.
Leonardo (thinking):Equipment, abilities, trials, tattooed lunatics, giant halls… what the hell have I gotten myself into?
And with that question hanging in his mind, he followed José into the unknown awaiting him in the Academy.
As they walked down one of the Academy's brightly lit corridors, José crossed his arms behind his head and spoke calmly:
José:—So, kid… tell me, how do you think you'll do on the trial? I suppose you've got some sort of training planned for these two months before the evaluation starts, right?
Leonardo averted his gaze, uncomfortable.
Leonardo:—Honestly… no. I don't have any training. And I don't have much stamina if we're talking about the first test…
José stopped dead in his tracks.
José (eyes wide as saucers):—WHAT!? Then… how do you plan to pass!? Who do you plan on going to for training!?
Leonardo just stared at him. He didn't say a word. He just looked at him, fixed.
José pointed at him quickly with a finger, alarmed.
José:—Oh no, no, no, don't even look at me like that! Don't you dare, understood?
Leonardo furrowed his brow slightly, a mix of embarrassment and pleading on his face.
Leonardo:—But... I don't know anyone else besides you and Yamileth.
José brought his hand to his face, running his fingers over his forehead in obvious resignation.
José (muttering, defeated):—It can't be… looks like it's going to be my job, huh?
Leonardo nodded slightly.
José (sighing):—…Alright. Buuut —he pointed at him again— I warn you: if I'm going to train you, I'm not going to be gentle. The endurance test knocks out half the aspirants on the first day. If you don't push yourself, you'll faint before breakfast.
Leonardo swallowed.
Leonardo:—I'll do whatever it takes.
José (smiling confidently):—That's what I wanted to hear. Welcome to training hell, Leo.
The two kept walking, while in the distance they heard footsteps, voices, and the echo of the gigantic academy waiting for them.
October 27, 2025 – 6:00 A.M.Open field, several kilometers from the Origin Academy
The dawn barely lit the landscape. There were no buildings, no trees, no paths… only dry land and a vast open space that seemed to stretch endlessly. The cold wind cut through the skin.
José (arms crossed, serious, with dark circles under his eyes):—Alright, kid. Your training starts today. Remember this: if you want to pass the test, you'll need spirit, discipline, and endurance. But —he gritted his teeth— since I had to get up early because of you, the session will last five endless hours!
Leonardo smiled nervously, trying to appear motivated… but inside, he just wanted to keep sleeping.
José clapped his hands loudly.
José:—First activity: explosive jogging around the perimeter! You'll complete five full laps.
Leonardo looked up… and froze.
In front of him, marked with metal stakes, extended a circuit of approximately 4 kilometers of open terrain.
Leonardo (shouting):—WHAAT?! ALL OF THAT!? It's like… like…!
José (interrupting, a vein visible on his forehead):—AND YOU WON'T REST UNTIL YOU FINISH ALL FIVE LAPS! RUN!
Leonardo dashed off, tears in his eyes.
October 27, 2025 – 12:00 P.M. (noon)
Leonardo lay on the ground, arms spread wide, chest rising and falling as if he were breathing fire. He had no soul, no dignity, no life.
Leonardo (thinking, gasping):—I'M… GONNA… DIE…
José looked down at him, sipping coffee as if nothing were happening.
José (serious):—And that, Leonardo… was the warm-up.
Leonardo opened his eyes, horrified.
José (laughing loudly, showing all his teeth):—HAHAHAHAHA!
He leaned slightly forward, hitting his leg while his laughter echoed across the open field. Leonardo, still lying on the ground, looked at him, a mix of bewilderment and exhaustion, barely suppressing a small, involuntary tremor of laughter.
José (recovering some composure, with a teasing smile):—Come on, kid… that was just the beginning. If you thought it was impossible, get ready, because the worst is still ahead!
Leonardo (thinking):—WARM-UP?… someone… please… kill me…
END OF CHAPTER 2