Earth, September 10th 2025 | Toronto, Canada
The sun rises over the eastern horizon gently painting the sky in soft oranges and pinks. A gentle wind flows through the fields surrounding the road, the soft green grass sways in rhythmic waves. the warm breeze caresses my hair as I walk forward; destination in the back of my mind, my eyes unfocused, my mind lost in thoughts:
Oh Christ how am supposed to keep up with everything, I complain to myself bitterly, just as university starts practically every game I play has decided to update simultaneously. Wuthering Waves with the soon to be closing Septimont act, Genshin with the new region, Nod Krai, hell even Star Rail as it approaches the end of Amphoreus - like damn it!
I adjust the strap of my laptop bag, noticeably lighter when I think about the lack of textbooks I need to carry. Walking through the road surrounded by fields I think about balancing, my physical health( sleep, physical workouts, food), finances, University and my hobbies.
A shadow falls over me, coming from my thoughts I see the University building that I am heading to. I can't help but feel a twinge of satisfaction, because despite my lack of faith in myself I actually managed to get into a decent university.
No scholarship unfortunately but honestly? I do not have the will to reach for such a thing anyway. The pressure of it would simply be too much. Just having the chance to learn about something that doesn't completely bore me in university is more than enough.
Headaches unfortunately are guaranteed with university that is just a fact, but I think I was lucky in selecting the courses that I did select since none seem... excessively problematic. Not like engineering, or god forbid, physics.
The irony of that thought won't hit me until later.
Entering through the main entrance I stop. Noticing a curious poster on the suspiciously empty board, that is usually filled with random events.
LIVE QUANTUM PHYSICS demonstration, witness the lack of logic that is quantum mechanics!
Date: September 10th, 2025
Time: 9:00 am
Floor 3, Corridor 6, Observation decks 1 through 4.
Seating Available first come first serve.
I pause checking my phone, my first lecture of day doesn't start for a while. I didn't really catch what was on the poster from a brief glance but I did see the floor and room of what amounted to some physics (in hindsight: quantum physics) experiment. While I am no expert in physics I do have the basic knowledge any high school grad should have.
The elevator dings and I walk into the metal box of total safety - or at least, that's what is written on the inspection certificate. I hit the button to the third floor, lean against the wall as the doors slowly close. I look at myself, definitely not the typical university student, there are no eye bags under my eyes after all, I am refreshed, not tired. Just quiet.
Getting off the elevator on the correct floor I walk through the sixth corridor stepping into the third viewing deck which is one of the decks that will oversee this "demonstration", to my initial surprise no spectators other than myself were there but then I remember that currently it is just the setup time likely not many people were here since the seniors were already at lectures while the new guys like me have their lectures far later. As it was, I was here at 8:30 am and the experiment is supposed to start at 9. Also who in their right mind would be here at 8:30 if their lectures start at 10!
Walking up to the glass barrier between the demonstration site and the viewing deck, I see a few students and a professor in full lab coats seemingly working on something below.The professor looks young but competent, his hair although not a complete mess was obviously rushed and judging by the sandwich in his mouth he hadn't even eaten before coming here.
The students are preparing some kind of machinery if there is anything that I can associate it with then is looks like a Hadron collider but tiny in comparison to the real thing. The professor animatedly points and corrects the students as he himself goes over a few documents likely checking for mistakes.
Checking my phone I notice only five minutes have passed so I decide to take a nap. I sit down on one of the more comfortable looking chair, at least this one isn't just plastic as there is some kind of cushioning. I put one leg on the railing that is right under the glass and the other over top the first. As I lean back and am a bit surprised at the comfort of the chair.
I then put on an eye mask, my best purchase in a thousand years, and some music just to block out my surroundings, a 20 minute timer starts as close my eyes and hum to the music, even though I mostly listen to Phonk, ironically it is far from my favourite genre especially the recent release that all just sound the same, and anyway I am currently relaxing to Lofi the blatant opposite of Phonk.
Time passes, I feel myself relaxed, after this experiment I will probably get some tea and then head to lecture for the one of the only math classes I will have to take for my major. I don't necessarily dislike math but I kinda went stupid in calculus and barely passed it in high school with just about 70%. Honestly it is weird generally math makes sense to me but calculus, just didn't calculate. It doesn't really bother me anymore though. Now that I think about I feel that I am just about to fall asleep but not yet asleep what a strange feeli-
While I am asleep, my surroundings turn red, alarms start blaring but I just don't notice because of my headphones cancelling out all sound. Below the viewing the deck the professor and students are running around, not panicking but just hurried. As the alarm gets louder the speakers of the university start blaring: "This is not a drill, please exit the building in an orderly manner, this is an emergency." The professor growing pale, after seeing the critical error, hurries the students and other staff to quickly get out and as far as possible from the building
I remain seated in a corner, just outside of viewing angle of the camera in the observation deck. To the camera the observation deck is empty. Within the seating area utterly oblivious to the possible danger now just below. Then the air gets thick, with waves and electricity flowing through air as if it were made of gold. The space... it stretches... unnaturally. Reality bends I take of my eye mask and go pale. In front of me, an impossible scene: my family sitting around the dining table, my mom shocked, she is looking at me, she sees me. My cat aggravated hissing at the edges of the images as if contained the image of its worst fears. My grandparents sitting at the table equally shocked, and terrified I can see the red reflected in their faces. This isn't just an illusion, no space fractured, and judging by the sight of my family, it was probably somehow influenced by my subconscious, myself seated in the chair and the blaring deck room. Then all goes to naught, I hear glass shatter, no not just glass but all, all at once. Then pain, a lot of pain.
Confusion, why am I in pain, why can I not hear my headphones or for that matter feel my own heart beat... My thoughts shatter, as if unable to form under the pressure of... something, everything, nothing?
Fuck
It all goes to black - no not black but rather the absence yet I feel pain, I feel myself though my chest just a hole, and I am alive? no there probably there is just no longer a concept of death, time goes by, or does it? Is there even time anymore, I don't know, it feels like all of that is happening now and yet has already happened a long time ago, this can't be described. I don't know how long but sight? hearing? touch? smell? taste? none of these seem to work anymore, I am now just there my thoughts my only companion. *Why* I ask myself?
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Another places, An unknown time.
Three entities, watching, curious, a soul with a fractured body from beyond the quantum sea or the imaginary sea floats by.
They gaze, fascinated by the opportunity handed to them, one wanting nothing but memories peers at the soul discovering the memories of another world.. and of their own future? how fascinating.
The second seeks knowledge looks through the soul and sees the world tarring apart, fascinated by such possibilities in a world limited by time and science.
The last laughs, is gazes and laughs at the jokes the soul remembers, seeing the possible future it is eager to send forward see the world that can be changed and madness that can be created.
The three notice each others gazes, silently they agree. For reasons of their own the save this soul, granting power and a wish of sorts, a wish that longs for another chance another life. Unfortunately, the one who looks for memories isn't interested in restoring his family, it even condemns the idea.
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Herta's Space Station | Day of Stellaron hunter's arrival
That soul, wakes up, his eyes are closed but he feels the cold floor, then he hears hiss, something sliding, shoes on metal, then a voice.
"Interesting, she's a member of the Genius Society alright." says a mature women's voice, in the background there is also a faints hum, a sizzle. I don't know what it is. I'll just stay quite
A few steps then a few clicking sounds, as if the woman is tapping on some control panel
"Can you get it?" asks the women as if talking to someone, the voice echoes, likely not directed at me.
"Good, then I'll also count on you with the preparation of the receptacle." the women's voice sounds again. Now that I pay closer attention I can tell I have heard this voice before.
A few more steps sound, the the shifting of fabric.
After a moment a hear another voice, out of nowhere. "The receptacle's ready... your decision" this time the voice is younger, as if from a teenage girl"
Then the women's voice sounds again "Elio said this decision will bring about lots of changes"
The girls voice then sounds again "He also said it must be you who makes it"
The women chuckles then finishes "There we go" then she starts walking the abruptly stops. She then asks "Did Elio's script say anything about an unconscious young man laying here?"
The girl turns quickly, startled asks "What? when did he?"
A silence follows the I hear to pairs of footsteps coming closer, they stop right before me. Then the women voice rings out "You're awake, stop pretending."
Surprised and startled that she noticed I try to get up only to realize I am tied down by something, my eyes open in shock only to squint at the bright light. As my eyes adjust, I see a tall voluptuous women with wine coloured hair and eyes, and a shorter, girl looking to be a teen with silver hair and eyes, I don't recognize them right away but then it clicks and I am stunned. Recognition shows in my eyes, my thoughts become a mess. Kafka, Silver Wolf? alive and real? in front of me?
Question fly through my mind, why? how? when? my memories, I last remember reality fracturing... but this? Am I in -
My thoughts are interrupted as Kafka "Oh? you recognize us? how interesting."
Silver Wolf then glances at Kafka and says "He isn't in the script, he doesn't matter, ignore him"
Kafka glances at her, silently, in agreement, they turn around and i see a girl, the protagonist, Stelle appear. I freeze I realize what this scene is, I recognize it. It is the start of the Honkai: Star Rail game's story.
A small graces my lips, I realizing something. Given such a troublesome moment? why not interrupt and make it fun.. then I wait, for the perfect moment.
I see the Stellaron as it is inserted into Stelle's chest. I wait I hear how Kafka, describes that this moment will be hidden away in her furthest memories only to appear when is most needed.
Then I speak, grinning but sincere "The girl in the ice... she's running from darkness... don't let her forget... March, she needs to remember—" As I finish Kafka, her face though not showing an expression visibly is betrayed by the anger in her eyes.
Silver Wolf in comparison wasn't able to hide her irritation so easily. As she turned, her face contorted. She then looked back and quickly finished what she was doing before turning back to me. Her voice rang out, anger obvious: "What do you think you are doing?!"
I smile a little, wink and say "Maybe I'm hedging my bets. Or maybe I'm just insane. Does it matter? You're out of time anyway."
The first part makes even Kafka's eye twitch, but the second part. Both show surprise, Kafka's eyes widen and Silver Wolf has her mouth open. A moment later they compose themselves and their eyes narrow, daring me to prove.
Now with a little caution as I realize my recklessness... I double down "You know, the next you see-", I look over at Stelle " - Stelle, is at Xianzhou Luofu or am I wrong?"
There eyes narrow even more, now wary of me "How do you know, no that is a stupid question, it doesn't matter - " Starts Kafka until
Silver Wolf glances at her interface, eyes widening. "Trailblaze crew—two of them. They're early."
Kafka's expression tightens. With one last measuring look at me, she turns. "Elio will have answers. For now, we have a mission to complete."
With a sigh Kafka turn around and with a last glance at me, leaves. As I turn to look at Silver Wolf, she is already gone.
Now that I am by myself I look around and notice something weird, no matter where I look there is a blue progress bar loading in the top right area of my vision. Focusing on it, makes it cover most of my sight, all it says under it is {Loading 95%} confused a little a try to pay attention to the other parts of my vision but then an idea hits me. I appear to be in another world, then maybe that's my cheat? I wonder.
Soon enough I see Dan Heng and March 7th Appear through the door they first notice Stelle as I am in a more hidden away corner, then the waking up scene occurs where Dan Heng almost kisses Stelle and get pushed away by March who exclaims that Stelle is awake, noticing I am free from Kafka's Binding
Looking at the scene of Stelle's awakening I cough a little interrupting them. Surprised they turn around and see me. I speak "While it is good and all that you are waking up but I quite sure that the situation outside right now is less than idea so let's not waste time." Now that I had spoken a little longer I tocied my voice, it seemed.. unlike my own, previously it was a little deep, not too heavy and had a stronger intonation.
Now? Smooth as silk almost like a women voice, but it was deep, the deep type that from what I recalled of my previous world. People had fantasized about. No matter now is not the time to debate my voice.
After I spoke a moment of silence echoed, then Dang Heng and March 7th, realizing I was right quickly stood up with Stelle, I had a bit of trouble, my balance was off, I felt stronger, lankier and taller? now how was that possible? last I remember I was far from what people would call tall, just about 5'8-5'9 without shoes and 174 cm for my non American friends. Weird why did I think of Merica? doesn't matter.
Our group exchanged a few words and realizing that I was unsteady Dan Heng had decided to to help leaving the room we avoided most of the Voidrangers and managed to get to Himeko without battling. Weird I thought to myself, in game I am sure there was a few unavoidable battles, yet reality isn't a game, so no can do the world says.
"Why does it always have to get this exciting? asks Himeko then continuous - "Anyway, at least you're back" and as we enter she speaks again - "March, Dan Heng, you've been through a lot."
Then march sighing and resting her hand on her lips hips "Whew, Himeko~ What took you so long! That last wave of Antimatter Legion came at us like a of locusts, have you ever tried shooting shooting locusts with a bow?"
I then space out.
It's not intentional—my brain is just... overloaded. I'm standing with the Astral Express crew. Characters I've played as, talked to through a screen, built teams around. And now they're *real*. Alive. Their actions can actually change.
The conversations around me blur into background noise as I process this. Himeko is saying something about coordination. March is complaining. Dan Heng responds with his usual brevity.
I'm not listening. I'm staring.
Looking at everyone I sigh it really is different to see someone through a screen compared to real life. Like Dan Heng At the moment, I have a clear height advantage over Dan Heng. He's around 5'7" or 5'8" if I remember correctly, the fact that I am taller is... weird. He is a just at my chin when we stand side by side.
He's slender with a lean frame. His black hair is cut shorter, falling to about the middle of his neck—simple and practical. His eyes are black too, though slightly lighter, more of a deep charcoal. There's an intensity in his gaze that makes me feel observed even when I'm the one looking down at him. His expression is usually serious, reserved, difficult to read.
He wears a long dark coat over fitted clothing, and carries the Cloud-Piercer—a spear nearly as tall as he is.
The height difference between us is obvious, but he carries himself with quiet dignity.
Then March 7th. She's noticeably shorter than Dan Heng, probably around 5'5" or 5'6", which puts the top of her head somewhere around my chest level when we stand close.
She's petite with a slim build, but there's an energy to her that makes her seem to take up more space than she actually does. Her pink hair is striking—cut in a short, playful style that suits her personality perfectly. Her eyes are bright and expressive, always sparkling with curiosity or mischief, a complete contrast to Dan Heng's reserved gaze.
She dresses colourfully, often in shades of pink and white that match her vibrant personality. Unlike Dan Heng's practical, subdued clothing, March's outfits have a cheerful, almost whimsical quality to them.
When she speaks frequently and enthusiastically.
Now Stelle she's around 5'7" or 5'8", coming up to about my shoulder level when we stand together.
She has a slim, athletic build—lean but clearly capable. Her hair is short and silver-grey, cut in a practical bob that falls just above her shoulders with slightly messy bangs. Her golden eyes are striking, especially against her pale hair—they have an unusual intensity to them, though in a different way than Dan Heng's. Where his gaze is analytical and guarded, hers is more... curious, determined.
She dresses simply, usually in dark, practical clothing—blacks and greys that allow for easy movement. There's a no-nonsense quality to how she presents herself, focused and ready for whatever comes next.
Standing at the same height as Dan Heng, the two of them are often eye-level with each other during conversations, while I'm looking down at both of them. Stelle carries herself with quiet confidence, shoulders relaxed but posture straight. She's not as reserved as Dan Heng, but she's not as openly expressive as March either—somewhere comfortably in between.
Finally Himeko, she's around 5'7", so I'm looking down at her, though not by much.
She has an elegant build and striking wine-red hair that flows down her back in loose waves. Her golden eyes are warm and observant, carrying a confidence that comes from experience. She dresses sophisticately in deep reds and blacks with gold accents—polished and refined.
The height difference between us is noticeable but not dramatic. When we talk, I look down slightly while she tilts her head up just a bit. She carries herself with calm assurance, movements fluid and deliberate. There's a maternal quality to her presence.
"—and that's why we need to move quickly. Are you even listening?"
I blink. Himeko is looking at me expectantly.
"Uh... yes?" I lie badly.
March giggles. "He totally wasn't."
"Come on," Himeko says with an amused sigh. "Asta has been worried about you all."
"Come on, Asta has been worried about you" says Himiko, finished a conversion I completely missed.
I now seem to have grasped my changed body as I stand up on my own. Our group then walks to Asta as she monitors the space station's condition as well as communicating with the staff on board
March the speaks "Asta, we're back"
Asta noticeably relieved says "Whew, I'm glad you're all back safe. I heard from the communications that Arlan is stuck in the storage zone heavily injured, please, rescue him!"
Surprised at the problem our group quickly head out to save Arlan.