Ch- 10 "Spider-Sense and Sensibility"

In the depths of my contemplation, I fixate on the concept of "Extraction & Integration." It's curious how my attention is drawn not to 'Extraction' or 'Integration,' but rather to the enigmatic '&' symbol.

If one were to approach this matter with a logical mindset, the revelation becomes clear: [Extraction] and [Integration] within the confines of the 'Special' category are distinct abilities. Their fusion into a single name wasn't dictated by their inherent unity but rather by the arbitrary decision of the A.I. Chip.

In a sense, the A.I. Chip seemed to align with my own cognitive process, simplifying comprehension by presenting them as a unified name within the 'Special' category.

As I delve deeper into this enigma, the question arises: To what extent can these two distinct abilities, [Extraction] and [Integration], be optimized and harnessed individually? It's a fascinating prospect to contemplate.

What if those wild yet brilliant notions that sparked during my Anatomy class could be executed with precision? In that scenario, my life might take a much more manageable course than I had ever envisioned.

Now, let's explore the realm of those eccentric yet ingenious ideas. Picture, if you will, the possibilities of extracting the longevity of a turtle or harnessing the adaptability of a tardigrade. The implications are nothing short of extraordinary.

During that entire session of dissecting that frog, such contemplations were a constant presence in my mind.

However, as I reflect upon those ambitious ideas, a practical concern arises: where on Earth would I ever acquire turtles and tardigrades for such daring experiments?

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That's precisely how I devoted my entire day—lost in contemplation, pondering over once-impossible notions that, thanks to this newfound "Golden Finger," might just become attainable realities.

***

Upon returning from college and refreshing myself, I found myself seated on my bed. My gaze inevitably drifted towards the charging smartphone, and in that moment, an idea spontaneously sprang to life.

I recalled how I had managed to extract the A.I. Chip from the novel 'Warlock of the Magus World.' What if I were to delve into literature that explored the lives of the longest-living organisms or, better yet, stories featuring protagonists with lifespans extending into the millions, billions, or even trillions of years? Could I, too, extract their extraordinary longevity?

"Hmm, now that's a remarkable notion," I mused. "Why settle for a mere extension of years when the pursuit of true immortality beckons?"

"Yet, perhaps it's wise to tread cautiously," I reminded myself. "Let's commence with something less perilous, something that won't jeopardize my own well-being." My mind brimmed with an ever-growing reservoir of ideas, each demanding my unwavering concentration and focus.

***

Presently, I find myself perched at my study table, gripping an Animal Encyclopedia in my left hand, while my right hand clutches the smartphone.

So, what's the purpose of this peculiar activity, you might wonder? I'm simply in the process of extracting valuable abilities from various animals, potential stepping stones toward the overarching goal I've set for myself. As for the specifics of that ultimate objective, well, that's a puzzle reserved solely for my contemplation.

***

The revelation struck me like a bolt of lightning: "How had I never noticed the remarkable superiority of these creatures in comparison to Homo sapiens?" I marveled silently as I delved into the process of extracting their unique and awe-inspiring abilities.

My first choice, an ability that seemed incredibly valuable, was the Sixth Sense. Its potential to alert me to impending dangers or threats that had previously eluded my perception was too enticing to ignore. And the living organism from which I aimed to acquire this ability was rather evident: Spiders.

***

Arachnids/Spiders

The intrigue surrounding spiders lies in their remarkable sensory capabilities. These arachnids not only taste and smell but do so through specialized sensory organs on their legs and pedipalps. Furthermore, they possess the ability to perceive vibrations, effectively "hearing" through hairs and minuscule slits distributed across their bodies.

From these fascinating creatures, I extracted a valuable treasure - their 'Sensilla.' In arthropods and certain other invertebrates, Sensilla represent straightforward sensory receptors, often taking the form of modified cells or small groups of cells in the cuticle or epidermis. These structures are typically hair- or rod-shaped, holding the potential for unlocking profound sensory abilities.

***

Spider-Sense

Spider-Man's uncanny ability to sense impending danger manifests as a peculiar sensation in his head, its intensity corresponding to the level of threat. Spiders, on the other hand, have their own version of an early-warning system, and while you might expect it to be their eyes, there's more to the story.

The true champions of spider awareness are their highly sensitive hairs, which blanket the bodies of most spider species. These hairs are finely tuned to detect even the subtlest vibrations, whether they traverse through the surface upon which a spider stands or through the air as sound waves. It's a sensory masterpiece that provides these arachnids with an unparalleled understanding of the world's hazards.

***

Spiders indeed boast an impressive array of sensory structures, encompassing mechano-, hygro-, thermo-, and chemoreceptive sensilla.

Among these, the universally found slit sensilla stand out. These mechanoreceptors, or sensory organs, equip spiders with the extraordinary ability to detect even the tiniest mechanical strains acting upon their exoskeletons. This sixth sense empowers them to discern crucial details, such as the size, weight, and potentially even the nature of creatures approaching them.

Moreover, this heightened sensory capacity allows spiders to differentiate between the subtle movements of insects and innocuous environmental factors like the wind or swaying blades of grass. It's a testament to their remarkable adaptability and survival prowess.

Slit sensilla, scientifically referred to as the slit sense organ, serves as a minute mechanoreceptive structure or group of structures nestled within the exoskeletons of arachnids and spiders. Their primary function is to detect physical deformations or strains caused by external forces.

"Slit sensilla may very well be the component that underwent a transformative mutation or was influenced by the radioactive spider bite in the 'Spider-People' (Spider-Man, Spider-Woman, and the like)," I mused.

With a sense of newfound power coursing through me, I couldn't help but jest, "Henceforth, consider me a part of this extraordinary league. Beware, for 'Spider-Swayam' has arrived!" My laughter echoed, tinged with an air of mischievous delight.

[A.N. - Well, that concludes this chapter. The forthcoming chapters will follow a similar pattern, delving into the origins of his newfound abilities—how and why he obtained them—and exploring their practical applications.]