Chapter 16: The Birth of the Unknown

Chapter 16: The Birth of the Unknown

Back in the present, Gabriel lay unconscious, his mind enveloped by a surge of energy emanating from his Aspect Cube. The energy coalesced within his consciousness, condensing the vast network of data and information into a singular focal point. To his astonishment, it took the form of another cube—a vibrant shade of green—nestled within his brain. This new cube was adorned with intricate computer codes and matrices, spinning in an endless cycle of solving complex equations. Its presence exuded a captivating mysticism, intertwining earthly familiarity with an otherworldly aura. A kaleidoscope of ever-changing symbols pulsed within the cube, illuminating Gabriel's mind. It existed in an ethereal state, concealed from any probing gaze, just like his Aspect Cube. Within this enigmatic cube resided one of the fundamental laws governing humanity—diversity in mathematics and data.

In this pivotal moment, something miraculous transpired within Gabriel's brain, defying all logical explanation. Energy surged from his Aspect Cube, converging into the green cube, and giving birth to an embryo-like entity. This embryonic presence thrived on the influx of energy, growing within Gabriel's mind like a fetus in a womb. However, instead of manifesting as a human child, it formed a blood-red brain, no larger than a baby's fist. The crimson organ emitted a mysterious glow, while a pair of profound, abyssal eyes materialized within it. These eyes held an uncanny allure, capable of ensnaring anyone who dared to gaze into their depths. As the eyes flickered open, a cascade of green symbols, reminiscent of computer codes, emerged within the brain. Initially, they appeared one by one—1, then 2, 3, and quickly multiplying into the thousands. The brain underwent a remarkable evolution, expanding in size and generating an abundance of intricate codes. Eventually, it grew to the size of a basketball, defying the limits of Gabriel's physical cranium. Although the cube seemed small, its internal space defied comprehension, stretching into the infinitesimal realms. After a week of relentless evolution, the brain closed its eyes, its transformation complete.

One week later, Gabriel regained consciousness amidst the desolation of the ruined facility. As he surveyed the aftermath of his rampage, a surge of disconcertion washed over him. The sheer magnitude of destruction before him—the dried blood staining every surface, the dismembered bodies strewn about, the pungent odor of decay—ought to have elicited horror and revulsion. Yet, he remained detached, numb to the horrors he had wrought. Gabriel stood amidst the debris, his disheveled appearance accentuated by a blindfold that veiled his sightless eyes. His voice reverberated through the deafening silence, "What have I become? What is happening to me?"

The implications of his metamorphosis overwhelmed him, stirring existential questions. The fact that he had mercilessly slaughtered thousands without a shred of remorse gnawed at his core. Gabriel struggled to grasp the magnitude of the changes he had undergone, contemplating the depths of his transformation. "That's not important right now. First, I must change my attire," he muttered, evoking a response from the tendrils residing within his Aspect Soul Space. Fear coursed through his veins as the tendrils stirred, prompting him to plea, "Oh, come on! No, no, no, don't!"

To his astonishment, the tendrils remained benign, retracting into his body without causing harm. Gathering his resolve, Gabriel summoned them once more, gradually acclimating to their presence and mastering their command. He directed the tendrils to ensheath his body, which obediently transformed into the clothing he desired. A black shirt, complement

ed by a stylish overall jacket, adorned his frame, while black combat boots and pants completed the ensemble. A trace of red materialized along the edges, lending a touch of distinction. Conscious of his sightless condition, Gabriel instructed the red tendrils to fashion a blindfold, shrouding his eyes.

Satisfied with his newfound control over the tendrils, Gabriel retracted them into his Aspect Soul Space. With a sense of accomplishment, he turned to leave, unaware of the additional cube harbored within his brain. Within this enigmatic cube, another blood-red brain lay dormant, its eyes closed, sharing a mysterious connection with Gabriel.

Stepping into the elevator, Gabriel pressed the symbol for the upper floors. As the elevator ascended, he marveled at the depth of the Earth he had traversed, visualizing the molten lava surging with fierce intensity. The engineering marvels behind the construction of this subterranean facility captivated his imagination. After a twenty-minute ascent, the elevator doors opened to reveal the upper sector. Climbing the stairs, Gabriel emerged into a vast hall that resembled a factory, now devoid of any signs of life. The remnants of his destructive outburst surrounded him, a testament to the havoc he had unleashed.

Finally, Gabriel stepped out into the open air, basking in the radiant sunlight after five long years. Although the research facility lay hidden beneath a desert, its harsh conditions posed no threat to him. Standing there, bathed in the comforting warmth of the sun, Gabriel reveled in the significance of his return to the surface. However, his purpose urged him forward. It was time to locate the malevolent doctor responsible for his suffering, the one who had shattered his peaceful existence and torn him away from his family.

Thoughts of his loved ones filled Gabriel's heart with longing and anticipation. He pondered their well-being during his absence, yearning for the joyous reunion that awaited him. Observing the sun's descent, he realized that darkness would soon shroud the land. "I need to find civilization swiftly, and perhaps satisfy my hunger," he murmured, acknowledging the pangs in his stomach. Although, as a Beyonder of the third transformation in the first tier, Gabriel could endure days without sustenance, his two-week-long unconsciousness had left him famished. Determined, he arbitrarily chose a direction and prepared to embark on his journey when a voice unexpectedly pierced the silence, calling out, "Hello, Gabriel."