Chapter Outline.
Chapter One. Infinite Potential.
Part One: Kairen’s Infinity.
Part Two: Who is the Chosen One?
Part Three: A Bright Light after a Millenium- Finally Something Exciting After a Millenium. It's about damn time, girl.
Chapter Two. The light is coming to get back everything the darkness stole.
Chapter One: Infinite Potential.
Neon thunder thrummed through the Monument de Tannit, a colossal, obsidian stadium carved in the middle of the grand city – Lilith’s Eden Zero. Above, a holographic sky shimmered with constellations unknown to Earth one thousand year prior. In the spectator seats, the roar of the crowd was a living ocean, its waves crashing against the energy barrier that separated them from the maelstrom of the track.
Kairen Tannit, descendant of the stadium’s architect, felt the vibrations course through her exosuit. Her thick dark 4B hair, usually worn loose, was secured beneath a sleek, neural-linked helmet that displayed the track in a heads-up overlay. Her bike, the prototype IX-Tannit, hummed with a suppressed thrum, a bio-mechanical marvel that responded to her very thoughts.
The starting grid pulsed with holographic flames. Kairen, unlike her nervous competitors, sat motionless, her gaze fixed on the holographic finish line shimmering in the distance. The crowd chanted her name, a rhythmic undercurrent to the pre-race announcements. Bets, displayed on the transparent panels lining the stadium, heavily favored her. The IX-Tannit, after all, was an unfair advantage. Its morphing chassis could handle any turn, its robotic thrusters defying gravity on the vertical sections. Yet, victory on the treacherous Monument track wasn’t just about tech – it was about nerve.
The starting signal flared. Kairen, a blur of dark chocolate skin and chrome, shot off the grid. The IX-Tannit flattened against the curve as they entered the first loop, her vision swimming momentarily with the G-force. Around her, competitors veered off track, their lesser machines screaming in protest. But the IX-Tannit clung to the walls, its advanced technology balancing it perfectly.
Kairen lapped her opponents with clinical precision. The holographic overlay blinked, highlighting potential hazards – a competitor losing control, a section of the track slick with a rogue energy spill. With a thought, she activated the IX-Tannit’s phase-shift, the bike momentarily becoming ethereal as it skimmed through the obstacle. The crowd gasped, a collective gasp of awe and envy.
The final stretch felt surreal. The finish line loomed, a shimmering portal leading who knew where. Kairen pushed the IX-Tannit, the bio-engine whining in protest before unleashing a final surge of power. The world dissolved into streaks of color as they crossed the line. Time seemed to freeze before the stadium erupted.
Kairen dismounted, face flushed, and humming with exhilaration. As the exosuit retracted, unveiling her victorious grin, the holographic sky above reshaped itself into a colossal, cheering Kairen Tannit. Her name, chanted by the crowd, echoed through the Monument du Tannit. She looked at the statue that stood at the centre of the stadium. The statue of her ancestor Ken-Yah Tannit, the greatest space racer of all time. Kairen smiled as she looked at the statue of Ken-Yah, sometimes referred to as Kenny. A testament to the skill and the legacy she carried within her DNA. She, Kairen Tannit, had conquered the Intergalactic Motorcycle Racing Championship at the tender age of fifteen. Not just with technology, but with the daring spirit of her bloodline.
As she stood on the podium of first place, she spotted someone special running to her. One of her best friends, Arnulf (Magnus) Lycaon, ran to her with a bouquet of roses. His bright blue eyes were so clear, they resembled the clear waters of the ocean. His platinum white hair bounced, wavy and smooth. His pale white skin was flushed as he approached Kairen.
Kairen smiled and jumped up and down as Arnulf approached her.
“Congratulations on becoming the new Intergalactic Motorcycle Racing Champion.” Arnulf said to her as he handed the roses to her.
Kairen smiled brightly. Her heart skipped a beat, a melodic hum filled her heart as she smelt the delicate scent of the flowers.
“Arnulf, I can’t believe it!” Kairen said. “I can’t believe I won!” She jumped up and down.
“Well, of course you won! It’s in your blood, isn’t it?” Arnulf said enthusiastically, earning a giggle from Kairen.
Excitedly, she jumped into his arms and gave him a big hug. He reciprocated the hug. However, when she pulled back, they were both flustered.
“I’m sorry.” Kairen said.
“Don't worry. It's okay.” Arnulf replied.
The cheers were a physical force, buffeting Kairen as confetti rained down – not paper, but shimmering shards of light that clung to her exosuit like techno-fireflies. Drones, resembling metallic butterflies, flitted through the air, weaving intricate patterns with beams of coloured light. Beneath the holographic sky, now a swirling nebula of victory, robots with sleek, humanoid forms navigated the crowd, offering celebratory beverages and holographic victory wreaths.
A pair of robots, their chrome plating gleaming, escorted a platform that ascended from the centre of the track. On it stood Amara, the enigmatic director of the race, her white robes billowing dramatically. Amara, whose age was a mystery, possessed a youthful vibrancy in her eyes. She took Kairen's hand, her grip surprisingly strong.
"Kairen Tannit," Amara's voice boomed through the stadium, amplified yet somehow retaining a whisper-like intimacy. "You have shown us not just the power of technology, but the spirit that animates it. You are a worthy descendant of your lineage."
From Amara's open palm, a single shard of light detached itself, swirling and morphing mid-air. It solidified into a medal, a breathtaking design that resembled a stylized nebula, swirling with the same colours as the holographic sky. Kairen gasped, awestruck. The medal hummed faintly, a warm pulse against her skin as Amara placed it around her neck.
As the medal settled, the holographic light show intensified. The drones morphed into celestial creatures, their wings tracing constellations across the sky. The robots, no longer offering refreshments, began a synchronized dance, their metallic bodies glowing with an otherworldly luminescence. Kairen felt a surge of energy course through her, a connection not just to the IX-Tannit, but to the entire spectacle around her. It was as if the very fabric of the stadium, a monument built by her ancestors to defy the heavens, was acknowledging her victory, weaving it into a tapestry of light and sound.
In that moment, Kairen understood. The race wasn't about competition - it was a performance, a ritual that celebrated the human connection to their creations. More so, it was a promise - a promise that together, machine and human, they could reach for the stars, leaving trails of brilliance in their wake.
“You are all my special pretzels! Let’s win with the power of good energy and good vibes!” She said as she raised her medal in the air, earning a fond chuckle from a flustered Arnulf.
Kairen’s face suddenly turned to one of alarm. Something was missing from her psyche’s peripheral. A ringing in her ear commenced.
The celebratory symphony surrounding Kairen faltered. A persistent, high-pitched sound replaced the cheers, burrowing into her skull like a persistent insect. Panic, cold and sharp, clawed at her throat. It wasn't the medal, cool against her skin, nor the lingering euphoria of victory. It was something else entirely – a prickling on the back of her neck, a premonition as old as mankind, cloaked in the veneer of this high-tech world.
With a gasp, Kairen yanked off her helmet. The deafening silence that followed confirmed her dread. The stadium lights, a kaleidoscope moments ago, had dimmed to a muted glow. The drones, once celestial butterflies, hung motionless in the air.
Aiken. The name slammed into her mind, a telepathic echo. Fear morphed into a fierce protectiveness. Aiken, her closest friend, her confidant in the cutthroat world of cyber-racing, was in trouble. The whine intensified, a beacon drawing her in.
“Where’s Aiken?” She asked.
As soon as she asked the question, it was as though the cheering went silent momentarily.
“Huh? Aiken? I could have sworn he was with me when the race started.” Arnulf said.
Without a word, Kairen bolted. The polished obsidian floor blurred beneath her combat boots. Confused shouts and murmurs followed, but she was already gone, swallowed by the throng exiting the stadium.
Outside, the city stretched before her, a glittering tapestry of chrome and neon. But Kairen barely registered it. Following the insistent whine, she navigated bustling avenues and soaring maglev walkways. Finally, she reached the city's verdant oasis – the Zenith Arboretum.
Here, amidst the towering, bio-engineered flora, the metallic gleam of the city gave way to a soft, ethereal glow. The trees, colossal and bioluminescent, cast an otherworldly light, their leaves shimmering like stained glass. The persistent whine morphed into a calming thrum, leading her deeper into the park.
There, nestled in the luminous roots of a colossal willow, she found Aiken. His normally vibrant exosuit lay deactivated beside him, its bio-lights flickering ominously. Kairen's breathed out a sigh of relief. He had simply taken a nap under his favorite tree.
Kneeling beside him, ignoring the prickling sensation spreading through her skin, Kairen placed a hand on his chest. Relief flooded her as she felt the reassuring thrum of his heartbeat beneath her palm.
“He just took a nap.” Kairen said as Aiken’s big bright green eyes flattered open.
Aiken stood up with a bright smile as Kairen and Arnulf scolded him for scaring them. He looked at the beautiful city. Lilith’s Eden Zero. The bright blue sky featured white clouds and beautiful Lilium flower petals blowing by. Aiken let out a chuckle.
“Hey! What’s funny?” Kairen asked as she chuckled as well.
“Nothing. I just had a weird dream. That’s all.” Aiken said.
“A dream about what?” Arnulf asked.
“About Titans and Giants.” Aiken replied.
“Huh? Titans and Giants? What are those?” Kairen asked.
“I don’t know. But somehow, I know.” Aiken replied.
Part Two: Kairen's Infinity
A shiver of anticipation danced down Kairen's spine as she approached a colossal edifice. The Marriott 3000 wasn't just a hotel; it was a monument to human audacity, a chrome and glass phoenix rising from the heart of Lilith's Eden Zero. Built as evidence to mankind's mastery of luxury and intergalactic travel, it attracted beings from a thousand-star systems, all yearning for a taste of Earth's zenith.
The structure defied easy description. Its lower floors, seemingly carved from living obsidian, pulsed with an otherworldly bioluminescence. Towering above, a latticework of chrome shimmered like a captured nebula, each intersecting point, a swirling vortex of data streams, constantly shifting and morphing in a mesmerizing display.
Kairen tilted her head back, her breath catching in her throat. Atop the pinnacle, a holographic projection shimmered – a colossal silver phoenix, its wings outstretched in a defiant embrace of the cosmos. It pulsed with an inner fire. A beacon visible from across the neon-drenched cityscape.
A gentle hum resonated beneath her feet as she drew closer. The obsidian facade shimmered, resolving itself into a shimmering energy field that rippled open without a sound, beckoning her inside. Stepping through the shimmering portal, Kairen felt the weight of a thousand curious eyes upon her. Tourists from a dozen different species, their forms a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes, milled about the vast, cathedral-like lobby.
Above, a holographic concierge shimmered into existence – a woman with skin the color of moonlight and eyes like twin galaxies. "Welcome to the Marriott 3000," it boomed in a voice that resonated with the majesty of the building itself. "May your stay be an odyssey of unparalleled luxury." Kairen swallowed, a nervous flutter in her stomach. The hotel that her father had purchased always intimidated her. A gateway to a future where humanity stood tall in the summer sun.
Kairen breathed in and breathed out as she braced herself to walk into the crowd in the conference center. After she got out of the elevator, she heard her father's voice ringing through the large speakers of the auditorium. As usual, he was bragging about her.
“Tannit Kairen’s Infinity. Believed to be an incarnation of Tannit Ken-Yah’s interdimensional speed. More than 1000 years ago Ken-Yah Tannit, Kairen’s direct bloodline relative, won the Sigma Space Race on Cyber Planet XYZ in the Sigma Galaxy, being the first teenager to ever become a Sigma Space Race Champion. During her legendary final race, she developed the power of Interdimensional Speed and broke a universal speed record, making her the fastest racer of all time. Ever since Ken-Yah Tannit, nobody was ever able to replicate interdimensional speed. Even though many tried. That is, until Kairen Tannit was born. The infinity power has a unique ability that allows her to manipulate and amplify the speed of matter.”
One of the abilities of Kairen’s Infinity is that it allowed her to amplify the speed of matter. Therefore, she could quicken the rate at which sound waves travelled, enabling her to hear conversations from kilometers away.
“It’s all super exhausting.” Kairen said to herself.
“Basically, it’s all super exhausting.” Kairen said to herself. She breathed in and breathed out. “It’s okay, Kay. It’s all going to be okay. Relax.” Kairen braced herself to meet the crowd of highly distinguished individuals.
A smile upon her lips as she walked past the jewel laden tables, straight to her dad, who stood at the podium, in the middle of his speech. He held out his hand to her. She walked into his arms. Standing taller than her, his olive skin and purple eyes shined under the shimmery glitter of the lights in the hall. Her father’s friends and colleagues smiled endearingly at her.
“Okay princess, go and sit wherever you want.” Her father, Kendrick Tannit, said to her.
Part Two: Who is the Chosen One?
Kairen smiled and walked to a table with a free seat next to her friend- Ziz Neith II. Another nepotism baby just like her. Ziz played Roblox on his virtual phone. His chocolate skin, bright green eyes, and curly dark hair shined under the hall lights as he concentrated on his game. He, the descendant of Lilith Neith- the creator of Lilith's Eden Zero, and her, descendant of Ken-Yah Tannit, greatest space racer of all time, were held in the same regard, children of self-made monarchs who shaped mankind's advancement during the 22nd Century AD, 1000 years before any of them were born. Now, sitting there, in the most advanced auditorium on Earth, both felt the royalty they were flowing through their veins. They attended the same school too. The only difference being that Ziz was two years ahead of her.
“Ziz, put away your phone. The photographers might catch you playing your game.” Ziz’s mother, Ziv Habesh Neith, said to him, earning a chuckle from Kairen. She smiled at Kairen, and Kairen smiled back at her.
“Oh!” Ziz exclaimed when he saw that his Kairen was sitting next to him. “Hey Kairen,” he said. “Congratulations on winning the Intergalactic Motorcycle Racing competition today.”
“Thank you.” Kairen replied. “Congratulations on winning the physics competition today.”
“Aww look at the two winners interacting!” Ziz’s mother said with bright eyes and a flushed face as she pinched his cheeks. “You guys should totally date.”
“Respectfully, nah.” Ziz said as he waved his hand.
“Hey!” Kairen retaliated.
“You're like a little sister to me, you big dummy.” He said as he playfully tapped Kairen’s fluffy dark hair, making Kairen giggle.
A presentation began. Kendrick Tannit’s project on Cyber Planet XYZ began to showcase. He had recently embarked on a grand project within the vast Cyber Sea, that involved an underwater hotel within the sparkly purple waters of Cyber Planet XYZ. To say the least, the project was spectacular.
The scene unfolded like a digital dreamscape. Crystal-clear water, shimmering with bioluminescence, stretched before them, revealing a colossal structure unlike anything they had ever witnessed. Its sleek, organic curves mimicked the forms of giant sea creatures, crafted from a material that seemed to pulse with an inner light. Bioluminescent flora, resembling fantastical underwater flowers and luminous coral, adorned its exterior, creating a kaleidoscope of color.
As the guests leaned closer, mesmerized, the display shifted, offering a view of the hotel’s interior. Walls made of transparent force fields provided unobstructed views of the breathtaking underwater world. Schools of exotic fish, their scales shimmering with an otherworldly iridescence, glided past, seemingly unfazed by the presence of the luxurious hotel. Inside, plush armchairs in the shape of giant clamshells offered guests a place to relax, while holographic screens displayed information or projected personalized entertainment.
A soothing voice, tinged with a hint of digital warmth, began its presentation. “Welcome, esteemed guests, to the unveiling of a revolutionary concept – The Infinity Rose, a seven-star underwater hotel experience.” Accompanying the voice, the display zoomed in on a section of the hotel, revealing a group of guests, their forms silhouetted, enjoying a meal in a luxurious dining area. A waiter, a being resembling a humanoid manta ray, gracefully glided by, carrying a tray of delectably glowing dishes.
“Imagine,” the voice continued, a touch of grandeur creeping in, “hosting a business meeting while witnessing the majesty of the deep Cyberian sea. Picture sealing a lucrative deal while a pod of bioluminescent dolphins dances by your window. The Infinity Rose offers an unparalleled experience, a fusion of luxury, technological marvel, and unparalleled access to Cyber Planet XYZ’s hidden wonders.”
“An interdimensional portal connects to Earth’s oceans. Occasionally, Earthian marine life are seen interacting with their distant Cyberian cousins.”
The display shifted once more, showcasing a state-of-the-art conference room, its walls displaying real-time holographic projections of various underwater locations, chosen at the touch of a finger. Guests could conduct business while surrounded by a virtual school of hammerhead sharks or hold brainstorming sessions while a majestic whale shark glided serenely above them.
A small, holographic menu materialized in the air before each guest, outlining the various amenities and customization options available at The Leviathan. From personalized aqua scaping in their private suites to virtual reality tours of ancient shipwrecks, the menu detailed a level of luxury and exclusivity previously unimaginable.
As the presentation concluded, the room remained silent for a moment, the only sound the rhythmic hum of the building’s climate control system. Then, a slow murmur erupted, a symphony of whispered conversations filled with intrigue and excitement. The Infinity Rose, a testament to human ingenuity and technological prowess, had captured the imagination of these powerful figures. It was more than just a hotel; it was a statement, an experience that promised to redefine the very concept of luxury travel.
Kairen was still mesmerized by the holographic display showcasing the mythical underwater city when a thunderous boom shattered the serenity of the Marriott 3000 hall. The ethereal glow of the bioluminescent floor flickered, momentarily plunging the vast space into a terrifying darkness. A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, turning into a cacophony of panic.
Through the curved, translucent wall, a plume of emerald fire erupted, spewing molten shards of obsidian that rained down like glittering meteors. The holographic city on the display dissolved into static, replaced by a live feed of the carnage outside. A sleek, bio-mechanical ship, its hull a menacing obsidian grey, hovered menacingly above the hotel entrance. Crimson energy crackled around its underside, leaving no doubt as to its hostile intent.
Panic surged through Kairen. The Shadow Syndicate? Here, in the heart of Lilith's Eden Zero? Their signature emerald blasts were unmistakable. A cold hand of fear squeezed her heart. Tourists from a dozen different species shrieked, scattering like startled birds. Some dove for cover behind the holographic concierge, its form flickering nervously as it tried to maintain composure. Others, fuelled by a primal fear of the unknown, ran blindly towards the shimmering energy field that served as the hotel entrance.
But the energy field held. It pulsed with a vibrant blue light, valiantly repelling a hail of emerald energy blasts fired from the ship. A calm voice, emanating from the holographic concierge, sliced through the chaos. "Guests, please remain calm and proceed to the designated emergency chambers. Security protocols are in place." Despite its reassuring tone, the concierge's voice wavered slightly, betraying the seriousness of the situation.
“Hey you.” A voice suddenly called out. “You looking for me?”
Ziz Neith II stood in the middle of the hall. His curly hazel hair was ruffled. He had a charismatic look on his face.
“Ziz Neith the second. Just the brat we were looking for. You’re famous. I hear you’re strong. But I don’t think you’re strong enough to beat us.” One of the Shadow Syndicate soldiers said.
Ziz smirked. “I’ll make this easy for the both of us. My mom already warned me against unnecessary violence. So if you cry and apologise, I’ll let you run away unscathed with your tails between your legs.”
“You damn brat.” The mercenary said as he held his sword firmly and ran to Ziz.
Ziz smirked. “Too slow.” He said, as he made an infinity sign with his fingers. “Divine Invulnerability. Ignite.”
His smirk turned into a bright smile. His eyes changed from hazel brown to a fiery red colour. They glowed with intensity. His smile was bright and filled with zeal. A forcefield of divine matter formed around him. His eyes were wide with enthusiasm, as they usually were when he faced a challenge.
“Do you know why they call me the chosen one?” Ziz asked as he walked towards the shadow syndicate mercenaries. “It’s because I inherited all the powers that both Lilith Neith and Ziz Neith the first had. I can manipulate purgatory. I have semi-omniscience, semi-omnipresence, and semi-omnipotence. The information overload is all pretty exhausting. But you know what? I really don't care. If I have fun. You know what I find fun? Saving people and stopping mercenaries like you. My mom once asked me what I’d do if I lose to an opponent way too strong for me. You know what I answered? Nah. I’d win.”
Ziz held his hand out and swiped right. As soon as he did so, the matter of the room disintegrated. Each person present was disintegrated into pixels.
“Existence erasure. Ignite. Atomic destruction.” Ziz spoke.
A wave shot through the room. The atomic particles belonging to the mercenaries were all erased with inflation matter. In a second, the atomic particles belonging to the guests were put back together. Everyone looked at each other in awe, unsure about what had just happened.
Kairen ran to Ziz amidst the chaos. Kairen smiled at Ziz. He smiled back.
"How did you do that?" She asked.
"Well. It's all instinctive. You should know something about that." He replied.
Kairen smiled. "Yes. I do." She replied.
Part Three: A Bright Light after a Millenium- Finally Something Exciting After a Millenium. It's about damn time, girl.
“Speed. Spunk. Stamina.” The three words echoed in Kairen’s mind. It was not the first time she was having that dream. She often had it. Visions and glimpses of beautiful interstellar racetracks often appeared in Kairen’s mind’s eye. Some were from the past, some were from the present, and some were from a time she couldn’t place. However, the cheeky smile, enthusiastic expression and purple glowing eyes she often saw were encouragements and companions. As though something beyond her was guiding her path, and the purple eyed racing champion who had lived one thousand years before her was her guardian angel.
Ken-Yah Tannit, a powerhouse sculpted in a form-fitting purple and green spacesuit, felt the thrum of anticipation vibrate through the hull of her starship, the Limitless Triptych.
The Limitless Triptych, a matte black blur with neon purple rims that pulsed in rhythm with the drill music thumping through its speakers, fierce at the starting line. Engine thrumming a deep, impatient growl, it awaited the starting signal. Ken-Yah Tannit, the reigning, undefeated champion, gripped the wheel, her posture a study in focused tension. Glistening purple eyes, usually vibrant with mischief, now held a steely glint of determination. A hint of a smile played on her lips, quickly replaced by a purposeful clench of her jaw. "Okay Princess," she murmured, the words barely audible over the bass, "Relax and win, as you usually do." This wasn't just another race; it was a challenge, and Ken-Yah, pilot extraordinaire, thrived on them. She was ready to show them why they called her the greatest racer of her generation.
“Kenny! Kenny! Kenny!” The roar of the pumped-up crowd in the colossal Royal Coliseum was a distant hum, a million voices distilled into a single, electric current running through her veins. Outside, through the panoramic viewport, the cosmos stretched out in a tapestry of celestial splendour. Ahead, a swirling nebula, a masterpiece of amethyst and mauve hues, marked the finish line. Yet, her focus remained firmly on the shimmering grid before her.
Her team, the legendary Lilith Neith and Azura Okkotsu, sat in the backseats, their own suits glowing hazel and blue respectively.
A holographic timer materialized, its crimson countdown digits pulsating against the backdrop of the nebula. The crowd's roar swelled, morphing into a cacophony of cheers as the countdown dipped below ten. Ken-Yah's grip tightened on the control yoke, her fingers tingling with anticipation.
"Five... four..." The timer echoed in the cockpit, a metronome marking the final seconds before the unleashing of pure technological fury.
"Three... two..." Lilith's voice, calm amidst the growing frenzy, confirmed all systems were green.
"One... buckle up, ladies!" Ken-Yah grinned, a predator baring her fangs at the starting line.
A blinding flash of white engulfed them. The Triptych lurched forward with a bone-jarring jolt, the G-forces pinning them to their seats. Through the viewport, the colossal space coliseum blurred into a streak of multi-coloured light. The cosmos, once a still masterpiece, transformed into a kaleidoscope of streaks and blurs. The stars themselves seemed to tear past them, a testament to the Triptych’s phenomenal acceleration.
Ahead, a dozen competitors, each a marvel of engineering, materialized on their holographic race trackers. Ken-Yah's eyes narrowed – the infamous Crimson Comet, piloted by an industry-made copy of her- Keyron Rannit, was already vying for the lead. The powerful shadow syndicate had come together years prior to create an identical replica of her- Racing style, purple eyes, dark skin, charisma, and everything that made Ken-Yah who she was had been replicated in the sixteen-year-old girl.
“Y’all tried to replicate Marylin Monroe, you failed. You tried to do it to Nicki Minaj, you failed. Now you sure as hell aren’t going to do it to me.” Ken-Yah said as she chuckled satirically. Lilith smirked.
The shimmering nebula, a celestial beacon promising victory, beckoned in the distance.
“I will continue to be the richest and best that ever lived.” Ken-Yah said.
With a flick of her wrist, she activated the Triptych's experimental quantum thrusters. A surge of blue energy crackled across the ship's hull, propelling it forward with an almost unnatural acceleration. The viewport warped as they breached the sound barrier of space itself, leaving a trail of ionized gas in their wake. The cheers of the crowd were now a faint echo, replaced by the deafening shriek of the Triptych slicing through the void.
This was a dance between pilot and machine, a ballet of anticipation and reaction. Ken-Yah expertly weaved through a cluster of asteroids, the Triptych’s agile manoeuvring defying the laws of physics. She felt the ship respond to her thoughts, an extension of her own will. A fleeting sense of purple filled her vision as they skimmed past a gas giant, its swirling atmosphere a mesmerizing spectacle even at breakneck speed.
Lilith monitored their energy reserves, her calm voice a constant reassurance. Azura, ever the strategist, relayed updates on their competitors, a constant stream of tactical information filling the cockpit. They were a well-oiled machine, their symbiosis their greatest weapon.
Ahead, the Crimson Comet loomed, Keyron’s signature aggression radiating from the ship. Ken-Yah knew they wouldn't reach the nebula without a fight. A mischievous grin tugged at the corner of her lips.
Ahead, the Crimson Comet loomed, Keyron’s signature aggression radiating from the ship. Ken-Yah knew they wouldn't reach the nebula without a fight. A mischievous grin tugged at the corner of her lips.
Ken-Yah won. She completed the race in a blast that left Keyron’s ship far back in a pile of space dust. A humiliating spectacle, but a prestigious and career defining victory for Ken-Yah. She gladly posed for the cameras. Her purple eyes showed the completion of the dark feminine within her that had been formulating throughout her early twenties. Keyron was never seen again. Ever since that day, nobody ever dared to create a copy of Ken-Yah again. She was Queen. The entire cosmos agreed.
“Kairen...wake up...wake up Kairen...It’s time for you to wake up and realize who you are. It’s time to wake up and take your place in the circle of life.” An unfamiliar voice echoed as the enchanting scenery dissipated, turning into purple dust.
Kairen began to wake up from her flashback dream. Her dark brown eyes flattered open. It was morning, six thirty o’clock, to be exact. She immediately got up, bursting with energy. She quickly got ready. She wore her school uniform, a bright yellow coat, red tie, white shirt, and black plated skirt. Her thigh high socks were white in color, a great accompanying accessory for her white school bag. Before she ran out of her house, she grabbed a doughnut from the kitchen table.
“Oh damn.” she chuckled as she laughed at herself. “I didn’t do history homework. Oh well, it’ll all work out somehow. I’ll probably just photocopy Aiken’s notes.”
Kairen weaved through the iridescent canyons of Lilith's Eden Zero, her sleek black air board humming beneath her. Sunlight, filtered through a canopy of bioluminescent algae, cast the cityscape in a dreamy, ethereal glow. Of course, that was the vision for Lilith’s Eden Zero when it was built one thousand years prior. A place where beauty, nature and technology united to form an Eden that Lilith Neith herself envisioned. She was so passionate about the idea, that she spent trillions of Earthian currency on it.
Towering structures, reminiscent of crystalline geodes, shimmered with holographic advertisements that danced across their surfaces like fireflies. Lush, vertical gardens cascaded down the buildings, their vibrant blooms adding a splash of organic beauty to the metallic cityscape. Kids on scooters and roller skates glided through the area designated for them.
As she skimmed past, the scent of a thousand different exotic flowers tickled Kairen's nose – a constant, intoxicating perfume unique to Lilith's Eden Zero. Overhead, transparent skybridges pulsed with a warm, golden light, connecting the buildings like ethereal arteries. Autonomous delivery drones zipped silently through the air, their metallic bodies glinting like chrome dragonflies.
Below, nestled amongst the towering structures, were pockets of parks and plazas. In one, a group of children, clad in vibrant jumpsuits, played a zero-gravity version of soccer, their laughter echoing through the canyon walls. In another, a street vendor hovered beside a stall overflowing with glowing fruits that pulsed with an inner light. The scene shimmered with an otherworldly beauty, a perfect blend of technology and nature, progress and tranquility.
Reaching her school campus, Lilium High School, a cluster of gleaming white structures that resembled blooming lilies, Kairen slowed her air board. As she landed, a flock of miniature winged robots, each adorned with a single, shimmering orchid blossom, fluttered around her, chirping greetings. They were the school's digital assistants, ever eager to help students with directions or forgotten homework assignments.
With a smile, Kairen patted one of the robots' heads. It chirped happily and zipped towards another student, its tiny wings leaving a trail of shimmering dust in its wake. Lilith's Eden Zero was a city of endless fascination, a place where the future felt more like a whimsical dream than a distant reality. Today, like every day, it promised a new adventure, a fresh layer of magic woven into the fabric of this extraordinary metropolis.
As soon as Kairen stepped off her air glider, it floated upwards to the building’s rooftop glider parking space. Kairen ran to the entrance of the building. The security system emitted an emerald light that scanned her DNA. A security mechanism in Lilith’s Eden Zero to make sure that no body replicated another. As soon as her DNA was replicated, the entrance parted, revealing a colorful hallway.
Upon entering, the hallways burst into life with vibrant colours and moving images. Lockers, no longer static and dull, were adorned with holographic designs that reflected the personalities and passions of their owners. Dragons soared, galaxies spiralled, and forests whispered across these animated surfaces, transforming the school corridors into a living tapestry of student creativity and imagination.
One of the school's most enchanting features was its revolutionary approach to transportation and logistics. Traditional lockers and heavy backpacks were relics of the past. Instead, students were assigned personal lockers equipped with teleportation technology. At the end of each class, books and materials designated for the next session would vanish in a shimmer of light and reappear in the classroom, awaiting their owners. This seamless system not only eliminated the physical burden of carrying textbooks but also added a touch of magic to the mundane.
The students themselves seemed to glide through the hallways, laughter echoing off the walls as they engaged in friendly competitions and games. Levitating on floatable sneakers, they moved with a grace and ease that defied gravity, their feet barely touching the ground. These sneakers, a marvel of anti-gravity technology, allowed them to hover and zip around, turning the simple act of moving from class to class into an exhilarating experience.
Amidst this vibrant chaos, VR gaming glasses were a common sight. These weren't mere gadgets for escape but tools for interaction and learning. Students would dive into historical simulations, explore virtual ecosystems, or challenge each other in educational games, all while navigating the physical world. The blend of reality and virtual reality was seamless, enhancing their learning and social experiences in ways unimaginable in centuries past.
Lilium High was more than just a school; it was a microcosm of future society, a place where technology, creativity, and nature coalesced to foster an educational experience that was as enchanting as it was effective. It was a bright beacon of hope, showing what could be achieved when humanity's best qualities—curiosity, creativity, and compassion—were amplified by the wonders of technology. And in the heart of every student who laughed and learned within its walls, Lilium High planted the seeds of a future that was not only bright but beautiful.
The cherry in the air was particularly fresh that day, Kairen found herself smiling happily at the pleasure induced state that the cherry air provided. She did not need to check her locker, because her books were magically teleported to her morning class- History of Earth and How it Influenced the Cosmos as we know it. She was particularly excited for that class because she would get to learn about her ancestor- Ken-Yah Tannit. But first, she had to take care of the crying girl on the stairs- her friend, Victoria Maryellen.
“Victoria!” Someone shouted from behind Kairen. “Why are you over here crying?” The person’s voice was loud. Kairen could already tell that it was one of the “hot cheeto girls”. Aiken’s Cousin- Róisín Warrenheimer.
“Victoria!” Someone shouted from behind Kairen. “Why are you over here crying?” The person’s voice was loud. Kairen could tell that it was one of the “Hot Cheeto Girls”. Aiken’s Cousin- Rößin Warrenheimer.
Victoria, who was seated next to Banríon Faolan and Kerma Amanirenas Meroë dramatically fanned herself with her history textbook.
“What’s wrong with bro?” Kairen asked satirically, trying to hold back laughter. However, she was better than Kerma who burst out laughing.
“Guys! It’s not funny. Are we really laughing at the fact that that my best friend’s brother is the one for me?” Victoria Maryellen asked.
“Girl. Stop playing. You do not have a crush on Tahdg Faolan.” Kairen said.
“Yes, I do. It all started in summer school when he kissed my forehead.” Victoria Maryellen.
“If you like him then you should tell him.” Banríon Faolan said in sign language.
“What if he says no?” Victoria asked.
“Then you go and touch grass.” Banríon said.
Kairen burst out laughing at Banríon’s comment. Victoria gave Kairen an incredulous look. Kairen immediately stopped laughing.
“Ask him out to the Tiktok Rizz Party this Saturday.” Kairen said.
“That’s a good idea!” Victoria said. “I’m gonna do that right now!”
Suddenly, an odd feeling took over Kairen.
The feeling was beyond recognition. However, it often happened. It was something divine beyond what her conscious mind could comprehend.
A sixth sense perhaps, she did not know what was going on, but she surely knew that something was off. She put on a smile as she usually did and ran her hands through her hair. Goosebumps on her skin stood on edge. She turned around on instinct. Arnulf and Aiken were walking towards her. She eased up immediately. A smile eased onto her lips. Certain people just made her feel special.
“Kairen. Are you okay?” Kerma Meroe asked, sensing that something was off with Kairen.
“Yeah. I’m okay.”
A sixth sense perhaps, she did not know what was going on, but she surely knew that something was off. She put on a smile as she usually did and ran her hands through her hair. Goosebumps on her skin stood on edge. She turned around on instinct. Arnulf and Aiken were walking towards her. She eased up immediately. A smile eased onto her lips. Certain people just made her feel special.
Arnulf and Aiken walked to Kairen. They both hugged her. The bell rang, and the trio walked to their next class.
Meanwhile, in the Astro Physics and Quantum Immortality room, Ziz Neith sketched some drawings to his Augmented Reality textbook. The drawings came to life in the form of holograms. His thick, curly, and fluffy hair radiated next to his glowing light brown skin.
Suddenly, however, he remembered an important mail that had been delivered to him the previous day. Quickly, he opened his bag. He took out the letter.
Ziz Neith. (Mr.).
Johannesstraße 8A, Royal Castle. Lilith’s Eden Zero.
The title on the mail read: “To you. 1000 years from now.”
Ziz raised an eyebrow. “What in God’s name?” He thought to himself.
He checked the address of the sender.
Intergalactic Kaizen School. Room 222.
Mandulis City. September 30th, 2125.
“2125? Mandulis City?” He asked himself. “That was over 1000 years ago.”
He proceeded to read the message.
One thousand years ago, an attack on mankind was launched. The goal was to eradicate humanity completely. They missed one factor though. We are the ones made in the image of God. The indomitable human spirit is what inspired me to create Lilith’s Eden Zero. But also, the galaxies whispered to me and told me that when Lilith’s Eden Zero was at its prime, a new Pleiades would form. Thus, my work in The Cosmos would be done. And I would finally be able to cross into the afterlife. The dark forest theory is real. You take it from here, dear Ziz.
Ziz looked at the letter for a moment before he shrugged and placed it in his bag.
Professor Aethelflaed II tapped a holographic display, conjuring a shimmering nebula across the classroom. Her students, a charismatic crew of cybernetically raised teenagers leaned forward, captivated.
“This class,” Professor Aethelflaed II announced, her voice echoing with theatrical flair, “is the birthplace of a universe. A wellspring of possibility, where countless realities flicker in and out of existence.”
The nebula pulsed, its colours a kaleidescope of blues and pinks. A gasp rippled through the class.
Imagine.” Professor Aethelflaed II comtinued, her eyes gleaming, “that every path you take splits between universes. In one reality, you choose vanilla ice cream, in another, chocolate.”
A holographic sundae materialised beside the nebula, its scoops morphing between the flavours. The students felt a sense of sentiment.
“But here is a fantastical bit.” Professor Aethelflaed II spoke as she leaned closer, her voice dropping to a conspirational whisper, “some theorize that consciousness can only persist in one reality at a time. The reality where you survive.”
“The reality where I survive.” Ziz repeated to himself.
At that moment, his intuition told him to look behind him. He did so. Sitting at the desk behind him was Reign Carnatio. Reign’s aura was unique, unlike any other that Ziz had ever sensed. However, Reign often kept to himself. Ever since middle school, Ziz was curious about him. However, the two never got a chance to speak. Reign was social. However, he often slipped into his own world.
Reign was writing down some notes in his textbook. He seemed distracted. He always did. Ziz could not help but be curious about what Reign was writing down.
“Not your business, Ziz.” He said to himself.
Professor Aethelflaed II continued to speak. One other student, Adrin, raised her hand to ask a question.
“So, if I die in one reality, I have the ability to shift my consciousness into another reality.” Adrin asked.
Professor Aethelflaed II snapped her fingers, the sundae shattering into a million shimmering shards. It reformed, this time with a single, perfect scoop of chocolate.
“Precisely Adrin! It’s called Quantum Immortality. However, not everyone can successfully unlock this science. The only person to ever do so existed one thousand years ago. His name was Jarvien. He was nicknamed ‘the quantum leaper’. A phenomenal young man he was. He did great things.”
A low murmur of wonder filled the room. They had all learnt of the iconic boy named Jarvien who’s presence changed the entire trajectory of the cosmos forever.
“Quantum Immortality could be the key to living forever.” Ziz said as he looked at the holographic at the front of the class.
“Many a great personality has passed on from lifetime to lifetime. These individuals are known as star seeds. Their existence is necessary for the advancement of mankind.” The professor said. “They only show up when change is needed. When mankind has stagnated for way too long.”
“Can anybody be a star seed?” Adrin asked.
“No.” Professor Aethelflaed replied. “It takes a special type of person to be a star seed.”
“What type of person?” Adrin asked.
“Let’s just say that the universe has its own version of royals.” Professor Aethelflaed II said.
“Who are those royals?” Adrin asked.
“The people that get their light right from the source.” Professor Aethelflaed II replied.
A low murmur of wonder filled the room. Reign, curious, raised his hand to ask a question.
“If Quantum Immortality is real, wouldn’t you just keep on reliving the same dangers? Wouldn’t it get boring?”
“That’s not for me to tell. I’ve never experienced it.” Professor Aethelflaed replied. “Aside from that, class, we’ve got a new student. Please welcome Levi Bizunesh.”
Eden’s New Adonis: Hidden Arc
The students immediately began to murmur amongst themselves. Ziz overhead some of the conversations behind him, even though they were only whispers. “Levi Bizunesh? As in the descendant of Zenia Bizunesh?”
The aura in the room changed as he walked inside.
The hum of conversation in the Lilith’s Eden Zero classroom dipped to a startled hush as the door swished open. A collective gasp rippled through the rows of students, most notably from the gaggle of girls usually huddled near the front.
There, framed in the doorway, stood a vision. He was impossibly tall, his height accentuated by the stark white of the doorway. Caramel skin, the colour of warm honey, glowed with an otherworldly luminescence, mirroring the soft light emanating from his large, brown eyes. These eyes, however, weren’t your average brown. They were like pools of molten chocolate, flecked with gold, their shape vaguely reminiscent of a cat’s, slanted at the corners and framed by impossibly long lashes.
His face was a masterpiece of sharp angles and clean lines. A strong jawline descended into a sharp chin, the planes of his cheeks sculpted with an almost ethereal perfection. Despite his imposing height, his body was lean and athletic, the lines of his physique hinted at beneath the casual shroud of an oversized black hoodie. The baggy sweatshirt did little to disguise the broadness of his shoulders that tapered down to a slim waist. Black sweatpants clung to toned legs that ended in pristine white sneakers.
This Adonis was a shock of platinum silver. His hair was long and lustrous, cascading down his back in a mesmerizing display similar to that of moonlight. Half of it was pulled back in a loose ponytail. Half of it was pulled back in a loose ponytail, the rest tumbling freely around his face. The overall effect was breathtaking, a living anime character stepping out of the pages of a manga. As Levi took a tentative step into the classroom, the air crackled with a sudden electric tension. Every girl in the room seemed to melt, their gazes fixed on him like moths to a flame. Murmurs erupted, a chorus of whispered questions and envious sighs. "Look at his eyes!" The boys, for once, were rendered speechless, their usual bravado replaced by a stunned silence as they took in the sheer physical perfection before them. Even Reign, ever the stoic, couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in surprise, a flicker of something akin to curiosity crossing his usually impassive features.
Class ended.
The way Levi Bizunesh walked had a subtle air of royalty, dominance, and confidence to it. He was not cocky or arrogant. And by all means, he did not think of himself above others. However, he had a royal, powerful, and sophisticated air about him . Levi, an INTJ, was quick to say hello and give others a smile. However, most of his mental energy went to thinking about his future and plotting ambitious plans for his own life.
“Hey.” Somebody said to him as he opened his locker. Even though he had earphones in, his ability to detect soundwaves let him know that somebody next to him had spoken. He took out his earphones and looked to his right.
“I propose an alliance.” Ziz said with utmost sincerity in his voice.
There Ziz was, holding his hand out for a handshake. Levi shook Ziz’s hand. As soon as their hands made contact, Ziz felt a wave of electricity shooting through him. Immediately, he yanked his hand away. He looked at Levi in shock. Levi’s caramel eyes glowed with a bright radiance. His bright brown eyes glistened.
“I’m not weak like the ones who came before me.” Levi said. “If you stay out of my business, we’ll be okay. Do you understand me, Neith? Fuck off. Stay away from me and my family.”
Just then, a basketball flew to Levi at full speed. However, before it made contact with him, he caught it in a moment of sharp reflex.
"Hey Levi! The name's Chad Venus. You wanna join the basketball team?" The blonde-haired captain of the basketball team said to Levi.
Levi held the basketball in his hand. He did not break eye contact with Ziz. Instead, he spoke with utmost conviction.
"I don't care what history your name has. Mine has history too. This time, it's different. I will not lose. You hear me, Neith?" Levi then threw the basketball back to Chad Venus.
"I'll be right with you." He said before closing his locker and walking to the basketball team.
Just then, Kairen walked to Ziz. "Did I miss something?" She asked.
Only 1000 years of rage." Ziz replied.
"Oh honey." Kairen said. "It's more than 1000 years."
Ziz turned around and looked at Kairen.
"Sometimes I wish that I didn't carry the name Neith." He said.
Kairen, bewildered, gasped.
"Lilith Neith was an icon. She saved mankind from total extinction, okay. So be proud of your name. It carries a rich and great history. Besides, us nepotism babies need to be proud of our heritage. There's not many of us out here." She said.
"Classist much?" Ziz commented.
"You call it classist. I call it self-love." Kairen said.
"Come on, we've got to go check this cyber quidditch thing out." She held out her hand.
Ziz took her hand and they ran to the virtual reality room.
Neon streaks streaked across the digital sky of Lilith's Eden Zero. Kairen zipped through the holographic cityscape, Karen's sleek cyber broom thrumming beneath her. Its metallic frame, usually a cool gunmetal grey, shimmered with a playful rainbow sheen – a customization option she'd indulged in for today's friendly match. Beside her, Ziz weaved through the air with a lazy grace, his cyber broom a battered but trusty model that sputtered puffs of what looked suspiciously like glitter.
Cyber Quidditch wasn't for the faint of heart, or those prone to motion sickness. Unlike the broomsticks of old, these were marvels of engineering.
Neural interfaces stitched rider and machine together, translating thought into movement. Haptic feedback delivered the exhilarating rush of wind in your hair, the stomach-lurching plummet of a dive, the exhilarating tug as you rocketed upwards. The digital world shimmered around them, conjured by impossibly powerful processors housed within the stadium. Billowing cloudscapes rolled overhead, their textures so real you could almost feel the damp caress of rain. Buildings, painstakingly rendered down to the last flickering neon sign, stretched into the distance, their windows glowing with the simulated hum of a digital city.
Kairen swooped low, skimming the spires of a holographic cathedral. Ziz, ever the showman, trailed a plume of glittery smoke behind him, giggling as he wrote looping messages in the air – "Hey Shortstack!" was the current one, dissolving before Kairen could retort. She rocketed upwards, leaving Ziz in her wake, and performed a daring barrel roll, the world inverting for a glorious moment before she righted herself. Laughter bubbled up in her chest, a sound both exhilarated and infectious.
There were no Snitches in Cyber Quidditch, no Bludgers or Quaffles. This was a free-for-all, a chaotic ballet of acrobatics and light shows. Points were scored by weaving through holographic hoops, performing synchronized maneuvers with teammates, or simply outmaneuvering your opponents with sheer style. That day, it was all about fun, about pushing the boundaries of the virtual world and reveling in the sheer joy of flight.
And as Kairen glanced back to see Ziz trailing after her, a glitter-dusted grin plastered on his face, she knew that was exactly what they were doing. It wasn't just a game; it was a shared experience, a kaleidoscopic dream they painted together within the boundless canvas of Lilith's Eden Zero.
The cheers of the digital crowd echoed in the zero-gravity court, a vibrant cacophony that swirled around Levi Bizunesh and Chad Venus like electric fireflies. Gone were the days of bouncing a leather ball; here, in the heart of Lilith's Eden Zero, basketball was a high-tech ballet played with spheres of pure energy.
Levi, a whirlwind of platinum silver energy tendrils crackling around his form, danced across the court. His movements were balletic, defying gravity with the grace of a cybernetic heron. Opposite him, Chad, a powerhouse clad in crackling crimson, mirrored his steps, their forms blurring as they weaved through the holographic obstacles that materialized and dissolved with the flick of a wrist.
The ball, a shimmering orb of pure light, pulsed between them. It wasn't a physical object, but a node of concentrated energy, manipulated by telekinetic nudges and bursts of mental force. Levi, with his agility and lightning-fast reflexes, weaved intricate patterns, the ball darting between his fingertips like a playful comet. Chad, on the other hand, relied on brute power, teleporting short distances with bursts of concentrated energy, his movements explosive and direct.
The game was a kaleidoscope of light and movement. The court itself was a marvel of technology, a shimmering plane of ever-shifting holographic patterns. Lines flared and pulsed with each score, the holographic stands erupting in cheers that were both digital and strangely organic. Levi, a master of direction, would send the ball on impossible trajectories, only to snag it back at the last second with a flick of his wrist. Chad, ever the powerhouse, countered with raw telekinetic blasts, trying to bully the ball away from Levi.
The tension crackled in the air, thick enough to almost taste. The final buzzer echoed, and for a breathless moment, the court held its breath. Then, with a final, deft flick of his wrist, Levi sent the ball spiraling into the holographic hoop. The stadium erupted, a wave of digital euphoria washing over the court.
Levi won.
Levi, chest heaving, a sheen of sweat on his brow (though sweat in zero gravity was an interesting concept), grinned at Chad. Chad, panting slightly, offered a begrudging nod of respect.
"Nice game," Levi said, his voice laced with amusement. "But you know, some things are just in the genes." He winked, the neon tendrils around him pulsing playfully.
Chapter Two. The light is coming to get back everything the darkness stole.
"And in that moment, I realized that everything was gone. I, the strongest Kaizen in The Cosmos, finally went to sleep. And with me, the concept of the Kaizen died. It's been one thousand years. Only 1000 years."
Levi woke up from his dream.
The sterile white walls of Levi Bizunesh's room did little to hide the chaos that reigned within. Clothes, a jumble of neon and orange hues, were strewn across a hoverchair in one corner. Half-eaten protein bars littered the surface of his bioluminescent desk, their faint green glow the only source of light besides the holographic window. The window, currently displaying a swirling nebula filled with impossible colors, was the only concession to anything remotely decorative in the room.
The only other splash of color came from a single poster hanging lopsided on the wall opposite his bed. It depicted a creature both magnificent and terrifying – a serpent dragon, its scales shimmering with an iridescent sheen, its wings outstretched as if to claim the sky. Its serpentine body coiled sinuously, its eyes glowing with an intelligence that both fascinated and unnerved Levi.
Everything else in the room was a stark contrast – white walls, white floor, even the sheets on his bed were a blinding white. It wasn't a reflection of a lack of personality, but rather a deliberate choice. In the swirling chaos of Lilith's Eden Zero, Levi craved a space of pristine order, a blank canvas upon which his thoughts could take flight, just like the magnificent serpent dragon in his poster.
Levi sat up on his bed. He ran his hands through his hair.
"Zenia." He whispered. "What do you want from me?"
Only one word echoed in his mind...The word was Revenge.
Up next: Lilith's Eden Zero. Rise of the Nepo babies.
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