'There's something else. Something deeper...'
Amid all of these things I noticed, there was this extremely unpleasant void that formed in my depths. It was a gaping hole that I was beginning to notice ever since I started critically examining myself.
'I... no longer feel a thing for Karlia?'
It wasn't just in the aspect of romantic feelings or sexual attractions. I actually didn't seem to care or bother about her.
'It's strange...' A sigh escaped my lips.
Fortunately, I was able to notice that slight change in me. What of the other subtle ones? What of the ones I was yet to discover?
My personality, thoughts, and the elements that made me up were the things that informed my action. Without those critical components and biases, I could turn into a completely different person.
The moment I realized all of this, Aloe's words began to make a lot more sense to me. I could only hope that the other changes and deficiencies within me were limited to my preferences in food and other mundane things.
"I was too careless with my actions. I underestimated the technicalities of the replication process. I was reckless."
Aloe reached out, her hand finding mine in a comforting gesture. "We all make mistakes, Jared," she said softly. "What matters now is how we move forward, how we find a way to make things right."
As always, Aloe remained the bright and shining light that guided me in times of doubt such as this.
"Thanks, Aloe. I really appreciate it."
"You're welcome, Jared. Anytime."
It felt lighter now that I had gotten a lot of my burden off my chest. I honestly couldn't thank her enough.
'Looks like I'll have to merge with my second half as soon as possible. With [The Lovers], it shouldn't be a problem.'
"Looks like you already know what you have to do. That's good."
"Yeah. All thanks to you."
"Pfft. Please..."
We both burst out laughing, our voices echoing within the large hall. It honestly felt good to laugh so wholeheartedly like this.
With my guilt dissipating, and my thoughts now clearer, my mind returned to the most pertinent matter at hand.
"Aloe... I saw Ciara."
"What?!"
As the weight of my encounter with Ciara rested heavily on my mind, I divulged the whole thing to Aloe, eager to share my experience and seek her insights. Sitting together in the golden palace, the air filled with a mix of anticipation and uncertainty.
"When I touched her, there was a strange buzz, and she unfroze. She could interfere with my power, which is strange in itself." I added, a hint of hesitation in my eyes.
"She recognized me, Aloe, and yet she refused to come back with me. It was like she was a different person."
Aloe furrowed her brows, her eyes filled with contemplation. "It's possible that this Ciara is a variant," she mused, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
I nodded, acknowledging her words, but doubt still lingered within me.
"I understand the concept of variants, Aloe," I replied, my voice tinged with a hint of skepticism. "But for her to recognize me, to know who I am, it feels too coincidental. And there's more, Aloe. She mentioned Jerry."
Aloe's eyes widened, her expression mirroring my own curiosity. "Jerry? That's...unexpected," she murmured, her voice tinged with intrigue.
"There could be a possibility that there's a variant of you in this world, Jared. And perhaps this variant Ciara knows that Jared. The same applies to Jerry."
I sighed, feeling the weight of uncertainty settling upon my shoulders.
"It's a stretch," I admitted, my voice tinged with frustration. "There are too many similarities, too many connections. It feels like there's a missing piece to this puzzle, and until we find it, we won't have the complete picture."
Aloe's gaze softened, her voice filled with understanding. "I know it's challenging. But we won't find the answers by standing still. We just need to find her to find out."
"True..."
Even though I said that, my voice was hollow. Aloe must have noticed it, considering she drew closer to me and uttered her next question.
"Jared, what do you plan to do now?"
I pondered her question for a moment, contemplating the best course of action. At this point, I honestly wanted to think some more. There were a lot of things to consider.
"You know, Aloe, I think it's time I put my trust in Kuzon," I finally replied, a hint of determination coloring my words.
"He's seen my memories, so he knows what's going on. Maybe it's time I let him take the lead and see what he can do."
"You sure?" She raised her brows a little, and I could see hints of surprise etched on her face.
"Yeah. What do you think?"
Aloe's gaze softened, and she nodded in agreement. "You're right. I guess it's time we trust in his abilities and judgment."
A sense of relief washed over me, knowing that Aloe was on the same page. "Exactly, Aloe," I affirmed, my voice filled with newfound certainty.
"We'll stay here in the Emperor's Domain and place our trust in Kuzon's plans, while also trying to find out more about what else has changed with me. I think that's the support we can render to him now."
It warmed my heart that Aloe agreed with me. I had to take this time to do some serious reflections.
"I feel a little stiff on this bed. Want to take a walk? This place seems grand and all. Might as well look around."
"Pfft!"
Aloe and I burst out laughing for no reason. I wasn't completely sure, but a wave of ease just enveloped the two of us.
"Sure, Jared. Let's do it!"
**********
[Meanwhile...]
[Zone 2, Grand Federation Military Academy]
The massive hall reverberated with anticipation as cadets from diverse alien races and forms filled the rows and columns, their uniforms a symphony of colors and designs.
The atmosphere crackled with energy as an intimidating figure ascended the central stage, his authoritative presence commanding attention.
He was clearly in charge here.
His voice boomed through the hall, filling every corner with power and purpose. "Welcome, cadets, to the Grand Federation Military Academy!" he declared, his words ringing with a sense of pride and solemnity.
"You have proven yourselves worthy by passing the arduous exams, demonstrating not only your exceptional skills but also your unwavering commitment to the order and harmony of the universe."
The commander's words stirred a sense of pride within those who listened, and their attention remained fixed on him.
"As cadets of the Grand Federation Military Academy, you will undergo rigorous training, forging yourselves into elite defenders of peace and justice," the commander continued, his voice resonating with a mix of admiration and expectation.
"You will learn not only the art of combat but also the virtues of compassion, diplomacy, and unwavering loyalty."
Among those who listened was a young man who seemed human for the most part. His golden hair stood out as he stood tall among his peers, his posture radiating confidence. His presence exuded an aura of leadership and resilience, enough to distract those around him.
"Remember, cadets, that your journey here is not only about personal growth and achievement," the commander emphasized, his voice carrying the weight of responsibility. "You are part of something greater—a force dedicated to safeguarding the delicate balance of the universe and upholding the values of unity and harmony."
As the commander's speech drew to a close, the hall erupted in thunderous applause. Cadets exchanged glances of determination and camaraderie. The energy in the room surged, a collective resolve etched on the faces of those who had chosen this noble path.
In the midst of the applause, the smile of this golden haired boy remained, his eyes gleaming with some unknown purpose.
"All hail the Grand Federation!" The commander yelled.
"ALL HAIL THE GRAND FEDERATION!" Every cadet shouted, making their best salutes.
'Oh boy... this never gets old.' The young man smiled as he rolled his eyes amid all of what he considered to be nothing short of a farce.
Still, Kuzon Midas joined everyone in their salutes and choruses.
"All hail the Grand Federation!"
