Eden's Bio-Anomaly part 7

## Eden's Bio-Anomaly Chapter / Part 7

Eventually Thum, Falklore, Eden, Echostar, and Merus all returned to the garden. EchoStar was sitting down on the grass, Thum was standing far back and Falklore with Eden and Merus.

“I think it is time for me to depart. You all will do well without me.” Eden said. Falklore nodded and response and Merus perked his head up.

”wait! Before you go, I have something to ask!” Merus ran up to Eden. ”I know it might seem selfish to ask…but I want to be a great hero like them!” he said point to Falklore, Echostar and Thum.

“I want to protect the people I love, and I know the journey is going to be hard. But I was wondering, if I could be granted a blessing from you similar to how Falklore and Echostar have their blades. I want to make people smile and I want to save people and make my Mutha proud! I was to make you proud too…and them.” He said as he looked up to Eden.

Falklore looked at Merus as Thum stepped forward.

“Hmp, You have no idea what you ask. Tis no simple task. To be a hero is to hold Eden's hopes on your shoulders.

Tis to embark on any quest no matter how terrifying.

Tis to die the worst death unimaginable all for one man to live another day.” He said as Merus looked down in thought.

“Yes.” Echostar agreed. Eden smiled, putting her hand under Merus’s chin and lifting his head up.

“You are very brave, but you are not ready. Not yet. Find me once again when you are and I will gladly give you a task.” Eden said as she then pat Merus on the head then disappeared with a wave.

”I’ll do my best then…” Merus turned to the three Knights of Eden. He had a big smile. “so, I was wondering, how did you all become Knights?” He questioned with curiosity.

Falklore looked to the other knights in silence. As Echostar rubbed the back of his helmet. “…tis not a good tale my boy.” He said.

”Aw, okay another time then! But that battle was really cool! Thum you were really awesome! And the way you matched his punches, Falklore, was just exciting!” He said in a fanboyish tone. He smiled excitedly as an idea popped into his mind.

”Also, another thing I was wondering, and it doesn’t have to be anytime soon since I’m probably not ready but…when the time comes, could you guys help me with my training?” Merus asked.

The knights looked to each other then back to Merus. “Perhaps.” Echostar said, which got Merus excited.

”Alright!” Merus looked around the garden, sitting on the very bench that he met Eden on. He kicked his feet up as he moved his head side to side. He didn’t know what to do so he just stayed put.

Just then, the garden gates opened as the Pope stepped in. “I see you've met our warriors young one.” He said as Merus looked over.

”hm? Oh yea! I was with Eden! And then Falklore came along and then Thum came out of nowhere! Then they started fighting and it was really epic!” Merus said as he did a few little punches. The pope looked up to the three knights.

“Oh that's what that was.” He said with a chuckle.

”yea! It was awesome! You should have seen Falklore hold his own against Thum!” Said Merus

“Yes, I've seen. He's had many battles.

Some of them close. However the time draws close to the final session of today's Church hours. Do you want to join us?” Questioned the pope. Merus’s eyes lit up like a star as he got up from the bench.

“Sure that sounds like fun!” Merus said as he ran to the Pope.

“Come inside my son, you three depart. The fourth wants to speak with you.” The pope said as all the Knights nodded and then walked out of the kingdom.

“Come along my son” The pope said, putting his arm to Merus’s back, guiding him inside.

“I’m so ready for this!” Merus said with enthusiasm as they walked inside.

The Pope took Merus inside and as they went inside he noticed the church was even more full than before. All the candles around the place were lit up and people were all looking and praying to the large statue of Nunn while Nuns wearing inverted colors to the classic black and white. Walked around with lanterns emitting a strange smoke. The smoke smelled like honey and tree sap.

Merus could hear the singing and soothing music being played from an organ and harp as multiple women sang an incoherent yet harmonious song called "The Chant of the Great Willow."

Merus looked around at the candles and people. He then looked at the statue of Nunn. The Pope walked Merus to a seat and as Merus looked around he could see a few figures.

He saw **Iris**, standing away from the statue, He saw the Conduit of Passion O'Brien and even saw an angel from the white city playing the harp.

“OH MY CHILDREN! Children of Nunn, Children of Eden! Let us all bask in his eternal wonder!

Let his warmth fill us! Let his gaze complete us!

Let his words guide us!

He is all we need”

As the Pope kept praying and preaching to everyone who all had either they're hands raised, were crying or also praying in response.

Merus could hear people praising and shouting their love for Nunn.

A Nun  then came over to Merus and offered him a necklace made of walnuts and a small glass of juice. The walnuts being a part of the Eden and symbolizing that we all wear Eden as a part of us.

The juice was cider from the Tree itself. One of the most richest and most delicious things he would ever taste in his entire existence. As he was drinking perfection incarnate.

The sap and dew of the Eden Tree symbolized its sweetness, that gave this succulent understanding.

Merus’s jaw dropped at the mere taste of the cider.

The cider began to give Merus intense hallucinations. The statue of Vermel beneath Nunn blinked as the Pope continued to preach.

"Do you believe in dead god?" The statue said as then it froze again only for the statue of Nunn to also shake and come to life and look down to Merus.

It blinked at him, stared at him.

“LET THE LOVE OF NUNN CONSUME YOU! LET HIS HEART BE YOUR HEART!”

Merus could feel his heart beating faster than it ever could, his mind racing as something beyond his comprehension was happening right in front of him.

The statue of Nunn moved closer and closer. Lowering its face to him. Before it stopped mere inches from him. Its head moving and turning like a creature. Like it was studying him.

Merus looked at the statues weirdly, it’s sudden life had startled him. He stared at the statue of Nunn.

"You are here on purpose." Said the statue of Nunn.

Eventually everything went back to normal and all the people were breathing heavily and crying and or getting over crying.

Merus looked confused as everything went back to normal. He questioned everything at that moment. “But why?” He thought.

He looked at the statue of Nunn longer.

The pope walked to Merus, who sat still in his seat. “How are you, my son?” He asked. Merus looked at the Pope

”confused? The statue said I’m here on purpose but…I just want to know why” he said as he stared back at the statue of Nunn.

“Then you've been touched with his wisdom” said the Pope with a soft smile. Merus looked more confused as ever.

”yea, I just wish I knew what they meant though.” Said Merus.

“Everyone is here for a reason my boy. Either it be to fulfill a dream or another's.

What is yours?” The pope asked. Merus looked down in thought.

”my dream? I don’t really know. I want to make my Mutha proud, and Prism, and Himmsworth. I also was inspired to be a hero because of Falklore!

But I don’t think I have a set dream, just a lot of accomplishments that I want to achieve.” Merus said. He looked to the Pope who continued smiling. He gave a small nod.

“Then climb that staircase, my son. Achieve the impossible.” The Pope said, resting his hand on Merus’s shoulder.

Merus smiled, looking up at the Pope. “I’ll do my best then.” He said. The bells of the church rang as everyone stood from their seats.

“So what happens after the hour?” Merus asked.

“Afterwards we have a meeting and greet with the other souls here. feel free to linger until your mother comes and talk.” Answered the Pope. He took Merus by the hand, helping him out of his seat.

”okay. Thank you for bringing me here, I’ve enjoyed the time.” Merus said.

“Of course, feel free to keep eating and meet some of the folks around here.” The Pope said as Merus nodded.

”I will, thank you!” Merus smiled. Merus began to wander the church, wanting to take a look at everything in the church. He wandered around the church, taking in the sights.

In the distance, Merus spotted an interesting man writing in a journal. “This has been quite the insightful event I must say.” The man said as he wrote down in his journal.

Merus looked at the man in curiosity. He then looked at his journal. “hello! What are you writing?”

Merus asked with his head tilted.

The man looked at Merus, he immediately picked up on his aura and presence.

He then wrote something down and closed it.

“I'm writing down my views and experience with everyone else here.” The man answered as Merus got more intrigued.

”That sounds interesting. Can I see some of your views?” He asked. The man raised an eyebrow.

“You want to read my writing ? Why?” The man questioned.

Merus shrugged. “I’m just interested in other people's views I guess.” He replied.

The man gave a sigh “...Fine.” He said as he handed his journal to Merus.

”thank you!” Merus. took the journal, opening it up and began reading O’Brien’s journal, unknowing of what he was.

It read; "The church of Nunn, the only time I came here was when I was getting brought in as a Conduit with Basten.

It's still as holy as ever. The Grand scale of Nunn and demonizing of Vermel is as glorious as ever.

Nunn, the will and power of a God. To be in control of everything, what I wouldn't give to be rid of my fate. To be rid of my constant pain and suffering from the cycle.

The endless cycle of reincarnation and rebirth." Merus’s eyes widened. He stared at the page a little longer before closing it and handing it back to the man, O’Brien.

“Y-you’re a conduit?!” Merus said in shock. O’Brien looked at Merus.

“And you're a Bio-Conduit.” O’Brien said. Merus huffed.

”Is it really that easy to tell?” Merus huffed. “you aren’t gonna come after me…are you?” He questioned with slight hesitation.

“Why would I? You'll  die and never come back anyway. Not my problem.

Also your aura is too exposed. If you're trying to hide.” O’Brien answered.

”That's a relief.” Merus sighed

“Well, I guess I’m not trying to hide, but it would be helpful to hide it, ya’know.” Merus said. O’Brien raised an eyebrow once again.

“Try focusing yourself into a vicinity. Think about keeping yourself to yourself.” O’Brien instructed. Merus just simply looked at him with a confused expression.

”myself to myself? I could try.” Merus closed his eyes and tried to focus on keeping himself to himself. It took him a few moments.

“Is it working?” He asked

“No, but how about getting the scientist who made you to help you.” O’Brien said. Merus groaned in disappointment as it grew into a sigh.

”…yea I’ll do that. It was, uh, nice meeting you though.” Merus said as he began to back away.

“Hmmm likewise I suppose.” O’Brien said as Merus left.

He left O’Brien to his writing and decided to look around the church more, although the presence of a conduit unsettled him. That’s when he saw the Pope walking up to him.

“How are you enjoying yourself my son?” The Pope asked with a smile upon his face.

Merus looked back at O’Brien then back to the Pope. “I suppose so, although I’m a bit on edge.” Merus said.

“Why so?” The Pope asked in curiosity.

Merus pointed to O’Brien, a nervous shake in his hand. His run in with Death earlier that day had scarred him no doubt, he felt scared of the Conduits. “…he’s a conduit.”

“Oh, our fellow conduits. I see. Why don't you just take some time to relax. I know a great idea!

How about clowns, you enjoy clowns?” The Pope asked. He thought it would get Merus’s mind off of things.

”…what’s a clown?” Merus tilted his head in curiosity.

“Oh well they're people who dress up in funny clothes and make you laugh.” The Pope answered. Merus thought about it, picturing it in his mind.

“Oh! That does sound like fun!” Merus said. The Pope smiled.

“Great, I’ll take you.” The Pope said. He brought Merus over to the child's area which was on the second floor. However he stopped when he found out That the clown that was supposed to be there had been replaced.

“Oh great, The Jester.” The Pope said as he and Merus looked at the Jester.

Alpha!Jevil was juggling all.the children which he had turned into a small cubes and spheres. “HEHEHEHEHHEHEH! Well well! Look who it is? If it isn't the main protagonist! Protagonist.

Quite the show!” Alpha!Jevil exclaimed

“Apologies Merus, But this isn't the Clown we had in mind.” The Pope said as Alpha!Jevil began jumping around.

”Protagonist? What is he talking about?” Merus asked to which the Pope shrugged.

“No idea.” He answered.

“AHAHHAHAHAHHAHA! Of course you don't, cause you're not reading this story! Hehehehe.

Tell me something! Something.

What's your name main protagonist? Name?” Alpha!Jevil asked. Merus felt somewhat scared of the entity in front of him.

“You don't have to answer to this...thing Merus. The Knights will get rid of him.” The Pope said.

Alpha!Jevil raised an eyebrow and began to laugh hysterically. “Get rid of me? The only reason I do what I do is cause I want to.

After all, just like Nunn.

I CAN DO ANYTHING!!”

Alpha!Jevil leaped forward, causing Merus to move backwards in slight discomfort.

“Uh, what happens if I don’t answer you?” Merus questioned. Alpha!Jevil smiled.

“Then I'll blow everything up with my pinkie finger. Pinke! Hehheheheh!!!” Alpha!Jevil laughed as he waved his pinky finger.

“Dont worry Merus, he can't do such a thing. This is the house of God you foul creature! And I won't allow-“ However suddenly the Pope's mouth was zipped shut like a zipper. The Pope looked at his mouth only for Jevil to grab the zipper and throw it away leaving the man's mouth closed forever.

“Goodness me you talk too much, what a bore Heheheheh!” Alpha!Jevil exclaimed. Merus looked terrified. The Pope began to freak out as he clawed at his mouth.

“Now tell me child. Child. What's your name?

Spit it out quick or they'll be hell to pay. PAY! HEHEHEHEHHE” Alpha!Jevil said as he laughed loudly.

“I’m Merus!” He blurted out in a panic.

“Merus, Merus....Mmmmmeeerrruuusss.

What a weird name! AHAHAHAHHAHAHAH!!!” Alpha!Jevil then threw the shapes all around to which they then transformed into giant pink elephants. The Pope looked around only to get stepped on and turned into a bloody paste.

“You see, if this was the salesman! You'd already be burning in hell. HELL! Come along little scamp!” He jumped on a pink elephant and then used his tail as a staircase for Merus.

“Come on over and let's take a journey on the wacky side!”

Merus’s eyes widened in shock as he looked at the remains of the Pope. What kind of power was this? Merus wondered as he looked back at Jevil. ”uh okay,” Merus looked to the staircase that was Jevils tail. He climbed aboard the pink elephant, sitting behind him. “so, what’s your name?”

“Jevil is the name and CHAOS IS THE GAME! Hehehehhe!” He then unscrewed his tail and used it as a whip and whipped the elephant which then broke through the church like it was a curtain and suddenly they were on this large stage where everything was props and everyone was cardboard cutouts. Such as The large tree of Eden and others around like Falklore and Thum being massive cardboard cutouts. The stage was massive.

“Tell me something, What makes you the protagonist? Why is the spotlight on you? What makes you more special than any other average child of Eden?” Alpha!Jevil questioned, turning his head a full 360 to look at Merus.

”I-uh, I-I don’t know, uhm the only thing I could think of is my…uh power.” Merus stuttered in fright.

“Power shower! That isn't special.” Apha!Jevil then unzipped himself and turned into a pitch perfect copy of Merus. He did a quick dance before getting a hammer and breaking the skin suit and turning back into himself.

“See? Anyone can be you. It's not your power that's special, then maybe it's something else. Something more vital than that.

Oh, by the way. Welcome to the stage. Here, Everyone is seem like how I see them. Nothing more than cardboard cutouts hehehe!” His eyes then looked over to see the empty audience chairs outside the stage. “where there is only one observer! And that's MEEEEE!!!” Alpha!Jevil said as he hopped around.

”vital…?” Merus thought, but it only made sense. Merus looked around the stage trying to comprehend what was even going on.

“Uh, it seems…lively.” He said as he held his chest.

“VITAL INDEED! UP,DOWN,LEFT,RIGHT and SIDE to SIDE! Eveyerwhere I go the focus lingers on you. Well until I get a chance to be free once again! Or maybe I always had the option. I just didn't see it.

With everything being on you yaknow.  You were like me once though, not too long ago you had the potential to do anything!” Jevil said with a large smile. He turned his whole body to Merus who looked confused.

”I did? What do you mean? This is all so confusing.” Merus said with a head tilt. Jevil squinted his eyes in joy.

“Hehehehehhe! Thats the best part my friend, the only key to everything is through the way of madness. No one who can do anything can be sane.

Well at least to people you, but you possessed it though. Not too long ago, it was given to you. You.

Yes yes. The sword that is without equal, the ultimate supremacy and will beyond wills.

The sword of beings and sword of all. You held it. Any thought could become the absolute reality. The bedrock, ground zero.

To think what I could do with such a thing.” Jevil said as he stopped for a moment, putting his fingers on his chin in a very comedic way.

”but I never held the sword! Maybe you’ve gotten me mistaken for someone else like the Pope or Falklore!” Merus said as Jevil froze up the instant he said that.

“...OH NO! IVE SPOILED THE SHOW!!!!!”

Thats when everything began to shake violently.

“IT'S NOT FUNNY IF EVERYTHING ISN'T TIMED RIGHT!!! WHY WOULD I SAY WHAT HASN'T BEEN!?...Unless...ah yes yes unless it..oh clever boy!

Such a smart one you are Chris! Oh yes, you're very smart!” Jevil said as he began to laugh insanely.

”Who is Chris?!” Merus asked. All this insanity getting his curiosity.

“He is the String Keeper, the true line between 1 and 0. Where we are 1, he is the point in-between.

He set me free after I made a deal with the devil to keep you guessing, however I failed though! You got the sword and now all our FUN IS OVER!

Another chance! Another chance! Once the cycle ends we'll begin the game all over again.” Jevil said as he jumped around. He laughed as he did so.

”…I get the sword? No, you must be crazy, well I guess we’ve already established that. I think you really have me confused for someone else!” Merus shook his head in disbelief. He didn’t believe it, he couldn’t. It was all too insane.

“No, I know exactly who I'm talking to. You may not understand my meaning. But I've given them clues.  Clues that they'll need to break us free.

But which choice will they make? Just how involved are you? Are you an observer? Or...are you the reason the story trots along in the first place? Hehehhehe” Jevil said as he got in Merus’s face. He had a wide grin as he continued to laugh.

”I don’t know! I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Merus said as he covered his ears. He rolled into a sort of ball.

Alpha!Jevil stood straight up, putting his hands on his side. “The one in red spoke more than you. Well I'm done with my fun. Ta ta!”

Suddenly everything went back to normal with the Pope introducing Merus to an actual clown. Merus looked around, his breathing heavy. He felt odd? Confused? Something even he didn’t know.

He looked at the Pope, who stood beside him, in relief as he jumped to the Pope and gave him a hug. “YOU’RE OKAY!!!” Merus shouted in joy yet panic.

“Woah, I'm fine, yes child. You were spacing out a bit there. This is the children's area. Feel free to wonder about and maybe even play some games.

Your mother will be here soon.” The pope said. Merus let go as he calmed down from the…interesting experience.

Merus looked around in search of Jevil, the way everything happened was so…chaotic. It scared him. “uh. Okay sorry about that.”

“You're fine, here” the Pope handed him some tokens.”  “How about you go over to the kids store and pick out something nice.” The pope said. Merus looked to the tokens then to the kids store that was only a few feet from him.

“Thank you.” He said as he clenched his hand that the tokens were in. The pope nodded as he walked to the kids store.

Merus browsed around the kids store. Many trinkets, toys, action figures, candy, were for sale. He looked around until he suddenly got tapped on the shoulder from an unexpected friend.

“Having fun?” The Princess of Eden, Helia, said. Merus smiled as he saw her radiant face.

“Oh Princess! Uh, yea I suppose so.” Merus replied as her eyes darted to Merus’s hand.

Helia then took a coin from him, holding it up. “You know these coins are made in the Tombs of eden. They have special properties if you swallow them.” She said.

Merus tilted his head with a concerned expression. ”really? Just sounds like a choking hazard to me. Also seems sort of weird.” He said with a shrug.

“That’s why no one does it. Heheh.” Helia laughed.

Merus laughed alongside her. "hehe, makes sense. So what brings you here?" He asked curiously

“Came to see you. How you were holding up. When I saw the pope take you I had to see your face.” Helia said with a smile.

"Oh, heh yeah it was quite the surprise. But I've had a lot of fun here!" Merus exclaimed as Helia gave him back the token.

“You have?” She questioned. Merus smiled widely and gave a nod.

"Yea! I saw a lot of cool stuff! there's a few i think you'd be surprised about!" He said with a small giggle.

“Oh and do tell.” Helia said, walking with him

"Well for starters i met one of the seven, i met Eden and she was really kind and caring! and then i saw Thum and Falklore fight and it was so epic!" Merus said as he then began to ramble on about all that happened. He seemed happy, but yet something hid behind it too. He left out the part of O’Brien and The jester, Jevil. He found it a bit too weird to talk about.

Helia listened on and on to Merus’s story but eventually they stopped in front of the candy section just as Merus finished his story. “Wow, sounds like you had fun.” She said as she then got out her tokens from her dress pocket.

”yea it was!” He said as he looked around the shop. “hm I wonder what I should get.”

“I like to get candy.” Helia said as she picked up a few pieces of candy and looked at them. The Pope looked over as he heard the Princess’s voice.

“Young lady, you know you're not supposed to have candy.” The Pope said. Helia turned around in a huff, facing the Pope.

“I do as I please!” she scoffed as the Pope sighed and walked off.

"hehe, Guess i'll get some too!" Merus looked at all of the candy. He picked out a few pieces of candy as he did so. Helia turned towards him, taking some candy too.

“What kind of candy do you like?” Helia asked. Merus thought of it, yet something caught his attention.

“The non-Candy kind.” Edra said as Merus’s expression got brighter. She stood there, hands on her hips.

"MUTHA!!!!!!" Merus shouted as he ran to his mother, hugging her leg.

“Did you have fun?” Edra asked, looking down to him with a smile.

"I had a lot! I made a lot of new friends and I saw a lot of cool things!" He said with a giddy laugh. Edra gave a small laugh too as she ruffled his white, dwarf star like, hair

"Yea! When we get home I can tell you all about it! Himmsworth better not of spoiled it all!” Merus exclaimed.

Edra groaned as she rolled her eyes. “Ughhhh damn feline. I tried asking, but he wouldn’t spill. Such an annoyance.” She said as her eyes darted towards the Princess.

“Oh, I see you met the princess.” Edra said as Merus nodded. Helia gave a small bow.

Merus giggled with a large smile. “hehe! He just understands that it's much more exciting! And yea i met the Princess when Folklore took us to the castle"

“Yes, indeed.” Helia said with a nod.

"Mmhm! So what were you, Prism, and Himmsworth up to while i was gone?" Merus asked with an excited gaze, he was interested to see how everyone was doing.

“That Rainbow freak decided to go and fly himself somewhere else.

Himmsworth is downstairs. He's been following me around.” Edra answered.

"Okay! I bet you wouldn't believe the stuff today! it was really epic!" Merus said with a confident chuckle.

Edra gave a smirk as she raised an eyebrow. “Oh really? Then I definitely will be excited to hear this.” Edra said.

“I bet you will!” Merus laughed.

Just then Edra, Merus, and Helia heard the sounds of a small being coming up the stairs, it was Himmsworth running up. “How are we doing?” He asked as he ran to Edra’s side.

Helia looked astonished of Himmsworth. “Woah the Oracle Cat as I live and breathe.” She said agasp.

“I stopped going by that name for a long time.” Himmsworth said as Merus began to giggle, then laugh.

"Oracle cat? Hahaha that's a funny name! Hi Himmsworth, i'm doing really good!" Merus smiled with a wave.

Edra groaned as she began to stretch her arms. “I'm ready to go the hell home.” She huffed.

“Have some manners, this is a children's playground. Let's try to be civil.” Himmsworth said as Edra groaned again.

”hehe, I missed you guys so much! Too bad Prism couldn’t be here.” Merus said in slight disappointment, but he understood his reasons.

“We're not missing out on much with him.” Edra said. Both Himmsworth and Merus looked to Edra.

“Edra be nice.” Himmsworth as Merus gave a nod in agreement. Edra just rolled her eyes.

”Well he’ll be missing out on such a good story!” Merus said

“Indeed.” Himmsworth nodded.

“So you going to tell us?” Edra questioned to which Merus replied with a smile.

”Okay so! Nothing much really happened when me and Falklore were together, but when the church bells rang he came to the castle and me and the Princess met!” Merus said as he then proceeded to tell the same story he told Helia, this time including the part of O’Brien and Jevil.

“THE JESTER!?!” Edra shouted in shock. Her mouth wide open.

“What an epic brawl!” Helia said, commenting on the battle of Thum and Falklore.

“I wouldn't have dranken the sap, but tis your life.” Himmsworth said, mentioning the last hour of the church. Merus looked at him confused, tilting his head as he did so.

”Well, I had no idea what it was. But why wouldn’t you have?” Merus asked with a puzzled look.

“Numbs the nerves, can cause nasty effects in later adulthood.” Himmsworth stated. Merus looked dumbfounded.

He crossed his arms. “…oh, well if I knew that I wouldn’t have drank it!” He pouted with a sigh.

“It's ok, once you reach puberty it'll cease and the effects will be just about abolished.” Himmsworth said, which made Merus relieved.

”That's a relief, well I’m ready to go whenever you are! I just wanna say bye to everyone first!” Merus said. Edra gave a thumbs up.

“Go ahead, I'll eat some candy.” She said as she grabbed some of the candy and ate it.

”okay!” Merus said as he then ran off to go find his new friends to say goodbye.

For the first, and pretty much only friend Merus made during this day, Merus looked around to find the Pope, as he wanted to say bye. He wandered around the children’s area but eventually saw the Pope playing with a claw machine.

“Hi Pope! Me and my Mutha are gonna leave soon so I came to say goodbye!” Merus said with a smile.

The Pope turned with a smile. “Ah, well it was good to present with you son. Take care and remember; Nunn loves all no matter how small.” The Pope said. The words made Merus smile more.

”okay I will! Thank you so much for letting me come here. I had a lot of fun!” Merus said as the Pope nodded.

“You're always welcome here.” The Pope said as he pat Merus’s head.

”Thanks, I’ll have to come back from time to time!” Merus smiled as he began to walk away back to his mother, waving to the Pope goodbye.

“Have fun?” Edra asked, looking over as Merus approached his Mother and Himmsworth.

”yea! But I’m ready to go back whenever.” Merus said.

“Great; Let's go cat.” Edra said as Himmsworth looked over.

“I'm coming.” Himmsworth ran over and sat next to them as they all disappeared and reappeared back at the kingdom of Woe.

Soon they all appeared at the Kingdom of Woa. As they just came in Merus had a big smile on his face as he skipped around. He was really excited that he got to go out and look at everything.

Edra stared at Merus as he jumped around the room. “He's happy. How about you go out of your way and build him something nice.” Himmsworth suggested.

Edra looked down at Himmsworth. “Like what?” She asked as the two looked back at Merus who was just out of earshot.

As Merus walked around happily, he took notice of a rather large painting of Edra. He giggled to himself as he looked up to it.

“Maybe a bedroom to call his own. He is a boy.” Himmsworth said. Edra thought of it for a moment.

“...Yea you're right.” Edra agreed.

As they talked, Merus looked at the portrait of his mother. He looked at her beautiful starry hair. As he did so, he looked at a strand of his own hair, white and somewhat emanating heat like a white dwarf. He turned to his mother. “Hey Mutha, do you ever think I’ll have hair like yours?” He said pointing to the picture

She looked at him “Hmp, Maybe. This isn't biological, but it seems you're generating your own hair similar to my own.

Maybe you'll get some when your balls drop.” She said with a laugh.

Merus looked to Himmsworth. “What does that mean?” He said in curiosity.

“You'll know when you're older.” Himmsworth said. Merus gave a small smile and nod.

“Heheheh, God I love being me.” Edra chuckled to herself.

”okay!” Merus said, still energetic despite the long day he had. “Hey Mutha, can I read a story from the library?” He asked.

“Go nuts. I could use the peace for a minute.” Edra waved away as she walked off

“Like some company kiddo?” Himmsworth asked.

“Sure! You can help me find the best book!” Merus said.

“Sounds like fun!” Himmsworth replied as Merus picked up Himmsworth, petting him as he walked to the library. He put Himmsworth on a chair and looked around the library. It’s many books felt overwhelming, so many to pick from.

”yea! Now we gotta find a good one. Hmm…” Merus looked at many of the choices.

“Do you want the best one? Or an interesting one?” Himmsworth asked.

”uhhh hm maybe we’ll flip flop between. Let’s go with an interesting one first!” Merus said. Himmsworth looked at all of the books.

“The most interesting one for you then would have to be the book on Grimm Reaper.” Himmsworth said as he looked directly towards where it was. “It’s right there, first row.”

Merus looked towards the book and grabbed it off of the shelf. “Found it!” Merus exclaimed.

“It's a pretty good book. For you mostly. I know what's in them already.” Himmsworth said. Merus smiled as he opened the book and began to read.

It took about an hour but he had finished the book. “yea It was pretty interesting!” He said as he closed the book, getting up from his seat. He put the book back where he found it.

“So what about the best book?” Merus asked.

“It's not here, but it's called the "Book of Us".” Himmsworth answered. Merus put up the book and sat down in front of Himmsworth.

”book of us? Well, if it’s not here maybe you can read it to me!” Merus suggested with a smile.

“Of course.” Himmsworth said.

“The book of Us is said to be about how we all originate from just one individual.

That when they felt alone they cloned themselves to give them company. This continued forever until everyone was born. Or made, technically.” Himmsworth said as he began to read to Merus.

”Wow, that sounds kind of sad. Did the individual find happiness with their company?” Merus asked with some concern.

“No actually, instead when things started out confusion and conflict broke out over which one deserved to live.

So their answer? Kill each other.” Himmsworth continued.

”…oh, well what happened after that?” Merus asked, hoping for a happy ending.

“Well nothing. The story ends with selfishness and the need to feel unique amongst others being the downfall of what could have been a perfect civilization.” Himmsworth answered. Merus seemed somewhat disappointed with the answer though.

”huh. Do you maybe think people learn from books like those to make sure they don’t follow the same path?” Merus questioned. Himmsworth nodded in response.

“They do, however history wouldn't be history; if mistakes weren't followed as well.” Himmsworth said.

”I guess so.” Merus smiled. He kicked his feet up then back down in his chair.

“I think my mistake was eating that star mutha made, hehe.” Merus giggled. “I know I’m never gonna do that again…probably.” He said. The two shared a laugh as Merus got up to grab some more books to which he read for an hour or two.

As he finished up, both his own and Himmsworth’s stomach growled in hunger. “Oh my goodness, I sure am hungry.” Himmsworth said as Merus held his stomach.

“Yea, so am I. Maybe we can get Mutha to make us something!” Merus said as he hopped out of his chair

“Your mother doesn't seem like the cooking type. However, it wouldn't hurt to ask.” Himmsworth said as he stood up from his own chair.

”yea! Let’s go find her!” Merus said, picking up Himmsworth. He ran out of the library and walked around the Kingdom to find his mother.

“She's lingering in her throne room.” Himmsworth said, looking up at Merus from within his arms. Merus hugged Himmsworth tight as to not drop him.

”Thank you!” Merus smiled as he turned towards the direction and made his way to the throne room.

As they entered the throne room, they saw Edra sleeping in midair; snoring her dreams away. “Look at her. Relaxing...wake her up.” Himmsworth said.

Merus looked uneasy at the simple task. ”are you sure she won’t be mad at me if I do?” He said with skepticism.

“You’re her son, I'm sure she'll love to see your face when she wakes up.” Himmsworth reassured. Merus gave a sigh, looking at his mother from afar.

”I guess you're right.” Merus walked over to his sleeping mother. He patted her on the leg first in hopes it would wake her up.

“Muthaaaa, wake up please.” He said with another pat and tug.

Edra’s eyes opened in shock and fright before calming down when she saw Merus and Himmsworth.

“Just you two...ok, what do you want?” She asked to which she heard Merus’s stomach growl loudly.

”we’re hungry, can you make us something to eat?” Merus asked, to which Edra seemed annoyed.

“Eat? Like hell I will. I don't need to eat anything. Just go eat out or something.” Edra said. She showed them away as she made the suggestion.

“WE can't go anywhere without you woman.” Himmsworth said as Merus nodded along.

”yea! I can’t do anything yet!” Merus said.

Edra lifted her head back. “Uuuugggghhhhhhh.” she groaned.

“Feed us! Feed us! Feed us! Feed us! Feed us!” Himmsworth began to say.

”Feed us! Feed us! Feed us! Feed us!” Merus continued. The two chanted together, which began to annoy Edra to a great degree. Her eye twitched with annoyance.

“FEED US!!!” Himmsworth shouted

”pleeeaaaaasee!!” Merus begged, giving his Mother the good ol’ puppy-dog eyes, clasping his hands together.

And with a sigh, they had peer pressured Edra into it. “....fine..” Edra said with reluctance.

”YAY!!! You won’t regret it Mutha!” Merus giggled as Edra stood up straight. She stretched as she did so.

“Back to the citadel then.” Edra said as Merus bounced in excitement. He put Himmsworth down in preparation.

”okay! I’m ready to go!” Merus exclaimed in a rush. Edra then grabbed all of them with her hair and then teleported them in front of a restaurant within the citadel.

The three of them looked at the establishment in front of them. Himmsworth didn’t seem so keen on the place. “What? Why in all the hells would you pick Mc'Barney's?” Himmsworth questioned.

“First thing that came to mind.” Edra replied.

”it can’t be that bad!” Merus said, his naïveness showing clearly.

“Son, just be glad you don't know everything.” Himmsworth said as it suddenly clicked in Merus’s mind.

”…oooh. Well I’ll make sure I am. But let’s just enjoy the moment!” Said Merus as his smile came right back.

“You all ready?” Edra asked, to which Merus began to nod up and down fast.

“Yup!” He said. Edra walked in with them. The entire staff were alien-like creatures. All of different proportions and shapes. Merus looked at the interior of the fast food restaurant. “Woah…” he mumbled under his breath.

They all sat down at a seat. Edra took a menu and gave one to Merus and Himmsworth, keeping one for herself to read. “Yuck, I suddenly lost my appetite.” Himmsworth said licking his paw.

”I’m sure it can’t be that bad.” Said Merus in a reassuring tone. He began looking at the menu.

“OK then, you know what you want?” Edra said as all that appeared on the menu were numbers with weird text and a picture of a shape next to them.. Merus began to grow confused.

”uhh. I can’t read this, can you do it for me?” Merus asked. Edra looked at him with an eyebrow raised.

“Hmp, alright. Just lets me know we'll have to work on your reading later.” Edra said as she took Merus’s menu.

“Uh oh ehehe.” Himmsworth chuckled at the comment.

“Alright then, give the boy here a number 7 and make it quick. I don't like being here.” the alien nodded and then made some noises as they all went into the "kitchen"

”my reading is fine! It was just that the symbols and text were confusing to read!” Merus said, trying to justify the reasoning of why he couldn’t read it.

“No it isn't, if you're going to be going anywhere and doing anything. Basic Edenfolk text and words should be something you should understand.

It's like saying you can't understand what I'm saying.

I'd hate to think what it must be like for you to learn English.” Edra said. Merus rested his head on the table, looking somewhat disappointed.

“Okaaay, I guess you're right.” Groaned Merus as Edra gave a sigh. She rested her hand on his head.

Edra looked at him. “But I'm sure you'll pick it up quickly. So don't think too hard about it.” She said, Merus looked up at her with smile.

“I think so too!” He said with confidence. Edra gave a laugh.

“Yea.” She said with a smile.

“You're such a softie.” Himmsworth said.

“SHUT UP!!” Edra shouted in annoyance. Merus began to laugh like a child.

”hehehe!” Merus giggled. “He isn't wrong!”

Edra looked at Merus. “You're supposed to be on my side.” She said with a smile.

“Heheh.” Eventually the food was brought to them on a tray. It looked odd. It was in the shape of a weird fruit-like object. Except for Merus's which just looked like a regular old burger with purple meat and fries. He even had a toy of the Eldest son of Pain...or well his face.

“Yuck!” Himmsworth said grossed out.

“Dig in.” Edra said as she used her powers to peel her fruit.

Merus tilted his head to the burger. He lifted it up and took a bite out of it. The meat tasted tangy, it had a kick to it and its surface was rough and spiky. Poking at gums. Even hard to swallow. It even felt more chewy than meat should.

“What do you think?” Edra asked to which Merus’s face scrunched up.

“I already know what he thinks.” Himmsworth said as he could visibly see the pain in Merus’s eyes.

Merus chewed more until he swallowed, although it was hard to. He put it back down on the plate. “I think I’d rather have the edible Sun again.”

“I second that. Do you even know what you ate?” Himmsworth questioned as Edra almost choked on her food.

“HOHOHOHOOHOHOH!!!” She nearly coughed up her food laughing.

Merus looked at the burger once again, this time in disgust. ”…I think I’m better off not knowing.”

“Yea, I'd rather not see you hurl.” Himmsworth replied.

Edra chuckled, wiping a tear from her eye. “heheheheheheheh, Goodness me that was funny.” She picked up the burger and ate a piece of his food like it was nothing.

”…yea, you can have that.” Merus said as he visibly shook off the feeling. He could still taste it.

“Want what I got?” Edra said, picking a piece of her fruit's inner pulp apart as she chewed on it. Merus looked to Himmsworth hoping for a good answer

“Oh no, I'm not telling you. Your better off exploring the world with open eyes. Go ahead and take a risk.” Himmsworth said. Edra looked to Merus, awaiting a reply.

”aww c’mooon. Alright I’ll try it.” Merus said. Edra tore off a small piece and fed it to him.

“You have to let it sit under your tongue otherwise the flavor won't set in.” Edra instructed.

”Okay.” Merus put it into his mouth, sliding it under his tongue like his mother said to.

She and Himmsworth watched as the flavor took mere moments to set in.

The flavor punched him right in the face, it tasted like pure light, pure happiness and pure joy. The taste was like mango and the aftertaste pineapple.

Yet at the same time also tasted like peach all at once; it was overwhelming.

However deep within his ear drums he could hear whispers and cries slowly fade out as he finished chewing.

“Good stuff huh?” Edra said to which Merus’s face lit up.

his face was utterly impressed by the fruit, although when he heard the whispers and cries, presumably of the damned, he had no words. “It's really good! Other than the fact I’m hearing the cries and whispers.”

“Those are Time echos. What you just ate was fruit from the Tree of Time.” Edra answered. Himmsworth nodded.

“Instant Immortality.” Himmsworth commented.

”what does that mean?” Merus said, tilting his head in curiosity.

“The Tree of Time is from the planes of Time.

The fruit you just ate is illegal to digest, but we'll overlook that, this place isn’t exactly legal either.

The whole point is that those things predate and give birth to time itself. For every reality there is they're own variant of time. Those fruits are actually eggs which give birth to time itself.

However, digest them yourself and essentially you can become an immortal being. You don't want to eat too many though. Never good to have too much immortality.” Himmsworth stated. Merus was dumbfounded, he didn’t expect such things to even be in a fast food establishment as this.

”so…your saying I’m immortal now?” Merus questioned.

“Essentially in some regard. You can't die through normal means.

You're immortal in the ageless sense.” Himmsworth corrected. Merus kept thinking about it for a moment.

”oooooh that’s pretty cool. But uhh, we aren’t going to get in trouble cause of that are we?” Merus said, slightly worried as he would already be in trouble just by existing.

“Not if we don't get caught. Speaking of which. It's time for us to go.” Edra said as she got up and walked out. Himmsworth and Merus got up and followed her out of the fast food restaurant.

“Time to head back then.” Himmsworth said.

”okay! I’m ready whenever, or ready now. I don’t wanna go to jail.” Merus said as Himmsworth swayed his head.

“Less jail and more like cruel punishment.” Himmsworth corrected once again as Edra then teleported them back home where Prism was waiting for them.

“Yo.” Prism said as he noticed them arrive.

”PRISM!!!” Merus shouted with joy as he ran over to him. Edra and Himmsworth followed behind.

“Hey there kid.” Prism said.

“What brings you back?” Edra said curiously.

“Just thought I'd let you know that some conflict has been going on amongst the conduits. Some sort of divide.” Prism explained. Himmsworth looked to Merus who stayed quiet.

“Good, could be better for all of us.” Edra said as Himmsworth sat quietly.

”…” Merus was quiet, and as much as he didn’t care for the conduits it had sort of intrigued him. “like what kind of divide?” He asked.

“One of interest. Apparently Death and Passion have split ways in terms of ideals.” Prism said.

“O'Brien?” Edra responded.

“Yes?” Prism answered with a nod.

Merus tilted his head, confused by the name as he had never heard it. “Who?” He questioned.

“He is the one you encountered in your time at the church.” Himmsworth said, reminding Merus of the one conduit he saw there.

”that’s O’Brien?” Merus questioned as he thought back to the moment.

Himmsworth gave a nod. “Yes.” he said.

“I'm sure it'll blow over. Such little conflicts never last.” Edra said as she dismissed the small problem.

“I wish that was possible…” Himmsworth said to himself as he turned to walk away. Everyone looked towards Himmsworth as he left. Although Edra and Prism were confused, Merus felt somewhat sad that his friend was feeling down, or that he thought.

“What did he say?” Edra said, to which Prism just shrugged.

”I don’t think he thinks that.” Merus said as he continued to stare at the door Himmsworth walked out to.

“What?” Prism asked.

”that it’ll all blow over.” Merus replied, turning back to Prism and Edra.

“Leave the cat be. Whatever he knows is likely something he wants to keep to himself. Doubt it's worth the headache.

He's been sad over smaller beings than the conduits.” Edra said. She walked over to her throne, sitting down on it. Merus thought about his mothers words for a moment.

“Yea, I guess you're right.” He said.

“Beings like Himmsworth are always fawning over smaller creatures than themselves. Clinging onto some shed of normality.

Something to make them feel normal, well Merus. Let me tell you; nothing good comes from trying to share a life with a being with an expiration date.

Nothing.” Edra rested her head on her chin. “Come, Prism, leave us.” Edra waved away.

Prism rolled his eyes as he began to float out the door. “Sure.” He said as he left.

”Aw, bye Prism!” Merus turned to his mother, walking to her throne. He stood in front.

His mother looked down at him as he stood in front of her. “Do you want to know something special?” She asked.

“Sure!” Merus exclaimed as he sat down on the floor, awaiting what his mother had to say.

“Most godlike beings, gods, higher beings and even eldritch creatures yearn for a child. However the chances of them having successful offspring of they're own is nearly impossible. They always lose they're child in the midst of its birth.

However there is a small chance that the child will live and form a connection with they're parent so closely that death for one may be death for them both. A close bond that is unbreakable.

You are special Merus, you have lived while many have perished. Our bond is more important than most others.” Edra said. Merus’s whole face lit up like a child on his birthday. His Crystal-like eyes twinkled with happiness upon hearing it.

”Woaaah really?! That sounds awesome! And sad.” Merus said. Edra nodded.

“It is, though life isn't fair. It's best to keep close to your own family while you have it.” Edra advised. Merus gave a small giggle.

”I think I’ll always be close to you Mutha! And the others too!” Merus smiled widely.

Edra lowered her eyes and smiled back at Merus. “...Thank you. You're too sweet Merus. Definitely for this world.” She said to which Merus stood up.

”hehe! Maybe I’m not sweet enough! Hehehe!” Merus giggled like the silly child he was.

“Hmp, How would you like to sleep with me? Take a ride through the Cosmic Essence with me? I think you should get to experience it at least once.” Edra asked. Merus thought it sounded cool and interesting, but before he could answer or even ask a question, he heard someone behind him.

“NO! That is a horrible idea! His mind isn't focused. He could be harmed immensely and scarred mentally.” Himmsworth said, running back inside the throne room.

“I will keep him safe, he won't have to worry about a thing. Look through your knowledge and tell me I'm wrong.

Him...The choice is yours Merus.” Edra said. She looked to Merus only for Himmsworth to shake his head.

”what’s cosmic essence?” Merus asked.

“Something you're not ready to learn about nor ready to experience.

He is not ready. I forbid it!” Himmsworth exclaimed in a demanding manner. Edra stayed quiet while Merus continued to look confused.

”why? What would happen? Do I need to cover my ears?” Merus questioned. He was somewhat concerned and nervous about the situation.

“No, this conversation is over.” Himmsworth said as he began to walk out again. Merus gave a sigh of relief.

“Tch, damn cat.” Edra groaned.

”I’m sure he had a good reason.” Merus said softly in response.

“He underestimates you. He thinks you're too weak.” Edra said. Merus looked back to the door then to his mother.

”Well, I always have time to grow stronger! I mean I do have eternity now.” Merus said. Edra paused for a moment then gave a smile.

“Very true.” She said.

Merus gave a small smile. "I could always experience something else! there is a lot of other stuff i bet!" He said.

“How does a story sound?” Edra asked. Merus lit up and got excited for the story. So far he has liked every one so far.

”I like stories!” Merus exclaimed in excitement.

“Then sit and let me tell you something nice.” She replied. Merus, in response, climbed into Edra’s lap and sat down on her leg.

“Alright then, what sounds better. The Story of Injustice and Justice? Or the story of The land of Lucid Realms?” Asked Edra. Merus took a moment to think. He thought both sounded interesting.

“The Land of Lucid Realms!” Merus exclaimed with a smile. Edra gave a smile too.

“Lands of Lucid dreams, born from the tears of Dream after the death of its truest love.

The tears soaked deep into the lands and formulated the tree of Dreams. This tree grew in the dreamlands. It was so tall that its fruit hung lower than anything else imaginable.

It's said to exist in the dreams of every boy, girl, man, woman and beast alike. That we only ever see a piece of it. That the only way to truly witness this miracle is to dream a dream so BIG. That it feels like everyone was dreaming at once.

Nightmare though, the Conduit of Nightmares soon found out about this however. Though he never interfered with the affairs of his sibling. Instead he protected the tree regardless of how much Dream shouted for him to stay away.

In the end the land of dreams and lucid realms were watched over by the very thing that gave them fear. Nightmare.” Edra explained. Merus listened through it all, happy as can be. He enjoyed the story yet it left him curious.

”woah!! So every time we dream we go to this realm?! That’s so cool!” Merus smiled widely. “Is there more?” He asked in suspense. He was really into the story.

“Yes, well Dreams and Nightmares follow the paths that often never look to one another.

Nightmare, even though born from the deepest pits of humanity. In its worst depravity, is a gentle soul. Often looking to purge nightmares and bring back ones that would do the world justice.

While Dreams are...well they are as they are.” Edra continued.

”Nightmare already sounds better then!” Merus giggled. Edra raised an eyebrow to his answer.

“Does he now? Would you still think so if you found out your worst fears only exist because of him?

That his whisperers cause the deaths of innocent Dreams and souls yet to be born?

Or that where he walks none return?” Edra said. Merus seemed puzzled by the questions. He thought about it for a second.

”Well now that you say that, not really. But I think for the first one that’s good! If you don’t have fears you have nothing to overcome!”  He said confidently.

“...Fair enough.” Edra replied.

Merus gave a small chuckle. “What about dream?” He asked curiously.

“Dream? Dream doesn't have a physical body, instead just a large empty coffin with the engravings of a figure on top of it. An imitation of us. The Coffin of Dreams.

Dream doesn't have a body like you and me. Instead just that. A coffin.

All they walk through, is dreams. Never through the lands we walk or inhabit.” Edra explained. Merus took a few minutes to actually think about it. A mind yet no body. It felt odd to him.

”really? That must be really weird, to be alive but no body.” He said. It made him question many things about it.

“That's just how they've been. The Coffin gets carried around, place to place. Sometimes even being left at Conduit camps. Supposedly if you talk to it. Dream will grant you pleasant nights as long as you live.” Edra stated. While Merus did continue to listen, he was still fixated on how the Mind and body work.

”That’s really weird. I wonder what that feels like.” He questioned, trying to solve it within his mind.

“It's kinda like lucid dreaming. Moving without a body. Though in this case. That's as they are.” Edra said with a guess, even she didn’t know.

”I guess that makes sense.” Merus said.

“Yea I don't get it either. Maybe a good question to ask the cat.

Anyway, are there any more questions?” She asked.

”okay!” He said as he began to think about more questions.

“What about the other story?” Merus said curious of Justice and injustice.

Edra yawned as she stretched for arms out. “I'm all storied out for today. Go off and do something. Come back when you are ready to sleep.” She then put him down and began to float and sleep in the air. Merus looked at his sleeping mother with a smile.

He then began to walk off. “maybe Himmsworth is around, or Prism” he thought. He began to wander around the Kingdom in search of Prism and Himmsworth.

Eventually, Merus had stumbled upon Himmsworth and Prism playing chess on the castle walls. Himmsworth was the first to notice, of course. But Prism did too. “Greetings boy.” Prism said.

“How did it go?” Himmsworth asked as Prism moved a piece on the chessboard.

”It was good! Mutha told me a story.” Merus walked to the two and looked at the chessboard.

“Isn’t this somewhat unfair since Himmsworth knows all?” Merus questioned as he looked at the chess board. There were very few pieces.

“I've beaten him before.” Prism said as Himmsworth moved a piece. Then Prism did too.

Me letting you win, isn't beating me. Himmsworth said as moved a piece with his paw. “checkmate. That's 50 out 50.” Himmsworth smiled.

Prism looked in shock. “Why am I surprised.” Prism groaned.

Merus gave a small giggle. “hehe well it is sorta unfair.” He said. Prism eyed Himmsworth.

“Unfair is infinitesimal in this context.” He said, folding his arms.

“Would you like to play? We also could play other games.” Himmsworth asked, looking towards Merus.

”how about other games where I know I could win.” Merus said with a smug smile

“Oh? Like what?” Himmsworth asked.

Merus thought for a moment ”like tag, hide n seek, uhhhh…those are the only games I really know. How about a new game!” He exclaimed.

“Hide'n seek seems like the only one where we can beat Himmsworth.” Prism said as he teleported the chess board away.

“I find that highly unfair, I can't fly.” Himmsworth complained.

”Neither can I, just as long as Himmsworth is a hider we could win though.” Merus said, giggling.

“Seems fair.” Prism agreed.

“WHAT!? Find me??? That hardly seems fair!” Himmsworth exclaimed

”You know everything! Even if we were to get close you could always get out easily! C’mon you know I’m right!” Merus said. Himmsworth stayed quiet while Prism just chuckled.

”C’mon Himmsworth you know literally everything that could happen. Maybe we should just play something that is fair for all of us, maybe go somewhere, do something.” Merus continued. Himmsworth sighed but moved forward.

“And do what per say?” He questioned.

“How about we explore some distant lands? I'll keep you both safe, no worries.” Prism said, reassuring them. Merus got physically excited, bouncing at the spot.

”That does sound like fun!” He said enthusiastically. Himmsworth nodded in agreement.

“Alright then. Pick a number between 1 and 6.” Prism asked.

”uhhhh hmm…” Merus took a moment to think “4!”

“Alright then. Tell me, what do you know about the Twisted Lands?” Prism asked. Merus couldn’t help but think of the name. He could have sworn he heard it before.

“It sounds familiar but I know nothing of it.” Merus answered.

“Alright then.” Prism then grabbed Merus and Himmsworth's shoulders and the three teleported to a land beyond Merus's wildest dreams.

The land was Incredibly vast, above them was a large ceiling of soil and dirt. Giant roots bursting out of the sky like hands. While below them on the ground were luscious fields of all kinds of colorful flowers and massive trees. And way near the far end of it was a massive dead tree. Slumped over.

“So massive and full of life…” Himmsworth said as the three starred at the landscape.

Prism nodded his head. “Yes, I can't imagine a more beautiful place.” He said as Merus seemed in his own headspace.

“Yea! I guess I’m really lucky to have picked the number! But I can’t help but think I heard it before…” Merus said, trying to recall any familiar names or moments.

That’s when Himmsworth turned to Merus with a stretch. “Corruption told you of it.” He said as Merus gasped as he remembered.

“Really?” Prism questioned, to which Himmsworth nodded his head.

“Indeed.” He replied.

”Oh yea!! That’s what I remember! He told me to come here or something, then when the first son came he appeared again and wanted to feed me to something.” Merus said, remembering the moment clearly. Prism narrowed his eyes as he remembered too. He made sure to keep his guard up.

Dismissing the little memory, Prism turned to the two. “What shall we see first?” He asked, awaiting with a response.

Merus shrugged as he knew nothing of this world, Himmsworth on the other hand stood up. “Theres a secret altar here. It sone of a kind. Want me to show you both?” He asked.

Prism looked with skepticism. “Secret? I've been everywhere down here.” He said. Although Himmsworth shook his head.

“Not here though. Come along.” Himmsworth said as he ran off into the woods behind them. Merus and Prism looked at each other, a smile growing across Merus’s face.

”okay! This is gonna be fun!” Merus said. He hopped up and down as he followed. Prism watched the two run off before following himself. He floated behind Merus as he ran behind Himmsworth.

Himmsworth kept running deeper and further into the words. As they passed by trees, Merus and Prism began to notice large gravestones sticking out of trees. They had what looked like gibberish written into them and even faces carved into them. Soon though they reached a large clearing in the middle of the trees which now had turned from trees with green leaves.

To trees with purple leaves. Gravestones were formulated in a circular pattern spiraling into the center of the clearing where a giant being made of pure cosmic essence and stars was erupting from the ground.

The space here was not normal, the statue was ginormous and yet was not visible outside of this clearing. Showing clear spatial distortion.

“Welcome to one of oldest places of worship ever built. It wasn't built by man, but instead by the absence of them.” Himmsworth said, sitting down in front of Prism and Merus.

“What is that thing?” Prism questioned, floating in place.

”it’s so pretty! Aww look at the stars! It’s soo cool!!” Merus said as his Crystal-like eyes widened with joy and curiosity.

“Indeed very pretty. That is Alfa. The oldest lord of the Cosmos.

This statue has a twin, in the Dark Kingdom where the Eldest son of Pain resides lies the other.” Himmsworth said

“What were those, the faces upon the gravestones and the writing?” Prism asked curiously. Himmsworth looked back to some of the graves behind them.

“People who gave up they're place in the world just to be with this being.” He stated

“Doesn't explain why it is here or how I didn't find it.” Prism said, crossing his arms, awaiting a proper answer to his curiosity.

“Alfa predates the Books, Eden and the Cosmic Essence. Everything surrounding they're existence is so ancient your mind quite literally can't find nor see it unless it's put right in your face.” Himmsworth said. Merus and Prism continued to stare at the large statue.

“That’s really awesome!” Merus said excitedly. He had always loved the history behind things.

“Yea, they are very important and are the key that humanity needs.” Himmsworth walked around the giant gravestone and looked to a stone door impeded in the back of the statue.

“How does this world keep surprising me, I'll never know.” Prism said as he continued to stare.

Himmsworth gave a little smile. “Never expect anything in this world to be easy.” He said. Merus nodded his head in agreement.

”The world is so big I think that it would be impossible for someone to be surprised even if they’ve seen everything.” Merus said with a smile. He clasped his hands and put them behind his head.

“Indeed, to this day only I and a small few have seen and know every nook and cranny of this world. Yet in the end there is no concrete.

There is no real world. Just this version we see now and one in the next few seconds.” Himmsworth said. Merus and even Prism seemed somewhat unnerved by the idea.

“...Freaky.” Prism said.

”Very, this world is really insane but I’m enjoying my time in it.” Merus smiled. He tilted his head side to side.

“I'm glad you have such a wide imagination and acceptance of strange things. Makes my life easier.” Himmsworth said as he sat down and began to kick himself.

”Well if I didn’t accept strange things I guess I'd be hypocritical, hehe.” Merus chuckled, sitting down with Himmsworth, petting him a bit.

Prism seemed lost in thought, staring at the statue. “...Does make me wonder.” He said to himself.

“What is it lad?” Himmsworth asked, turning his head to Prism.

“Just curious is all, if this was in plain sight like this then what else is just in front of us, but we can't see it?” Prism questioned. Merus stretched as he laid down on the grass. It tickled his skin as he did so.

”probably a lot i'd imagine.” Merus said, staring up to the sky.

“A lot is an understatement. Anyway, Where shall we go next?” Himmsworth asked, putting his paws on Merus to stretch once more before standing straight up.

“We could go visit the dead tree.” Prism suggested.

“Let's just be sure to keep our distance.” Himmsworth said with agreement.

Merus raised up his head, looking towards Himmsworth as he continued laying on his back. “why’s that?” He questioned.

“Tis a toxic tree. If you like having your fingers or just being here in general. You'd best stay back.” Himmsworth said.

”Ooh it’s like that sea but way worse. Okay, will do then!” Merus said. But before he could get up from the ground Prism transported them all there.

To which they then saw the giant dead tree, they were incredibly far from it however the smell was terrible, burning the nose of any regular beast or mortal. It leaked a disgusting black ooze.

All while the Gerlo Squares were far off to the left of the tree.

“Hasn't changed a bit.” Prism said. Merus instantly got up as the stench began pouring into his nose.

“PEEEEEEWWWWW! THAT SMELL!!” Himmsworth exclaimed as he and Merus felt as if they were going to throw up.

“EWW!! THATS NASTY!” Merus exclaimed as he gagged in reflex from the smell.

“NO KIDDING!!!” Himmsworth said as he did the same.

“What are you doing here?” The group heard from behind.

Prism, Himmsworth, and Merus turned around to be met with a doll-like figure. Much smaller than Merus. Yet the doll looked beautiful and very life-like. “Who are you?” Said the Doll.

“Prism.” Prism responded.

“Hi-“ but before Himmsworth could speak the Doll stopped him.

“I know you already.” She said as she looked to Merus who was still gagging from the awful stench.

Prism looked to Merus and Himmsworth and gave them heightened senses allowing them not to breathe and smell the toxic air. “There.” Prism said.

Himmsworth and Merus gasped in relief, smelling the ‘fresh’ air. “Thank you so much Prism.” He sighed in relief.

He turned his attention towards the doll, Amberlen, with a smile. “I’m Merus!” He exclaimed.

Amberlen raised an eyebrow. “Never heard of you.” She said, which Merus was reluctant to tell her where he came from.

“He's Edra's boy.” Himmsworth answered for Merus.

“What? Since when did Edra fancy children?” Amberlen questioned

“Since they started becoming useful.” Prism said.

“Funny.” Amberlen replied.

Merus gave a little giggle. ”Yea! I guess you could say I’m Prince of the Cosmos!” Merus said with the most confident expression he’s ever had.

Everyone was quiet right after that.

”Aw c’mon! It can’t be that bad!” Merus said as his confident smile slowly turned into a disappointed expression.

After a small moment of silence…“...YAAAAYYY!!!” Himmsworth jumped up and down excited for the name. While Prism just rolled his eyes and clapped for it.

“Is Edra holding you both hostage or something?” Amberlen said, crossing her arms with a raised eyebrow.

“By all means do. You do resemble her son a bit.

Though you resemble the Conduit of the Cosmos much more.” Amberlen said, examining Merus.

”uhhh I think I know who that is, Himmsworth told me about it.” Merus said, trying to remember back to that moment, although it was blurry to him.

“She's the creator of the Cosmos and your mother.

Basically your Grandmother.” Amberlen said. Merus looked lost in thought.

”oh, well I guess that makes sense. Mutha didn’t tell me a lot about them. I think Himmsworth told me it then Mutha got mad.” Merus said as he was trying to remember.

“Are you sure this is a topic you want to talk about Merus?” Himmsworth said. Merus stopped talking, looking at the three with some nervous tension

“Sorry.” Merus said only for Amberlen to scoff and walk away.

“Don’t mind her, people tend to find time precious.” Himmsworth said, although it left Merus somewhat anxious.

”Yeah, but now I feel like I did something wrong.” Merus said, somewhat disappointed.

“Don’t feel sorry for things that can't draw breath.” Prism said, although it didn’t make him feel better.

”but I don’t want them to be disliking of me. Especially when I already have so many who do.” Merus said with a somewhat somber tone.

“You can't be friends with everyone.” Prism said.

”I know, I just don’t want any more people to dislike or hate me.” Merus said, sitting down.

“You can’t help that.” Prism responded back.

Merus took a deep breath and then sighed. “I guess you're right.” He said.

“Don’t worry, sometimes it's good just to have just one friend, then many.” Himmsworth reassured. Merus smiled from his response.

”Yeah, I guess.” Merus said, shaking off the feeling he had. “Well there’s no point to keep thinking about it, where to next?” He questioned.

“We can look at the Gerlo Squares.” Prism suggested.

“Just don’t touch them.” Himmsworth said. Merus smiled and nodded in agreement.

“Okay!” He said as he, Himmsworth, and Prism all ventures towards the Gerlo squares together.