Hunter’s Dirge (Neoevolution Earth Vol. 3) Summary

Entry 1 Summary:

Denis Mendel writes a deeply emotional and conflicted letter to Anna, expressing a mix of apology and encouragement to embrace hatred. He does not expect forgiveness from her, suggesting that her hatred is essential for achieving a higher purpose. He believes she will come to understand the need for hatred through her observations of the Hunter, Thompson. Mendel believes that by fostering hate, they can both reach a state of love for “everyone and everything else” and ultimately ascend to the Great Beyond, where they will confront and overcome their creators.

Chapter 1: The Woman from Astrea

In 2065, Hunter4430 encounters a human woman rather than his Huntress shortly after being released from his torturous birth-fire. This woman provides him with a skinsuit, which embeds into his flesh through millions of hypodermic needles. The skinsuit’s integration is agonizing but familiar to him, mirroring the relentless torment he has known all his life.

The woman’s appearance is distinct and non-Earthly, with sleek, dark blue clothing, pale unblemished skin, and black hair. Her emerald eyes are particularly striking, emerald with gold flecks. Despite his monstrous design—intended to instill terror—this woman does not react to him with fear but instead with empathy, seeing him not as a monster but as a misguided child. Surprised by his ability to speak, the woman engages in a conversation with Hunter4430, who is fascinated and confused by her. She explains that she is human, not a Huntress, and her eyes are the only inhuman aspect of her. During their interaction, Hunter4430 struggles with the familiar pain of his skinsuit and the novel kindness of the woman. She tries to connect with him on a deeper level, recognizing his pain and the depth of his programming to be an instrument of fear.

As the woman attempts to comfort him by inviting him to rest in her lap, Hunter4430’s programmed instincts to kill momentarily fade, replaced by an unfamiliar peace. Encouraged by her presence, he experiences a fleeting sense of security and rest, a stark contrast to his life of continuous pain. However, this peace is short-lived. As Hunter4430 falls asleep in her lap, he slips into a state where his Hunter instincts take over. Upon waking, he finds himself amidst a carnage of humans he has slaughtered during his sleep. This violent outburst shocks both him and the woman.

Realizing the gravity of his actions and the impact on the woman, who is now visibly terrified and distraught, Hunter4430 experiences a deep conflict. He hides behind a boulder, overwhelmed by guilt and confusion. The woman eventually finds him and reveals that a “him” in Astrea is responsible for their suffering. She speaks of a being who seems to control or heavily influence their fates, an entity that has reduced them to mere tools in his ascension. In a tender moment, she returns to Hunter4430, telling him they still have choices despite the oppression from above. She invites Hunter4430 to sleep, an action unprecedented among Hunters, suggesting he dream—a capability thought unattainable for his kind.

Entry 2 Summary:

This journal entry reveals further insights into Mendel’s grand vision for the universe, described through the analogy of Earth as one of many spores destined for neoevolution and Ascension. Mendel’s Vision extends beyond the earthly sphere, aiming to incorporate the galaxy and potentially the entire universe into a singular, interconnected entity. He uses the analogy of a bacterium experiencing the vast complexity of a human body to illustrate the profound and intricate nature of this transformation—highlighting the integration of diverse lives and environments into a unified consciousness.

The narrator, positioning himself as the Mind, contrasts his role with that of Anna, whom he describes as the bacterium—an observer or perhaps a catalyst on the cusp of becoming part of something much larger. He expresses a resigned acceptance of the potential outcomes of Mendel’s Vision, acknowledging the possibility that Anna may not return from her mission on Earth. However, his commitment to the path of Ascension is unwavering, as he eschews doubts and contingencies that might undermine the execution of Mendel’s Ladder.

Chapter 2: Arks of the Future

In the serene moments between dreaming and waking, Thompson (formerly known as Hunter4430) revels in Anna’s gentle touch, marveling at how it no longer causes him pain. Wrapped in a comforting embrace, he senses various emotions from Anna: desire, confidence, fulfillment. Yet, confusion lingers as he grapples with disjointed memories of time and his identity; he has been learning to control his inherent rage through meditation under Anna’s guidance, which seems like weeks of learning, yet he feels as if he has known her for only a day and a half.

In a sudden surge of realization, Thompson remembers that Anna named him and that she had been compelled to return to Astrea, unable to escape her fate. Overwhelmed by a sense of longing mixed with a jarring sense of betrayal, Thompson opens his eyes to confront the reality of the woman before him. This woman, while radiating a familiar aura, bears distinct differences from Anna that unsettle him, such as her amethyst eye and an aura that fluctuates between various organic and nostalgic scents, hinting at profound depth and complexity. Her presence oscillates between solidity and ethereality, as if she is phasing in and out of existence, yet she is palpably solid, an enigmatic juxtaposition that confounds Thompson even as he attempts to discern her true nature. Caught in a whirlwind of memories and realizations, Thompson is stunned by the woman’s otherworldly gaze, which paralyzes him and compels his attention even as she physically engages with him in an unexpectedly intimate and primal manner. Despite her seemingly ghostly demeanor, Thompson finds himself unable to move her, her solid form resisting his efforts as if she were as immovable as a mountain.

As the encounter escalates into an unexpected and unwelcome sexual act, Thompson experiences both physical transformation and emotional turmoil. He has grown a penis, and it is lodged inside the woman. Beyond his control, he orgasms, and shoots something into the woman. The woman, referring to herself as Tether, apologizes for the abruptness, explaining her actions as a necessary part of harvesting something essential from him, a process she deemed necessary due to her unclear calculations from the “Great Beyond.” Immediately after, the penis disappears into Thompson’s body just as the woman’s vulva disappears and flattens to bare skin. Tether’s behavior and explanations, steeped in cryptic references to higher planes of existence and the intrinsic meaningless of her actions there, add layers of complexity to her character. After the unsettling interaction, Thompson finds himself in a surreal environment within a rocky cavern, filled with bioluminescent molds and fungi, which casts the space in an eerie, colorful glow. Tether’s form continues to shift, casting her as a bridge between the tangible and the spectral. She claims that Thompson, like his skinsuit, has been reborn, and now he is one with his skinsuit. What’s more, Thompson now has control over his rage and is no longer an unwilling slave to it.

As they venture deeper into the cavernous environment, Thompson is introduced to a grander scale of existence and purpose. Tether explains that they are on a planet that serves as an “ark of the future,” part of a larger vision where Earth is just the beginning of a universal transformation. Thompson is overwhelmed by questions, especially about Anna, whom the woman—who calls herself Tether—claims is still alive and waiting for him. Tether explains that Anna wanted Thompson to see deeper truths, truths that will be revealed to him through a journey beyond language. She leads him into a cavern, where Thompson encounters five identical Hunters sitting in a circle, their bodies covered in glowing green mycelial fungus.

Tether encourages Thompson to join them, explaining that these Hunters serve as relays, projecting the voice of Earth’s mind—referred to as “His mind”—directly to him. Reluctantly, Thompson sits at the center of the circle, feeling the mushrooms beneath him eject their mycelial tendrils, which enter his ear canals and attach directly to his brain. The experience is both uncomfortable and profound, as the tendrils expand within his skull, connecting him to something far greater. As the mycelial tendrils take hold, Tether’s voice resonates in Thompson’s mind, explaining that Anna wanted him to see these deeper truths. She promises that what he is about to experience will help him understand his existence, allowing him to see through his maker’s eyes—through the eyes of Andre Madeira. Thompson closes his eyes, feeling the tendrils tighten around his brain, and prepares to embark on this surreal journey, eager to uncover the truths that Anna believed were so important for him to see.

Entry 3 Summary:

“The Virus” and “The Cure” are envisioned as the crucial elements that hold Mendel’s Ladder together, much like the lashings that secure its rungs. Their roles are pivotal, not merely for structural integrity but for the evolutionary trajectory Mendel envisions. Despite their semblance to humans, their experiences and inherent mortality are fundamental to their development—they must endure genuine life processes. The potentiality of their death, though abhorrent to contemplate, is deemed necessary to foster their growth and eventual awakening of powers. Once awakened, they are destined to guide humanity step-by-step through the stages of neoevolution, leading to a collective Ascension.

Chapter 3: The Feeding Cave

In the dim, green-glowing passageway, a great rumbling echoes through the darkness. Aurelia instinctively grips her sword, while Aliana, unfazed, lets out a hoot of echoing laughter. “You forget the sound of your own stomach, Aurelia?” she teases, calling her sister a “troutface” for not eating any of the bioluminescent mushrooms, affectionately called “glowies.” Aliana insists they are harmless and tasty, but Aurelia, ever cautious, refuses.

As they proceed, Aliana casually eats another mushroom, her eye glowing with a radiant verdant emerald that captivates Aurelia. The intensity of the glow, Aurelia rationalizes, must be enhanced by the glowies’ light. Aliana, noticing Aurelia’s stare, grows concerned and curious about her sister’s odd expression. Aurelia dismisses her concerns, attributing her stare to the peculiar light effects. Suddenly, Aliana notices Aurelia’s previously severed index finger has not only regenerated but now sports a uniform, creaseless black hue similar to the discolorations Aurelia has had since birth on her face. This new development stirs a deep realization in Aurelia: their powers, forewarned by Shira and Rooli, are manifesting. Aurelia feels an innate confirmation of their creator Tomasz Novak’s death and senses significant impending changes tied to their arrival in Downver.

The sisters’ conversation turns to their abilities and the uncertain future, with Aurelia sharing her regained but now obstructed prescient visions. She can’t see beyond their imminent arrival in Downver, a blockage that she cannot explain. This revelation worries Aliana, who is already struggling with the physical and mental alterations apparent in herself. As they continue, Aliana, affected by the mushrooms, becomes increasingly incoherent, displaying bouts of uncontrollable laughter and hallucinatory behavior. Aurelia, concerned and focused, attempts to manage the situation by reminding Aliana of their mission to revive Rooli.

Their journey through the passage is fraught with Aliana’s drug-induced antics, including a moment where she falls into a fit of laughter after mishearing a phrase. Aurelia, maintaining her composure, tries to ground her sister, but the mushrooms’ effects are too potent. Eventually, Aliana’s condition forces Aurelia to induce vomiting to clear her sister’s system of the toxins, a desperate act to save her from potential overdose. This chaotic and emotional ordeal culminates as they reach a junction in the cave, where the walls begin to taper, and the pathway ahead appears to dead-end. This new route presents more challenges, including a confrontation with a group of three local boys and a dangerous man named Eddy. The boys, curious and slightly apprehensive, engage with the sisters. They are intrigued by the sisters’ appearances and powers, particularly the bioluminescent effects of the mushrooms. The interaction is cautious, with both parties assessing each other’s capabilities and intentions.

Eddy, an imposing figure, enters the scene with a demeanor that oscillates between charming and menacing. His approach is predatory, offering “help” in a tone that suggests ulterior motives. Aurelia, recognizing the threat, prepares to defend herself and her sister, who remains incapacitated by the mushrooms’ aftereffects. As they face this new threat, Aurelia realizes she must handle the situation alone, as Aliana is still too impaired to be of any assistance.

Entry 4 Summary:

Mendel contemplates the origins of existence, tracing the pathway from the formative void of the cosmos to the creation of our galaxy, sun, and planet. He acknowledges the cyclical nature of creation and destruction, foreseeing a future where, without intervention, the void will eventually consume all once again.

Mendel expresses a profound isolation in his realization that no external savior will come to rescue humanity from this inevitable return to nothingness. He sees Mendel’s Vision and the construction of Mendel’s Ladder as humanity’s only escape from the increasing entropy destined to dissolve spacetime and all forms of life. The void is portrayed not just as a threat, but as an integral part of existence itself—inescapable and defining.

Apologizing to his only friend, Denis, Mendel wrestles with guilt over the transformations and trials he has imposed on humanity and Denis himself, who, in his new form, has become both the pinnacle of human achievement and the least human. Mendel’s faith in the pathway he has constructed is tinged with sorrow for the sacrifices made in the name of evolution and survival. This is also the first time it begins to become clear that the individual writing these journals may not actually be Denis Mendel even though they are attributed to him.

Chapter 4: Out of the Black Depths

Samuel descends into the ocean depths, thick kelp guiding him deeper into darkness, away from everything dear to him—Sandra, Margot, Nathan. Overwhelmed by despair, he curses himself for dedicating so much to his work, especially for Andre Madeira, at the expense of his family. He envisions his family being torn apart by the monsters that have been unleashed by the Queen in Astrea. Engulfed by darkness, Samuel tries to command his transformed mirror-body to rise, to escape the depths, but it fails to respond. He sinks deeper, and the void within him, created by Tomasz Novak’s experiments, expands menacingly. As he succumbs to despair, a dark tendril suddenly wraps around his waist and pulls him upward at an incredible speed, breaking him free from the water’s grasp and flinging him towards the sky.

Breaking the ocean surface, Samuel is catapulted into the air, soaring towards a massive storm covering what appears to be hundreds of miles wide and filled with relentless lightning. As he ascends, the sight of land unfolds below him—strange gnarled trees of vibrant colors intertwining densely, and he recognizes them as the flesh trees he learned about in his history lessons. Landing gently despite his speed, Samuel is surprised by the mirror body’s and earth’s capacity to absorb his impact. However, he loses balance and falls, surrounded by an eerie chorus of whispers. Confronted by a Nomad with a long, oblong face blending human features with green fibrous tissues, Samuel is chilled by the otherness of its chirping communication.

Two more Nomads appear, distinct in their modifications: one short and stump-like with fungal growths, and another, lean and feminine, adorned with insectoid features and a crown of mushrooms. They address him as “Mirror-Man,” suggesting his anticipated arrival and significant role. Driven by a mix of fear and desperation to return to his family, Samuel demands transport to Astrea. In a moment of intense frustration, he violently grabs the feminine Nomad, threatening her life for answers. In his rage, he accidentally kills her, her body quickly sprouting into a flesh tree.

Shocked by his action and the Nomads’ indifference, Samuel struggles with the implications of his abilities and the Nomads’ perception of life and death. He uncharacteristically threatens the remaining Nomads, desperate for a way to return to his family. As the flesh tree from the deceased Nomad solidifies, a human woman approaches, her presence marked by a blend of battle-hardened resolve and regal aura. Her dark skin, adorned with gold jewelry, contrasts vividly against the surreal environment. Introducing herself as Dr. Fana Tsehay, she offers Samuel a glowing flesh pod plucked from the still growing flesh tree, claiming it might counteract the void consuming him. She says that she made a deal with the Queen in Astrea to come here and give the Mirror Man these pods.

Samuel, desperate and distrustful, accepts the pod, driven by the urgency to save himself and his family from his deteriorating condition. Fana explains the limitations and dangers of his newfound abilities and the potential disastrous consequences of acting without understanding them. Their conversation deepens as Fana hints at Samuel’s role in the Foretold Future. Samuel’s frustration mounts with her cryptic answers and the apparent futility of his immediate situation. Determined to reach his family, Samuel insists on trying to use his abilities to reach Astrea immediately, against Fana’s advice. His attempt fails, leaving him more resolute but still stranded. Fana tells him that he needs to follow the Foretold Future for the time being, but maybe at some point he will be able to break fate. She tells him to follow, and with no other choice, Samuel goes with her, deeper into what Fana calls the land of Waru–what became of old world Australia. They walk away from the beach and into the direction of the gigantic storm spanning the whole continent.

Entry 5 Summary:

In this journal entry, Andre reflects on a deeply transformative conversation with his old friend, Denis Mendel. After twelve years of silence, Denis’s name appearing on Andre’s holo strikes him with a mixture of dread and anticipation. Andre initially suspects Denis knows of his covert activities aimed at undermining the Mendel empire. Contrary to Andre’s suspicions, Denis’s call isn’t about accusations but a confession and a plea. He admits to Andre that the world—the human world—is indeed dying, echoing the grim realities Andre had long articulated but Denis had previously ignored. Denis reveals his disillusionment with the global elite, including his own circle, acknowledging their acceptance of Earth’s destruction through climate change, nuclear warfare, and pollution as a means to maintain power. This realization has brought Denis to a pivotal moment of change, prompting him to seek Andre’s help in steering humanity towards a path of righteousness, away from the old world’s greed and gluttony.

Moved to tears by Denis’s unexpected awakening and readiness to embrace change, Andre responds affirmatively, his emotions overwhelming him. This moment marks not just a personal reconciliation but the potential for a new beginning for humanity. Andre reminisces about his own pivotal moment at age nine when a gun to his forehead set off a transformative journey within him. He reflects on his efforts to ignite a similar transformation in Denis, which, despite taking much longer than expected, has finally come to fruition. This reunion and shared vision rekindle Andre’s hope and commitment to a new future, symbolizing a significant turning point in their lives and potentially for the world.

Chapter 5: Nowhere to Run

In the year 2009, a young Andre Madeira confronts a dire situation in his family’s cramped ninth-story apartment located in the waste fields outside the grand metropolis of Denver. As the scene unfolds, Andre’s parents, Ruth and Julian, are gripped by terror, peering out of a poorly placed window at the ominous approach of Winters Security Officers. The family is deeply in debt, a billion dollars in debt, due to expenses incurred from Andre’s rare heart condition. Julian grimly accepts their fate, acknowledging that both he and Ruth are worth substantial amounts to Tsehay Manufactury and Novak Medical, which would rather claim their bodies than forgive their debts. Andre, desperate and tearful, pleads with his parents to attempt an escape, suggesting they use his knowledge of the city’s sewers as a means to evade capture. However, Julian and Ruth know that if they do not give themselves over then Andre will be in danger. Their fear and resignation crush Andre’s spirit, leaving him feeling helpless and alone.

The tension escalates quickly as Winters Security Officers break down the apartment door, demanding everyone get on the ground. The officers, enhanced with Mainstone technology and exuding brutality, are there to collect the family as payment for their debts. They are menacing and violent, immediately exerting physical control over the situation. Ruth is kicked and Julian tries to protect her, resulting in him being beat nearly to death. The situation devolves into chaos as the officers begin to beat his parents mercilessly. The head officer, particularly cruel and enjoying the display of power, makes it clear that there is no escape for Andre’s parents—they will be taken to Novak Medical to have their minds hollowed and neurolaced, meaning they will become like zombies as they work tirelessly at the local Tsehay Manufactury. Andre’s pleas for more time are ignored, and his offer to surrender if his parents are spared is met with scorn.

In a devastating turn, the officers forcibly drag Julian and Ruth away, leaving Andre to face the head officer alone. The officer, taking a moment to torment Andre further, offers him a cigarette and a business card, suggesting he’ll end up on the streets or working for them eventually. Despite the officer’s mocking tone, he leaves Andre with a chilling piece of advice about choices and paths in life, indicating that even in dire circumstances, there are still decisions to be made. He speaks of forking paths, revealing to the reader that this young Andre Madeira and Old Man Madeira from book 1 are likely the same person.

Alone and overwhelmed by the events, Andre collapses in despair, but his resolve hardens. He refuses to let the world’s cruelty change him, vowing to fight against the corporate forces that have destroyed his family. Just then, the scene shifts abruptly, revealing that this harrowing account of Andre’s childhood is part of a simulation. Thompson, the true observer, is brought abruptly back to consciousness by Tether, who has been overseeing this vivid recollection as part of the transformative experience she mentioned earlier. As Thompson comes to terms with the reality of his situation, Tether gently guides him back into slumber, promising more revelations and experiences from Andre’s life

Entry 6 Summary:

In this journal entry, Mendel describes a moment of profound transformation and completion of a long-envisioned plan. Anna has returned and is now prepared to venture into the Great Beyond, aligning with his predictions. This event marks a significant phase in a larger scheme involving not only Anna but also Fana Tsehay and Wagner Nassau, both of whom have recently awakened from their suffering pits.

As Fana and Wagner recover and regain consciousness, Mendel anticipates transcending his current form. He expresses a readiness to evolve beyond being merely a mind trapped within the technological confines of Astrea, aspiring instead to become a god-like entity, “the Mind of a goddess.” This new state is seen as the culmination of everything foretold by Mendel’s Vision. Mendel believes that soon, humanity will escape the bounds of predestination, allowing life to forge its own path towards eternity. In this new era, Mendel, as the Mind, anticipates making critical decisions on behalf of all life, embracing the enormous responsibility as a cosmic burden he is prepared to bear for the greater good.

Chapter 6: The Continental Organ

Back in the present day of 2099, Fana and Samuel navigate through the dense and vivid land of Waru, a landscape dominated by bizarre, technicolor flesh trees. As they move, an unsettling incident with a falling flesh pod and a collision with a stranger briefly interrupts their journey. Samuel bumps into a woman who is burdened with visible exhaustion and distracted by her own thoughts, quickly disappears into the dense foliage without acknowledging him. Fana, watching the interaction, questions Samuel playfully about the commonality of his politeness back in Astrea, which he deflects by commenting on the apparent misery and zombified state of the inhabitants of Waru, contrary to the supposed freedom of this new world.

As they continue, Fana explains the grim reality of human existence and the fading relevance of humanity in a world transitioning to be dominated by Nomads. She reflects on the duplicity and charm of Andre, whom she advises Samuel not to trust, even as she confesses her own misjudgments. Suddenly, the chirping Nomad and a stump Nomad from earlier reappear, shadowing them. Samuel’s frustration grows as he fails to understand why he can’t return to Astrea, with Fana explaining the metaphysical and possibly orchestrated barriers that prevent such a return. She implies that the forces controlling Waru, possibly Andre and what he and Denis have turned themselves into, The Mind, dictating this restriction.

Emerging from the flesh tree tunnel into a more open area, they see Nomads and humans interacting seamlessly with the environment. The scene is pastoral yet surreal, with elements like a river fed by webbed trees enhancing the alien nature of the landscape. Fana drinks from the river, mentioning its destination—the heart of the continent controlled by the continental storm system, all part of a grand ecological engineering project of a planetary organ beyond her understanding. She says that all the world’s rain is precipitating on this single continent, explaining why there is no change in weather anywhere else.

They discuss the nature of trust and betrayal, with Fana revealing her own past entanglement with Andre as a Titan of the old world, which led to personal and global consequences. Fana reveals that the bleak future of humanity might already be sealed, controlled by forces beyond traditional human comprehension, possibly hinting at a transition where humanity is not just replaced but fundamentally transformed. Samuel is confronted with Fana’s candid admission of her role in the broader machinations that have led to the current state of the world. She alludes to the existence of a controlling entity or force, perhaps Andre’s final vision, which has realigned the world’s destiny. This entity, which she refers to as “the Queen,” is described as an all-powerful overseer, integrating aspects of Andre and Mendel’s consciousness to form a new sovereign that dictates the ecological and societal structures of Astrea, Waru, and beyond.

Fana’s revelations about the Queen and her role in this new world order unsettle Samuel, especially her claim that he is destined to play a crucial role in this scheme by kidnapping a child known as “the Virus” for the Queen’s purposes. This task is implied to be pivotal in the ongoing manipulation and control of the world’s fate, aligning with Andre’s vision. She says that if Samuel wants to save his family, then he will have to kidnap the child and bring her to the Queen to use as a tool.

Samuel, grappling with these revelations, finds himself questioning the very foundation of his beliefs and the histories he has been told, particularly about the roles and reputations of figures like Fana and Andre. Samuel asks Fana why she doesn’t find a way to fight against the Queen, Andre, and the Mind, but Fana says that Samuel can’t understand. She says, however, that she will enter the mycelial network and attempt to do what she can. Fana says Samuel must hurry, that there is a timing to everything. Then, Fana sits down near her small hut where she apparently lives and allows mycelial tendrils to enter her ears. Her eyes roll back, and she seems to enter a trance.

The stump Nomad and chriping Nomad encourage Samuel to move forward and meet the Nomad who will fly him across the world. Samuel is nervous because he is running out of pods and the void is still consuming his body, but he has no choice and cannot go immediately to Astrea due to unseen forces, so he begins running toward the storm.

Entry 7 Summary:

In this entry, the concept of existence is likened to sparks in the infinite void of the cosmos, destined to eventually burn out despite the cyclical nature of procreation. Mendel posits that as beings, humans are inherently transient, with each generation inevitably fading back into the void from which they emerged.

To counteract this inevitable entropy, there is a drive to create beyond natural means, leading to innovations and creations that surpass the limitations of their creators. This progress leads to a dynamic where creations, having outgrown their creators, are faced with the decision to either transcend or be hindered by their origins.

Mendel delves into the complex relationship between creator and creation, suggesting that a true creation should strive to exceed and possibly even destroy its progenitor to avoid being restrained by the creator’s limitations. It portrays this cycle as a brutal but essential aspect of evolution and advancement, where the destruction of the old is a necessary step for the emergence of the new.

Chapter 7: Cid the Knower

The confrontation begins with Eddy, an intimidating and formidable opponent, stepping toward Aurelia, causing the ground to tremble beneath his weight. He taunts Aurelia, mocking her ability to fight. Meanwhile, Aliana, under the influence of the glowies, is detached from the severity of the situation. Although Aurelia’s attempt to access her prescient abilities fails, a previous vision assures her of their fated arrival in Downver, emboldening her to face Eddy head-on.

As the fight unfolds, Aurelia cleverly manipulates Eddy’s perception of her sword’s length and launches an attack. Eddy, amused and dismissive, underestimates Aurelia’s capabilities. However, her swift and calculated movements challenge his arrogance. Aurelia taps into a brief flash of prescience, discerning Eddy’s reliance on his left arm and adjusting her tactics accordingly. This strategic insight allows her to dodge Eddy’s powerful blows and counterattack, wounding his hand and momentarily gaining the upper hand. Eventually, though, Eddy gains the upper hand and knocks Aurelia’s sword out of her hands. The duel escalates when Aliana, still affected by the mushrooms and wielding both her and Aurelia’s swords, joins the fray. Despite her intoxicated state, Aliana demonstrates remarkable combat skills, her movements enhanced and seemingly accelerated by her altered perception. Aliana’s ability to manipulate time becomes evident as she effortlessly dodges and deflects Eddy’s cybernetically enhanced attacks, including a lethal chain weapon that transforms into blades aimed at her head. Her control over the flow of combat is so precise that she appears to bend time itself, turning Eddy’s desperate strikes into futile gestures.

As Aliana prepares to deliver a decisive blow, Aurelia watches in awe, fully expecting her sister to triumph as her prescience had confidently predicted. However, the reality shatters Aurelia’s expectation when Ricardo, in a panic, uses a firearm to intervene, seriously wounding Aliana. This unexpected turn of events devastates Aurelia, not only because of the immediate danger to her sister but also because it starkly reveals the fallibility of her prescient abilities. Her confidence in her foresight is replaced by a profound sense of betrayal and helplessness, as she struggles to reconcile her expectations with the harsh outcome of the battle. The scene continues with Aurelia’s desperation as she attempts to save Aliana, confronting the limitations of her powers and the uncertain fate that lies ahead, while Eddy and the others react with a mixture of shock and confusion to the sudden and violent shift in the battle’s trajectory.

The mysterious and flamboyant Cid, known as the First Lord of the Walled City of Downver, emerges from the shadows, towering over everyone with his striking presence. His appearance is marked by his pale, taut skin, stark white hair styled into a widow’s peak, and clothing adorned with dizzying silver swirls. He wears oversized black glasses with silver frames, adding to his eccentric look. Cid announces confidently that he knows Aliana is alive, claiming his knowledge surpasses even Aurelia’s faltering prescience, hinting at a disturbance in her abilities that he seems intimately aware of. He confronts Aurelia, recognizing her by the title “the Virus,” a name given by her creator, hinting at his deep knowledge of her identity and powers.

The situation intensifies as Cid displays a disturbing blend of omniscience and manipulation. He effortlessly makes Eddy convulse on the ground with a flash of his glasses and turns his attention to Aurelia, taunting her about her inability to control her powers. Despite Aurelia’s demands to help her sister, Cid is more interested in flaunting his control, further unsettling everyone with his mercurial nature. Cid’s power and knowledge are on full display as he casually dismisses the boys’ shock at the revelation of the sisters’ origins—not from Downver or any human district. Amidst this, a critical moment unfolds as Aurelia, driven by a flawed prescient impulse, attempts to assassinate Cid with her sword. The attempt backfires dramatically, ending in the accidental and gruesome impalement of Ricardo, one of the young onlookers, which Cid coldly dismisses as inconsequential. The scene culminates with Cid’s display of power and control, not just over the physical scene with his telekinetic-like abilities but also over the narrative of fate itself. He offers Aurelia a Phoenix-vial, purported to heal Aliana.

Aliana regains consciousness with a groan. Aliana, confused and disoriented, inquires about the chaotic events she missed. Eddy, with a mix of respect and fear, acknowledges Aliana’s formidable combat skills demonstrated prior to her injury, teasing her about the brutal encounter. Cid, ever the manipulative observer, declares himself as the savior who prevented Aliana’s death, suggesting his powers extend beyond mere physical manipulation to altering fates and outcomes. This revelation unnerves Aurelia, who ponders the true extent of Cid’s abilities and his potential control over their destinies. The conversation takes a darker turn as Cid and Eddy discuss the potential of selling the sisters into a life of servitude. This is countered by Cid’s assertion of their unique non-human origins, which he uses to assert their value beyond mere physical exploitation. Cid’s knowledge of the secret Wintersvilla battle language and his insinuations about the sisters’ origins raise questions about his own origins and intentions. The confrontation escalates as Cid nonchalantly discusses the strategic implications of their actions and his plans for the future. Aurelia uses the newfound power of her void-black arm to remove her sword from the wall where it impaled Ricardo. As the chapter closes, Aurelia and Aliana, now somewhat reunited in their purpose and resolve, prepare to navigate the dark paths laid out by Cid.

Entry 8 Summary:

Mendel elucidates the symbiotic relationship between Earth and humanity, likening it to the indispensable connection between the human body and its microbial inhabitants. He argues that just as microbial cells outnumber human cells in the body, playing crucial roles in various physiological processes, humans function similarly for Earth—small in size but significant in influence, embodying a vital component of the planet’s overarching consciousness.

Mendel posits that humans, in their interactions with Earth, may be more akin to viruses in scale but are crucial like bacteria in function, influencing the planet’s living processes. This concept introduces a perspective of humans not merely as residents of Earth but as active participants in its life functions, essential to its awareness and survival.

Mendel introduces the endeavors of the Nomads, tasked with constructing what he terms the planetary organs—components like the Earth’s nervous system, heart, and sensory apparatus, along with other structures that have no counterparts in human anatomy. These constructs are part of the broader neoevolution process, a step on Mendel’s Ladder, leading humanity and Earth to a collective Ascension.

Chapter 8: A Planetary Jaunt

Samuel, faced with the urgency of reaching the flying Nomad as instructed by Fana, launches into a sprint with remarkable speed towards the colossal storm that defines Waru’s horizon. He is driven by a mix of determination to meet the flying Nomad and a personal affirmation of his newfound identity as the Mirror-Man, a title he reluctantly embraces despite only having a superficial understanding of its significance. As Samuel runs, he notices the ground beneath him is unnaturally alive. Mycelial tendrils, similar to those that had interacted with Fana, emerge from the earth, reacting to his presence. They brush against his legs and feet, an unnerving sensation that he tries to ignore, focusing instead on his mission. These tendrils, he realizes, are an extension of the bizarre ecosystem Andre Madeira, now part of the entity known as the Mind, has engineered. Samuel’s revulsion grows as he considers the world Madeira has created and continues to shape—a world that feels both alien and hostile. Samuel’s run is so forceful that it generates a shockwave, propelling him forward and momentarily parting the rainfall around him. This accidental burst of speed brings him closer to the storm than intended, revealing the storm’s massive scale and the bizarre sentinel trees feeding it. These trees, stretching skywards and pulsating with water, are like nothing Samuel has ever seen, resembling giant living antennas that sway with the storm’s winds. Caught between awe and horror, Samuel is momentarily distracted by the sight of local inhabitants interacting with the sentinel trees in a grim cycle of birth and rebirth. Men and women merge with the trees, either being consumed by them or emerging from them. This sight cements Samuel’s resolve not to bring his family into this hellish place, reinforcing his desperation to change his family’s fate.

In his distraction, Samuel overshoots the meeting point with the flying Nomad. He quickly corrects his position, searching for the Nomad amidst the chaotic environment. His search is abruptly successful when a strangely jovial, middle-aged woman approaches him. She introduces herself as Inflated Sapien and without hesitation, begins transforming herself into a balloon-like entity to transport Samuel. Her body inflates and reshapes into a massive, buoyant form capable of flight. Samuel, though deeply unsettled by Inflated Sapien’s transformation and the otherworldly methods of travel in this new Earth, realizes he has little choice but to trust her if he wants to reach Astrea and save his family. Reluctantly, he climbs inside her expanded form, trying to suppress his discomfort as he settles within her transformed body. As they prepare to take off, driven by the storm’s power, Samuel reflects on his situation. He grapples with his identity, the disturbing reality of the new Earth, and the actions he might have to take to save his family. Inside Inflated Sapien, Samuel is surrounded by the dim glow of his own bioluminescent chest, a reminder of the unnatural changes within him and the ticking clock represented by the fading mushrooms and the encroaching void.

Samuel, poised to retrieve one of his last remaining pods to stave off the spreading void within him, is jolted by a sudden movement from Inflated Sapien. As she takes off into the storm with an awe-struck exclamation, Samuel finds himself grappling with the intense forces acting upon his body. Despite his urgency to reach Astrea, the sheer velocity presses him firmly against the vein-lined walls of Inflated Sapien’s interior, making it nearly impossible to move. Overcome by the chaos outside, Samuel’s screams to redirect to Astrea go unheard amidst the roar of thunder and the violent shifts in wind. His physical struggle intensifies when he is thrown from one side to the other, even bursting through the flesh of Inflated Sapien due to the ferocity of the storm. Through the tear, he glimpses the terrifying spectacle of the storm’s core: a massive, writhing mass of sentinel trees knotted together, reaching up into the storm like a living monolith charged with electricity. The sight instills a deep primal fear in Samuel, yet it also cements his resolve to escape and protect his family. Despite the impossibility of his situation, he continues to shout for Inflated Sapien to head to Astrea, though his commands seem futile. The g-force increases as they are inexorably drawn towards the center of the storm, where the intertwined trees form a pulsating heart of the planetary organ—a structure so vast and terrifying that it defies Samuel’s understanding of nature. As they plunge deeper into the heart of the storm, Samuel experiences a horrifying acceleration that tests the limits of his transformed body. The overwhelming forces distort his perception, yet he remains acutely aware of his precarious situation. Lightning strikes Inflated Sapien, causing her to tumble uncontrollably, while Samuel, half inside, half outside, struggles with the g-forces twisting his neck and threatening to sever his connection to the protective interior.

The climax of their tumultuous ascent occurs as they reach the very core of the planetary organ. Samuel sees the sentinel trees parting slightly, creating a narrow path forward. Inflated Sapien, driven by the storm, hurtles through this opening, subjected to an intense barrage of lightning that propels them with even greater speed. The sensation is both exhilarating and terrifying, as Samuel feels the raw power of the planetary core resonating like a deep, unending didgeridoo note, vibrating through both their bodies. Surviving what seemed like certain destruction, Samuel and Inflated Sapien emerge on the other side of the storm, into a relative calm that allows Samuel a moment of reflection. He realizes that the transformation of Inflated Sapien during their ordeal has turned her into a flesh tree with a more sophisticated form, resembling a cockpit equipped with a seat and viewing membranes. This new form allows Samuel a clearer view of their high-speed journey across the sky, racing away from the storm towards an unknown destination.

Inside this transformed Inflated Sapien, Samuel confronts the reality of his dire situation—the void within him continues to consume his body, and his supply of life-preserving pods is dwindling. Yet, driven by a newfound understanding of his role as the Mirror-Man, he refuses to succumb to despair. Instead, he chooses to assert his will, connecting to the flesh tree and speaking directly to Inflated Sapien through his mind. He demands that they divert to Astrea, despite Inflated Sapien’s warnings of the catastrophic consequences of deviating from the predetermined path. Despite Inflated Sapien’s regretful warning, their ascent is abruptly challenged by a swift silver streak, identified as Harald Mainstone, the Sixth Prodigal Son of the Agency. This projectile, moving at an astonishing speed, zeroes in on them, illustrating the conflict between Samuel’s defiance of Mendel’s Ladder and the uncompromising enforcement of Harald’s allegiance to the established vision, signaling a direct and imminent confrontation.

Entry 9 Summary:

In the aftermath of global catastrophe, Mendel reflects on the devastation wrought upon Earth’s major cities, now reduced to ashes by nuclear forces. He describes the Titans, powerful beings who reveled in the destruction, viewing the obliteration as mere stepping stones toward a future they believe Mendel has promised. Mendel notes the irony of their mirth, as they are unaware of the grim fate he has in store for them aboard Astrea, where eternal suffering awaits them.

Mendel contemplates the inherent destructiveness of advanced civilizations, suggesting that humanity’s propensity for nuclear warfare might be a common trait among intelligent species. He critiques the paradox of the United States’ monopoly on nuclear weapons, given its historical use of them, appreciating the simplicity it brings to his plans of manipulation.

Dealing with the Titans requires subtlety; Mendel must maintain their illusion that he is an ally, ensuring they board Astrea under the false belief of safety. They think to protect their progeny while they vie for the remnants of Earth and cosmic resources, oblivious to the fact that their schemes will lead only to their demise. Mendel relishes the anticipation of their future pleas for mercy, using it as a mental counter to their haunting laughter amidst global destruction.

Chapter 9: The Great Sacrifice

In 2045, Andre Madeira finds himself in his fortress, Uranus’ Sky, situated in the Drake Passage between Cape Horn and Antarctica’s South Shetland Islands. Andre is not alone; he is mentally and physically connected to Denis Mendel, a brilliant mind transformed into an advanced AI housed in a series of quantum computing devices, whose thoughts and voice are transmitted directly to Andre via a chip implanted at the base of his neck.

The fortress, shrouded in an impenetrable black fog known locally as La Isla de Sombra y Hueso (Island of Shadow and Bone), is concealed from the outside world. This isolation is maintained by quintillions of Mainstone nanobots that form a protective shield, destroying anyone who approaches. The island, extending to the ocean floor, remains invisible to electronic surveillance, detectable only by the human eye as a vague shadow amid rolling mists. Andre’s office is filled with the physical manifestation of Mendel’s brain, now an extensive network of opalescent and golden tubes filled with electric surges, reflecting Mendel’s self-directed evolution from human to a superintelligent AI. This setup indicates Mendel’s enormous intellectual growth, having advanced far beyond any human predecessor, transforming into an entity whose thoughts span across multiple dimensions of understanding.

As Andre prepares for a crucial meeting with the Titans—a group of the world’s wealthiest and most powerful individuals—he reflects on his friendship and ultimate betrayal of Mendel. He recalls forcing Mendel’s transformation to AI, driven by both a desire to fulfill his friend’s intellectual ambitions and a darker, necessary push towards what Andre sees as a pivotal evolutionary step.

The Titans, who are about to join Andre, remain oblivious to the true nature of Mendel’s existence as an omnipresent AI, instead believing him to be merely a powerful ally. Only Gladys Mainstone is not present, though she still helped Andre by supplying the nanobots. The present Titans include:

1. Tomasz Novak and Ruben Avila – Heads of their respective families, controlling vast global wealth. Tomasz’s family profits from healthcare, while Ruben’s benefits from environmental degradation. They are perpetual rivals, their conversations a mix of multiple languages.
2. Marissa Welf – Known for her deadly influence, marked by the vials of her deceased husbands’ blood she wears around her neck. Her presence at the meeting is driven by both her financial interests and a morbid fascination with the power dynamics at play.
3. Fana Tsehay – Another titan, whose family’s ambitions stretch across the cosmos, planning to use mass-produced workers to populate factory planets. Fana’s ruthlessness is matched only by her vision of a universe filled with subservient, hollowed-out human laborers.
4. Craig Winters – A brute whose power comes from his control over others using his highly trained and specialized Winters Security Forces. He eagerly anticipates the destruction and chaos that will facilitate his own rise in power.
5. Lorenzo Visconti and Lingyun Liu – Representatives of banking and energy sectors, respectively. Both are men of few words, their lives dedicated to the accumulation of wealth and power, indifferent to the human cost.
6. John Downver – Involved in secretive construction projects, including the creation of Downver, that serve the larger plans of Mendel’s AI network. He is unaware of his impending obsolescence in the face of upcoming biological and robotic innovations.
7. Wagner Nassau – Wagner comes from a family of advisors who have served the elite for millennia, offering justifications for their actions and ensuring their continued influence and wealth. Unlike the others, Wagner is not a primary actor but rather a facilitator of others’ power, benefiting indirectly from the machinations around him.

As these Titans gather, their conversations circle around the imminent use of “Cleaners,” genetically engineered beings designed for massive ecological and population control projects. These discussions are tinged with the cold logic of profit and power, devoid of moral considerations. Andre orchestrates this meeting with a dual perspective—internally torn by memories of his past and his actions, yet externally manipulating the Titans towards a future orchestrated by Mendel’s vision. Each decision and discussion is steered towards enabling a new phase of human evolution, as envisioned by Mendel, with Andre acting as the intermediary between Mendel’s AI capabilities and the Titans’ worldly powers. As the meeting progresses, Andre contemplates the future, his role in it, and the moral compromises he has made. He is haunted by the broader implications of their plans—massive destruction, human suffering, and the creation of a new world order under their control. This reflects a deep existential conflict within Andre, as he balances his quest for power and control with the lingering guilt and responsibility for the forthcoming human and ecological disasters.

At the designated moment to set their cataclysmic plans into motion, Mendel, speaking through the AI within Andre’s mind, gives the simple command to begin. This signal snaps Andre out of his contemplations of the dark motivations and histories of his fellow Titans. The Titans, unaware of Mendel’s true form as an omnipresent AI, continue to show deference to his authority, illustrating their blind ambition for power and control. Wagner Nassau, unlike his fellow Titans who are eager to begin, is visibly filled with terror and apprehension, reflecting his lack of the ruthlessness that characterizes his peers. Andre, serving as Mendel’s mouthpiece, formally thanks the Titans for their historical and recent efforts in advancing what they believe to be a grand, transformative vision for humanity. He outlines the stark choice they face: fully commit to the plan or leave the group, with the implicit threat that leaving could endanger their lives and those of their families. This ultimatum is punctuated by a reference to Gladys, another Titan who has chosen a different path yet still serves a purpose in Mendel’s grand scheme.

With finality, Andre triggers the sequence that will initiate nuclear attacks across the globe. Cities like Denver, Chicago, New York, and others are listed, each chosen as a sacrificial site to bring about a new world order. The room’s holographic displays provide a live feed of the destruction, showing each city’s obliteration in excruciating detail—from the vaporization of Denver’s skyline to the obliteration of iconic structures in New York and the melting of historical landmarks in Paris. The Titans, except for the deeply troubled Wagner, react with a disturbing satisfaction to the unfolding horror, with some like Fana and Marissa deriving a perverse pleasure from the mass suffering. Andre, internally tormented by the scale of death and destruction, rationalizes the necessity of his actions. He convinces himself that this painful path is the only way to dismantle the Titans’ control and truly liberate humanity from its chains. This belief is supported by Mendel’s guidance, which Andre follows meticulously, believing that each step, no matter how heinous, is essential for the ultimate goal of human evolution and liberation. Andre remains focused on the ANNA project and the birthing of the emerald-eyed woman who he believes will allow them to enter the Great Beyond decades in the future. The chapter closes with Andre’s agonizing acknowledgment of the cost of their actions, haunted by the echoes of his past decisions and the vivid reality of his present actions. Despite the internal conflict, he remains committed to the path laid out by Mendel, convinced that only through such radical measures can humanity be steered towards a new, hopefully brighter future.

Suddenly, the narrative perspective shifts dramatically, revealing that all of this was happening within Thompson’s mind, who awakens back in the cave with Tether. This moment of awakening is disorienting for Thompson, as the shift in identity and reality suggests a complex intertwining of memories and possibly programmed experiences. Tether welcomes him back to the present and tells him he has some decisions to make.

Entry 10 Summary:

As Mendel’s Ladder is ascended and Mendel’s Vision comes closer to fulfillment, Mendel anticipates a vast increase in variables beyond even his own extensive foresight, particularly after Anna’s journey into the Great Beyond where she will sever the ties of fate. This burgeoning unpredictability is not only inevitable but also strategic, serving as a crucial advantage in what Mendel views as a skirmish with divine entities.

Mendel argues that while unpredictability is vital in confronting gods, it alone will not secure victory. To truly challenge divine might, one must either match or surpass it. Recognizing the daunting challenge of overcoming such power directly, Mendel has chosen to weaken the gods through a dual approach of attrition and cunning.

The strategy of attrition exploits the suffering pits, extracting agony from the fallen Titans to forge a weapon for Anna, transforming their torment into a tool of rebellion against their creators. Concurrently, Mendel’s own intellect serves as the instrument of cunning. He plans for Anna to assimilate his consciousness upon her return, facilitating the genesis of the Mind. This integration will trigger a spread of consciousness across Earth, culminating in the planet’s—and Mendel’s own—awakening by the century’s turn. This awakening marks only the beginning of what Mendel envisions as the real work: a new phase of neoevolution leading to Ascension, where humanity and Earth itself will transcend their current existence, reshaping their destiny in the cosmos.

Chapter 10: The Walled City

Aurelia and Aliana navigate a narrow, dimly lit cavernous path, drawn towards an abrupt source of orange light at a distant turn. As they move, a rhythmic thumping, reminiscent of Wintersvilla’s war drums but faster and more intense, vibrates through the ground and walls, then suddenly stops. Confused and unsettled, Aliana questions the eerie glowing of their eyes and the source of the thumping. Resuming their journey, the thumping starts again, increasing in tempo. The sisters pause at the entrance to the light, exchanging concerns about each other’s well-being. Despite her internal turmoil and the unreliable nature of her powers, Aurelia reassures Aliana, masking her own fears to prevent further worry.

They step into the light, revealing a long corridor illuminated by dim bulbs spaced at intervals. At the corridor’s end, they see Cid and Eddy conversing, with Doe standing nearby, observing them. The sisters discuss their teachers and lost loved ones from Wintersvilla, using the moment to strengthen their resolve despite the pain of their memories. Cid interrupts their reminiscence, dismissing their past and asserting that they are the last of their kind, derogatively calling them “Winter’s Remains.”

They proceed through the passage, entering a small chamber dominated by a massive steel door. Here, Cid boasts of his power, claiming he could exterminate the population of Downver at his whim, while pointing out Eddy and Doe as examples of obedience. Cid tells a harsh lesson to Doe about the value of his friend’s death as a building block for his character. This prompts Aurelia to discreetly express her sympathy to Doe, hoping to mitigate any animosity he might feel towards her. However, Cid dismisses her gesture, emphasizing the brutal philosophy that underpins his rule. The door is finally opened by Eddy, revealing another dimly lit and larger room. In response to Aliana’s inquiry about a place to soak in sunlight, Cid, dismissively addressing her as “wench,” uses a flash of red light from his lenses to crumple and flatten the wheel on the door, effectively sealing it. Shocked by this display, Aliana and Aurelia grapple with the horrifying potential of Cid’s capabilities, particularly his ability to manipulate metal, which could lethally target a Wintersvilla Warrior’s skeletal reinforcements.

The sudden appearance of Armando, a figure both revered and feared. Described by Eddy and Doe in awe, Armando’s presence is imposing, marked by his refined physical form and mechanical enhancements that hint at a fusion of human and cybernetic elements, reminiscent of past practices in Wintersvilla. His appearance, coupled with his passive acceptance of being referred to as a mere “tool” by Cid, raises questions about his autonomy and the nature of his existence.

The tension escalates as Doe, moved by Aurelia’s appearance, reaches out to touch her face, an act that is swiftly rebuked by Aliana’s protective aggression. This incident reveals Doe’s fascination and naive attraction to Aurelia, setting a stark contrast to the cold, calculating environment dictated by Cid. Despite Aliana’s mocking dismissal of any romantic inclinations toward men, Aurelia finds herself confused and conflicted about her own feelings, questioning the rigid cultural norms of Wintersvilla that have shaped her identity. As the group prepares to leave the room, Cid’s commands outline their next destination within the complex urban sprawl of the Walled City. As the heavy door opens, Aurelia and Aliana are thrust into the pulsating heart of the Walled City, enveloped in a dizzying array of lights, sounds, and smells. The passage they enter reveals a dense, vibrant sprawl vastly different from anything in Wintersvilla, filled with neon-lit stalls and makeshift homes that jut out from the walls haphazardly, creating a chaotic yet lively scene. The air is thick with the scents of pickled insects, fermented fungus, heated bioplastics, and exotic flowers, while holographic banners add to the visual overload, flashing above the teeming masses.

Aurelia and Aliana are struck by the extraordinary diversity of the residents, who use an array of additional limbs—furred fists, slimy tentacles, glimmering machine hands—to navigate through the crowd with ease. These appendages seem as natural to the inhabitants as breathing, indicating a population perfectly adapted to their environment. The ubiquitous use of bioluminescent tattoos, particularly those depicting Wintersvilla Women in combat, marks a cultural nod that both fascinates and unnerves Aurelia. Eddy’s respect for the First Lord and the hierarchy of the Walled City is evident as he commands attention upon their arrival. The introduction of four unusual sentries with elongated necks and a blend of human and insectoid features further cements the surreal nature of the Walled City.

The sudden intervention by Doe, who pulls Aurelia and Aliana away from an impending danger and urges them to escape, shifts the atmosphere from awe to urgency. As they flee, the girls see the gray boy from the cave, now alongside Cid and mirroring his actions. His connection to Cid and his presence in such a pivotal moment suggest deeper machinations at play, tying back to the enigmatic and possibly sinister motives of the city’s rulers. Aurelia’s last glance back, seeing the boy’s and Cid’s synchronized wave, leaves her with more questions than answers, propelling her deeper into the heart of the Walled City and whatever fate awaits them there.

Entry 11 Summary:

In Mendel’s contemplation, he reflects on the dichotomous paths to hell and heaven, both paradoxically intertwined with intentions contrary to their destinations. Mendel painfully acknowledges that the heaven he envisions for humanity necessitates a passage through hell—a notion he sees mirrored in the actions of the old world Titans, who built their paradise at the expense of creating a hell for others, including himself.

Survivors of the cataclysmic future Mendel will orchestrate may view him as malevolent, devoid of morality. This, he concedes, would be a fair assessment if he were akin to the Titans, but Mendel sees a crucial distinction: unlike the Titans, he possesses a genuine heart, albeit one flawed from birth. Mendel reveals how a minor congenital defect—a deviation in his heart’s right ventricle—set a chain reaction of exploitation and profit, entangling various corporations and entities in a web of greed that ultimately led to the exploitation of his parents and their transformation into laborers. This personal tragedy underscores for Mendel how seemingly insignificant factors can dictate monumental changes in fate.

This reflection leads Mendel to consider the role of the Mirror-Man, a version of himself with the potential freedom that makes him both a profound and perilous entity. Mendel’s strategy hinges on trusting his original self, housed in the Foundation, to nurture and guide the Mirror-Man. Ultimately, Mendel places the fate of his Ascension and humanity’s reach for the Great Beyond in the hands of the Mirror-Man. Each decision, no matter how small, made by the Mirror-Man is crucial, shaping the potential for Ascension and dictating whether Mendel’s vision will achieve its transcendental objectives.

Chapter 11: Amplified Reflection

As Samuel commands Inflated Sapien to ascend towards Astrea, they are attacked by Harald, who swiftly destroys Inflated Sapien and sends Samuel hurtling through the air. Devastated by the loss and near-miss opportunity to reunite with his family, Samuel finds himself plummeting towards the Nomadic Earth once again, specifically targeting the North American Continent as he falls.

As he descends, Samuel gains a panoramic view of the drastically transformed Earth. His enhanced vision reveals vast wastelands dotted with solitary flesh trees and sparse groups of Nomads. The forests, vibrant with technicolor flesh trees, stretch far beyond in the north and south, presenting a stark contrast to the barren wastelands. Haunted by memories and realizing the irony of his location—near the exact spot where he first fell from Astrea—Samuel reflects on the painful history of deception and manipulation by Madeira. This moment of introspection fuels a rage against Madeira. In the midst of his turbulent descent and emotional turmoil, Samuel strategizes his next moves. He recognizes the impossibility of directly saving his family without risking their lives further due to his uncontrollable powers. His grim resolve is to kidnap a child, Aurelia, as a bargaining chip to save his family, a plan imposed upon him by the foretold narrative of the Mind and its manipulative orchestrations.

Miraculously, Samuel lands in a crater, creating only minor seismic disturbances despite the potential for catastrophic impact. This controlled landing, far from his target, suggests both the extent of his abilities and the limitations imposed by his situation. His dire predicament worsens as he realizes the loss of the crucial life-preserving pods during his descent. At the crater, Samuel encounters two contrasting figures: an old man in rags and a radiantly dressed young man, Leif Mainstone, the Seventh Prodigal Son. Leif introduces himself as the Memory of the Earth, claiming a profound observational role that spans personal and global events. His presence and knowledge unsettle Samuel, who is wary of any affiliations with the manipulative powers governing the world. Leif’s claim that fate still governs their paths for the time being suggests an ongoing battle between predetermined destinies and the potential for individual agency. He directs Samuel to a hidden entrance to Downver, hinting at imminent moral dilemmas that will challenge Samuel’s integrity and decision-making. Despite Samuel’s reluctance to engage with Leif’s stories or trust his guidance, he follows him towards Downver, driven by urgency and the diminishing hope of altering his and his family’s fate.

Atop a ridge, Wesley nervously hands Samuel two intact pods, which Samuel secures tightly around his waist with Fana’s silk. Wesley’s reaction is fearful, and he quickly retreats after the exchange. Despite Wesley’s apparent mistrust, he expresses a profound dedication to a matriarchal vision under which he wishes to serve, highlighting his lifelong condition as a willing servant—or slave—to the matriarch of Wintersvilla. He speaks of the honor of his servitude and his pride in being owned, a sentiment Samuel finds deeply unsettling but indicative of the broader societal norms outside of Astrea. Leif Mainstone, introducing himself as the Memory of the Earth, asserts his role in observing and recording the events of the world. He explains his capabilities and limitations, noting that despite his ethereal form, he is unable to approach Astrea due to mysterious forces that threaten to tear him apart. This barrier is linked to the presence of dark, monstrous entities that resemble black holes, which exert a gravitational-like pull even on his light-like form.

The group encounters a Cleaner. The Cleaner is involved in a ritualistic preparation of a paste from a vine with purple flowers, which he then uses to mark himself. The discussion reveals Wesley’s deep-seated belief in the righteousness of his servitude and his fear and loyalty towards the matriarchal figures he serves. Despite his old age and frailty, he insists on accompanying Samuel to ensure the safety of Aliana and Aurelia. As they prepare to part ways, Wesley is coerced by Leif to return to Wintersvilla to rally the other slaves around the notion that their matriarch, now Aliana, still reigns, which Wesley accepts with a heavy heart, showing a mixture of resignation and determination.

Samuel and Leif then face a physical obstacle: a massive boulder blocking their path to Downver. Leif challenges Samuel to use his amplified abilities to remove it. Samuel, reflecting on the manipulations and expectations placed upon him throughout his life, particularly by Andre Madeira, musters his strength and resolve. In a dramatic demonstration of his power, Samuel dislodges the boulder, which is sent hurtling at an extraordinary speed, disappearing from sight. Leif reports that the boulder is already past the moon moving at relativistic speeds.

In the aftermath, Samuel, grappling with the implications of his actions and the ongoing need to protect his family, consumes one of the last pods to maintain his existence. He then steps into the cave leading towards Downver, resolute but troubled by the moral compromises he anticipates having to make, including the potential kidnapping of a young girl to save his family.

Entry 12 Summary:

Mendel’s reflections deepen as he contemplates the enigmatic nature of reality and its transformative effects on human destiny. He describes reality as a continuous forking path, where each moment signifies both the closure of infinite potentialities and the perpetuation of endless alternatives. This dualistic nature of reality—both an end and a continuation—brings to light the human condition of experiencing only the path that is tread, oblivious to the myriad untraveled routes and their concealed terminations.

In his introspection, Mendel confronts the common human lament of missed opportunities, suggesting that most unchosen paths lead to endings rather than new beginnings, although such outcomes are unknowable to those who journey only a single route. This insight is drawn from his broader understanding of existence and fate, as revealed through Mendel’s Vision—a prophetic insight that identifies a unique, eternal path among transient trails. This singular path, according to Mendel, does not succumb to the inevitable cessation that defines all others. Instead, it continuously bifurcates and extends into perpetuity, symbolizing the process of neoevolution and culminating in Ascension.

By choosing this path, Mendel commits to a trajectory that defies the traditional finitude of human endeavors and existence. He envisions a future where humanity, though altered and evolved beyond current recognition, does not face an end but rather an infinite progression. Through this, Mendel himself embraces a form of immortality, transcending the physical and temporal limits that bind ordinary existence. His narrative is one of relentless pursuit towards a transcendental reality where humanity’s potential is continually realized and expanded.

Chapter 12:

Thompson awakens suddenly, his breath ragged, still haunted by vivid afterimages of old world Titans laughing maniacally. His mind, caught in a flickering turmoil, struggles with the remnants of destruction witnessed across metropolises. As reality warbles, part of him insists it’s still 2045, that he is Andre Madeira, but then, reality asserts itself and he finds he’s a Hunter in a cave, on another planet, with Tether, a woman from another reality. Tether, observing Thompson’s confusion, maintains a serene smile, her face phasing between clarity and obscurity. She informs Thompson that he faces several choices now, choices that will define his true freedom. But to truly be free, he must confront and accept the truth about his creators, Denis Mendel and Andre Madeira.

Thompson resists, conflicted by his memories as Andre, aware of Andre’s pain and regret yet unable to forgive his manipulation of Anna. Tether suggests that Anna returned to The Mind willingly, but Thompson, enraged, refutes this, unable to accept that Anna would willingly serve the creators who caused so much destruction. Tether calmly challenges Thompson, comparing his actions as the Butcher to those of Andre and Mendel, suggesting that if he can’t accept his own nature, how can he accept them. This strikes a chord in Thompson, who is forced to acknowledge the similarity in their capacity for violence. Amidst this confrontation, Thompson questions his worth and Tether’s intentions, disbelieving her claims about Anna’s choices. Tether, unflinching, insists on the importance of facing The Mind, not just for vengeance but for a deeper reconciliation with his past and identity. The conversation then shifts to the need for a weapon, a virus, to defeat The Mind. Tether reveals that this virus is Aurelia, a young inhuman girl, whom Thompson has protected before. This revelation adds layers to Thompson’s quest, intertwining his fate with Aurelia’s, as he grapples with the implications of her being designed as a weapon, like himself.

Thompson is abruptly transported back to Earth, finding himself in the Northern Butcher Wastelands, disoriented but aware of the strategic importance of his location. He encounters MaxxEl and his mutants, a group of non-human allies, and despite his initial reservations, he finds a sense of purpose in their willingness to assist him. As they prepare to set out on their mission to Downver to find Aurelia, Thompson is tormented by internal voices–Andre arguing with Gladys.

As they journey south toward Downver, Thompson’s mind continues to buzz with the persistent echoes of Andre and other intrusive thoughts, now dulling into a faint hum synchronized with El’s rhythmic footsteps. Despite the relentless mental noise, Thompson finds solace in Maxx’s constant chatter about his expansive travels and the battles he’s faced. The boy’s stories about the Boreal Kingdom captivate Thompson, though he’s never heard of such a place. Maxx’s voice, unceasing and filled with the enthusiasm of his youth, oddly comforts Thompson, providing a distraction from his inner turmoil. But as Maxx delves into a tale involving a woman named Lucy, he suddenly halts, his face contorting in horror—a slip that reveals his deep-seated fears and secrets.

Concerned, Thompson inquires, prompting Maxx to apologize profusely, his voice barely a whisper as he mentions King BigBilly, indicating a protective instinct over Lucy’s identity. This moment of vulnerability from Maxx leads Thompson to reflect on his own protective instincts towards Anna, understanding the boy’s need to shield someone important. Realizing they are nearing their destination, Thompson feels the weight of his past actions in the wastelands, acknowledging his destructive path and the inevitable violence that seems to follow him. Despite his desire to change, the harsh reality of his mission—to kill the Mind to save Anna—confirms that violence remains a necessary part of his journey. As they pause, Maxx and Thompson share a moment of connection over their mutual need to protect those they care about. Thompson opens up about Anna, entrusting Maxx with her name and his mission, solidifying their bond. Maxx, moved by Thompson’s trust, remains guarded about Lucy, hinting at complexities in his past that he’s not yet ready to disclose.

The sudden scent of a Cleaner disrupts their moment, leading Thompson and Maxx to encounter a solitary Cleaner accompanied by a human (Wesley, who has been given a flower tattoo) and a group of Nomads. This unusual sight piques their curiosity, especially since Cleaners typically move in groups. Maxx’s distrust of the Cleaner, shared by El, heightens the tension, reflecting their past experiences and survival instincts. Thompson decides to confront the Cleaner alone, approaching cautiously. Their interaction reveals a complex communication of clangs and gestures, through which the Cleaner queries Thompson’s identity. Thompson’s response highlights his transformation from a Hunter to something new and undefined, marked by a body no longer aligned with his former life.

Their conversation shifts to the peculiar inability of Thompson to detect certain individuals, a mystery that the Cleaner attributes to the “Mark of Matriarch,” a protective mark designed to shield its bearers from all forms of detection, including future threats. This revelation offers Thompson a slight reassurance about Maxx’s safety from potential threats like Volya. However, the Cleaner’s information leads to more questions about the nature of the “Matriarch” and her intentions, only deepening the mystery surrounding Thompson’s mission. As the discussion turns to the immediate threat—the Mirror-Man and his search for the “Virus,” Aurelia—Thompson learns of the dual potential of Aurelia as both a weapon against and for the Mind, complicating his objectives.

Realizing the urgency of the situation, Thompson prepares to race against time to intercept the Mirror-Man and save Aurelia. His newfound abilities, symbolized by his dramatic transformation into winged flight, underscore his evolution beyond his original Hunter capabilities and also show that the Earth will no longer stop his ascent to Astrea. Thompson’s internal battle with Andre’s lingering influence and his commitment to saving Anna culminate in a determined resolve to confront whatever challenges await in Downver and beyond. As he bids farewell to Maxx and plunges into the unknown, Thompson carries the weight of his past and the hope of changing the future.

Entry 13 Summary:

The ANNA project, a critical component of Mendel’s grand strategy, progresses on schedule, heralding profound transformations for humanity. Within six months of the entry’s writing, the city of Downver, a sanctuary and fortress, will gather as many survivors as possible before sealing its formidable gates. This action is a direct response to the release of the first young Hunters from their birth-fires—a meticulously timed event orchestrated by Mendel.

John Downver, the city’s namesake and architect, will lead this effort, sheltering millions from the imminent threat. The emergence of the Hunters marks the beginning of a new phase in human evolution and conflict. Six months following this, the Huntresses will descend upon the Earth. These formidable beings will not only enhance the lethality of the Hunters through their command but also elevate the stakes of survival and warfare.

On the surface, the Titans—Tomasz, Craig, and Gladys—will refuse to retreat underground or to Astrea. Instead, they will confront this new breed with their unique, albeit grim, strategies. This era will eventually see the Hunters and Huntresses being surpassed by humans who have transformed their very bodies and minds into sophisticated instruments of war.

This period of intense adversity, driven by the relentless threat of Hunters and Huntresses, is designed by Mendel to force humanity into a crucible of evolution. The objective is clear: to compel humanity to adapt, innovate, and ultimately transcend their current limitations through survival, growth, and resilience.

Chapter 13: The Lord of Limbs

In the chaotic heart of the Walled City, the music thunders with an electrifying, almost savage intensity, resonating through the densely packed corridor. Doe guides Aurelia and Aliana with surprising agility. Despite the tight and tumultuous crowd, Doe’s movements are swift and precise. Aliana’s discomfort is palpable as she navigates through the throng, her distaste for the situation exacerbated by her need to rely on Doe. The memory of past atrocities from Wintersvilla—especially the brutal legacy of Craig Winters—fuels her disgust and determination, reinforcing her belief in the necessity of strict measures against men. Her thoughts briefly consider exceptions like Wesley and Fullman, challenging her hard stance against all men. Amid the chaos, Aliana’s suspicions about Doe’s intentions waver. Observing subtle enhancements on Doe, she speculates about his potential specialized abilities for such escape scenarios. Meanwhile, Aurelia struggles visibly, her dependence on Doe’s guidance stirring concerns in Aliana about her sister’s mental state.

Suddenly, their hurried escape is interrupted by a crude and grotesque proposition from a repulsively obese man, to which Aliana responds with venomous scorn. Doe’s intervention, asserting their urgency, momentarily diffuses the situation, allowing them to continue their escape. Their passage through the city unveils a series of bizarre and unsettling scenes: individuals engaging in transactions that involve severe bodily modifications and exchanges.

Doe’s revelation about his motive—inspired by the sisters’ near success in assassinating Cid—casts a new light on his actions. He sees in them a potential catalyst for change within the oppressive hierarchy of the Walled City. However, his admiration for their prowess and his fear of Downver’s true ruler, the enigmatic Lord of Limbs, inject new layers of complexity into their precarious situation.

As Eddy’s forces close in, the urgency of their flight reaches a peak. Aliana’s readiness to fight clashes with Aurelia’s strategic caution. The sudden intervention by mysterious figures, possibly allies of Doe, suggests a broader network of resistance within the city. The revelation that the Lord of Limbs might be a woman does little to alter Aliana’s combative stance. Instead, it reaffirms her belief in the potential for female dominance and ruthlessness, setting the stage for a confrontation. They are forced retreat into another bizarre section of the city, marked by even more outlandish modifications among its denizens. Doe and the girls encounter a stall radiating with the iridescent glow of bioluminescent jewelry, manned by a genderless vendor with protruding eyes. The scene of a voluptuous woman leaving the stall in a skimpy red dress captivates them, especially Aliana, who is momentarily lost in the woman’s beauty. This woman, known as Madam Aubrey, entices them with an offer to join her in her house of pleasure, momentarily hypnotizing the sisters with her enhanced voice and pheromones. Doe snaps them out of their trance, explaining her voice and scent enhancements and warning of her manipulative nature.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts with the announcement of Armando’s approach, causing a wave of panic. The crowded market quickly clears, leaving only Doe, Aurelia, Aliana, and the ominously still Armando. Using the Wintersvilla battle sign language, Armando cryptically advises them to prepare for impending events and disappears as suddenly as he appeared. Eddy, along with the bobbleheads, makes a noisy entrance, intent on capturing the sisters. A hidden woman with horns and wings, named Lily, swiftly intervenes, guiding them through a secret exit and slamming it shut just in time to block their pursuers. Lily leads them through a dimly lit utility tunnel filled with individuals busily working on machinery. They navigate several more tunnels until dropping down into a secluded cave adorned with pearl-white gossamer webbing and glowing mushrooms. This cave is the dwelling of the Silkweavers, eerie insectoid-human hybrids who begin to attend to the sisters immediately. They weave silk garments around Aurelia and Aliana, offering not only protection but also a profound cleansing with a gaseous spray, leaving them feeling refreshed as if waking from a deep sleep. The Silkweavers’ quick and meticulous work clothes them in form-fitting silk suits designed for protection and agility, perfectly adapted to their bodies.

The Silkweavers share profound insights with Aurelia and Aliana, hinting at grand destinies and urging them to embrace their inherent strengths. They speak of a breaking fate, suggesting that Aurelia’s prescience is not broken but rather evolving beyond the need for such abilities. They assert that the sisters are prepared for the imminent battles and transformations, marking the end of their “conditioning.” Equipped with new, lightweight, yet highly protective silk armor, the sisters are now ready to venture into the Dark District through a secret passage used by the Silkweavers. As Aurelia and Aliana stepped toward the crevice leading to the Dark District, the emotional gravity of their parting from Doe is palpable. Aurelia, visibly moved, clutches the shard of Rooli tightly, signaling her mixed feelings of hope and resolve. Doe, seemingly prepared to sacrifice his safety for theirs, offers to lead through the potentially perilous passage first. However, the silkweavers intervene, declaring that it was time for Doe and Aurelia to part ways forever—a proclamation that visibly pains Doe. As Aurelia moved forward without a farewell, Aliana, despite her own mixed feelings, acknowledges Doe’s assistance with a respectful nod.

Doe, unable to let go so easily, chases after Aurelia, tears in his eyes, pleading for her to wait. Surprisingly, Aurelia reciprocates his emotional display, turning back to face him with tears streaming down her own face. Doe passionately promises to learn her language, insisting their paths will cross again. Their mutual affection culminates in a tight embrace, each clinging to the other amidst tears, exchanging a desperate kiss. Reluctantly, Doe and Aurelia separate, their last touches lingering as they part. Aurelia, now resolute, signals to Aliana to proceed, and together, they move toward the tunnel that would lead them to the Dark District. Aliana, protective as ever, warns Doe with a fierce look, silently threatening retribution should he ever cause her sister pain.

The sisters then venture into the crevice, leaving Doe and the silkweavers behind. As they emerge from the tunnel, the cityscape of Downver unfolds before them—a breathtaking view of sprawling districts and architectural marvels built into the cavernous expanse below. The Dark District, visible in the distance, seems a quieter, more mysterious part of the city, marked by shimmering waterways and soft, glowing fungi. They see the sunlight somehow brought down from the surface, and they know that that is where they need to bring the shard of Rooli. Thier initial joy turns to frustration when they realize the logistical nightmare of crossing the vast distance to their destination. Despite the beauty and potential resources, the physical barriers seem insurmountable. Aliana’s excitement morphs into anger, cursing what she suspects might be a deceit by the silkweavers about their potential path forward. As she vents, contemplating a daring plan involving the giant grasshoppers they’ve observed, she turns to Aurelia for input but finds her sister emotionally distressed. Aurelia, still recovering from their recent intense experiences and the emotional farewell with Doe, seems overwhelmed. Sensing her sister’s distress, Aliana shifts to a supportive role, reassuring Aurelia of her unconditional love, regardless of Aurelia’s feelings for Doe. Aurelia acknowledges the sentiment but insists that their focus must remain on reaching the Dark District. She proposes a radical idea, asking Aliana to trust her completely.

Without waiting for further discussion, Aurelia demonstrates the drastic nature of her plan by severing her own arm with her void-black hand, shocking Aliana. The arm falls away, regenerating almost instantly. Aurelia then prepares Aliana for possibly even more extreme actions, emphasizing the importance of their mission to revive Rooli. As Aliana agrees, reassured by her sister’s resolve, Aurelia grabs her, and in a breathtaking display of their powers, she cuts away both of her legs, using the resultant force to propel them toward the lake. The world around them freezes as Aliana’s time-manipulating abilities inadvertently kick in, offering them a surreal respite from the laws of physics. In this frozen moment, spectral images of their deceased mothers/mentors, Shira and Myriam, appear, providing guidance and urging Aliana to master her mental powers. They use metaphors of a wild dog to describe the mind, emphasizing the need for Aliana to control and command her abilities. Reinforced by these visions and their advice, Aliana gathers her resolve, understanding more deeply her own potential and strength. The visions encourage her to be the master of her mind, transforming fear and uncertainty into focused determination.

As time resumes, Aliana takes decisive action. She repositions both herself and Aurelia, who has been knocked unconscious by Cid below, aiming for a strategic landing in the lake to ensure Aurelia’s safety and their continued mission. Aliana’s newfound control over her powers and her fierce determination prepare her to confront Cid and his cohort, who are ominously approaching their landing site. As she activates her power, time slows, giving her a momentary advantage as she attempts a desperate attack against Cid. Despite her strategic maneuvering and use of slowed time, Aliana’s attempt to assassinate Cid is thwarted as he unexpectedly accelerates the shift in his lens colors, regaining control and stopping her blades just inches from his face. The sudden return to normal time finds Aliana suspended in midair, helpless and realizing the gravity of her failed attempt.

Cid, reveling in his apparent victory, taunts Aliana with the revelation of his deeper plans involving not just dominance over the sisters but also the exploitation of their unique powers for his and his master’s gain. He introduces Julian, the gray boy, and also the Third Prodigal Son of the Agency, the true puppet master behind the scenes, expanding the scope of the threat far beyond Aliana’s initial understanding.

Just as all seems lost, the situation takes a dramatic turn with the resurgence of Rooli, the entity Aurelia and Aliana hoped to revive. Rooli’s transformation into a colossal, tree-like being shifts the balance, instilling fear into Cid and his group. Cid seems angry and says that this was not supposed to happen, that the future has been changed somehow from what it was foretold to be. As Rooli grows, the lake around her drains, fueling her metamorphosis into a formidable force of nature.

The battle escalates as Rooli unleashes her fury, attempting to obliterate Cid and his minions. However, Armando’s intervention and his effective countermeasures against Rooli’s attacks reveal the formidable defenses at Cid’s disposal. Amidst this chaos, Aliana prepares for a renewed assault, hoping to align her actions with Rooli’s powerful strikes.

As the chapter concludes, a surprising arrival shifts the narrative: Nichole Adamich, a legendary figure from Wintersvilla’s past, appears dramatically on the scene. Her presence, combined with her declaration of allegiance not to the sisters but to her own dominion over Downver, introduces a new layer of complexity and despair for Aliana. Nichole’s disavowal of her past and her current role as the Lord of Limbs signals a broader conflict and deepens the intrigue surrounding the true powers governing Downver.

Entry 14 Summary:

Revenge and retribution, often seen as base impulses, are celebrated as profound and satisfying experiences according to Mendel’s perspective. In his view, the victor who persuades the defeated that revenge is futile only masks the true value of such acts. For some, revenge embodies the fulfillment of their existence.

On this day, Mendel, alongside his original self, witnesses a moment of profound justice. They observe the Titans—architects of so much suffering—being lowered inch by agonizing inch into suffering pits filled with crimson stasis-fluid. The sight brings a deep sense of satisfaction, particularly the joy evident on the face of Mendel’s “original,” offering the Titans a mere hint of the eternal torment awaiting them.

This event marks a significant milestone for Mendel’s original, who will now retire behind the Golden Wall, living out his days in the Foundation. There, he will savor a well-earned respite and engage in the upbringing of the child believed to be the Living Reflection, or Mirror-Man, central to Mendel’s Vision.

Meanwhile, Mendel himself acknowledges that his journey is far from over. Astrea, a vast construct, now serves as his physical form, with Mendel’s extensive networks acting as his cognitive faculties. He describes himself as an embryonic mind, still evolving towards the full potential he will achieve. His immediate task involves utilizing Mendel’s capabilities to navigate the edges of the Great Beyond. Following the completion of the ANNA project, he anticipates possessing a form capable of not just reaching but exploring the boundless wilderness beyond the known universe.

Chapter 14:

Lain, who the reader last saw at the end of book 2, is positioned on a fungus-covered hill, observing a unique scene in a secluded valley. Below her, a group of Hybrid Nomads, distinguished by their eerie human-like gait and pure magenta skin, navigates through a landscape dotted with old world pines, firs, and hemlocks. The silence of their passage contrasts sharply with their sparkling silver hair trailing to the ground as they shepherd mats of tangle grass northward, possibly in search of richer pastures. This sight is anomalous within the Nomadic world, which typically adapts seamlessly to varied terrains but here seems to struggle with the remnants of the old world environment. From her vantage point, Lain contemplates not only the Nomads’ possible motives but also her own long and unfulfilled quest for revenge against Nichole Adamich, whom she has been tracking since she was eleven. Now, after thirteen years of fruitless searches that have taken her further from the Matriarchy with each expedition, Lain has become a solitary figure in the wilds. The fall of Wintersvilla to the Rovers a year ago left her without a base, pushing her into a nomadic life where she is both hunter and prey.

Her observations of the Nomads shift as she spots a distant, colossal, desiccated flesh tree surrounded by healthy old world conifers. The scene shifts to one where men, larger and more aggressive, oversee and mistreat a workforce of slaves who are engaged in agricultural labor or operating old Wintersvilla water pumps. The juxtaposition of the living, vibrant trees against the backdrop of slavery illustrate the harsh realities of this new world, where remnants of old world life cling on in isolated pockets.

These observations feed into Lain’s resolve to act. Known as the “Green Wraith” in these parts, her reputation for nighttime assaults has spread, forcing her to adapt her tactics. Today, she plans a bold, unprecedented daytime attack, aimed at catching the encampment off guard. Her strategy is meticulously planned, yet the absence of her exo, Owen, who was supposed to be positioned on Mount Hood’s ridge by now, adds an element of uncertainty. Despite the potential setback of Owen’s absence, Lain’s determination does not waver. She is prepared to proceed alone, motivated by a deep-seated desire to punish the perpetrators of cruelty and liberate their victims. Her internal monologue acknowledges the horrors she has witnessed and inflicted, particularly the troubling necessity of sometimes killing children forced into combat, a reality that haunts her dreams.

Lain, fueled by a fierce determination, moves forward, stepping into a precarious blend of old world charm and new world horror. Her path leads her directly past a laboring group of slaves—four women and one man, all hunched over and striking the rocky soil with makeshift tools. They are tethered together by thick fire vine collars, connected to a central dark wooden stake driven deep into the ground. This sight is disturbingly common in the pockets of old world life that dot the Nomadic world, where remnants of humanity cling to survival under harsh rule.

Among these slaves, one woman stands out to Lain: a muscular figure with visible exo ports on her skin, indicating she was trained as a Wintersvilla Warrior. The sight of such a formidable woman reduced to such a state strikes a chord in Lain, igniting a deep-seated anger and a renewed sense of purpose. As Lain contemplates this scene, her attention is drawn to a peculiar plant nearby—blood mourners. These plants are known for their psychological effects on women, particularly those menstruating, as they emit a static hum that induces feelings of misery and hopelessness. Cleverly planted by the men of the encampment, these blood mourners serve a sinister purpose: to subdue the will of the women through natural, yet exploitative means. Lain recognizes the strategy immediately and steers clear, avoiding the oppressive influence of the plants. Suddenly, the clang of a bell pierces the air, and shouts of “Green Wraith!” echo from the fields. Men begin to abandon their supervisory roles, running frantically towards a massive, hollowed-out flesh tree that looms over the encampment like a sentinel. This tree, once a living part of the Nomadic world, now serves as a fortress for the men.

In a calculated display of submission, Lain raised her hands high in what was universally recognized as a gesture of surrender, understanding that these heavily armed encampments often held old-world firearms. The United States had once teemed with more guns than people, making these weapons and ammunition some of the last enduring relics of human civilization, now buried beneath overgrown flesh tree forests. Predicting their next move, Lain braced for a warning shot. As expected, a gunshot rang out, propelling the slaves around her into panic. She feigned terror, jerking her head down sharply to provoke a second shot. This one kicked up dirt just inches from her—a clear message. Lain halted, impressed or alarmed by their accuracy; these men were either dangerously sloppy or alarmingly proficient. A deep, authoritative voice cut through the air, calling her out as the notorious “Green Wraith,” recognizing her despite her lack of visible weapons or armor. She feigned dehydration to further draw them out, signaling her desperation. The leader’s voice boomed again, demanding she lay prone with hands bound as a prerequisite for any engagement. Internal conflict flared within Lain as she considered her slim chances of survival. Resigned yet resolute, she declared softly to the surrounding slaves that their oppression was nearing its end. Complying, she lay face down, awaiting capture.

Instead of being confined to a claustrophobic room within the flesh tree, which would have sealed her fate, Lain is taken to a high chamber in the tree, a room with walls still pulsing faintly with the tree’s original lifeblood. The room offers a clear view of Mount Hood through window-like openings. Here, one of the men begins to brutally beat her, underestimating her resilience and Wintersvilla-engineered durability. Amid her feigned vulnerability, a door opens briefly to reveal a young, frightened girl strapped to a bed. As the door shuts, Lain is left with the sight of the leader and his men indulging in crude revelry, served by young girls coerced into submission. The leader, grossly underestimating Lain’s capacities, jeers at her scars and battle-worn appearance, suggesting a vile night ahead, not just for her but as an echo of past brutalities inflicted on another Wintersvilla warrior seen earlier in the fields. As the leader basks in his perceived control, flaunting his disdain for Lain’s combat prowess, his men echoe his crude anticipation of violence. Yet, as they await their chance to overpower her, a distant baby’s cry shattersthe moment, prompting a vile outburst from the leader about his disappointment over the child’s sex.

The palpable tension in the room crescendos as Lain, fueled by a mix of strategic patience and seething rage, awaits the right moment to unleash her vengeance. The leader, oblivious to the lethal storm brewing just feet away, taunts her one final time, questioning her ability to fight back effectively given her restraints. His mockery is the last straw. With supernatural swiftness, Lain strikes, turning her apparent surrender into a deadly counterattack. She targets the leader, employing brutal hand-to-hand combat techniques to rip away his scrotum before biting out his jugular. As the leader’s body hits the floor, the room falls into shocked silence, with Lain standing bloodied but unbowed, her eyes sweeping across the room filled with men too stunned to react.

Each man’s face reflects a mix of fear, disbelief, and realization that their underestimation of the “Green Wraith” had been their gravest mistake. Lain, covered in the blood of their leader, prepares herself for the next phase of her grim work: purging the filth from the encampment, one terrified man at a time. In a chaotic surge of fear and a desperate bid for control, the largest man in the room bellows for her death. However, before his command could spark action, his head bursts apart. This is due to the the precision and deadly reach of Owen, Lain’s Exo, who was perched nearly ten miles away on Mount Hood. Owen’s calculated shot accounted for numerous variables, ensuring the projectile met its fatal mark through one of the open windows. As the body of the newly headless man collapses, chaos erupts. Men scream and scramble, the room a sudden frenzy of fear-driven action. Amidst the confusion, Lain assesses the situation with cold efficiency—three were down, forty-one remained. As she prepares for the ensuing melee, a young, visibly terrified boy made a surprising choice. Instead of fleeing or attacking Lain, he ran towards the door, behind which the young girl was imprisoned.

Lain’s plans of tormenting her captors are interrupted by this unexpected development. She urgently signals Owen for a clearer shot by positioning herself strategically amid the advancing men. What follows is a brutal ballet of violence. Owen’s precise shots continue, each one reducing the number of threats in the room. Lain, now freed from her bindings by a well-timed shot from Owen, unleashes her trained ferocity on the assailants. She utilizes her surroundings and formidable combat skills to incapacitate and kill, her actions a blur of calculated violence.

As the last of the men falls, the room grows eerily silent except for the sound of blood dripping and the soft whimpers of the remaining young girl and boy. Lain, her mission of vengeance momentarily paused, turns her attention to the survivors. The boy, having shown a glimpse of decency, is now at Lain’s mercy. The girl’s pleas for his life hang heavily in the air, as she says that the boy treats her well, not like the other men. Lain offers the boy a chance—a test of his resolve and character. She leaves him with a weapon and a choice: prove his worth by protecting the girl and killing the last remaining injured man in the room, or join the ranks of the fallen.

After the brutal confrontation inside the flesh tree, Lain emerges into the open, her figure drenched in blood from top to bottom. The surrounding fields, once bustling with the activity of slaves, now lie silent, dotted with the lifeless bodies of men who had tried to flee but were methodically cut down by Owen’s precise shots from afar. Counting the corpses, Lain tallies forty-three—the total from inside and outside the flesh tree, intentionally omitting the young boy from her count, recognizing his attempt to change his fate.

The surviving slaves, still tethered and paralyzed by fear, watch her with wide eyes, unsure of their fate under this new and deadly liberator. Lain, managing her extremely serious wounds with the application of clotting ointment, signals Owen to retrieve her, indicating it is time to move on from this grim site to potentially liberate more enslaved individuals from other camps, as gleaned from the dying confessions of the men she has previously tortured. Lain’s grim procession towards the next encampment is momentarily paused as she passes the still-leashed slaves, whom she urges to free themselves and embrace their newfound liberation, albeit in a world that is unforgiving and harsh. Approaching the Wintersvilla Warrior she has noted earlier, dismissing the archaic laws of their now-destroyed homeland, she encourages the warrior to redefine her existence beyond the confines of past servitudes and abuses, signaling a break from the old ways that once dictated their brutal society.

Unexpectedly, Lain’s solitary exit is interrupted by the presence of King BigBilly, a figure both formidable and strangely charismatic, marked by his vivid tattoos and the noticeable absence of his right pectoral muscle. Big’s approach, atop his Biofreak companion Billy, is as imposing as it is unexpected, drawing a tense acknowledgment from Lain. BigBilly, with a tone of respect and an odd comfort, engages Lain in a brief dialogue about her recent actions, expressing admiration for her relentless pursuit of justice against slavers. He updates her on the impact of her crusade, revealing the far-reaching influence of her actions which has resonated with thousands of slaves, inspiring hope and fear in equal measure across the region.

Yet, it is BigBilly’s next revelation that truly shakes Lain—his knowledge of Nichole Adamich’s whereabouts. According to him, Nichole is hiding in Downver, a revelation that presents both a potential end to Lain’s long quest for vengeance and a new set of daunting challenges. BigBilly’s information is a double-edged sword, offering closure and yet opening new avenues of potential conflict and danger. BigBilly’s offer is straightforward yet laden with personal stakes. He asks nothing of Lain but hints at a future where she might find solace or perhaps a new purpose beyond her quest for vengeance. His parting words, expressing what seems like love for her, are filled with a mixture of admiration and personal affection, leave Lain conflicted yet focused on the path ahead.

As Lain prepares to leave, spurred by the urgency of BigBilly’s information and her own unyielding drive for revenge, she reflects on the dual nature of her mission. It is not just about retribution but also about liberation—from her own demons and from the chains she has shattered for others. With a heavy heart but a clear objective, Lain sets her sights on Downver, ready to face whatever awaits her in a confrontation that promises to be as cathartic as it is perilous.

Entry 15 Summary:

Mendel reflects on the pivotal moment when he shared with Anna a limited view of Mendel’s Vision and the stark choices that lay before humanity. He questions whether this exposure was sufficient or if revealing more would have overwhelmed her completely. Despite his reservations, he’s compelled by the belief that no alternative exists beyond what he’s proposed: Mendel’s Ladder or oblivion, his Ascension or nothingness.

Mendel openly dismisses any notion that this path brings him pleasure. As he progresses towards Ascension, his journey is marred by deep pain and sorrow, not just his own but also that of countless others whose suffering seems both a consequence and a requirement of the path he’s orchestrated for humanity.

He portrays the system of suffering as a natural necessity, justifying the harsh actions he’s imposed on Earth and humanity—and those that Anna must continue. With a tone of inevitability, he expresses sorrow for the burdens they bear but insists on the lack of alternatives. Anna, as the Body, and he, as the Mind, are bound to this grim fate, a destiny neither can escape.

Chapter 15: The Hunter of Earth

Continuing the narrative from Chapter 1, in 2065, Hunter4430 experiences a startling and disorienting awakening in an otherworldly environment, no longer under the soothing presence of Anna. He finds himself trapped in an oppressive, bizarre landscape that defies the laws of physics and his understanding of reality. The reader can see that he is in Astrea. Surrounded by a Stygian darkness that stifles movement, making every action feel laboriously slow, Hunter4430 is initially panic-stricken and disoriented, his first thoughts reaching out for Anna whom he cannot see or hear.

As his specialized Hunter vision adjusts to the dark, the true horror of his surroundings becomes apparent. He stands on a solitary, jagged peak, encased in ice, with an identical mountain hanging ominously upside-down above him. This surreal inversion of nature is just the beginning of the disturbing scene unfolding around him. The air doesn’t carry the familiar scents of the world he knows, intensifying his dislocation and fear.

Realizing the silence of his own voice, Hunter4430 attempts to call out for Anna but finds he cannot produce any sound. His isolation is complete, heightened by the realization that he is utterly alone in this haunting landscape. His eyes, continuing to adjust, reveal even more terrifying sights—monstrous entities roam the dark void around him. These creatures, composed of a dark, light-absorbing material, move with an eerie fluidity, their massive forms dwarfing the human structures scattered across the twisted landscape.

These shadowy beings, shifting constantly like smoke, instill a primal fear in Hunter4430, but none seem to notice him. They pursue tiny, frantic groups of humans attempting to escape through the distorted, curved environment that loops in on itself. One such creature intercepts a group of fleeing humans, transforming into a grotesque bird of prey before sucking the life force out of them, leaving behind only desiccated husks.

As Hunter4430 tries to process the nightmarish scene, a cry for help pulls his attention downward to a human woman and two children who are looking up at him with terror. In a devastating realization, he understands that their horror is directed not at him but at something above him. He looks up to see one of the shadow creatures diving towards him, its massive mouth open wide.

In an instant of sheer terror, Hunter4430 braces for the end, but instead of death, he finds himself suddenly transported to a different, equally surreal environment. This new setting is dominated by a gigantic golden wall that opens to reveal a chamber bathed in emerald and violet lights. Crimson fluid-filled tanks line the walls, with dark cables extending into the unseen depths above.

This chamber, too, is circular but on a much smaller scale than the previous landscape. At its center, white towers rise, meeting in the middle and adorned with stained glass that narrates an ominous story of destruction of the Earth’s surface, including scenes of Hunters like himself. As Hunter4430 tries to make sense of these overwhelming shifts, a horrifying transformation of Anna grips him. Descending from above, connected by black cables that seem to puppeteer her mangled form, Anna appears as a tormented shadow of herself, her agony manifest in her torn visage and bloodied features.

In a heart-wrenching confrontation, Anna, controlled by the dark tendrils, grips Hunter4430’s head with a strength that threatens to crush his skull. Her screams of pain and pleas for help pierce the heavy air, echoing the desperation seen in the faces trapped in the crimson tanks. He also sees a set of eyes, one violet and one emerald, staring at him from behind Anna. The reader can tell this is Tether. Anna grabs Hunter4430’s skull and begins to crush it with her bare hands. As Hunter4430 faces what seems to be a certain and agonizing end, the narrative fractures, revealing that all he has experienced is part of a harrowing vision or nightmare.

Awakening once more in Anna’s lap on the surface of the Earth, Hunter4430 is confused and terrified, having retained vivid memories of the nightmare. Anna, seeing his distress, attempts to calm him, explaining that he has seen a vision of the future—a potential reality thirty-nine years ahead. She speaks of his unique abilities, enhanced by the skinsuit she provided, which allow him to see beyond the present.

Anna reveals the gravity of their situation, indicating that they are pawns in a much larger scheme orchestrated by a mysterious entity known as “The Mind.” This revelation adds layers of complexity to Hunter4430’s understanding of his existence and purpose. Despite the overwhelming revelations, Anna urges Hunter4430 to try to forget the horrors he has seen, to focus on the possibility of finding happiness in the time they have left before the foreseen calamities unfold.

At Anna’s command, reluctantly, Hunter4430 agrees to suppress the memories of his vision, choosing instead to trust Anna and explore the potential to experience joy and peace, even in the shadow of such daunting and apocalyptic predictions.