here again

We descended the seemingly endless stairs for quite some time until we reached a vast hallway. Standing in awe, we realized that this was where we needed to be. At the end of the hallway stood a door, beckoning us forward.

Me: It seems we have arrived... Let's proceed.

Approaching the door, I reached out and opened it, finding that it wasn't locked. Beyond the door, we entered a sprawling complex filled with gods and researchers going about their duties.

Me: We're back... Here in the heart of the foundation.

We passed through the door, ensuring to close it behind us. Derek marveled at the sheer size of the place.

Derek: This place is enormous.

Me: Indeed. There are countless hallways, rooms, and chambers. This foundation houses so much. Let's continue exploring.

Derek: Okay.

Disguised as researchers, we blended in seamlessly with the crowd, our presence going unnoticed. We strolled through the hallways, taking in the sights of various rooms and areas.

Derek: Where should we go? Should we investigate what this foundation is doing to people?

Me: Hm... We'll see. Let's explore the premises first.

We continued down a particular hallway until we came across a massive door a few meters away. A sign hung nearby, indicating it was the office of the Head Researcher.

Derek: Let's go there.

Approaching the door, we knocked, and after a few moments, it swung open to reveal a powerful, muscular god standing at an impressive 16 feet tall. The god was dressed in ordinary researcher attire, and they addressed us.

Head Researcher: Yes?

Me: May we have permission to enter and engage in a conversation? It holds significant importance.

Head researcher: Very well, you may enter.

"He" graciously stepped aside, allowing us to pass through, and we proceeded into "his" office.

Once inside, "he" closed the door behind us and returned to "his" seat, positioned behind "his" desk, where "he" sat down.

Head researcher: What is the subject of your discussion?

Derek: We are relatively new here and would appreciate some insight into your activities involving individuals of innocent nature. Could you enlighten us regarding the interactions you have with them?

Head researcher: Occasionally, we encounter immensely powerful entities that transcend our reality. Furthermore, most of the individuals we have brought here have been criminals with a history of committing heinous acts.

Derek: So, you employ these individuals as a means to potentially "capture" or defeat these entities?

Head researcher: That could be one way to describe it. We have established numerous bases across universes and realities, and we have even gone so far as to sacrifice deities in our efforts to contend with these formidable beings.

Derek: I see... quite intriguing.

Me: I have something important to share.

Head researcher: Yes, go on...

Me: Are you familiar with an entity or an individual named "Liran"?

Head researcher: Indeed, we are aware of him. He had been here before and managed to escape alongside his cosmic companion. Why do you inquire?

Me: Have you succeeded in apprehending him?

Head researcher: No, despite our extensive search across other universes, realities, and omniverses, he has eluded us. It is almost as if he never existed in the first place. Have you discovered something about him?

Me: ... I am about to disclose something of great significance. I implore you to take this matter seriously.

Head researcher: What is it?...

Me: Would you believe me if I were to tell you that I am the elusive "Liran" whom you have been tirelessly seeking?

Head researcher: ?!...

HEAD RESEARCHER'S POV:

What?! The individual I have been conversing with... is Liran himself? I couldn't detect his presence at all! I couldn't even see his face! It was as if he were just an ordinary researcher carrying out his duties, nothing more, nothing less.

And now he reveals to me that he is Liran in my own office?! I am at a loss for how to respond to such a revelation!

All the researchers and deities asserted that Liran's presence was indiscernible, and his face remained unseen...

Yet here he is, engaging in a casual conversation with me...

It's utterly indescribable.

Me: You... you are truly him?!

Liran: Does it appear as though I came all this way just to deceive you?

Me: You are him. You have come here to speak with me... You are Liran.

LIRAN'S POV:

After I disclosed my true identity as Liran, the head researcher was understandably taken aback. However, after a brief moment, "he" found his voice again.

Head researcher: Liran... why have you come here?

Me: I have arrived with the intention of assisting this foundation. I wish to confront these otherworldly entities that pose a threat to all realities. My purpose in being here is to contribute to making this world a better place.

As those words left my lips, the head researcher was completely stunned. "He" couldn't fathom that I would express such a sentiment.

Me: What say you? Will you accept me and my companion? Can we join forces within this foundation?

After a moment of contemplation, the head researcher responded:

Head researcher: Yes, we accept you and your friend. You may align yourselves with us.

This is... remarkable. I must inform the council of this development.

For now, the two of you may take your leave and wait outside.

We turned around, facing the door, and proceeded to walk towards it. With a snap of "his" fingers, the head researcher effortlessly opened the door. A few moments later, we stepped out of the room, and "he" closed the door behind us.

Now, Derek and I found ourselves standing in the hallway.

Derek: Wow, I never expected that. It seems like these individuals were once criminals themselves...

Me: Yes, it appears so. It seems we may be dealing with highly dangerous entities capable of causing harm to innocent people. Perhaps the only course of action is to join the foundation...

And that is the path I have chosen—to work alongside the foundation and confront these perilous beings.

Derek smiled upon hearing my decision.

Derek: Yes... I agree with that.

A few seconds later, large groups of researchers, gods, and soldiers approached us, forming a perimeter around us.

Derek: What's happening?!

One of the soldiers then addressed us.

Soldier: Liran and your companion, come with us. We must escort you to the council.

Me: Very well.

Four researchers approached us, positioning themselves near me and Derek, closely observing us. Meanwhile, other gods and researchers captured images of us and meticulously analyzed our every movement.

It was an intriguing experience indeed.

Following the soldier who had addressed us, we began walking, trailing behind him. Curiosity and anticipation filled the air as we made our way, uncertain of what awaited us at our destination.

.

.

.