Alter Ego [Karlnap]

Choosing Karl.

3-5 The World

"I hoped you would come soon. Maybe it's childish, but... I knew you would. See..." Karl smiled, book in his hands being hugged to his chest, "I am who I am."

"I have my own world. Just like you, too, have a world of your own. Here, in this world, that is mine, alone... it's as I told you, once before. How you perceive the world changes the outcome," he repeated.

"The contents of the story, and this place, too. The only thing that can change the future... is your interpretation. It's my interpretation, too. My will. I always thought I had only two choices: conform, or rebel," Karl thought back.

"But the answer I sought, it went beyond such dualities, you see. A way to interact with this world beyond affirmation or denial. If I will it, I can remain myself. I finally worked it out," he voiced.

"Thank you so much for sticking with me. I'm all right now, you don't need to come and check up on me anymore. I'm grateful to you, farewell. You have your own world to return to."

Sapnap panicked, shaking his head violently, he remained seated.

"Hm...? Why are you still here? Such a face you're making... do you have something to say to me? Could it be that I desired this, too? Boy and wanderer, walking on together..." he beamed.

"The world I longed for was one with you in it. Which means, I get to... stay with you? That's it, isn't it? I... I'm happy," he giggled.

"It's nice to still be able to talk with you like this. It hurt to think we would never see each other again. It's so boring, being here all alone. You're always welcome here with me, Sapnap," a quick peck to the raven's head.

"Let's chat away the tedium, shall we? I wouldn't mind reminiscing, either. After all, we have all the time in the world. I look forward to spending more time together... my wanderer."