Cythonia

CHAPTER 1:Cross-breach (REWORK)

In a world known as Earth, the year 2040 marked an age where science was regarded as the ultimate truth of existence. Everything, no matter how perplexing, could be explained by logic and empirical evidence. The concept of magic was dismissed as pure fiction—until now. 

On July 22, 2040, at midnight, in New York Hospital, a baby boy was born to Allan and Sarah Sterling. They named him Max Sterling, unaware that his birth would set into motion a chain reaction that would soon turn the world's very understanding of reality upside down. 

At 8:00 a.m., Allan Sterling left the hospital, heading to work while his wife, Sarah, and their newborn son remained behind to rest. Allan, a 27-year-old scientist with deep ocean-blue eyes and blonde hair, specialized in various scientific fields. His current project? Inventing a machine capable of dimensional travel. 

Allan worked at Star Light Labs, the most prestigious institution in the world, alongside his best friend and colleague, George White. Today was monumental—they were finalizing their invention for a high-stakes presentation in front of the world’s leading scientists. If successful, their creation would revolutionize not just transportation, but also reshape the future of humanity forever. 

At 3:00 p.m., the moment Allan had spent years preparing for had finally arrived. He and George stood backstage, ready to unveil their groundbreaking invention to an audience filled with the greatest and brightest minds in science. 

As they were about to step onto the stage, George suddenly excused himself. "I forgot something important. Go ahead without me," he said, disappearing down the hall. 

Taking a deep breath, Allan stepped onto the stage, greeted by a wave of applause. Standing under the bright lights, he began his presentation. He spoke passionately about the years of research, the countless challenges he had faced, and the unwavering vision that had led to the creation of their machine. 

Finally, the moment arrived. Allan activated the machine. A low hum filled the room as the device came to life, glowing with a radiant blue light. Sparks of electricity crackled across its surface, and then, to the audience’s astonishment, a swirling portal appeared. Beyond its shimmering edge, a vast expanse of grass plains stretched beneath a vivid blue sky. In the distance, strange and majestic creatures roamed—beings unlike anything on Earth. 

The audience erupted into applause, their excitement palpable. Allan's heart swelled with pride—his tireless dedication had paid off. Humanity’s very first glimpse into another dimension, a completely new world, was now a reality. This single invention would mark the dawn of a new era. 

Suddenly, the lights began to flicker erratically, casting chaotic shadows across the entire room. A strange hum escalated into an unsettling cacophony of mechanical groans and high-pitched whines. Smoke billowed from the machine as its structure warped and twisted unnaturally. 

Before anyone could react, the portal destabilized, unleashing a powerful force, shaking the entirety of the building. Papers, chairs, and equipment were hurled toward it, the vortex pulling everything in its path. Panic erupted in the room as the audience scrambled for safety, screams echoing amid the chaos. 

Allan fought against the immense pull, gripping the edge of the stage with all his strength. His heart pounded as he realized the machine had gone beyond his control and was running wild. With a sudden, violent surge, the force intensified. Allan’s grip faltered, and he was dragged into the swirling void. 

The moment Allan disappeared, the portal collapsed with a deafening crack, leaving the room in stunned silence. Smoke lingered in the air, and the once-brilliant machine now stood lifeless—a haunting reminder of the brilliant scientist who had vanished into the unknown. 

  Time: 6:00 p.m.
  Location: New York Hospital

Sarah Sterling lay in her hospital bed, holding her newborn son in her arms when a knock interrupted her quiet moment. The door opened, and a police officer stepped inside. 

“Miss Sterling?” he asked gently, removing his hat. 

“Yes?” Sarah replied, her voice tinged with concern. 

“I’m Officer Daniels. I’m here to inform you about your husband, Allan Sterling,” he said. 

Her heart raced. “Is he alright? Was he in an accident?” 

The officer hesitated before speaking. “Earlier today, during a presentation at Star Light Labs, your husband’s machine malfunctioned. The portal it generated became unstable, and…” He paused. “Your husband was pulled into it. I’m sorry to say, he’s gone.” 

Tears welled in Sarah’s eyes as she clutched her baby closer. “No… no, no, no!” she sobbed. 

“We’re doing everything we can to investigate,” Officer Daniels assured her. “We’ll find a way to bring him back.” 

Through her tears, Sarah nodded. “Thank you, Officer Daniels.” 

As the officer left, Sarah stood and approached the crib where Max lay peacefully. She brushed her fingers against his tiny hand and whispered, “I’ll make sure you meet your father one day.”

  Five days later...

The police continued their investigation at Star Light Labs, examining the dormant machine. One officer leaned in for a closer look, only for the portal to suddenly reopen. A massive hand burst through, striking him to the ground. 

Out of the portal emerged a towering ogre, its grotesque form followed by a swarm of goblins. The officers fired their weapons, managing to take down the smaller creatures, but their bullets barely harmed the ogre. More monsters poured out as the officers were forced to retreat, calling for reinforcements. 

Star Light Labs, once a beacon of scientific advancement, had become a stronghold for the creatures. That day would forever be known as The Monster Invasion. 

  End of Chapter 1