SCIENCE FICTION / FANTASY

Carmine Medusa Vol. 1

WRETCHED MAJESTY

BLOOD DROP ALT EARTH 🌎🩸

As the sun began to set over the glistening canals, a small boat glided through the calm waters. On board, the vampire Rishabhan Gupta casually sat, his midnight blue eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. Dressed in a traditional kurta and dhoti, he exuded an air of mystery and elegance. Beside him, an old Italian woman named Giada sat, her silver hair pulled back into a neat bun, and her attire reminiscent of 1990s ‘grandma’ fashion featuring a colorful floral blazer. In this world, she was ahead of her time. She held an Onyx Camel brand cigarette between her fingers, the smoke curling lazily into the evening air.

As the boat meandered through the canals, Rishabhan and Giada marveled at the sights around them. The Grand Basin of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair came into view, its magnificent architecture standing tall and proud. Towers and domes adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors rose against the backdrop of the setting sun. The fairgrounds were a bustling hive of activity, with millions of people from all walks of life eagerly exploring the wonders that lay within.

Rishabhan, his attention momentarily diverted from the architectural marvels, took a bite of his pretzel hot dog. The warm, savory flavors mingled on his tongue, satisfying his hunger. Giada, her eyes twinkling with mischief, turned to him and asked in her distinct Long Island New York accent, "So, you excited to meet our ward?"

Rishabhan paused, his expression thoughtful. With a hint of skepticism in his voice, he replied in his distinct Indian accent, "Giada, my dear, I must admit I have my doubts about the Sunflower Legion and Fountain Inc.’s efforts to create 'The Ultimate Splice' and a supposed 'Crown Jewel Soldier.' No matter how many babies they design or how much they play with genetics, no species they create will ever be perfect, For there is no such thing.

Giada chuckled, her laughter a raspy melody. "Oh have some faith, my man, I believe it’ll be everything it was advertised to be, you’ll see this ward of ours is going gonna be somethin' divine. Rishabhan nodded with a sigh, his eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and reservation. He understood Giada’s enthusiasm, but thousands of years' worth of experiences had taught him to approach such fanciful endeavors with caution.

As the boat continued its journey towards the Grand Basin, the lights of the fairgrounds began to activate twinkling like stars, beckoning them closer. The boat sailed on through the canals, carrying Rishabhan and Giada towards the Educational Pavilion, their hearts filled with anticipation and a thirst for the miraculous.

EDUCATIONAL PAVILION 🦋🎓📖

Scientists from the Fountain Inc., dressed in white lab coats, stand and carry out their work before a mesmerized crowd of spectators. The Educational Pavilion was adorned with intricate displays and artifacts from around the world, showcasing the myriad of scientific advancements. At the center of attention was a large incubator, housing a grape purple-colored egg with baby blue and yellow speckles, roughly five times the size of an ostrich. The scientists carefully monitored the vital signs and prepared for the imminent hatch.

Dr Sunlo, an Ecliptix of the Magmellian sinkhole and now lead scientist of team Chariot for twenty-five years and counting, steps forward, his voice filled with excitement and pride.

Dr Sunlo speaks. “Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, esteemed colleagues old and new, welcome to this momentous occasion! Today, within this magnificent vessel lies the potential for groundbreaking discovery. Back home in a world unknowable to you, fine folks Fountain Incorporated has always been at the forefront of scientific exploration and genetic design, and now with us, you’ll welcome our greatest creation to your earth!”

The crowd stirs with anticipation, their eyes locked on the egg. Suddenly, cracks start forming on the surface, revealing a pulsating purple glow. The scientists exchange glances of amazement.

Dr Sunlo continues his preamble. “Prepare yourselves for this divine marvel. The unveiling of this Panther Parasite, who will grace your world for ten fruitful years, shall grow into a New World Hercules!, A Royal of the stars! The Tenth Wonder of your world!”

As the cracks widen, the eggshell starts to break apart, revealing a humanoid baby alien bathed in the incandescent purple light. The crowd gasps collectively.

The baby alien’s appearance was awe-inspiring, Frightening, and mysterious. Its dazzling carmine red skin glimmered under the ambient lighting, contrasting against the eggshell remnants. Three delicate head tentacles gracefully flow down its back, mesmerizing the observers. Eyes of Neon yellow and dragon’s blood red fixate on the world with a mix of curiosity and innocence. Two small, black horns adorn its forehead, a testament to its otherworldly nature. Its reptilian skin glistens, reflecting an astonishing range of rainbow iridescent colors similar to that of a Brazilian rainbow boa.

“Behold!” continued Dr Sunlo. “This Masterwork of Science! The first panther parasite to embrace both male and female aspects of existence! This child brings forth the convergence of six supreme species, The Gorgon of Vunutis, the Soul Starian Dwarf, The Dampir of Goldilocks, The Draconian of Thuban, the fire Djinn of Tartarus, and Faerie of Avalon!! The future has manifested in the flesh my friends!”

As the hatchling stretched its arms as if reaching out to the crowd, its tentacles swayed, Its presence emanated a sense of enchanting wonder, As the scientists continued their observations, the baby began to cry the sounds of it demonic and bone-chilling due to its slowed and deep tonality. The crowd stood frozen, their faces a mix of alarm, fascination, and fear.

Sensing the growing unease, the scientists stepped forward, their white lab coats contrasting against the vibrant colors of the fair. With calm reassuring voices, they addressed the crowd, assuring them that there was nothing to fear. They explained that the child, in its newborn state, was incapable of causing any harm. The hatchling was merely expressing its needs and emotions in a way unfamiliar to human ears.

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