PERFECTION: Brotherhood

Chapter 7: Search For The Truth

In a perplexing dream, Markov found himself outside the familiar house he shared with the old man, confronted by a mysterious voice proclaiming it as a mental haven. Tasked with unraveling the old man's dark secret, uncertain and confused Markov was urged to delve into his own mind palace for answers. Demanding guidance, a younger and charismatic boy, introduced as Markos, emerged to lead him through the enigmatic ordeal, prompting Markov to brace himself for the journey into the depths of his subconscious.

In the current moment, Markov discovers himself trailing Markos through the garden of the familiar location—the old man's cherished garden. During their stroll, Markov becomes captivated by previously unnoticed elements. Astonished, he questions, 

"Are these truly real?"

Continuing their walk, Markos responds, "You are the creator of this realm. Remember that."

Surprised, Markov questions, "Wait, did I create you too?" 

Markos affirms, "Yes, we exist within your mind at this moment."

Unaware, Markov suddenly stands before a lengthy and narrow wooden bridge, its other end obscured by his current perspective. Intense clouds obscure the bottom from view. Curious, Markov queries, 

"Where does this lead?" 

"To your Mind Palace," the boy calmly replies.

The boy takes a step forward, breaking into a run. As he disappears into the thick cloud, Markov feels a twinge of fear regarding what might await him on the other side. Yet, after taking a deep breath, he gathers his courage and resolves to continue. Strolling along the wooden bridge, Markov leans on the railing as the clouds gradually dissipate. With each step, the clouds vanish entirely, revealing a chilling sight beneath. 

Looking down, Markov witnesses a hellish setting, a place marked by suffering and torment.

"What is this place?" Markov shouts. 

Markos, from the other end, replies, "You need not be afraid."

With anxiety and fear, Markov crosses the bridge, following Markos, who leads him toward a mysterious destination. 

The surroundings transform into what appears to be a railway station, and as the day fades, the moon emerges in the eastern sky.

"A station?" Markov expresses his uncertainty. 

Markos looks back to Markov and asserts, "Have you forgotten this place?" 

Markov ponders momentarily, questioning himself, "Have I ever visited this place?"

Markos gestures toward an old man, "Look, do you recognize that man?" 

Markov gazes over and, to his surprise, exclaims, "It's him. My arch-nemesis. What's he doing here?"

Markos chuckles and questions, "Arch-nemesis? Him? You're clueless. He's our father's assistant, Mr. Neuer. Wake up, Markov." 

Markov, lost in thought, stares at his palm, the revelation dawning on him. 

"I've been blind," Markov murmurs as he awakens from the surreal dream.

Awakening from his slumber, Markov rises from the chair where he had been sleeping, his head resting on the table. He checks on Caith, finding her sound asleep. A sense of relief washes over him as he observes her peaceful state, reassured of her safety.

Markov attempts to recall the details of his dream, murmuring, "Thanks, Markos. It all makes sense now." He settles into the chair, intending to meditate further, and implores, "Markos, take me back to my mind palace." Despite his efforts, nothing changes, leaving Markov perplexed and unable to access the realm of his subconscious.

Frustrated, Markov screams at himself, "Just a bit more. Markos, don't leave me!"

Markov rests his head on the table, frustration is evident as he slams it. "Perfection, I'll never reach you at this rate."

On the other side, Caith wakes to the commotion, finding Markov in this state from the doorway.

"Perfection? Markos? What do you mean? You were talking to yourself the whole night," Caith asserts, her concern evident. 

Markov is surprised to find himself in such a mental state. "You heard all of that?" 

Caith nods, prompting Markov to explain himself.

Markov rises from his seat, his posture exuding confidence, as he strides towards the main door.

"Caith, these memories of mine are corrupted. We need to piece them together," he declares, opening the door, sunlight streaming in.

 Caith, visibly agitated, demands, "What about my father?"

"We'll find him now. He must have some connection to the case," Markov asserts, determination in his voice.

And so, with determination etched in their hearts and a shared resolve to uncover the truth, Markov and Caith embark on their journey. Stepping out into the light, they set forth into the unknown, ready to confront the mysteries that lie ahead. Side by side, they journey forth, united in their quest for justice and the elusive pursuit of perfection.

"Markos, I'll find you. Until the day arrives, let us remain as one,"