When reality breaks, sometimes you need a scientist to put it back together. Vern thought he understood the universe. Then Objectivity shattered, and with it, every law the world held dear. Now, this ordinary scientist—overlooked by time itself, must become something more. Armed with his analytical mind, a dangerous rune of an Old God etched in his psyche, and a unique perspective of Balance, Vern plunges into the abyss of Observation. But as he delves deeper into the gothic streets of Elmhurst, he uncovers terrifying truths—horrors beyond human comprehension stalking the city, ancient societies vying for control over existence itself, cults preaching for old gods, and things better left unsaid. Each revelation tests the limits of his sanity, and to survive, Vern must ascend, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human. For in a universe that doesn't care, perhaps godhood is the only answer. - Heavily inspired by Lord of The Mysteries, Bloodborne. - Minor Inspirations from Death Note, Psycho-Pass, Code Geass, Attack on Titan. Link to: Character Art Gallery, Discord What to expect: - Completely original 'magic' that can be hard (scientific) or soft (mystical), depending on the user. - Reverse Engineering of magic system and its concepts. - Competence Porn (Most characters of importance won't be stupid). - Somewhat of a slow-burn, but rewarding (mind-bending) progression and character/world-building. - Victorian Era, Steampunk, Lovecraft themes (subtle). - Short sections of POV swaps in early chapters, but 95% of story is written in MC's pov. Shades of Perception releases 3 times a week. (M, W, F around 11 EST)