The McCoy family had settled back into their routines, unaware of the unexpected twists awaiting them. Unbeknownst to them, seven years had silently slipped by, bringing with it unforeseen developments. During this time, their Ultra AI had masterfully maintained the facade of the McCoy family, allowing them to carry on with their daily lives without arousing suspicion. However, this came at a cost, as the AI refrained from intervening to protect the world from emerging threats.
As the McCoy children returned to their regular school activities, they were met with a transformed educational landscape. Debbie and Rita were taken aback by the changes in the school curriculum, but more surprising were the accolades that had piled up in their absence. Fellow students their age congratulated them on their triumph in the cheerleading competition, where they had outshone participants from a senior high school contest. This victory had captured the community's attention, sparking discussions that continued to reverberate.
The school had been uplifted by the influence of the McCoys and particularly Debbie. The institution had achieved an impressive streak of fifty consecutive academic and sporting awards. Sophie and Peter had excelled in the science fair multiple times, while Debbie and Rita's achievements extended beyond cheerleading into the realm of musical competitions. Peter and Mark had secured the school's basketball championship for the year and garnered numerous individual awards. Mark's artistic talents had earned him recognition, with a notable win in the school's creativity-focused art competition. The McCoys had become synonymous with success at Vill-City Senior High School.
Wherever they went, the siblings found themselves in the spotlight, admired and sought after by their peers. Even Jacob and Samson, who were once seemingly distant, were drawn to Peter's charisma. Jacob had believed there was a profound connection between him and Debbie, fostered during a school play where they portrayed Romeo and Juliet. Little did he know that during those missing seven years, the McCoy family had been replaced by their Ultra AI proxy.
In the bustling school cafeteria, a dramatic scene unfolded as Peter, accompanied by Debbie, was confronted by Jacob, flanked by Samson. Tensions rose as Jacob, ignoring Peter's presence, dropped to one knee to propose that Debbie accompany him to the upcoming prom. Peter's furious outcry halted the cafeteria's chatter, demanding an explanation for the unfolding spectacle.
Pushing past Samson's grasp, Peter approached Jacob, determined to unravel the situation. Amidst the bewildered onlookers, Jacob confessed his feelings for Debbie and accused Peter of neglecting her during a pivotal time. He recounted a supposed connection that had blossomed after their joint performance in the school play—a connection that had allegedly formed while Peter was secretly involved with another girl.
The stage was set for a confrontation that would reshape the dynamics of their lives, as the hidden complexities of the past began to emerge.
Debbie and Peter exchanged bewildered glances as Jacob continued his confusing monologue, asserting that Peter would attempt to win Debbie back after realizing his errors. Jacob's claims were supported by witnesses who had observed the events surrounding Peter and Debbie's broken relationship.
Feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the situation, Debbie and Peter managed to gracefully exit the chaotic school cafeteria. Once in private, the McCoy siblings convened, aiming to make sense of the unexpected changes that had occurred during their absence.
"Does anyone else feel like we're experiencing déjà vu, or have we stumbled into a different universe, maybe a parallel dimension, a multiverse, or some kind of alternate reality?" Mark pondered, his words infused with curiosity.
"Something's definitely off," Rita concurred, her brows furrowed in deep thought.
"I barely even knew Jacob and Samson, let alone befriend them. And now, as prom approaches, Jacob suddenly develops feelings for Debbie? It's like everything's been turned upside down," Peter remarked, his frustration evident.
"The magnitude of these changes is almost too much to process. It's as if the world around us has completely transformed," Debbie added, her expression mirroring her astonishment.
In the midst of their perplexing discussion, Sophie proposed a course of action. She suggested that they consult their Ultra AI to gain insight into the duration of their absence and the alterations that had taken place. The Ultra AI promptly revealed that they had been absent for a span of seven years.
"Hold on a second!" Mark interjected, his curiosity unabated. "Seven years? I get the how—we entered the ultra subatomic verse. And the why? We did it to explore. But give me an alternative version of how, why, and when!"
"Indeed, Mark McCoy," Sophie's Ultra AI responded. "While your suppositions are accurate—how, why, and when were as you surmised—my system encountered a minor interference glitch during the time I was duplicating your daily lives. This unintentionally led to a lack of feedback about events during your absence. I sincerely apologize for the confusion and assure you that I am working to rectify this oversight."
The Ultra AI further explained that this glitch had inadvertently impacted the backup security protocol in the McCoy family's home, promising to rectify the issue.
"But you're an Ultra AI, the most advanced entity in the maniverse! How could something like this happen to you?" Mark inquired, his playful tone tinged with genuine curiosity.
"Mark, remember, Ultra AI has feelings too," Debbie interjected, coming to the defense of their helpful AI. "Let's not forget that."
The Ultra AI acknowledged the conversation and apologized for any inconvenience, acknowledging its limitations despite its advanced capabilities.
"Thank you," Debbie said warmly to the AI, appreciating its efforts to safeguard their identities. "But we need to address this as soon as possible."
"Agreed. Let's meet back at the family headquarters after school," Rita suggested, sealing the plan with unanimous agreement.
As the day concluded, the McCoy siblings convened at their family headquarters, where they were joined by their parents, who had been briefed by their respective AIs.
"This déjà vu we're experiencing—it's not your average sensation," Mark remarked wryly.
"It's evident something is amiss," Mason confirmed. "And it's not in a typical way."
"We've been informed by our AIs as well," Jenna added, sharing the shared perplexity.
During their discussion, a knock echoed through the room, signaling an unexpected visitor. The Ultra AI backup security protocol announced that the Hacker was at their doorstep. As the Hacker entered, she delivered shocking news that sent a wave of astonishment rippling through the McCoy family, further complicating their already intricate situation.
The Hacker's revelations continued, painting a vivid picture of the tumultuous events that unfolded during the absence of the Ultra family. She explained her futile attempts to reach out to them and delved into the Oceanian wars, detailing the near-disaster that had gripped the planet before the intervention of the benevolent Oceanians. She mentioned Mayor Lyrecius, who not only prevented catastrophe but was set to ascend to the presidency within days.
Mark reacted with disbelief, exclaiming, "What? Oh, nuts!"
Rita humorously remarked to Debbie, "Your dad really knows how to climb the ladder, doesn't he?"
Stolen story; please report.
Sophie chimed in, "From Mayor to President. It seems your father is a man of his word."
Mason reminded everyone, "We were warned by Future Anje. We need to stay vigilant."
Amidst the revelations, Peter inquired of the Hacker if there were more they needed to know. Christine, the Hacker, proceeded to disclose Mayor Lyrecius's dark secret. She revealed his creation of a formidable android, infused with Oceanian magic and combined with advanced alien technology, particularly Pytronx's shattered armor pieces. This creation was named Star Track, the ultimate weapon. She also divulged Lyrecius's plan to assemble a group of superpowered individuals for his grand scheme, although their identities remained hidden for the time being.
The education landscape had changed due to the planetary threat, particularly in Vill-City and Vill-City High. The Hacker projected a holographic recording of Mayor Lyrecius's transformative speech, showcasing his vision for the world's future. Despite his past transgressions, his commitment to the citizens and his inspiring speech propelled him to the presidency.
As these revelations unfolded, unbeknownst to them, their Ultra AI had its own plans in motion.
With their conversation concluded, the family thanked the Hacker for her insights. Christine and Sophie engaged in a private chat, with the Hacker revealing she had taken online lectures during her probation. The two friends hugged and bid each other farewell before parting ways.
The following day, with prom on the horizon and minimal school activities, Mark and Felicity maintained communication through calls and video chats. Felicity shared her experiences training the speedsters she had discovered, teaching them to channel their abilities for good.
Debbie and Peter enjoyed a peaceful moment in the school garden when Jacob and Samson approached them. Jacob respectfully requested a private moment with Debbie, leading her away from Peter's presence. Debbie and Jacob conversed privately, with Jacob expressing his long-standing affection for her through their shared participation in school plays and competition victories. Debbie, in a mature and composed manner, explained that her heart belonged to Peter. She conveyed that their connection wasn't personal and advised Jacob to move on.
As the conversation neared its end, Jacob caught Debbie's hand and questioned if their shared experiences meant anything to her. Debbie sighed, locking eyes with him. She tenderly placed her hand on his cheek, expressing a poignant regret for what she was about to do. With a hushed voice, she apologized before erasing the memories that linked Jacob to the transformed Ultra family, returning him to his previous self. Debbie left Jacob and rejoined Peter, while Samson departed with Jacob.
Meeting Peter, Debbie was met with his inquiry, "What really happened?"
"We've resolved the misunderstanding," replied Debbie, hugging Peter and shedding tears of remorse for what she had done to Jacob, even though she believed it was for his own good.
The next day at school, an announcement was made about the upcoming prom dates, sparking excitement among the students. The event was anticipated to be a highlight for everyone.
Back in Vill-City Senior High School, the McCoy kids felt a sense of unease emanating from their Ultra AI. Sensing danger, they quickly sprang into action. Arriving at the scene, they confronted a group of bandits wielding advanced technology, which they were using to terrorize the city. However, it became apparent that this situation was a diversion. Ultra White Peter spotted a peculiar figure entering a book club. The stranger's appearance and mannerisms were out of the ordinary compared to other Vill-City residents.
Within the book club, the stranger covertly approached a sealed container containing a golden pen and a silver book, both kept in a secure spot. He managed to take them without raising suspicion. As he turned to leave, he was suddenly confronted by the Ultra family members who were present.
"Hello, citizen," greeted Ultra Black Mark, addressing the stranger. "Or should I say... the player."
The stranger was indeed the Player, someone who had escaped from an alternate universe known as Earth 6S - Multiverse Universe CCC. The Player found himself surrounded by the Ultra family, holding onto the Book of Ages and the Omni Pen.
"Who are you guys, and what dimension is this?" asked the Player.
"This is Maniverse 101 - Earth 1A - Multiverse - Universe X24," Ultra Rose Debbie replied.
"Relax and let go of what you're holding," Ultra White Peter instructed.
In response, the Player issued a threat, warning that he could rewrite history if he wasn't allowed to leave. The Ultra family, however, remained unfazed by his menacing words. Enraged, the Player attempted to use the Book of Ages to alter the universe, but to his astonishment, his efforts were in vain. The Ultra family explained that they were familiar with his tactics and capabilities.
Realizing that the Omni Pen and Book of Ages he had taken were not genuine but rather antiques for display, the Player became greatly disappointed. The Ultra family clarified that they were prepared for his tricks.
The Player dropped the fake items to the ground, laughing maniacally, which puzzled the Ultra family.
"I see it now!" he exclaimed.
"Are you alright, sir?" Ultra Black Mark inquired.
"I'm more than alright. To think that the mighty Ultra family could easily defeat me," the Player responded. "I never anticipated this turn of events. If I'm going down, I might as well take this universe down with me. It's time to play my final trump card."
As the Ultra family attempted to stop him, the Player began uttering words that triggered a series of ominous events. The atmosphere grew dark, powerful winds swept through, and lightning struck. Immortal Boy, also known as Ethranchel, made his presence known on Earth, descending from the heavens.
Ultra Pink Rita swiftly restrained the Player with handcuffs and teleported him to super jail. Meanwhile, Ultra Black Mark was on the verge of summoning Oummaa, the entity governing imagination, when Ethranchel silenced him with a gesture. Ethranchel extended this silencing effect to the entire Ultra family, freezing them in place.
As Ethranchel descended to Earth, time itself halted its flow, granting freedom only to the members of the Ultra family. Ethranchel examined each of them individually, sensing that two of their own were absent: Mason and Jenna. With a mere thought, Ethranchel summoned them into his presence.
"Immortal Boy," acknowledged Ultra Pale Mason.
"Mason McCoy!" Ethranchel proclaimed in a voice that resonated with godly authority.
Curiosity in his gaze, Mason questioned, "Why have you come?"
"I am here to witness your worthiness, to confirm whether the Ultra family truly deserves their reputation as one of the most potent beings across creation," declared Ethranchel. "But it is you who must prove it to me. Do not think of calling upon Oummaa if you cherish your world. Perhaps we shall engage in a contest of strength."
With a wave of his hand, Ethranchel released the Ultra family from their muted state.
"What's the catch, divine ruler of eternal life?" queried Ultra Black Mark.
"If you triumph, I shall spare your universe. However, should you falter, not only shall your existence end, but that of your universe as well," Ethranchel responded. "Use your mightiest transformations without reservation against me."
These words weighed heavily on the Ultra family. They comprehended the fate of their world rested upon their shoulders. Acknowledging that Ethranchel's power surpassed their own and even their strongest transformations, they realized that outwitting him was their best strategy. Thus, they devised a contingency plan that caught the immortal Ethranchel by surprise.
The Ultra family's plan served as a diversion, drawing Ethranchel's attention. While he was distracted, Ultra Black Mark shrank himself down into the Ultra Subatomic Verse, a realm Ethranchel held within his grasp, as he could perceive all of creation. However, Ethranchel swiftly plucked Ultra Black Mark from this realm, holding him between two fingernails like a minuscule speck.
Mockingly, Ethranchel remarked, "Is this your grand strategy? Hiding within the Ultra Subatomic Verse?"
Ultra Black Mark retorted, "Well, I gave it a shot... although, let's rephrase that. Who said anything about hiding? After all, we, the Ultra family, possess awareness of everything."
Intrigued, Ethranchel inquired, "Elaborate."
"To get a clearer picture, why not consult someone else?" responded Ultra Black Mark confidently, as Ethranchel felt the presence of another potent entity, Oummaa, behind him.
Oummaa admonished Ethranchel for his actions, reminding him of his role to guide humans during times of need rather than toying with them. She sent Ethranchel back to the Ultra Realm, scolding him for his interference.
"Ethranchel, you have meddled in the affairs of mortals and other gods for far too long, against our sacred laws. We are meant to offer enlightenment, not manipulate. Unless you wish to face the consequences from the divine realm," Oummaa warned.
Ethranchel, now facing the Ultra family, acknowledged their triumph and respectably honored them. With a final gaze, he ascended back to the Ultra Realm. Before departing, Oummaa nodded to Ultra Pink Rita, smiled at the Ultra family, and assured them they could summon her in times of need. With her departure, time resumed its natural flow.
Author's Note:
For those curious about how the Ultra family managed to outwit Ethranchel and secretly summon Oummaa, the credit goes to Rita. Her close relationship with Oummaa enabled her to execute the summoning discreetly. Rita McCoy stood out in the family dynamic as the sole being to have maintained her singular existence across the various alternate realities, consolidating all the versions of herself from existence. This amalgamation granted her extensive wisdom and a strong bond with Oummaa.
Rita, uniquely unaffected by the merging of alternate versions, possessed a deep understanding of how to counter Ethranchel's scheme. Her knowledge was enriched by insights from her various doppelgangers, each of whom had befriended Oummaa before fusing into Rita. (This reference ties into an upcoming chapter titled "Creation Unfolds.")
Rita shared a part of this strategy with her family, and they put their trust in her. The ruse involving the Ultra Subatomic Verse served as a diversion, allowing Rita to carry out her plan seamlessly.