Time stood still. The world was frozen, except for Rohan. He found himself in a vast, empty space, face to face with the Nexus.

"Rohan, congratulations on reaching Level 100," the Nexus said. "You have been chosen to lead humanity through the next phase of evolution."

Rohan's mind raced. "What's going on? Why is the world frozen?"

"The world is in a state of stasis," the Nexus explained. "A one-year peace period, where humanity can regroup and prepare for what's to come. You, Rohan, will be the key to unlocking the next stage of human evolution."

Rohan's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean? What's the next stage?"

"The Merge was just the beginning," the Nexus said. "A portal will soon open, leading to a new world of opportunities. But it will also bring new challenges. You must choose your first companion wisely, as they will aid you in the trials ahead."

Rohan scanned the list of potential companions, his eyes widening as he read through their impressive skills and levels:

Potential Companions

Captain Chen (China) - Level 99 (1% to Level 100)

* A seasoned warrior with a heart of gold, Captain Chen is a master of martial arts and a brilliant strategist. Her unwavering loyalty and exceptional leadership skills make her a valuable asset to any team.

* Stats: Strength 95, Agility 90, Intelligence 80

Dr. Patel (USA) - Level 98 (2% to Level 99)

* A brilliant mind with a deep understanding of both science and humanity, Dr. Patel is a genius scientist with a passion for innovation. His expertise in advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and dimensional theory is unmatched.

* Stats: Intelligence 98, Agility 70, Strength 60

Lady Rachel (UK) - Level 99 (1% to Level 100)

* A charismatic and inspiring leader with a sharp wit and a kind heart, Lady Rachel is a master of diplomacy and strategy. Her ability to unite people and motivate them to achieve great things is unparalleled.

* Stats: Charisma 95, Intelligence 85, Strength 75

Kenji (Japan) - Level 98 (2% to Level 99)

* A cybernetic prodigy with a mind that operates at lightning speed, Kenji is a master of digital warfare. His ability to infiltrate networks, manipulate data, and engage in virtual combat is unmatched.

* Stats: Agility 95, Intelligence 90, Strength 65

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Maya (India) - Level 98 (2% to Level 99)

* A brilliant hacker with a rebellious spirit, Maya is a master of deception and infiltration. Her ability to bypass security systems, decode encrypted data, and create complex algorithms is unmatched.

* Stats: Intelligence 95, Agility 85, Strength 60

Amaya (Brazil) - Level 98 (2% to Level 99)

* A compassionate healer with a deep connection to the natural world, Amaya is a master of medical treatment, herbal remedies, and energy manipulation. Her ability to heal the body and soothe the soul is unmatched.

* Stats: Intelligence 85, Agility 75, Strength 60

Omar (Egypt) - Level 99 (1% to Level 100)

* A wise elder with a deep understanding of the human condition, Omar is a master of philosophy, history, and spiritual practices. His ability to see the bigger picture and guide others towards a better future is unmatched.

* Stats: Charisma 95, Intelligence 90, Strength 70

"Who will it be, Rohan?" the Nexus asked.

As Rohan processed the Nexus's words, his mind began to wander. He thought about the journey that had brought him here, the people he had met, and the challenges he had overcome. And then, he thought about Aria.

Memories of their time together flooded his mind. He remembered the stormy night they huddled together in the attic, the wind howling outside, and Aria's gentle voice whispering words of comfort in his ear. The sound of raindrops on the roof transported him to a place of comfort and peace. He recalled the warmth of her hand in his, the soft glow of the candle casting dancing shadows on the walls.

As he thought about Aria, Rohan's heart swelled with emotion. He remembered the way she nursed him back to health when he was bedridden with fever, her cool hands on his forehead, her soothing voice easing his delirium. The scent of lavender and chamomile filled the air, and the soft ticking of the grandfather clock provided a comforting rhythm.

He remembered the way she nursed him back to health when he was bedridden with fever, her cool hands on his forehead, her soothing voice easing his delirium. The scent of lavender and chamomile filled the air, and the soft ticking of the grandfather clock provided a comforting rhythm.

His mind drifted to the darkest moments of his life, when he felt lost and alone, and Aria was the only one who stood by him. He remembered the way she listened to his fears and doubts, her eyes filled with empathy and understanding. He remembered the way she helped him find his strength again, her encouragement and belief in him igniting a fire within his soul.

He also remembered the way his heart skipped a beat when she was near, the way his palms grew sweaty when she held his hand. He recalled their first kiss, soft and gentle, under the mistletoe in the orphanage's common room. The soft glow of the Christmas lights bathed them in a warm, inviting light, and the gentle scent of pine needles filled the air. He remembered the way Aria's eyes sparkled with happiness, the way her cheeks flushed with excitement.

Rohan's love for Aria swelled in his chest, a mix of tender emotions and passionate desire. He knew that he couldn't imagine facing the challenges ahead without her by his side. With a newfound sense of clarity, he turned his attention back to the Nexus and the choice before him.

The memories came flooding back, and Rohan knew he couldn't face the challenges ahead without Aria by his side. He looked at the list of potential companions, but his heart wasn't in it. "Aria's not on the list," he said, feeling a pang of disappointment.

"The list only includes individuals with exceptional skills and abilities," the Nexus replied. "However, its your choice, and you can choose anyone living in this world."

Rohan's eyes lit up with hope. "Really? You can do that?"

"Yes."

Rohan didn't hesitate. "I choose Aria."

The Nexus acknowledged his choice, its digital presence humming with activity.

"Your choice is confirmed, Rohan. Aria will be your companion."

Rohan felt a sense of excitement and nervousness. He knew that Aria was more than just a skilled ally - she was his rock, his confidante, his sweetheart, and his everything. And so, the universe's most deadly duo was formed, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.