The other scientists were out of the workshop. The computerized clock ticked down to one minute left.

"I don't think you get it." The Professor's fingers twitched with nervous energy. "The other test subjects…"

Merk frowned. "They were thoughtless. Went nuts. I won't, so don't worry."

"But other universes could be mindbendingly different. Full of concepts we don't comprehend!"

Merk buckled himself into the invention. "Risky, yes, but worthwhile. Think of the possible discoveries. We could improve the entire world for the better."

"But your wife… Your kids."

"They know I must do this. We've spoken." He sighed. "You've got to go now."

The Professor shivered. "Promise you'll return."

"I will."

With one lingering look, the Professor scurried behind the shielding where the computers hummed, powering up for full mission commencement.

Merk checked the contents of his utility pouch, flipped down the visor on his helmet, looked over the info registers showing the invention's core outputs. Everything seemed good.

He provided the thumbs-up when the timer clicked to fifteen seconds.

Then he closed his eyes. No one know the true problem with the previous botched missions. The cognitive deficiencies of prior crews could result from viewing the crossing in-between dimensions. But then, so much of the process continued to be mysterious. Could other dimensions be full of toxins, their lifeforms evolved within those contexts? Could they consist of hostile beings with queer powers over the mind? Could the underlying physics work differently? Or even time itself?

The possibilities were endless. But Merk knew his combo of scientific knowhow with soldier's experience would let him succeed where others fell short.

The noise of the workshop grew tremendously, until the countdown hit one second.

Merk tensed up. Not nervous. Just tensed, like the coiled spring which rockets up to the ceiling when let go.

Then the sound of the universe ripping open to form the tiniest hole, big enough one sole pilgrim to worlds unknown.

---

When Merk opened his eyes, he found himself sitting in the middle of the street.

He took stock of his surroundings. Nothing seemed out of the norm. This city could be from his own world.

Over the fence to the street's side, trees grew. Birds flitted through their limbs. Joggers, children, the elderly strolled by on cobblestone routes, enjoying the fine sunshine.

In the other direction, shops stood together, with dresses behind their windows. Shoppers drifted by, just browsing the selections. Some noticed his position in the street, pointing in shock.

Merk stood slowly, blinking his eyes to prevent dizziness. He must look ridiculous in the suit he wore. But the peril continued to be serious.

Sudden honking of horns confirmed the risk. Vehicles obviously sought to use the street, so—

One truck stopped suddenly in order to prevent running Merk over. Behind it, the driver continued on obliviously, resulting in luckily the tiniest of fender-benders.
Crunch.

Both drivers got out, yelling insults to themselves plus Merk too.

Nonetheless, Merk felt relief. It seemed like this universe would be fine. His mission would be successful. He stumbled in the direction of the drivers. Then he listened to the words one spoke.

"Ugh," the person groused. "I'll phone for triple-A."

Merk felt something in his mind twist, tumbling to the ground with his limbs twitching.

"What's his problem?" the other driver questioned. "Oh my god. Someone call an ambulance! He's… he's bleeding from the ears!"

Merk's mouth hung open, producing one sound: aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa