Carl Benson & Nikolai.

[mo0die]

Carl Benson was a 24-year-old mechanic in the bustling city of San Andreas. Known for its never-ending hum of engines and the constant clinking of tools, Carl's garage was a microcosm of the city's industrious spirit. He was a short, chunky, lean man with grease-stained overalls and a perpetual smudge of oil on his cheek, evidence of his dedication to his craft. His clients adored him for his skillful hands and quick wit, which often made the long waits at the garage a bit more bearable.

However, there was more to Carl than met the eye. Behind his easy smile and hardworking demeanor lay a complex mind grappling with a profound challenge: Carl had split personality disorder. His other personality, a Russian figure named Nikolai, was a stark contrast to Carl. Where Carl was reserved and considerate, Nikolai was bold and outspoken, always saying exactly what he thought without a hint of hesitation.

Nikolai was a nice guy, though, despite his bluntness. He would often take over during moments of high stress or when Carl felt overwhelmed, navigating social situations with a straightforward honesty that some found refreshing and others, intimidating. Carl had learned to coexist with Nikolai, recognizing that this part of him, though disorienting, brought a certain balance to his life.

It wasn’t uncommon for Carl to find himself in situations where Nikolai’s personality would unexpectedly emerge. For instance, one rainy afternoon, a customer complained about a delayed car repair. Carl began to stutter an apology, but suddenly his expression changed, and Nikolai took over.

“Your car will be ready when it’s ready. Good work takes time,” Nikolai said, his voice carrying a faint Russian accent. The customer, taken aback, blinked in surprise but ultimately nodded, sensing the truth in Nikolai’s words.

Carl’s friends and regular customers knew about his condition and accepted it, often finding Nikolai’s bluntness endearing. They appreciated Carl’s dedication and Nikolai’s honesty, creating a unique dynamic that worked surprisingly well in the hustle and bustle of San Andreas.

Outside the garage, Carl's life was relatively quiet. He spent evenings reading books about mechanics and engineering, always eager to improve his skills. Nikolai, on the other hand, pushed him to socialize more, often dragging Carl to local bars where he would engage in spirited conversations with strangers, making friends effortlessly with his candid nature.

Despite the complexities of living with split personality disorder, Carl and Nikolai had found a way to navigate life together. They balanced each other out, creating a harmony that was as intricate and well-tuned as the engines Carl spent his days repairing. In the vibrant city of San Andreas, where everyone had their own struggles and stories, Carl Benson and his Russian alter ego, Nikolai, were just another part of the tapestry that made the city so unique.

Edited June 27 by mo0die