Cronos

In 1536, the alchemist Humberto Oganelli arrives in Veracruz, Mexico, fleeing from the Inquisition that threatens his life. Seeking refuge, he quickly establishes himself as the official watchmaker for the viceroy, setting the stage for his remarkable inventions.

While in Veracruz, Oganelli embarks on an ambitious quest to perfect his invention known as the Cronos device. He believes it can unlock the secret to eternal life, a goal that consumes his thoughts and drives his every action.

Fast forward to 1937, a tragic event occurs when a building collapses, leading to the discovery of a man with skin like marble, mortally wounded. This man, revealed to be Oganelli, utters the mysterious words 'Sua tempore' as he dreams of eternal life.

Authorities are horrified by the gruesome scene of a human male found hanging upside down, his blood draining into a basin. This shocking discovery raises numerous questions about the circumstances surrounding Oganelli's death and the Cronos device.

De la Guardia, a millionaire and collector of archangel statues, unknowingly seeks the Cronos device, which he has dedicated his life to finding. His obsession leads him to track down the potential key to his immortal desires.

The coveted archangel statue, containing the hidden Cronos device, comes into the possession of Jesús Gris. Unbeknownst to Jesús, this statue holds the key to power and immortality, setting him on a dark path of discovery.

When Jesús accidentally activates the Cronos device, he experiences horrific consequences. Mechanized claws emerge, inflicting agonizing wounds on his hand, marking the beginning of his agonizing transformation.

Ángel de la Guardia, the nephew of De la Guardia, is sent to retrieve the archangel statue. His desperation leads him to commit murder, showcasing the lengths to which he will go to acquire the powerful device.

As Jesús grapples with the effects of activating the Cronos device, he discovers that it grants him immortality at a terrible cost. He develops an insatiable thirst for blood, and his physical appearance begins to transform, revealing a marble-like skin.

In a climactic confrontation, Jesús, De la Guardia, and Ángel battle for control over the Cronos device. Though Jesús ultimately vanquishes his adversaries, he is left to deal with the terrifying realization of what he has unleashed.

In a moment of profound clarity, Jesús decides to destroy the Cronos device, thereby rejecting the path to immortality it offers. This act symbolizes his ultimate choice between life and love versus the seductive power of eternal life.

After destroying the device, Jesús prepares to return home to his granddaughter Aurora and his girlfriend Mercedes. He faces the tragic reality of his decisions, realizing that he must bid farewell to life as he knows it.

The story is recounted by Jorge Martínez de Hoyos, who reflects on Oganelli's tale and the mysteries surrounding the Cronos device. His narration ties together the themes of sacrifice, love, and the heavy toll of immortality.

As Jesús acknowledges the transformation he has undergone, he feels the weight of his actions. His final declaration of 'NO!' resonates as he confronts the irreversible nature of his choices leading to tears and sorrow.