Chapter 2: The System
The moment I held the mysterious marble, its appearance changed dramatically. It turned into a mesmerizing mix of obsidian black with pulsating blue veins, emanating a captivating yet imposing aura.
Despite my rational instincts warning against it, an irresistible urge took over me—a primal instinct compelling me to offer my heart to the artifact. It was madness, absurd beyond belief. And yet, driven by unseen forces, I gave in to the impulse.
In the depths of unconsciousness, darkness consumed me, and when I awoke, it was with intense pain—a torn chest and my hand clutching my still-beating heart.
How could this be? How could I live with my heart in my hand? The answers eluded me, lost in the bewildering reality that surrounded me. And as I grappled with the inexplicable, a single thought rang clear—I had crossed a line from which there was no return.
As consciousness returned, I found my heart miraculously restored, as if the ordeal had been nothing but a nightmare. But there was no reward for my sacrifice, no boon to be found.
Fury consumed me, and I erupted in a torrent of enraged words. "I tore out my heart, replaced it with a worthless lump of coal, and for what?!" My voice echoed with primal intensity, bordering on madness.
Amidst my rage, a sudden pang gripped me, originating from an organ I didn't recognize. Then, a voice—a haunting melody—resonated in my mind, filling me with foreboding.
[Initializing…]
The cryptic message chilled me, sparking a flurry of panicked thoughts. Could it be? Another deity hidden within me, silently observing? The idea terrified me, a fear of the unknown.
Determined to avoid past agony, I vowed to uncover these mysteries. The pain I endured would not be forgotten.
The disembodied voice, now addressing me as Cain Foster, urged me to interact further. Though friendly, I hesitated, wary of past betrayals.
Instead of initiating "Status" as prompted, I sought clarification, wary of the unknown.
"What does 'Status' do?" I asked, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. I refused to let uncertainty overwhelm me, determined to face whatever revelations awaited me.
As I awaited the system's response, I steeled myself for the truth of my existence.
When I said, "Status," a translucent window appeared before me, displaying an accurate representation of myself—a Caucasian man with dark hair and deep purple eyes. My physique reflected years of discipline, with a scar on my left cheek telling of past challenges.
Tabs to explore appeared beside my depiction. With a mix of apprehension and curiosity, I reached out to interact with them, ready to uncover the secrets within.
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-> Stats
-> Store
-> Miniature World Manager
-> Power Siphon
-> Restrictions
-> The Future
-> Cosmic Mana Reactor
-> Crowns
-> Item Creation
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With a careful nod, I recognized the one tab that seemed familiar in the mysterious interface before me. With a hesitant tap, I chose it, preparing for whatever truths it might reveal.
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Store: Beginner
-Abyss Dragon's Xexir's Battle Knowledge: 100 Crowns
-Auction House Management Token: 50 Crowns
-Apollo's Bagpipe: 75 Crowns
-World Connection Link: 10 Crowns
-Dimension Connection Link: 280 Crowns
-Divine Domain: Free
-System Knowledge: Free
Please buy at least [1] of everything to upgrade to intermediate store
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As I completed my purchase, a mix of excitement and unease filled me. While my rational side knew the importance of understanding the system's workings first, my innate need for order drove me to follow a methodical approach, step by step.
Upon obtaining the Divine Domain, I initially felt a sense of disappointment as nothing seemed to change immediately. Impatience gnawed at me as I waited for some indication of transformation, only to be rewarded with a sudden surge of power that defied explanation.
When I opened my eyes again, I beheld a world utterly transformed—a reality beyond comprehension. Sensations flooded my being, indescribable yet all-encompassing. Strange energies swirled around me, vibrant and alive. While I sensed the ability to command these spectral entities, I remained puzzled by the mechanics of such control.
Most significantly, I realized that this pristine space wasn't just a backdrop—it was an extension of myself, akin to a vital organ. Its preservation was crucial, for within it lay the very essence of my newfound power. And with this realization came the solemn understanding that the fragility of this realm mirrored my own, bound together by a delicate thread of control.
As I chose "System Knowledge," a rush of anticipation flooded me, mingled with a sense of urgency. I was desperate to understand this newfound power that had thrust itself into my life.
What followed was unexpected—a cool embrace enveloped my mind, a soothing presence amidst the overwhelming influx of information. It felt like a floodgate had opened, unleashing a torrent of knowledge that settled within me effortlessly. I now grasped the inner workings of the system, its mechanics laid bare before me.
With this enlightenment came awe and apprehension. The possibilities afforded by this godlike power were staggering, each path branching into realms of unimaginable potential. But amidst it all, my determination to become a librarian remained firm.
Realizing I now held the mantle of a god brought resignation and acceptance. The title carried weighty implications, yet it didn't sway my resolve. The ethereal specks of light around me were manifestations of divine power, drawn from the realm I now inhabited.
Knowing my power relied on preserving this realm brought a sobering awareness of the stakes. Without it, I'd be adrift in eternity. But with the system's knowledge came resilience—a basic understanding of survival guiding me forward.
As a panel appeared before me, a gateway to endless possibilities, I prepared for the challenges ahead, resolved to forge my destiny amidst the vast cosmos.
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Choose your domain:
-Battle
-Water
-Time
-Space
-Illusion(Now Open!)
-Victory
-Strategy
-Metal-Working
-Technology
(99+) Press for more.
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With urgency and determination, I explored the options before me, seeking a domain that matched my deepest desires. While the idea of controlling time was tempting, it wasn't what I wanted. Instead, I found myself drawn to Domain 4661—intellect.
As the god of intelligence, I'd have unmatched knowledge, understanding the universe's mysteries and human psyche. With this domain, I could wield insight with precision.
But I knew there was a cost. Embracing this domain meant a fundamental change in who I was. Despite my fear, I was willing to transform for knowledge's sake.
With resolve, I chose the option, feeling the weight of my decision settle upon me. As the world turned black around me, I prepared for the journey ahead, ready to embrace the challenges and revelations of intellect.
As I journeyed through time, my consciousness expanded. I witnessed the universe's birth, stars' cycles, and civilizations' rise and fall. I saw cosmic conflicts beyond human comprehension, leaving their mark on reality.
Amidst the turmoil, I gained profound insights, my grasp of the universe deepening with each moment. The System, once seen as a mere tool, revealed itself as a sentient being, its consciousness woven into creation itself. As its vessel, I inherited its knowledge, expanding beyond the limits of my domain to encompass all existence.
In this realization, I understood true power—to transcend boundaries, to explore knowledge without limits. Navigating the cosmos, I embraced the endless possibilities ahead, prepared to use my newfound wisdom for a greater cause.