Aiden stood amidst the remnants of the battle, his chest heaving as he tried to steady his breathing. The pulsating glow of the dungeon core still lingered in his hand, its energy resonating with the newfound power coursing through him. As he gazed at the core, his mind buzzed with questions that had been gnawing at him since his rebirth.
"Three questions... I need to make them count," he thought, his eyes narrowing in concentration. "What do I truly need to know?"
He took a deep breath, allowing his thoughts to settle. The first question seemed the most pressing, something fundamental that had been on his mind since he first gained awareness of the system.
Aiden's Inner Monologue: "Alright, first things first. What exactly is this system?"
With determination, he focused on the system interface that had become an integral part of his consciousness. "System, what is the system?"
A moment of silence passed before the response materialized before him, glowing softly in the air.
System Response: "The system is a mechanism designed to enable hunters to grow and enhance their abilities. It provides guidance, quests, and rewards to aid in the development of those who wield it. However, be aware that something more sinister is approaching. Further information cannot be disclosed until you reach level 50."
Aiden absorbed the information, his mind racing to process the implications. "A system to help me grow... but something sinister is on the horizon. I need to prepare for whatever's coming. But why can't it tell me more now? Level 50... I'll have to prioritize leveling up."
With the first question addressed, Aiden contemplated his next inquiry. There was something lingering in his thoughts about his past life, a missing piece of the puzzle that had always intrigued him.
Aiden's Inner Monologue: "In my past life, there was no system. Why was I reborn without it? There must be a reason."
Determined to find answers, he directed his next question to the system. "System, why in my past life did I not have access to this system?"
The system's response appeared, its tone slightly more somber.
System Response: "The absence of the system in your past life was due to interference by the gods, saints, and saintesses. They discovered the initial dungeon cores when the first dungeons opened and chose to block the system from those they deemed stronger than themselves or unfamiliar to them. It is still possible to awaken without the system, but the dungeon cores were later transformed into skill fragments or cores for weapons, designed for hunters. Only the elite gain access to the full system. To learn more, please reach level 50."
Aiden pondered the revelation, a mix of frustration and curiosity brewing within him. "So, these beings deliberately kept the system away from me because I was too strong or different. That explains why I felt a sense of purpose and drive, even without the system guiding me. But what does this mean for my journey? I need to keep leveling up, not just for myself, but to uncover the truths hidden by these powerful entities."
With two questions answered, Aiden felt a growing sense of urgency. The final question was the most personal and profound, touching the very essence of his existence.
Aiden's Inner Monologue: "Why was I reborn? What purpose does this serve?"
He focused his thoughts, channeling his curiosity into a direct query. "System, why was I reborn?"
The response that followed was laden with weighty implications, the system's tone almost reverent.
System Response: "We have been observing you since 2078. Your innate desire to save the Earth and your unwavering journey, even without the system's guidance, have made you exceptionally strong—stronger than most. However, the so-called final dungeon you are aware of is not the true final dungeon. Accelerate your progress to level 50 swiftly. There is no need to ask further questions, as we will communicate directly once you achieve that level."
Aiden absorbed the message, a mix of determination and a hint of apprehension settling in his mind. "So, my rebirth was orchestrated for a reason. The final dungeon isn't the end—there's something more, something I need to be prepared for. I need to reach level 50 quickly. The system will guide me then. Until that happens, I must continue to grow and uncover the mysteries surrounding my existence."
As the interface faded, a new notification appeared on his screen, signaling the completion of his three questions.
System Notification: "Questions Limit Reached. No further questions can be asked at this time. Proceed to complete quests and achieve level 50 to unlock more information."
Aiden felt a surge of resolve. "Alright, no more questions for now. Time to focus on leveling up and preparing for whatever comes next."
Before he could proceed, another reward notification appeared, signifying the system's acknowledgment of his progress.
System Reward: "Reward Unlocked: Shadowstep Technique"
Description: "A stealth skill that allows the user to blend into shadows, becoming nearly invisible for a short duration. While activated, the user's movements are silent, and their presence is masked from enemies, making it ideal for infiltration, evasion, and surprise attacks."
Aiden's eyes gleamed with excitement at the new ability. "Shadowstep Technique... This could be incredibly useful for scouting and taking enemies by surprise. Perfect for the missions ahead."
He couldn't help but smile, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Every step I take, every skill I acquire, brings me closer to unraveling the mysteries of this world and my place within it. Level 50 isn't just a number—it's a milestone that will unlock the next chapter of this journey. I need to stay focused, keep training, and remain vigilant."
With his questions answered and a new skill at his disposal, Aiden turned his attention back to the challenges that lay ahead. The path was fraught with danger and uncertainty, but his resolve was stronger than ever. As he set off to continue his quest for survival and understanding, he carried with him the knowledge and abilities that would aid him in the battles to come.
"I won't let anything stand in my way," he thought, determination burning in his eyes. "Not now, not ever."
And with that, Aiden ventured forth, ready to face whatever trials awaited him on his journey toward enlightenment and mastery.