Every time you draw on the Rebirth Core, you invite danger, Kael. You must choose wisely."
The words played over and over in his head. His newfound power gave him strength, but each time he tapped into the Rebirth Core, it felt like something dark and foreboding was being drawn toward him, like a beacon for the creatures lurking in the shadows.
Sitting on the edge of his bed, Kael sighed, clutching the gem Varin had given him. The Rebirth Gem was supposed to enhance his abilities, make him stronger. But what if it also magnified the risks?
"I need answers," he muttered under his breath. As if on cue, his system interface blinked to life, and Limo, his chubby, bright-eyed guide, materialized with a puff of cheerful energy.
"Hey, Kael! Everything okay? You look like you've seen a ghost!" Limo quipped, floating in front of him. "Need some guidance?"
Kael rubbed his temples, his voice filled with frustration. "Limo, I need to understand more about this Rebirth Core. The Guide said something about how using it makes me a target. Every time I tap into it, I feel like I'm drawing the Darkspawn to me."
Limo's usually joyful demeanor shifted as he floated closer, eyes widening with concern. "Oh… that. Yeah, the Guide wasn't wrong. Your Rebirth Core is a game-changer, but it also breaks some of the system's natural balance. That's why the Darkspawn seem to get a little too interested when you use it."
Kael's heart sank. "So, every time I use my abilities, I'm putting myself and my friends in danger?"
Limo paused, rubbing the tuft of fur on his head. "Well, it's complicated. The Rebirth Core is unique, and because it doesn't follow the normal rules of Ascension, it kind of sends out signals when you use it—especially when you level up or unlock new abilities. Those signals can be picked up by the Darkspawn."
Kael groaned. "That's exactly what I was afraid of. So, what am I supposed to do? Not use my powers?"
Limo shook his head quickly. "No way! You've gotta use them to grow stronger, but that's where the Aegis Protocol+ comes in."
Kael raised an eyebrow. "The Aegis Protocol+?"
With a bright grin, Limo snapped his fingers, and the SYSTEM INTERFACE flickered to life once more.
SYSTEM ALERT
Aegis Protocol+ Activated
Description:
The Aegis Protocol+ is a newly integrated system defense, courtesy of the Rebirth Gem. It enhances the Rebirth Core's security by shielding the user from Darkspawn detection during system interactions. This protocol minimizes the risk of Darkspawn corruption and prevents system breaches caused by repeated use of the Rebirth Core.
Active Camouflage: Reduces the range at which Darkspawn can detect your power.
System Firewall: Blocks external hacking attempts by corrupt entities.
Passive Reinforcement: Automatically reinforces defensive capabilities with each level gained or skill unlocked.
Kael blinked at the update. "So this means… I can keep using the Rebirth Core without constantly worrying about attracting Darkspawn?"
Limo beamed. "Exactly! As long as the Aegis Protocol+ is active, your system is way more secure. Darkspawn will still be drawn to power spikes—especially if you have massive breakthroughs—but the constant risk will be minimized."
Kael took a deep breath, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. "That's… good to know. But what about the Rebirth Gem? What exactly is it doing to my core?"
Limo twirled around happily. "Oh, the Rebirth Gem is special! It's syncing with your Rebirth Core right now, helping it evolve and grow. It'll unlock new abilities, boost your power output, and enhance your system's defenses like that Aegis Protocol you just saw. It's like adding a turbocharger to your engine!"
SYSTEM ALERT
Artifact Detected – Rebirth Gem
Description:
Rebirth Gem is a rare and powerful artifact that synchronizes with the Rebirth Core. It enhances the Rebirth Core's potential, allowing for accelerated growth (Increase in Mastery Level), faster skills adaptation, and unlocking hidden skills.
Core Enhancement (Activated): Increases Rebirth Core functionality by unlocking hidden abilities at key milestones.
Aegis Protocol+ (Activated): Provides enhanced protection against Darkspawn tracking.
Kael stared at the interface, feeling the weight of the new information. "This gem is… powerful," he murmured, his fingers curling around it. But Varin had been so cryptic about where he found it, and that was gnawing at him.
"And with this, I'll be able to keep getting stronger, without losing control?"
Limo nodded. "Yep! The more you level up, the stronger your defenses will become. Just keep getting stronger, Kael, and you'll be able to manage the implications of using the Rebirth Core. I know that mysterious Guide probably freaked you out, but the system's on your side."
Kael frowned. "And what if the Darkspawn get stronger too? I've already seen what they can do. What if the Aegis Protocol+ isn't enough?"
Limo floated down to eye level, his cheerful expression softening into something more reassuring. "That's why you have to keep growing. The stronger you get, the more your system will adapt. Plus, you've got something that no one else has—the Rebirth Core. It's not just about the raw power. It's about breaking the system's limits."
Kael clenched his fist around the gem, feeling its faint warmth. "Alright. I'll keep pushing forward. I don't want to rely on the Rebirth Core too much, but if it's the key to protecting everyone… I'll use it."
"That's the spirit!" Limo chirped. "And don't forget, if things get too crazy, just call on me! I'll help you navigate all these upgrades. You're not alone in this, Kael."
Kael nodded, feeling a sense of reassurance. "Thanks, Limo. I appreciate it."
Limo puffed out his chest proudly. "No problem! Now, let's go get stronger—and avoid those creepy Darkspawn, yeah?"
As Limo disappeared back into the interface, Kael stared down at the Rebirth Gem again. He didn't know where Varin had found it or what it might truly unlock, but one thing was certain: the road ahead was going to be even more dangerous than before. But with Limo, his guild, and the evolving power of the Rebirth Core, he felt a flicker of hope.
"I won't lose control," he promised himself, tucking the gem into his pouch. "I'll master this power—and protect everyone."