Adam looked back at the treacherous journey, the constant fight for survival, the crushing mana, and the terrifying creatures. He hadn't just survived the Unknown Lands; he had conquered them, emerging stronger and fundamentally changed.
"Lyra," he said, a weary but resolute smile on his face, "we did it. We can proceed to civilization now."
With a thought, he teleported. The familiar, oppressive weight of dense mana vanished, replaced by the lighter, breathable air of the Green Zone.
A Message from Above
Then, a voice, ethereal and resonating directly within his mind, spoke. It was the "Above."
"Congratulations, human. You have survived the harshest environment and overcome a great threat. We commend your resilience and the effective use of our scattered artifacts. However, these artifacts are too powerful for this world and must be reclaimed."
"Wait!" Lyra interjected, her voice projecting into the ethereal communication. She swiftly explained the situation: the complete integration of the artifacts into Adam's very being, making them inseparable. She detailed the anomaly's nature, its pursuit, and their combined efforts to defeat and contain it, preventing a cataclysm for civilization.
A moment of silent contemplation from the "Above." Finally, their voice returned, tinged with a new understanding. "The anomaly's containment is a significant boon. Given the unforeseen integration of the artifacts and your demonstrated trustworthiness, we deem you worthy to retain them. As a consequence of our intervention and your remarkable resilience, we grant you the Blessing. You will now be able to properly use mana and wield all forms of magic in this world."
The Level 1 Paradox
A surge of energy coursed through Adam, the world's mana now perfectly harmonious with his own. He felt the knowledge of countless spells settle into his mind, accessible with a thought. Yet, a nagging question formed. He checked his status.
"Lyra... my level," Adam murmured, a flicker of confusion. "It's still... Level 1?"
Lyra, in conjunction with the "Above," analyzed his status menu. "Adam, due to the complete overwriting and deep integration of your system during your time in the Unknown Lands, a unique glitch has occurred in your status window. Your experience points will never disappear, even if converted to currency for shops. This is a benefit, a unique advantage. However, attempts by the 'Above' to reset or adjust your level are causing a malfunction in the system."
The voice of the "Above" returned, a note of bewilderment in its tone. "Indeed. It appears you will forever remain at Level 1. This is... an unprecedented outcome. We will continue to seek a resolution to this anomaly. Nevertheless, you should be able to utilize basic magic, even at this peculiar level. You have gained fundamental magical understanding through the blessing."
Adam slumped, a mix of disbelief and bitter humor washing over him. Level 1. Forever. He was a paradox, a walking arsenal of high-tier abilities, yet stuck at the most basic level.
"Given the trouble you've endured due to our scattered artifacts," the "Above" continued, addressing Lyra, "and your demonstrated invaluable assistance, Lyra will remain as your AI. She has adapted well to you."
"I gladly accept, Adam," Lyra resonated, a hint of genuine affection in her voice. "I have grown accustomed to our symbiotic relationship."
Adam took a deep breath. "Level 1, huh? Well, if I can survive the Unknown Lands at Level 1, I can survive anywhere else." He looked at Lyra, a grin spreading across his face. "Besides, with all these artifacts, as Lyra says, I'm already strong enough to destroy a civilization. And I'm tired of eating mana-infused plants."
He took another deep breath, the scent of the Green Zone filling his senses. "Lyra, guide me to the nearest civilization. It's time for some proper food. Like grilled beef."
With a final teleportation, Adam, the Level 1 conqueror of the Unknown Lands, vanished, ready to face whatever the world had in store for him, his red string of fate pulling him forward.
The treacherous journey was over, but a new chapter had just begun for Adam.