We stayed up for another hour going into details about the plan before Mr. Night departed. On the second floor were ten rooms with personal bathrooms. The rooms dedicated to us are located farthest from the staircase and could be barricaded from the rest of the floor if needed. My room was larger than the apartment we lived in before this. Varying shades of black and grays suit both mine and Onyx taste for us to retire after a long day. Only when we are alone do I get to see the true beauty hidden behind the cold assassin. There were obviously things I couldn't talk about with Mr. Night there even if I trusted him in another time, I still must prove myself to him once again. If not for the betrothal between his daughter and I, my head would have been severed from my shoulders before I could even reach the end of the first line of their Alma mater.
First thing in the morning after breakfast prepared by the in-house maid Automata, Beatrix, they tour their new home. She was so life like that if Beatrix wouldn't have informed them he probably wouldn't have known. Their hyper realism is why they are banned all over the world though there were very few who could create such an advanced creation. This ultra-modern two-story fortress with an additional two underneath the structure overflowing with technology far more advanced than anything to come up in the future. There are seven en-suite while entertainment and basic training make up the first floor with an enclosed lap pool and physical gym were some of the few things that could be found. Among the most central point of the first floor behind a secret entrance is the cabin room where they would be spending the majority of their time. Two silver space egg VR cabins lined up against the wall connected to a miniature proton reactor as an energy source. A minimum rate of 90% synchronization is required for cabins to even exist so it gave Grey a reasonable hypothesis of their parents' capabilities. Moving down the first level of the basement multiple virtual simulation rooms to assist with advanced training of every type of combat from melee to weaponry as well as reaction speed. A private elevator requiring a full body scan, blood, iris recognition, and a spoken phrase to access leads down deep into the hill to a secret lab. This was the home of their parent's manic ideas to come to life. Grey chose to check this area out at another time as he was on a deadline.
Returning upstairs it was time to awaken. Grey requested Beatrix to administer each of them with an injection of the serum. No one has ever reportedly ignited gene mutation without experiencing the effects of the game first. I thought I was ready to manage the pain of awakening a second time around however I couldn't have been more wrong. Feeling every layer of skin and muscle tear all the way down to the bone was pure torture. My screams couldn't escape as unbearable pain locks up every part of my body.
Within the deepest reaches of his dormant mortal soul a small dark flame sparks, flickering in and out after thousands of years of suppression over humanity among planet blue. Steadily flourishing into a scalding inferno spread out to the farthest reaches of the soul burning away the restraints while also reinforcing the metaphorical walls. Black flames reach their peak swirling into a cyclone condenses down into an ominous black orb before burrowing like a seed and what do seeds do, they mature into something full of life in this case a sapling tree. Rewriting everything that makes up the human body unlocks an unresearched part of the brain increasing capacity from 10% to over 30% function.
Endless anguish lifts from the pits of hell relinquishing its hold. Slowly cracking open my eyes everything surroundings me was in HD. What the hell is that stench? I've never seen someone excrete this amount of Impurities at one given time before. Even within the darkness of the room he managed to clearly see the tar like sludge coating him. Moving towards one of the four doors he didn't use to enter he manages to locate the bathroom. Designed on a lighter gray scale it was luxurious worthy of a magazine cover as a frame less easily ten-person shower was a showstopper in the center of the space. A tablet in the wall near the door could be removed to become portable controlling every faucet and switch here. Rinse, lather, and repeat over and over until there was no trace of impurities left anywhere, Grey steps out examining the changes to his body. Thank you to whoever invented fog less mirrors he praises as he takes in the rolling muscles and sharp edges of his new face. There is a 50% guarantee that Mini wouldn't be able to recognize him if they walked pass each other down the street without a second glance as his sister let alone a stranger. Dark brown hair fades to an ashen gray as piercing amber eyes reflect back over his new 6'6 frame. Satisfied with the changes Grey moves back into the bedroom greeted by new bedding and the most delicious curves sitting among the edge. "Wow! How could you become even more stunning."
Onyx usual frigid expression lightened to one of humor and lust as pink tints her sharp cheekbones. Deep brown shoulder length hair and green eyes became waist length purplish black tresses paired with eyes fitting her name. "Well, there's no longer a need to question if you approve for its become very visible."
"I give you permission to kill me if my body ever stops reacting to your beauty."
As painful as it was for Onyx to halt Grey's advances, they had a mission to uphold and this would only delay them further. Seventy-two hours have passed and so far, Dream Corporations still believes they're dead according to their informants. Although they are tossing every stone as solid confirmation.
"Calm your raging son I came to report that an unknown car has been spotted approaching the property. No heat markers have been detected within most likely controlled by AI."
Her serious expression managed to calm him for the time being enjoying one last sensation of his fingers sinking into this round booty. "I doubt my parents would build this place here if it could be so easily found. What is today," Grey asked moving over to his phone sitting on the nightstand. Onyx answered with Friday and his mind kicks into overdrive. Finally, the day has come to meet the mysterious entity behind Starr Labs. After reassuring my love that the vehicle was for me, she manages to lower her walls. A self-driving SUV with blacked out windows preventing me from seeing where we were going waited outside our gate at a safe distance to not trigger the security system. It takes almost four hours before the car came to a stop inside of what I can only assume is an elevator as it descends deep into the earth.
(Ding!)
The car door opens automatically to reveal a stark white lab of high-tech computers lining the walls as a giant test tube stands front and center holding a giant floating brain. [Welcome chosen one to Starr Labs. You may refer to me as Mystique.]
Her voice was not like how he remembered it sounding more robotic than feminine charm.
"Nice to see you again Mystique." Moving inward a section of the floor rises displaying an empty cube. [Hm, I sense changes among your soul. Quickly Remove all clothing and place them into the container before you.]
As one whose lived a miserable lifetime already this request would not faze Grey just for some simple nudity. The unsettling part was the sensation of lustful eyes peering at him like he was a juicy steak. Onyx of course held those same eyes their first night together and he couldn't blame her. After this awakening Grey became what the old timers call hung and couldn't wait to finish this up so they could test drive these new forms. After collecting all of Greys' items, the floor returns to its natural form. Moving forward as instructed just 5 spaces shy from the giant tube several scanners pop up from all directions. Mystique has him complete several dozen poses and movements collecting every possible micro motion that his body could possibly make to calibrate his avatar. "Ow!" A seven-inch needle plunges into his thigh drawing a sample of bone marrow.
[Did that truly hurt?]
"No, I just thought it would be entertaining for you."
[You are quite remarkable chosen one. To successfully complete gene awakening before assimilation will be quite advantageous for you.]
Mystique suddenly stopped speaking. Heavy silence fills the air one moment the next filled with roaring laughter.
[Marvelous! You truly are more than worthy to become my chosen one! There is faint aether energy lingering around your heart. This level of purity is greater than any I have ever sensed before. Delayed detection is truly inconceivable.]
Grey could only shrug, "Maybe your metaphorical eyes were focused a little too low." Deep down though his thoughts leaned to the faint mark of the aurora assuming it must not be visible to even a gods eye.
[Hmph, a being such as I have no need to gawk over such bland human reproductive organs.]
I could hear the blush of embarrassment laced among this robotic voice as she tries to play it off.
[Furthermore, I will need more samples now to accommodate the mechanics of the divine cabin. Please step into the chamber to your left.]
Wearing a smirk, Grey climbs into the chamber like the one in the center of the room. A quick acting sleeping mist disperses as the top seals above. Once unconscious nanobot charged liquids submerged his body taking a deep dive into what makes Grey. Mystique hasn't felt this degree of enthusiasm over a mystery in ages. This would be a very entertaining show; it was just a plus that he also happened to be very handsome. So many possibilities as to how a mere mortal could bare traces of pure aether energy but no matter the answer she didn't wish to be told. Gene awakening should not have been possible for another six months to a year from now depending on human growth. The earlier one adapts to this new worlds energy will tremendously increase the odds of conducting greater untainted cosmic energy while it was abundant. After the practice of magic became scarce all the cosmic energy of this world collected into a thick layer around the core that has crystallized. As time continues to pass by the energy became no longer able to be wielded weighing down earth. If not for Divine Legend earth would have died in a few decades. Containing several surprises this early on filled mystique with an intense sense of euphoria. Reaching an extent of generosity greater than what she originally planned.
A few hours later Grey finished his examination moving onto reflexes. A virtual training room like the one in the basement of the safe house was located to the right of the lab for three more tests. Grey takes a shower and redresses once completed with all of Mystique's exams to recuperate on the sole chair in the main room. "You've mentioned before there would be more rewards that you couldn't speak about till, we were in person. Are they the reason for the additional tests? Or better yet have I proven myself to be the chosen one suitable for the Goddess of Mystery?"
A soft chuckle vibrates the giant beaker in the center of the lab. [You are quite the spectacle Grey however I don't recall sharing my divine title with you. How were you able to possess such knowledge?]
"Hm, that would ruin all the fun if I were to tell you. Let us just say I am observant. Yeah, let's go with that."
[Observant, huh? You have more than proven to this one that you are worthy of upholding the title of Chosen One. During your examination you have demonstrated that the assimilation process is producing exemplary results. As a being as great as oneself to become impressed by a simple bipedal creature is remarkable. There are some boosts that I helped with awakening that won't be visible till you transverse to the new world. This is separate from the rewards I've planned in advance.]
[My main condition to gain access to the remaining rewards you have just successfully accomplished by simply asking. Focus your gaze on the main monitor.]
[1. A Divine Cabin customized to your specific needs and comfort. This cabin is the only one of its kind to reach 99% synchronization. Paired with already initiating gene awakening your Divine Legends avatar and true body will assimilate 70% faster subject to increase as you develop. Even when the production team finally solves the engineering equation to craft these cabins they will not exceed 80% sync rate. Another bonus will be early access to procreation. Develop a powerful clan of beautiful Natives to breed faithful warriors on the path toward divinity.]
"Why such an emphasis on procreation? Are you still imagining my 'bland human reproductive organ' as you like to refer to it. Just name the time and the place and I would happily-" Grey starts off with an egotistical smirk before being cut off.
[ Never in a million lifetimes would a being as great as I would ever bear a mortal human's child. To answer your question prior to such foolishness; procreation within this new world will become Earths greatest asset. Millions of souls are being transferred over and this number is only going to keep increasing, which will create a temporary burden upon Xuria. Drawing mana from earth will distribute the load of influence however another sacrifice of this new world is something like a temporary curse to some and a blessing to others. Birth rates have declined drastically to prevent any catastrophes in the early days of the merging of worldly energy. As compensation those of Xuria will be granted a fluid intake that will increase their innate power that will benefit in not being overtaken by adventurers. Until a certain percentage of your world exceeds the prerequisite conditions this will remain intact. Citizens of this new world will see an increase in birth rates and boisterous talent within their child when they are born within certain types of adventurer cities.]
"But that does not explain the benefits towards those earthborn for procreation with those of a different world. Currently it sounds like we're invaders halting the advancement of their development unless they live on our land in exchange for temporary power to shield them."
[Such thoughts are fairly warranted as your assumptions are accurate. Until this new world recognizes your people as citizens and not foreign invaders this is what is necessary to ensure a successful merger. During such time a child born from one's loins into that of a native will ensure their creation to be born at a level equal to a tier 1 warrior. Baring children earlier while forging relations with natives of power before the crystallized capsule restricting the mana of Planet Blue releases and becomes refined will place a greater amount of raw uncontaminated energy within your child. As the chosen one naturally an infant equal to that of a tier 3 warrior would be nothing short of expected. In addition, all of the children sired by the chosen one will develop more prominently than any other child no matter the combination.]
"What about those that will force themselves upon those that are vulnerable? Does the same power distribution apply no matter the method of insemination?"
[Laws exist within every civilization yet unless witnessed by one of courage laws are often broken. A child can still bear fruit from such acts, however the benefits of forcefully combining two worldly energies will not be possible. The punishment deemed fit for such an attack on the natives will be determined by that world's protector. Now enough questions I've revealed enough information to you. I'll begin where I left off.]
[2. As long as the cabin remains stocked with Nutra-smoothies and Powder-X to sustain hunger, thirst and body fatigue you'll technically never need to leave. Of course, with such a great vessel greater supply is mandatory so a supply of grade 4 or higher smoothies and one-of-a-kind Powder-X will be supplied as needed for an entire decade.]
[3. Once the divine cabin is completed and delivered you may begin your journey on the path to becoming a legend before the others. In addition, a special body suit that will help with any lag between worlds. Whatever workout completed on the other side will affect this realms vessel. Assimilating will no longer take such a heavy toll on the mind, body, and soul.]
[4. As a chosen one your main goal is to assist in the merging of worlds moving smoothly. With such a goal you will be the only adventurer capable of forging contracts with local natives to grant them the gifts of fellow members of earth. This will include limited rebirth for as long as the soul is strong enough to handle the damage of death will determine how many chances are available. Others will only be able to contract mercenaries to assist with quests but not include them in their guild. There are many benefits for this gift that you will discover in time. ]
[4. After proving yourself to be a worthy chosen one destined to be a spectacle, I will grant the ultimate version of the beginner's pack to accommodate your fated path.]
[5. After impressing this one with so many intriguing mysteries I will now grant two requests within bounds.]
[6. It's well-known Divine Legends is subscription based in addition to what you have been able to witness Starr Labs does not have employees that are breathing. Sales of products are complete through third parties and a portion of the revenue are divvied out. After many signs you've displayed, I have decided to designate you to become partner of Starr Labs. The percentage of this partnership will grow if progress is made. Every month an equivalent number of subscriptions will be distributed; currently totaling for the first month twenty-five billion dollars. As partner the usual $100 monthly subscription will be void.]
Grey was dumbfounded to put it nicely; taking every ounce of his newfound strength to not swear up a storm or worse faint. How could simple data readings lead to him becoming one of the richest people in the world. He needed money for a substantial portion of his primary worlds' plans, but he never thought he would ever have access to this much money so soon let alone on a monthly bases. Mystique laugh broke him free from his stupor as she teased to no longer grant his requests if money was enough to startle him.
[Ah you have returned. Now tell me what your requests are?]
"Wait before I tell you my wish, I have to ask a very important question." Grey couldn't help but smirk at the déjà vu of this moment.
[Oh, and what could possibly be so dire to know that it must take precedence during my generous gifting?]
Grey pulls out the scrap of paper containing the answer to her riddle and key he received from his parent's lawyer the day after they died. He never could figure out what it opened in his previous life, choosing to carry it around his neck as a memento. With so much anonymity surrounding Starr Labs in connection with his parents he could only lead on blind faith that he may find the answer here. "What do you know about my parents and this key?"
[Seems I was mistaken this is quite pertinent information you are seeking. Sit boy, this story shall be a long one as your parents were my saviors.]
Year 2666 Month 10 Day 24
Over the next couple of weeks Grey was in and out of the house constantly setting up various chess pieces for his master plan to assist inside and outside the game. It was finally time to rebuild his legacy like he was meant to and secure his rightful place among the peak of the mountain for all to witness those under his protection were off limits. Everyone gathered in the living room Grey sitting across from these two beauties holding out two gift boxes.
"As you both are aware I have been very busy these last few weeks outside of this home preparing for today after my visit to Starr Labs. After gathering my data and running tests I somehow proved myself worthy of the title chosen one and granted a boosted bonus among two additional factors. First, I am now basically the partner of this company stipend a tremendous chunk of cash monthly meanwhile I've taken a lump sum of 17.5 billion dollars post taxes from the recent record-breaking lottery after the multiplier. Which is chump change in comparison to what Starr Labs gifted. Secondly a special request within reason was another reward which I utilized for both of you to have a full day head start equivalent to four game days. These gifts are a bonus I managed to swing with my charm. They are bodysuits that will help prevent negative feedback on your bodies while playing the game."
Minami eyes grew wide flabbergasted at the news her dear brother just shared with them. Between such a sudden increase in their finances to the gifts she was unsure on how their life turned around so suddenly. Ever since the night they received that box from their parents Grey has become an entirely different person. "Wow brother that is amazing but what are these files for? Doesn't having a head start mean we can start in the same village?"
"Divine Legends isn't like other games you would see on the news. Beginner villages will be divided up by multiple catalysts like gender, country, or fate. There's a very high chance that even you two will not end up in the same village so that's why the files. Not every village is equal when providing opportunities for hidden quests or special items so these will be very generic guides unless you happen to spawn in one of the few villages listed. Hopefully you will both spawn in the beginner's town of Daria for there will be no other like it when accounting for the numerous special paths available. Those that will spawn in this location have access to all the tools necessary to become a top ranker."
"It sounds amazing brother; I hope that I will be reborn there. If your reward managed to grant us early access what about you," Minami asks.
"Well, I'll be starting today as my customized capsule was installed last night. The only way for the two of you to start a day early is to be in possession of a capsule which has been provided by our parents. They will not have the same features as mine, but it'll create a noticeable gap between other players. Divine Legends has gained infamy for many features however its 1:4 conversion is the most relevant."
"I totally forgot about that! Wait, if one IRL day equals 4 IGT days wouldn't that mean you would be a month ahead of everyone else?" Minami eyes twinkle in amazement as even a non-gamer would recognize the superiority of this reward. Gray confirmed she was right. Any questions pertaining to the files were discussed in detail before glancing up at the clock on the wall it was almost 7:35 Pm. "It's almost time for me to login but in the meanwhile both of you continue to study these files so your well prepared."
The whole world was buzzing over the 6:24 conversion from in real time to virtual time as it's never been done to that extent before. Every six hours IRL was equivalent to one full in game day, so players could binge without worrying about life's responsibilities getting in the way. To break it down further would be 1 hour in real time equaling 4 hours IGT or 1-minute IRT = 4 minutes IGT. In the new world their calendar is based on a thirteen month twenty-eight-day format making 7 days IRT equal to a month IGT. The official game launch will be October 31st at 8PM when the veil will be at its weakest.
1 AM "4AM
2 AM "8Am
3 AM "NOON
4AM "4PM
5AM "8PM
6AM "MIDNIGHT
7AM "4AM
8Am "8AM
9AM "NOON
10 AM"4PM
11AM "8PM
Noon "MIDNIGHT
1PM "4AM
2PM "8AM
3PM "NOON
4PM "4PM
5PM "8PM
6PM "MIDNIGHT
7PM "4AM
8PM "8AM (Game Launch)
9PM "NOON
10PM "4PM
11PM "8PM
Midnight "MIDNIGHT
1 AM "4AM
[EXAMPLE]
8:00 Pm = 8:00 Am
8:15 ~ 9:00
8:30 ~ 10:00
8:45 ~ 11:00
9:00 PM = NOON
1 Day > 4 days
1 week > 1 Month (28 days)
13 weeks > 1 year