Erik sat on a chair in his room, a sense of satisfaction settling in his chest as he observed his status screen.
Last night, he initiated the merging process between the Mistlynx power and the Mirror Centipede one, birthing the new "Feral Worm Soldier" brain crystal power.
The supercomputer's prediction had been correct, and Erik had been lucky enough to achieve the desired outcome.
The Mistlynx's power had been integrated into the Mirror Centipede's, albeit in a different form from what Erik wielded. It was a purely biological feature now, devoid of any association with mana.
Moreover, the future clones would have the ability to elongate their nails as weapons, an adaptation that could prove useful to fight, but that wasn't true for Noah, the clone that hatched the previous day, since it was evident that only the ones that he gave birth to after he merged the powers got the new feature.
However, he couldn't ignore the inherent weakness in this newly formed power—the absence of mana—that made it somewhat less potent than its mana-powered counterpart.
Erik sighed, acknowledging the limitation. <It's not perfect, but it's a step in the right direction. The future clones won't rely on mana, and that could be an advantage in certain situations.>
He looked over at the creature hatched just the previous day, watching it move around the room, its human-like features mingling with worm-like characteristics. It was both fascinating and strange, a living testament to the power he now wielded.
The clones he would create would be unique, much stronger than this, and unlike anything the world had seen before. He was bound to make an army of compelling individuals in a very short time, and once he reached his peak, he would create the strongest of them all.
Yet, as he contemplated the future, Erik felt a sense of responsibility settling on his shoulders. These creatures were not mere tools to be used and discarded. They were living beings, born of his power and blood, and he had a duty to treat them with respect and compassion.
However, it was clear it was better not to make other clones before he merged the power with the ones he didn't need. Erik planned to first merge Conal's power with it since it would allow the Worms the ability to shapeshift, in theory.
If that was true, he could make them shapeshift into a Thaid he could mount on, getting a vehicle for every situation and terrain.
He knew the clones wouldn't be faster than him, but he was glad he wouldn't have to tire himself out. He planned to ask them to carry backpacks, Thaid bodies, and anything else he needed. However, their primary purpose was fighting.
The clones would also be smart enough to work with him at the guild.
Fighting wasn't their only option, despite being the primary one. Erik didn't know if the shapeshifting only worked on Thaids and Animals, but that was enough; since humans were, in fact, animals, it was possible they would be able to shapeshift into one if they absorbed human blood. Otherwise, they could turn into cats and dogs, essentially becoming his spies in any city. However, it would be best to turn them into birds, maybe Ravens, as Erik thought they were cool.
"Kid," Erik said.
"Yes, Master?"
"From today, your name is going to be Noah," Erik said solemnly.
"Yes. Master."
Erik stood in the room, his eyes fixed on the little creature as he explored his surroundings.
Noah's features were curious, mixing human-like expressions with worm-like characteristics. His eyes held a remarkable intelligence, yet there was an innocence in his movements, a childlike wonder as he adjusted to being alive.
Feeling a connection to this being he had brought into the world, Erik approached him, concern in his voice. "Do you feel okay?" he asked, watching Noah's reactions closely.
Noah faced Erik, his eyes meeting his parent's. "Yes, master," he replied with a clear voice that hinted at his unique nature.
The response warmed Erik's heart, yet he also felt a sense of responsibility that he couldn't neglect. He asked with a serious yet gentle tone, "Once you are fully mature, can you assist me? I need your help. Are you up for the task?"
Noah's eyes lit up with excitement and admiration as he gazed at his master. His heart brimming with loyalty and devotion, he eagerly nodded in agreement. "Whatever it is that you require, I am at your service and will do everything in my power to assist you," he declared with unwavering sincerity.
The room was quiet for a moment, filled only with the soft sounds of Noah's movements and the distant hum of the building. Erik looked at his clone, seeing not just a creature but a being with potential, thoughts, and feelings.
It was a moment of understanding, a connection between master and creation that transcended mere power and control. Erik knew that he had not just created a servant but a companion, a living being who would stand by his side until it breathed.
The sudden ringing of Erik's phone cut through the reflective silence of the room, startling both him and Noah. Erik glanced at the screen, noting the call from the mercenary guild. His eyebrows furrowed in curiosity as the phone didn't provide any further information about the caller.
Excusing himself from Noah with a reassuring smile, Erik answered the call, hearing the clear voice of Lyria Bannon on the other end. He recognized her as the Deputy Chief Administrator of the guild's operations, yet her call was unexpected.
"Good day, Mr. Kay," Lyria greeted, her tone professional but warm. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything."
Erik's mind raced with thoughts of why she might be calling; someone of her stature didn't do it for no reason; she wanted something. Erik, though, despite the suspicions, kept his voice calm. "Not at all, Ms. Bannon. What can I do for you?" he asked, his eyes still on Noah, who was watching him with interest.
There was a brief pause on the other end, and Erik could sense something significant in Lyria's tone when she spoke again.
"Erik, I've called to discuss a matter of importance with you. It's something that requires your attention and expertise."
The young man's interest was piqued, and he could feel the importance of her words. He was right; this was not a casual call; something serious was afoot.
"I'm listening," he replied, his voice steady. "What's going on?"
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