Daily Short: Eve 07

ACT 963161069-26889.23.(M3.D2-M4.D9)-Eve-Smith-Silver Prime

The ceiling of the Dungeon’s false sky turned a fiery hue as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the cavern. The air, now filled with the scents of decay, grew colder as the first false stars appeared in the sky. Eve, a woman far from the distant dimensional world of Earth, stared at the shifting points of light glimmering above. She had survived countless perils and fought her way through multiple disasters, all to find herself now in the heart of a new world the System was altering at a fundamental level. Will they understand? Will they adapt? Well, at least the alleged Dungeon is adapting fast. It can take a piece of the world outside to display on the ceiling now.

She waited patiently as the Loki Familia, an elite group of adventurers known for their incredible prowess and unwavering loyalty to one another finished reaching the Floor she was on. Their reputation had spread far on the rising tide of crystals she had farmed over the years. It had taken them awhile to arrive at the Floor she was waiting. Even with transportation crafts, it wasn’t a journey that could be made without risk. The entire Familia was led by Loki, the trickster god from whom they derived their name. She looked with her senses at Loki’s form which was dyed a deep crimson red, the distance no bar to her sight now. Finn, Gareth, and Riveria accompanied their chosen Divine with slightly nervous looks. Eve knew that if anyone could understand the changed world they now inhabited, it would be the trickster and their avatars. As they drew closer, she saw their new emblem emblazoned on their cloaks—a fox encircled by a serpent. This was the Loki Familia’s Crest, now, assigned by the System. It was perhaps the most outward signal of change in the new universe.

Eve took a deep breath and walked confidently toward the group as they arrived and began stepping out of the various vehicles. They looked at her, curious but guarded. "Greetings," she said, her voice steady. "I have much to discuss, but I’ll have to first ask you to sign this."

The group exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of surprise and skepticism. A short, imposing figure stepped forward, her crimson hair like a halo in the firelight. Loki looked at the glowing Contractbefore saying, “How very curious. I can see the scroll, but not you.”

Eve shrugged and replied, “Now that I am at my full strength all my protections are once more in place. It would be more impressive, albeit disturbing, if you could see me.”

The red-haired Divine took the Contract skimming it faster than a mortal mind could follow. Eventually she shrugged and signed. There had been little doubt in Eve’s mind that would be the Divine’s chosen course. The universe was altering, even the most dim-witted creature could tell getting in on the ground floor of the changes was vital.

Eve flickered into existence as the veil of Witch’s Dust was adjusted for local sight. “Thank you for your trust, Loki.”

Loki’s eyes zeroed in on Eve’s chest before she replied with a bright smile, “No problem, Melons.”

Eve’s eyes twitched in irritation but she continued, “Can you access it yet?”

“No.” Loki said with a shake of her head.

“Say, Status.” Eve informed the group.

There was a moment of silent awe as eyes widened. No longer was their Status restricted to the encrypted Falna on their backs. Eve could already see the Falna disappearing as the System Status standardized itself. There will be some bleed through, but eventually all the old is replaced by new.

Finn was bar none, one of the most skilled fighters in the Loki Familia his mind was also quite sharp, as soon as he finished reading the Statushe said, "We've heard stories of other worlds, but few have ever claimed to be from one. I’ll admit when I took you in it was more because of your genius than full belief. Riveria’s truth telling isn’t perfect after all, a crazy person would still think they were truthful. My apology."

Eve hesitated for a moment, then reached into her pack and withdrew a small, rectangular device. Creating items was no more effort than shaping mana now with her powers even more precise than before. The tablet screen lit up with the touch of her fingers, displaying a map of Earth. "This is a map of my world," she explained, handing the device to Loki.

Loki examined the device, her curiosity piqued. The other members of the Loki Familia gathered around, their eyes wide with wonder as they studied the alien technology. Loki, the trickster god herself had a mischievous grin. "Well, well, well. What an interesting turn of events. Tell us more about this Earth of yours, and how you came to be here."

Eve recounted her tale, speaking of her homeland and the strange events that had led to her arrival on Tal Mor. She told them of the cataclysmic event, the Mana arrival, that had shaken the very foundations of reality, leaving behind a changed landscape filled with new dangers and opportunities. As she spoke, the members of the Loki Familia listened intently, their skepticism slowly giving way to fascination.

Eve concluded her story, and a silence fell over the group. Loki broke the quiet with a thoughtful nod. "A world that has been changed; you say? It seems we have much in common. Our world, too, has undergone a transformation of sorts with the System arrival, and we find ourselves navigating uncharted territory. Some in the Heavens think we should make uninformed choices."

Eve's eyes widened as she absorbed this new information. "A reset? Wipe the slate clean and preserve only a chosen few?"

Loki nodded. "Indeed. The very fabric of our reality has been altered, and we are all struggling to adapt. I am gambling, though. The information you have about the System will allow me to sway the others. We have thousands of years invested in our children. To wipe the slate clean, I do not agree with the others touting that as a solution."

Eve felt a spark of hope ignite within her. Crystal Corerose paving a path forward with unassailable logic. "Allow me to repay the debt of kindness incurred. I will share my knowledge of my world and the changes inherent to the System and in return, I ask that you allow me to gain power to take back when I depart." There is no free lunch. While I am inclined to repay kindness, I won’t be doing it for free.

The members of the Loki Familia exchanged glances, weighing the risks and benefits of such an alliance. Finn stepped forward; his voice resolute. "Your knowledge could prove invaluable in helping us adapt. With it reaching the peak isn’t a dream, it would be a factual reality. Loki, I think we should assist Eve in her journey, and together, we will face whatever challenges lie ahead. This is a good bargain, for us all."

Eve smiled, her heart swelling with gratitude. Even though no one else spoke up, it was clear the non-Divines supported Finn. He wasn’t a leader for nothing "There are potions that can help people reach the upper shelfs with a proper System trained alchemist." She couldn’t help but tease the Pallum.

A strange and terrible fire lit in the short young Pallum’s eyes and he said, “Loki!”

Loki rolled her eyes and said, “Fiiiiiine. Let’s hear it, Melons. Impart the secrets of our new overlord.”

Eve nodded and waved a hand to create a campsite instantly. She sat down at a chair crafted of silver dust and created chairs for the other four. As the fire crackled and the false stars continued their slow dance across the sky, Eve and the Loki Familia began their exchange of knowledge. She described the technology and innovations of her world, while the members of the Familia shared their experiences in the new, altered reality.

Through their discussions, Eve learned of the powerful magic that now coursed through the veins of many inhabitants in this world, granting them extraordinary abilities. Bloodlines made manifest the most obvious change from the System. She marveled at the newfound strength and resilience of the Loki Familia, who had adapted to the changes with remarkable ease. After all, they had a lesser version of the System in their Falna for so long. The change isn’t the same as what hit Earth, I bet.

The Familia, in turn, learned of the advancements Earth had made in science and medicine, and they listened in awe as Eve recounted the stories of humanity's progress. Without the power of mana, technology had filled the void of power. The trickster god Loki, ever curious, was particularly fascinated by the concept of technology, and she eagerly absorbed every detail Eve shared. I hope she doesn’t build a laser moon. Loki seems like the sort that might go that route after talking with her.

As the days turned to weeks, Eve and the Loki Familia forged a strong bond, their mutual trust and respect growing with each shared experience. They ventured into the depths of the newly changed Dungeon, facing deadly creatures and navigating treacherous landscapes as a united front.

“Isn’t the Dungeon supposed to react to Divine energy?” Eve asked after clearing the fortieth floor with Loki in tow.

“The System has made some major alterations. One of them appears to be related to this, Melons.” Loki said absentmindedly.

“Are we still pretending this is a Dungeon?” Eve said with a sideways glance at the Divine. She watched as Loki froze before turning to look directly at Eve. “You know?”

“I guessed, but the System and your reaction proved it.” Eve said with a grin.

“Is it a problem?” Loki asked.

“No. It isn’t my world.” Eve said. I already suspected the Dungeon was a World Core. Chained up to provide power to Heaven and allow the Divines to live in luxury. The poor thing had sentience, but nothing else. Wilson has changed all that, though. Sapience in return for wiping the memory of enslavement. I cannot tell if this is a fair trade or not, so I won’t be involved in the outcome.

“Were we wrong?” Loki questioned.

“You were lucky. A World Core is adaptive. It was already starting to break free from the restraints. In exchange for granting full sapience, the System has wiped their memory.” Eve said frankly. “I wouldn’t suggest attempting something like that again, though. Not unless you want Heaven to burn and your race to cease existing.”

Loki sighed and turned back to the current battle.

The 50th Floor is another safety point where no monsters are born, however, just like the 18th Floor, monsters can come to the floor from above or below. Gray colored trees cover the floor up until the end of the floor. Vein like rivers run endlessly through the trees.

The combined knowledge of Eve and the Loki Familia proved a formidable asset, allowing them to overcome even the most challenging of obstacles. Eve's understanding of Earth's technology allowed them to devise new strategies and techniques, while the Familia's mastery of magic offered them an unparalleled level of power and adaptability. They reached the Fiftieth Floor within weeks, a feat that had only been surpassed by the Hera and Zeus Familia.

In the face of adversity, the Loki Familia found strength in their unity, and their combined efforts allowed them to navigate the ever-shifting landscape of their changed world with grace and determination. Eve explained Perks, Spells, Skills, Stats, and more detailing the methods that she knew to reach Tier Six.

As time went on, word of their exploits spread far and wide, and other adventurers sought them out, eager to learn from their experiences and join forces against the unknown. The Loki Familia welcomed these newcomers with open arms, and under the guidance of the trickster god, they formed a powerful force.

Together, Eve and the Loki forged a path through the Dungeon, leaving a trail of hope and inspiration in their wake. They shared their knowledge and their strength, offering a beacon of light in the darkness for those who had been lost or cast adrift by the changes that had reshaped their reality.

After several more weeks they finally reached Floor Seventy.

“Ready?” Eve said staring at a massive hole leading into darkness. The World Core had adapted, and personal transport craft failed after the Sixty-Ninth Floor.

“If I die, I will haunt you forever, Melons.” Loki said as she leaped into the depths.

Eve rolled here eyes and leaped after the Divine.

The fall was extremely long, enough that each of got bored and started playing a variety of games. Eve won chess without many problems, but Loki was unassailable in Go. After two weeks of falling both of them hit the ground with a solid crunch. Bones, blood, and flesh were splattered in patterns that looked like modern art.

“Ouch.” Eve said as her body rewove itself into unharmed perfection.

“Yeah, that was a tad annoying.” Loki said as her own body reformed.

The dim light of a massive crystal shone down on both of them.

“So, that’s it?” Loki asked looking at the massive object floating.

“A bonafide, World Core, yes.” Eve said looking at the massive number of Runes circling the object.

Before she could step forward the world rippled around her shifting into a new shape.

A sun dipped below the horizon, casting a blood-red hue across the sky. Where had been a massive crystal, now a once bustling marketplace was deserted, as the villagers retreated to their homes, preparing for the battle that was clearly about to unfold. In the center of the square, two figures stood facing each other, each radiating a palpable tension. One a silver figure in a tight battle outfit. It was Eve, and she wielded a long, gleaming sword. Opposite her stood Finn, a spear in his hands, his calculating gaze never leaving his opponent. Interesting. It appears that in order to approach we need to be victorious?

The night air was thick with anticipation, and the sound of a single, solitary drum began to echo across the square. From all around a drumbeat grew louder, faster, and more intense, until it reached a fever pitch, at which point it suddenly ceased. In the silence that followed, Eve and Finn began to circle each other, their eyes locked, waiting for the first opportunity to strike. The only mistake is that the World Core has restricted our power to only the first Tier within this place.

Eve was the first to move, lunging forward with her sword, aiming for Finn's midsection. Finn anticipated the attack, swiftly sidestepping and using the shaft of his spear to parry Eve's sword. Their weapons clashed, sparks flying as metal met metal. The first exchange had begun. Even restricted, my advantages don’t vanish.

Eve’s mind began to race as she utilized Crystal Core.

Finn countered with a series of swift, precise jabs, each aimed at a different part of Eve's body. However, the seasoned swordswoman expertly parried or dodged every attack, refusing to let any find their mark. Her sword danced like a deadly silver snake, intercepting each of Finn's strikes with a graceful fluidity that belied the power behind each swing.

As the battle raged on, the two combatants began to test each other's defenses, probing for weaknesses. Eve struck with a series of powerful, sweeping slashes, forcing Finn to give ground. The spearman, however, remained undaunted, his feet moving like the wind as he danced around each attack, always just out of reach of Eve's deadly blade.

Sensing an opening, Finn suddenly lunged forward, thrusting his spear towards Eve's heart. The swordswoman was prepared, catching the attack with a well-timed parry that sent the spear skittering away. In that brief moment, Eve unleashed a flurry of swift, lethal cuts aimed at Finn's exposed side. She didn’t hold back, even though this might be the real Finn. But the spearman was faster, using the reach of his weapon to fend off the assault.

As the moon rose higher in the sky, casting its pale light upon the battlefield, the two warriors continued their dance of death. Sweat poured from their brows, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as they pushed their bodies to the limit, neither giving any ground.

Eve, sensing that the battle was drawing to its conclusion, began to gather her remaining strength for a decisive strike. She feinted left, then quickly pivoted, bringing his sword around in a wide arc aimed at Finn's neck. But the spearman was ready, ducking under the swing and countering with a vicious thrust aimed at Eve's exposed torso.

The sound of a crowd gasped as Eve narrowly avoided the spear's deadly point, twisting her body to the side just in time. The swordswoman quickly retaliated, driving her blade towards Finn's chest. The spearman managed to deflect the attack, but not without cost – the force of the blow sent him stumbling back, his grip on his weapon faltering for a brief moment.

Seizing the opportunity, Eve lunged forward, her sword poised to deliver the killing blow. But Finn, his eyes filled with a desperate determination, managed to recover, thrusting his spear upwards just in time to block the descending blade. The weapons met with a resounding crash, both combatants straining against each other as they fought for control.

Their faces inches apart, beads of sweat dripping from their brows, Eve and Finn locked eyes. It was clear that this clash would be the last, and both knew it. The air was thick with the weight of their determination, their wills clashing as fiercely as their weapons. No shortie will stand between me and escape from this world!

Summoning the last of her energy, Eve let out a fierce battle cry, pushing against the spear with all her might. Finn gritted his teeth, his muscles straining as he tried to hold his ground, but the swordswoman's strength was overwhelming. With one final, herculean effort, Eve forced Finn's spear aside, creating an opening in the opponent's defense.

Seizing the moment, Eve swung her sword with all the power she could muster, aiming for Finn's exposed side once more. But in a breathtaking display of agility and skill, the spearman spun away, narrowly avoiding the deadly strike. As Eve's sword sliced through empty air, Finn pivoted on his heel, swinging the butt of his spear towards Eve's head.

Caught off guard, Eve barely managed to raise her arm to shield herself from the blow. The force of the impact sent her sprawling to the ground, her Jian slipping from her grasp. Finn, seeing his chance, lunged forward, thrusting his spear towards Eve's prone form.

But the wily swordswoman was not finished yet. As Finn's spear closed in, Eve rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the deadly weapon. With a roar of defiance, she launched herself back to her feet, snatching up the fallen sword just in time to block Finn's follow-up attack.

The invisible crowd held their breath as Eve and Finn locked in one final, desperate struggle. The clang of metal on metal filled the air as they traded blows, each one fueled by the last reserves of their strength. It was a battle of wills as much as a battle of arms, and neither one showed any sign of relenting.

In the end, it was Finn who faltered first, his exhaustion getting the better of him. Eve saw her opening and took it, driving her sword towards Finn's chest with every ounce of strength she had left. The spearman tried to parry, but his movements were sluggish, his reflexes dulled by fatigue.

The sword found its mark, sinking into Finn's flesh with a sickening squelch. The false crowd gasped, their cheers and jeers dying in their throats as the reality of the moment sank in. Finn's face contorted in pain, his grip on his spear slackening as he fell to his knees.

Eve stood over her fallen foe, her chest heaving as she tried to catch his breath. Slowly, she withdrew her sword, watching as Finn crumpled to the ground, his lifeblood pooling around him. The victor looked out at the crowd, a mask of calm filling her eyes with a mixture of triumph and sorrow.

As the moon cast its cold light upon the scene, Eve knew that the battle was over. She had triumphed, but in doing so, she had taken the life of a worthy opponent. In order to access the World Core a show of strength dictated by the nascent creature was required. As she stood there, the weight of his actions settling upon her, she realized that the true cost of battle was not measured in victories or defeats, but in brutal struggle that paved the way to a win.

Eve spoke to the empty night air, “Let me be clear. If you try to have me kill any more doppelgangers, I will become displeased.”

Before she could step forward the world rippled around her shifting into a new shape once more.

Loki stood off to the side with her hands on her hips as Eve moved to stand before the World Core.

“This your ticket home?” Loki said.

“Indeed.” Eve said reaching out to place her palm on a facet just barely within reach. “I wish you well, Divine.”

“Same to you Melons, same to you.” Loki said as the world around Eve faded and she found herself floating outside the Crystal Wall Defense within the Void.

Eve crushed the temptation to return, instead re-orienting herself towards Charlotte’s world. She had been delayed by quite a long time, and hopefully wouldn’t be returning to a smoking ruin.