[RotD | B2] 64 to 66 — Evolution Pt 1 to 3

Due to its size I've split this into three chapters, but for Patreon, I'll be posting it all as one. Your comments will influence the choice Noah makes.

***

The world swirled in a daze of fog. Floating around him. His memories were jumbled. Where was he? He’d been… What had he been doing?

What happened to… the words slipped from Noah’s mind, memories jumbled and tangled. A woman’s face appeared in his vision, his thoughts replaced by new ones.

Ah… that’s right. I’m dying.

“I…I’m dead aren’t I?” Noah asked weakly, a wheezy rasp to his voice as air whistled through the hole in his chest.

“Not yet. I’ve frozen your body and my magic keeps your soul from departing. But I cannot hold it for long,” the angel replied, a sorrowful sound in her voice.

Even though he knew what was happening, hearing it still made his throat clam. “Is everyone else alive?” Noah asked, finding more strength in his to speak.

“Many are injured, but all are alive,” the angel replied.

“I see,” Noah murmured, feeling the strength in his body starting to fade again.

“I do not know the reason for your actions, Noah. I had not expected a human of all things to decide to help me on a task like this. But know, that if it wasn’t for you, then this world would’ve been lost to the Void. You have saved countless lives today. The world may not remember you. But I will. I will not forget your sacrifice,” she whispered in his ears.

The words did not console Noah. But as death slowly eased into his body, it was the only comfort he had.

“I’ve opened a portal to the inter dimensional rifts. It will dissipate your body, returning it to nothingness alongside the seal,” the angel said, letting go of his hand.

“One… last thing,” Noah mumbled, his eyelids starting to turn heavy. “I never got your name.”

The angel paused at his words. Looking down at Noah, she replied. “Raelinah. My name is Raelinah. A Valkyrie of the Dawn.”

Slowly, Noah closed his eyes.

[Devourer (Basic → Intermediate)]
The Shard of [???] has been integrated.

***

Noah opened his eyes to a familiar arcade in his sight. It took him a few moments to adjust, the memories of his death messing with his mind.

Sounds of clapping came from the chamber, footsteps echoing as they made their way towards him. “Congratulations, Noah. I truly did not expect you to survive this long. You’re almost like a pesky cockroach, and I mean that as a compliment,” Dylan said.

“And you’re like the… uhh,” Noah trailed off, failing to come up with a scathing enough comeback.

Fuck, I’m gonna find something in the shower a few days later and totally regret it not finding it now, won’t I?

“Whatever. Can you just like, leave me alone,” Noah said, shooing Dylan away.

“I’m afraid I can’t, since, technically this place and by extension you, are sort of my job. As much as I hate it,” Dylan said.

“I really hadn’t missed seeing you,” Noah replied.

“Likewise,” Dylan said.

Noah ignored Dylan, looking around the Astral Space instead. He could feel the connection he had to this location a lot more deeply now, as compared to before. Not to mention… some things felt a little different.

The arcade machines were still the same, but a lot of them had… references. Noah spotted a claw machine, with little plushies of Bun Bun and Tony within them, alongside a small life-wyrm. Another fighting game had a character awfully similar to Aurelia present within it, fire and ash swirling around her in a cool animation.

Noah walked around the area, taking in everything for a few moments, before something caught his eyes. An arcade machine, marked with a blood symbol. Walking closer, Noah pressed the power button on the device, as it activated with a creepy jingle.

Starting evolution for [Exsanguinator].
Collecting unlock requirements.

Compiling results… complete.
Welcome to The Game of Blood.

A myriad of options exploded in front of Noah, lining his vision. The machine shone with a red light, like some kind of horror game, as the various path options began to present themselves on the screen.

“Wow, that’s a lot,” Noah said, scrolling through the options rapidly. He saw at least thirty options within the selection menu.

“Well, yes. Everything you do influences your Path. And for better or worse, you’ve managed to do a lot of things in a rather short amount of time,” Dylan said.

Noah scrolled through the list for a while before he realised he could adjust it based on rarity. Checking off the options, he turned off all class options below Epic rarity.

The list shrank rapidly, going from a massive amount to something much more mangeable. Noah smiled. “Alright, let’s see what we’ve got.”

Noah went back to the start, looking at his first option.

[Sanguine Exalt (Epic, Rank D)]

You have traversed the path of the Exsanguinator, honing your mastery over the essence of blood. Rise now, as the Sanguine Exalt, wielding dominion over the blood and life force of your adversaries. This path marks you as a master in both sapping the vitality of your foes and fortifying your own, specializing in the potent art of blood and life force manipulation. With the prowess to inflict severe bleed status effects, you turn the very lifeblood of your enemies into a weapon, achieving a harmonious balance of offensive might and defensive resilience.

Requirements: Have the [Exsanguinator] Path at level 100.

Rewards: +5 Constitution, +3 Power and +2 free attributes per level.
+50 Constitution.

Warning: Taking this path will alter some abilities.

“Holy shit, that’s a big jump. Ten attributes per level and fifty Constitution in a go? At Epic grade? Wow,” Noah said, reading through the Path descriptions. “And that’s the basic upgrade huh?”

“Your ignorance is amusing,” Dylan commented, sitting on the sofa nearby and watching Noah in silence.

Noah ignored the guy, moving onto the next option.

[Dragon's Apprentice (Epic, Rank D)]

You have learned from a true dragon, gaining a sliver of it’s wisdom. Walk the path of a Dragon's Apprentice, mastering the art of draconic energy and might. You will be the guardian of ancient secrets and a wielder of the raw, elemental forces that dragons command. With abilities to harness draconic fury and the elemental breath of these mythical beasts, you balance the ferocious strength of dragons with strategic prowess in battle.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 with a strong affinity or connection to dragons.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, and +10 free attributes per level. +25 Mystic +25 Constitution, +25 Power, +25 Agility. Enhanced affinity with elemental energies, reflecting the diverse nature of draconian powers.

Warning: Choosing this path will lead to modifications in some existing abilities, aligning them more closely with draconian essence. This path will also affect your Race.

Noah laughed as he saw the path evolution. He’d expected something like this, but seeing it in front of him still made him chuckle. The funniest thing is how I’m actually tempted. I wonder how Zax would feel about this?

He looked at the path for a few more seconds, before moving on to the next one.

[Hematic Bodycrafter (Epic, Rank D)]

You have suffered painful torture to achieve the body you have. Now become capable ot honing it to the utmost limit. Become the Hematic Bodycrafter, mastering the art of self-enhancement through blood manipulation. Harness your own life essence to fortify and adapt your physical form, achieving feats of strength, agility, and endurance beyond normal limits and become a living testament to the transformative power of blood magic.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 with a focus on self-enhancement and blood manipulation. Have willingly modified your own body. Have advanced [Pain Tolerance].

Rewards: +10 free attributes per level. +25 Constitution, +25 Power. Enhanced self-healing and adaptive bodily modifications.

Warning: This path will change your race and some abilities.

Nope. Once was enough. And this option feels a little redundant since I already have Tony. Though being able to go further than I already can might be nice. The 10 free points is also kinda nice.

Noah thought over it for a few seconds before moving on.

[Blood Beastmaster (Epic, Rank D)]

You have altered your familiar Bun Bun with blood, turning a regular rabbit into a magical beast. Now embark upon the path of the Blood Beastmaster, commanding creatures transformed by the essence of blood. Become capable of communicating with, controlling, and empowering blood-altered creatures, turning them into loyal and formidable allies. The bond you forge with these creatures goes beyond mere control; it's a kinship born of shared essence and mutual reliance.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have transformed and commanded blood-altered beasts.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, +3 Constitution, and +2 free attributes per level. +25 Power, +25 Mystic. Heightened ability to bond with and empower creatures altered by blood magic.

“Huh,” Noah muttered out loud. He read through the description again, before the memories of the one rabbit he’d experimented on returned to him. “Wait a second… I did that?” he trailed off, realisation slowly dawning on him.

“Ah yes, the age old enemy. Consequences of our actions,” Dylan said, chuckling. “I’d been wondering all this time when you would realise it. I must say, I’m a little disappointed by your reaction,” Dylan said.

“You knew?” Noah asked.

“Of course I did. It’s not like I have anything better to do,” Dylan replied, lounging on the couch as he began to trim his nails.

Noah shook his head, looking one more time at the path, before he closed the option. Guess I should be careful about what I feed my blood to.

Moving on, he opened the next Path.

[Affliction Warden (Epic, Rank D)]

You have been been poisoned, burnt, frozen, cursed and inflicted with all sorts of affliction, gaining resistance to most. Take up the mantle of the Affliction Warden, developing resistances to various afflictions and the ability to cleanse them from others. As an Affliction Warden, you stand as a protector, shielding yourself and your allies from the myriad corruptions that plague the world.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have the [General Affliction Resistance] ability.

Rewards: +5 Constitution, +3 Mystic, and +2 free attributes per level. +30 Mystic, +20 Constitution. Superior resistance to poisons, diseases, and curses, along with enhanced abilities to cleanse and heal these afflictions in others.

Neat path. Probably great for a doctor, but unfortunately not what I’m looking for. Noah moved on to the next one.

[Scarlet Renegade (Legendary, Rank D)]

Your path is tied to the old goddess of war. Now embark upon it as the Scarlet Renegade, forged in the ancient traditions of the Scarlet Valkyries and blessed by the war goddess Raelinah. Wield the sacred and potent magics of war and purification, mastering abilities that cleanse corruption and smite foes with righteous fervor. This path empowers you to resist and repel the Rot, turning its corrupting influence into a source of strength and defiance.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have [Crimson Rot Resistance] at Intermediate rank or higher. Must have [Weapon Master] at intermediate. Must have ties to the Scarlet Valkyries.

Rewards: +5 Constitution, +4 Power, +3 Mystic  and +3 free attributes per level. +50 Constitution, +50 Mystic, +25 Power, +25 Agility. Enhanced resistance to corruption and disease, particularly against the effects of the Crimson Rot.

Warning: Adopting this path will result in modifications to some existing abilities.

Noah’s eyes widened as he read through the option. “One fifty attributes in a go and fifteen per level huh? That’s… pretty nuts,” he said, going through the path description.

He read through the options, thinking over them carefully. Did he want to go firmly into the anti-crimson route? The feeling he got from the path was not bad, and it could potentially lead him to finding Raelinah as well. But… was that really his path? Or was he simply being influenced once again by things outside his control?

Doesn’t matter. Whatever gives me more strength will serve my purpose.

He moved on to the next option.

[Crimson Knight (Legendary, Rank D)]

Embrace the path of the Crimson Knight, wield the Crimson Rot as a weapon. Step into a realm where corruption becomes a source of strength, turning the battlefield to your advantage, spreading its influence strategically to weaken foes while remaining impervious to its harmful effects. Dominate through a blend of resilience, mystical prowess, and tactical agility, turning a feared affliction into an ally in combat.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 and demonstrated an affinity for controlling and utilizing the Crimson Rot.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, +4 Power, +3 Constitution and +3 free attributes per level. +25 Constitution, +25 Power, +50 Agility, +50 Mystic. Become immune to the Crimson Rot, relishing in it’s embrace.

Warning: Adopting this path will result in alignment with the Crimson Rot.

Pass. I’ve got enough Primordial Gods on my back already. Noah moved on to the next option.

[Wyrmblood Guardian (Legendary, Rank D)]

You have survived an encounter with a Life wyrm, and have obtained the Lifeblood ability. Now become the Wyrmblood Guardian, embracing the ancient and venerable essence of dragonkind. Your blood will be potent, turning into an elixir of life with formidable regenerative powers unparalleled by any other. Gain formidable strength and resilience, wielding the life-affirming energies of a Wyrm to protect and empower both yourself and those around you.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have all three types of general resistances or greater. Must have encountered and survived a meeting with a Life wyrm. Possession of the [Lifeblood] ability. Must have saved someone's life using your own blood.

Rewards: +8 Constitution, +4 Power, and +3 free attributes per level. +75 Constitution, +25 Power, +25 Agility, +25 Mystic. Mixes the essence of life-wyrms in your blood.

Warning: Adopting this path will result in modifications to some existing abilities, aligning them with the blood of wyrms.

Noah paused, as he looked through the option. This one felt… powerful. He could sense the potency of the life-force within the path, and how it would change his Lifeblood. Would be nice to be able to have more health.

After looking at the path option for some time, Noah moved on to the last available path.

[Blood Reaper (Unique, Rank D)]

You reap the blood of your enemies, embodying the essence of affliction and retribution. With the unique ability Blood Debt as your cornerstone, master the art of inflicting and reaping afflictions. You wield the power to turn the pain and suffering of your enemies into a source of strength, manipulating their afflictions to your advantage and using their own weaknesses against them.

Requirements: Have reached level 100. Have the unique ability [Blood Debt]. Have two or more affliction inflicting abilities.

Rewards: +5 Power, +5 Constitution, and +5 free attributes per level. +50 Power, +50 Constitution, +25 Agility, +25 Mystic. Enhances all Affliction abilities.

Warning: Adopting this path will result in modifications to some existing abilities.

Noah read through the description, before closing the menu. A lot of things went through his mind, as he tried to think on what direction he’d like to take from here on.

Frowning, he stepped away from the arcade machine for the moment.

I can decide later, let’s see what the other Paths have to offer first.

Noah moved over to the next arcade machine, with glittering stars and images of space printed upon it, alongside a picture of him wearing an astronaut suite and flying  towards a galaxy, while striking a pose.

Chuckling, he turned on the arcade machine, as it came to life with a majestic jingle.

Starting evolution for [Astralwalker].

Collecting unlock requirements.
Compiling results… complete.

Welcome to The Galactic Conquest!

Once again, a myriad of Path options appeared in front of Noah, and he quickly changed the settings to only include Epic and Legendary grade options. After trimming the options, Noah opened the menu, and began to look at the options.

[Realmwalker (Epic, Rank D)]

You have traversed multiple realms, gaining an understanding of the realms. Embrace the path of a Realmwalker, mastering the art of dimensional travel and manipulation, navigating the myriad worlds that exist beyond the veil of reality. Your deep connection to these realms grants you unique abilities to traverse, understand, and influence the fabric of space and time.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 with [Astralwalker].

Rewards: +3 Agility, +3 Mystic and +4 free attributes per level. +50 Mystic.

Warning: Adopting this path will lead to modifications in some existing abilities. Your perception of reality may also be altered.

Same deal as Sanguine Exalt with this one. Not a bad choice though. If I didn’t have legendaries waiting.

Noah moved on to the next one.

[Ethereal Shaper (Epic, Rank D)]

Step onto the path of the Ethereal Shaper, where the boundaries of the soul and the physical world blur. This path allows you to manipulate your soul and aura, reshaping them to achieve various effects, from enhancing physical abilities to creating ethereal constructs. As an Ethereal Shaper, your mastery over your inner essence grants you unique capabilities in both combat and personal development.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have [Soul modification] and [Aura Control].

Rewards: +5 Mystic, and +5 free attributes per level. +50 Mystic. Increased mastery over soul manipulation and aura shaping.

Warning: Choosing this path will fundamentally alter your soul and aura abilities, changing the way you interact with your inner essence.

Interesting. Noah read through the option. The change was subtle but present, with his abilities shifting from Astral to be more soul focused. He liked the feeling he got from it.

Don’t want to get anything close to necromancy… but this could help me break the Pact down the line. Something to consider.

He moved on.

[Cosmic Sage (Epic, Rank D)]

You have met the goddess of wisdom and learning, now embark upon a path of knowledge as the Cosmic Sage. This path is imbued with the knowledge of the cosmos, allowing you to decipher the mysteries of the universe and use this understanding to cast powerful astral spells. Your connection to the astral realm is deepened, granting you insights into the fabric of reality and the ability to manipulate it to your will.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have gained Avera’s Blessing.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, and +5 free attributes per level. Unlock [Spells]. Learn everything twice as fast.

Warning: Embracing the Cosmic Sage path will alter your astral abilities.

“Huh… no immediate attribute increase but… twice as fast learning. Hmm. Tempting,” Noah said, looking at the Path for a few more seconds. It was a good option, but given the number of options further down, it was likely that there would be a better legendary option available. He moved to the next one.

[Chainbreaker (Epic, Rank D)]

You have shown the strength and compassion to break chains, both literal and figurative. As a Chainbreaker, you step into a path of liberation, freeing others from their bonds and fighting against oppression. This path endows you with the strength to shatter shackles and the resolve to stand against tyranny. Your journey as a Chainbreaker will be one of resilience and determination, as you become a beacon of hope and freedom.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 and have a history of breaking chains, both in freeing others and in personal liberation.

Rewards: +5 Power, and +5 free attributes per level. +50 Power. Gain an increased ability to break suppression chains.

Warning: Adopting this path will lead to modifications in some existing abilities.

Noah paused on this one for a moment. I could get it, and try to break Zax’s chains for good. Almost tempting, given the potential rewards doing that could have.

There was a part of him that liked the idea, being free of restrains was appealing, and having the ability to free himself and others of chains… he liked that.

Putting the option aside for now, he moved on to the next one.

[Star Weaver (Legendary, Rank D)]

Having harnessed the cosmic energies of the stars, the path of the Star Weaver beckons. This path allows you to weave the raw celestial energies into powerful spells and attacks. As a Star Weaver, you command the mysteries of the cosmos, crafting starlight into both devastating offensive spells and awe-inspiring defensive auroras. Your journey will be one of astral exploration and cosmic discovery.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have the ability [Starforged Arms].

Rewards: +5 Mystic, +5 Power and +5 free attributes per level. +50 Mystic, +50 Power. Mastery over cosmic and celestial energies, allowing for the creation of powerful astral spells.

Warning: Embracing this path will transform your abilities to align with the celestial and cosmic forces.

Noah saw the path, his arms expanding and growing in number, each capable of casting spells independently. The path would be a force to be reckoned with, hurtling magic without any pause. A heavily magic based class with a lot of utility.

Combine that with Astral specter and my clones… terrifying. And it’s just the first legendary option so far.

Noah moved to the next one.

[Watcher's Herald (Legendary, Rank D)]

Embody the enigmatic power of the Watcher as a Watcher's Herald. This path grants mastery over the unsettling energies of madness and the astral realm. Harness the ability to afflict enemies with bewildering psychic effects and manipulate the very fabric of reality, bending it to your will with the Watcher's cryptic knowledge.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Must have resisted the Watcher’s Madness.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, +4 Power, +3 Constitution, and +3 free attributes per level. +100 Mystic. Enhanced psychic and astral abilities, specializing in inducing and controlling states of madness and manipulating astral phenomena.

Warning: Embracing this path will inflict madness on those around you.

Tempting, but pass. Not interested in becoming a puppet. Noah closed the option, moving to the next one.

[Spectral Sovereign (Unique, Rank D)]

Ascend as a Spectral Sovereign, a master over the spectral realm and its inhabitants. Command legions of spirits and specters, bending them to your will. This path allows you to summon, control, and empower spectral entities, turning them into allies in battle. As a Spectral Sovereign, you also gain the ability to traverse the spectral realm, using it to your tactical advantage.

Requirement: Have reached level 100. Have the [Astral Spirit] bloodline. Have the [Astral specter] ability.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, +4 Wisdom, +3 Power, and +3 free attributes per level. +100 Mystic. Absolute control over all specters and enhanced domain control.

Warning: Embracing this path will affect the [Shadow specter].

Opening the path showed him an image of himself, commanding a veritable army of specters, which all obeyed his command. He could see the sheer power present within the class, honing his new bloodline ability to its limits. Noah whistled. “Now that’s powerful,” he said, looking at the abilities for some time, trying to think of the many ways he could use it.

He moved on for now, opening the next option.

[Runebody Arcanist (Legendary, Rank D)]

As a Runebody Arcanist, delve into the ancient and powerful art of runic magic. Your body becomes a living conduit for arcane runes, each etching granting you unique magical abilities and enhancements. This path combines physical endurance with mystical prowess, allowing you to cast potent spells and adapt to various combat situations with the power of runes.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have [Mana Reversal], [Mana Control] and [Mana Resistance]. Have absorbed pieces of a great magic source.

Rewards: +15 free attributes per level. +75 Mystic. +50 Power. Gain an [Arcane Body] becoming one with mana and magic.

Warning: Embracing this path will affect your Bloodline and [Runic Chains].

Noah stopped at the description. He saw himself, covered from head to toe in runes, magic had become a part of him, and he a part of it. There was no longer a difference between the two, as spells were used with the utmost efficiency, his body becoming enhanced beyond its limits by the magic engraved upon it.

He remembered Zax’s words about the [Arcane Body]. Noah hovered over the option for a moment, before closing it. He’d see the others first.

[Rift Sentinel (Legendary, Rank D)]

Embrace the role of a Rift Sentinel, a legendary path focused on the active monitoring and policing of dimensional breaches. You possess heightened abilities to sense and respond to unauthorized or malignant dimensional activities. As a Rift Sentinel, your deep understanding of the multiverse allows you to patrol and secure the boundaries between worlds, preventing potentially catastrophic incursions.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have [Dimensional Pocket]. Have [Inventory]. Have traveled to multiple Astral Rifts. Have helped protect an Astral Rift.

Rewards: +5 Agility, +4 Power, +3 Mystic, and +3 free attributes per level. +75 Power, +75 Mystic. Become capable of opening rifts across realms.

Noah felt the power present in the class. It had a duty too, one which would bind him, but in return, he would also obtain a vast amount of power. The role of a protector, of not just one realm, but all of them.

Yet, there was one thing, more than anything, that the Path told him. With this? He could go back to Earth.

He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, before moving on to the last option.

[Astral-Vault Keeper (Legendary, Rank D)]

Step into the enigmatic role of an Astral-Vault Keeper, a custodian of the vast and mysterious Astral Vault. This path grants you unparalleled access to a trove of astral knowledge and artifacts, each holding untold power and secrets. As a Keeper, you have the unique ability to manage, protect, and utilize these astral treasures, leveraging them to influence the course of events across various realms.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have unlocked the [Astral Vault]. Have [Celestial Harvest]. Have [Dimensional Pocket]. Have the [Diamond Premium Package].

Rewards: +15 free attributes per level. Gain unlimited access to the [Astral Vault].

“Man… all of these are good,” Noah muttered to himself as he went through the all the descriptions. He frowned, thinking over all the options, before scratching his head in frustration.

“Guess I might as well see what I’ve got for Void Hunter,” Noah said, closing the menu as he moved away from the Arcade machine, walking to the last one.

Noah walked up to the last device, noting the teeth, claws, and tentacles marked upon it, themed like a eldritch horror game mixed with a survival game. He started the machine, as it lit up with a eerie jungle tune before words flashed in front of him.

Starting evolution for [Void Hunter].
Collecting unlock requirements.
Compiling results… complete.

Welcome to The Abyssal Survivor!

Used to the process by now, Noah moved through the menu, leaving only Epic and Legendary rank options, before he quickly began to make his way through.

Alright, let’s speed run this.

[Abyss Hunter (Epic, Rank D)]

Embark on the path of the Abyss Hunter, where the dark and enigmatic depths of the abyss become your hunting ground. This path endows you with an unmatched ability to track, hunt, and vanquish creatures that lurk in the abyssal planes. As an Abyss Hunter, your intuition and prowess are honed to perfection, allowing you to navigate and dominate in the most treacherous of environments.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have the [Void Hunter] path.

Rewards: +4 Power, 3 Agility, and +3 free attributes per level. +25 Power, +25 Agility.

Warning: Adopting this path will alter some abilities.

Same deal as before. Good option, but there will be better ones. Next.

[Cultbane Shadow (Epic, Rank D)]

Step into the shadows as a Cultbane Shadow, a path dedicated to dismantling and disrupting the workings of dark cults and their abyssal machinations. With skills honed for infiltration, espionage, and combat against cultists, you become a silent guardian against the spread of corruption and darkness. This path empowers you with abilities to detect, counter, and eradicate cult activities, standing as a bulwark against the encroaching shadows.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have taken down one or more cults.

Rewards: +4 Agility, +3 Power, and +3 free attributes per level. +25 Agility, +25 Power. Enhanced abilities in stealth, granting you an edge in subterfuge and anti-cult operations.

Warning: Adopting this path will make you the sworn enemy of the cults.

Huh, this one is neat. Could potentially help me take down the cults. Likely not worth giving up a legendary option for though. Next.

[Abyssal Emissary (Epic, Rank D)]

As an Abyssal Emissary, you have formed a unique bond with the creatures and energies of the abyss. This path allows you to communicate and negotiate with abyssal entities, harnessing their strength and knowledge. Your deep understanding of the abyss makes you a bridge between worlds, capable of wielding abyssal magic and influencing its denizens.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 with a history of positive interactions and alliances with abyssal creatures.

Rewards: +4 Mystic, +4 Power and +2 free attributes per level. +25 Mystic, +25 Power. Enhanced abilities to communicate with, summon, and control abyssal entities, along with a deepened understanding of abyssal magic.

Warning: Adopting this path will make you an enemy of the Hellion Church.

That’s an interesting one. Potentially useful, but not worth alienating the church, even if they’re annoying.

Noah thought over it for a few seconds, before moving to the next one.

[Abyssal-Titan Summoner (Legendary, Rank D)]

As a Abyssal-Titan Summoner, delve into the art of calling forth and commanding the titans of the void, commanding untold powers of destruction. Harness the chaotic and potent forces of the abyssal-titans, using them to achieve unparalleled feats in both offense and defense. Your strength will be unparalleled, and your presence alone will strike fear into the hearts of your enemy.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have Advanced [Abyssal Call]. Have the [Titan Slayer] title.

Rewards: +5 Mystic, and +10 free attributes per level. +80 Mystic, +20 Power. Mastery over void summoning, enabling control over powerful void entities and manipulation of void energies.

Warning: Adopting this path will alter some abilities.

Noah read through the description, letting the mental image come easily into his mind. He could command creatures… titans, of the void. The raw strength within the creatures alone would be something to behold, but the path was also… ritualistic. He would need to study and prepare summon circles and he himself would not have any power, even if his summons would be terrifyingly strong.

He moved on to the next option.

[Hellion's Vindicator (Legendary, Rank D)]

Embrace the righteous fury of Hellion's Vindicator, a warrior blessed by the goddess of justice to fight against the void and its corrupting forces. This path bestows divine powers to smite foes with righteous energy and protect allies from abyssal influences, embodying the balance between light and darkness.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have received the blessing of Hellion, the goddess of justice.

Rewards: +5 Power, +4 Constitution, and +6 free attributes per level. +50 Power, +50 Agility. Gains divine justice powers, including smiting foes with holy energy and shielding allies from abyssal corruption.

Warning: This path will break the Pact.

Of course I got this. Thank you Hellion.

He knew the goddess hadn’t directly given him the option, but it still made him laugh nonetheless. He moved on to the next one.

[Spectral Phantom (Legendary, Rank D)]

As a Spectral Phantom, your connection to the spectral realm is unparalleled. This path enhances your shadow clone abilities, allowing for more complex and coordinated attacks and reconnaissance. The specter can now act with greater independence and in perfect sync with you, making you a formidable duo in any scenario.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 and possess the [Shadow specter] perk.

Rewards: +5 Agility, +4 Mystic, and +6 free attributes per level. +50 Agility, +50 Mystic. Mastery over spectral abilities, enabling advanced coordination and utilization of your shadow for various strategic advantages.

Warning: Adopting this path will alter your [Spectral Shadow].

Heck no. Strong? Sure. Will I do it? Nope. Not gonna give that guy any more control. And I already have Tony.

Noah felt his shadow stirring somewhere inside his mind, grinning happily. He could not manifest here, but he was still attached to Noah’s soul. Noah rolled his eyes, before moving on to the next option available.

[Titanbane (Legendary, Rank D)]

Step into the role of Titanbane, a legendary figure known for slaying titans and other colossal creatures. This path grants you the strength, skills, and tactics needed to confront and conquer the mightiest of foes. Your prowess against giants makes you a legend among warriors, feared by behemoths and respected by all.

Requirements: Must have the [Titan Slayer] title. Have survived encounter with an Ascendant. Have beaten an enemy two ranks above you.

Rewards: +5 Power, +4 Agility, and +6 free attributes per level. +75 Power, +75 Agility. Specialized abilities for combating colossal creatures.

Warning: Adopting this path will alter some abilities. Experience gained from weaker enemies will be reduced.

Noah’s eyes widened. That’s another strong one. He could feel the strength present in it, it’d force him to constantly fight stronger foes, but the rewards would also be quite worth it.

Frowning in thought, Noah decided to read all the way to the end first.

I’ll keep this one in mind.

[Void's Apostle (Legendary, Rank D)]

Step into the enigmatic and powerful role of Void's Apostle, a path for those who have embraced the full spectrum of the void's mysteries. This path allows you to command the entirety of the void's forces, leading its creatures and wielding its enigmatic energies. As Void's Apostle, you become a conduit for the void, channeling its raw power and directing its creatures in a grand symphony of chaos and destruction.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100 and shown a deep connection with the void and its entities.

Rewards: +15 free attributes per level. +75 Mystic, +75 Power, +25 Constitution, +25 Agility. Unparalleled mastery over the void, including command over its creatures and the ability to manipulate void energies for various effects.

Warning: Embracing this path transforms you into an embodiment of the void.

Noah’s eyes widened slightly. That… was a lot of rewards. 200 attributes in a go, and 15 free attribute per level. It was somehow tempting despite how much of a bad idea it was. He glanced sideways at Dylan, who’d been watching awfully quietly now.

“What?” the man asked. “Do your thing, go, I don’t care.”

Noah looked one last time at the Path, before closing the option. He hadn’t selected it before, and he didn’t intend to select it now.

[Abyssal Predator (Legendary, Rank D)]

Become an Abyssal Predator, achieving a perfect symbiosis with your abyssal companion, making you a true apex predator within its realms. Your symbiote will become capable of protecting you, forming armor and weapons with its body, and your enhanced physical form and attunement with abyssal energies make you a terrifying force, capable of adapting and thriving in the most hostile environments.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have modified your body. Have the [Abyssal Symbiote] ability at advanced rank.

Rewards: +5 Power, +5 Agility, +5 free attributes per level. +75 Power, +75 Agility, +25 Mystic, +25 Constitution.  Enhanced [Abyssal Symbiote].

Warning: This path will alter your [Abyssal Symbiote].

Noah saw the option, watching it in his mind. Tony would become capable of forming armor with his body, giving him versatile limbs to use at any point or make weapons off of, Metamorphosis would also grow stronger alongside a direct improvement to his baseline abilities. And his mental processing and abilities would be sharpened too.

He would truly be, in all meaning of the word, an Apex Predator. Out of all the options so far, this one was the most tempting one.

Closing the menu for now, Noah moved on to the last option.

[Netherflame Warrior (Unique, Rank D)]

Embrace the path of the Netherflame Warrior, a master of the mysterious and potent nether flames of the void. Wield these unyielding flames with expertise, letting them flow through you without harm. As a Netherflame Warrior, you harness the destructive and elusive power of these flames, using them to incinerate foes and light the path through the darkest of battles.

Requirements: Must have reached level 100. Have the [Netherflame Burst] ability at Intermediate rank.

Rewards: +5 Power, +4 Agility, +6 free attributes per level. +100 Power, +50 Agility, +25 Mystic, +25 Constitution. Increased mastery over the nether flames.

Warning: This path significantly alters your affinity with fire and void energies.

Noah closed the menu after reading the last one, before he began to walk around the Astral space. His mind raced through the options, as he tried to think of the many possibilities that lay in front of him.

All of them were good, though some clearly better than others. Glancing around, Noah searched the area before finding a piece of paper and pen lying on the now unmanned reception desk.

Picking the two up, he began to write down his options.

Exasnguinator:

1) Scarlet Renegade: Ties to Raelinah. Could lead to something. Fairly powerful, and further increases my spear abilities. Overall balanced between regen and damage. +50 Mystic, +50 Constitution, +25 Agility, +25 Power

2) Wyrmblood Guardian: Makes Lifeblood even better. Kinda broken regeneration wise. +75 Constitution, +25 rest all.

3) Blood Reaper Enhances Blood Dept. Crazy DPS build. More damage focused. +50 Power and Constitution, +25 Mystic and agility.

Astralwalker:

1) Chainbreaker: Not worth probably, but could let me break Zax’s chains. Epic grade.

2) Star Weaver: Multiple hands spellcasting Path. Powerful offensive, less focused on movement compared to before, but high versatility and ability to overwhelm opponents. +50 to Mystic and Power.

3) Spectral Sovereign: Powerful, focused on the specters more so and my bloodline upgrade. Not sure if it's better than Star Weaver or not though. +100 Mystic.

4) Runebody Arcanist: Strong, lots of focus on arcane magic combined with physical attributes. The opposite of Star Weaver in some ways. +75 Mystic, +50 Power.

5) Rift Sentinel: Can go back home with this... Not sure I want to, yet. Also powerful ability. But tied with a duty. Similar to Earth Champion from the start. +75 Mystic and Power

6) Astral Vault-Keeper: Gives access to Astral Vault. Free shop access? Not entirely sure. Harder to get a read on this one, the images were unclear, but seems powerful. Less combat focused though. No attribute gains on unlock.

Void Hunter:

1) Titanbane: Strong. Quite strong. +75 to power and agility. But will make it even harder to level up unless I’m fighting things way above my level.

2) Abyssal Predator: The one I like the most. Makes Tony stronger, and more versatile. Increases sub-attributes and attributes both, and upgrades [Metamorphosis]. Powerful and versatile. +75 Power, +75 Agility, +25 Mystic and Constitution.

3) Netherflame Warrior: High DPS. Destruction based path. Fire focused, I could probably give Aurelia a run for her money with this one. +100 Power, +50 agility, +25 Mystic and Constitution.

Noah frowned, as he wrote down all his options, trying to think on which ones would be the best for him. Lost in his thoughts, he didn’t notice Dylan walk up to him till the man was right behind him, making Noah jump.

“Can’t make up your mind?” Dylan asked.

Noah turned, surprised, before he paused. “Yeah. A bit. All of these are good, just not sure which one is right for me.”

“All of them are, or they wouldn’t have appeared. These are potential futures. But if you can’t decide, then think on which would you would dislike the most, and go from there. The last option is the one you hate the least,” Dylan replied.

“Don’t people do the opposite? Pick the one they like the most?” Noah asked.

Dylan shrugged. “I’m not a person. And that is a foolish way to choose. A feeling of dislike is always stronger, and easier to navigate with.”

“Huh,” Noah said. “Thanks. That… may have actually helped me.”

Dylan waved him away, before turning around as he walked back to the sofa. Noah turned to look at the note, closing his eyes. He pictured him, having each path, one by one, picturing how he would use them, and what they would mean for him.

After a few minutes of meditating on his thoughts, he opened his eyes.

"Alright, I've made up my mind."