Chapter 2: Shattered GlassI tried to focus on his face, that looked very concerned about whether I lived or died and I couldn't understand why because it was out of character from him. This wasn't the Damien Carter I knew—the smirking, arrogant businessman who seemed to exist only to torment me. This man looked terrified, his hands trembling as he checked my pulse."Why?" I managed to croak out, wanting to know the reason before I joined my ancestors."Don't try to talk," he said instead, wiping the blood from my forehead with his handkerchief. The same handkerchief he warned me never to touch because I was disgusting enough to infect his handkerchief with germs. "Just focus on breathing.""Why... are you helping me?"Something complicated passed across his face. I almost believed for a moment that it was hurt because I was not expecting him to have mere decency towards me."Because I'm not the monster you think I am," he said quietly, looking away from my face.I wanted to ask mor

Chapter 4: Hidden TruthsI swallowed hard, processing this bit of information that I clearly didn't need."Actually, I'm feeling okay right now. The previous medication is doing wonders for my pain and I don't want to be doped up too much. Could we hold off on the pain medication? I'd like to be clear-headed when my doctor comes by to tell me what my situation is looking like."The nurse looked surprised at my words but agreed as she nodded her head. "Of course, that is perfectly fine as well. Just press your call button if the pain gets too bad and I'll be here in a jiffy, I promise."As she left, I stared at the ring on my finger still dumbfounded. Was it really protecting me somehow? And what had Jensen meant about a team being on the way?I didn't have long to wonder. Twenty minutes later, a good looking man in a doctor's coat entered my room, and he was followed by two men in suits who stood on either side of the door."Mr. Snow," the doctor said, closing the door behind him as

Chapter 6After Jensen left, I dressed quickly in the clothes that had been provided—expensive fabrics that fit perfectly, as if they'd been tailored specifically for me. The system had been quiet since its cryptic warning about Jensen's misleading information regarding Damien, but I could feel its presence hovering at the edge of my consciousness like a patient observer.I made my way through the mansion's corridors, guided by the soft-spoken directions of a staff member who seemed to materialize whenever I needed assistance. The study was located on the ground floor, behind heavy oak doors that opened to reveal a room that looked like it belonged in a centuries-old library.Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves lined the walls, filled with leather-bound volumes that appeared both ancient and well-maintained. A massive desk dominated one corner, while comfortable leather chairs were arranged around a fireplace that crackled with warmth despite the mild weather outside.Standing near one of th

Chapter 8: New AbilitiesALEXI stared at the message floating in my vision, my heart racing as I considered the implications."Advanced functions?" I whispered to the empty study. "What exactly are we talking about here?"The system responded immediately:[System Interface: Advanced Ability Menu]Available Functions:- Identity Manipulation: Assume appearance and knowledge of target individuals- Enhanced Physical Conditioning: Accelerated strength and endurance development - Information Network Access: Digital infiltration and data acquisition- Threat Assessment: Real-time danger evaluation and tactical analysisWarning: Extended use of advanced functions will drain host energy reserves. Physical conditioning recommended to increase capacity.I nearly dropped the tablet I was still holding. Identity manipulation? The ability to look like someone else entirely? This was far beyond simple mind-reading or enhanced intuition."Show me how identity manipulation works," I said aloud, f

Chapter 10ALEXThe car door opened, and immediately the cameras began flashing. I stepped out with Holloway's confident stride, adjusting my cufflinks in his characteristic nervous gesture as reporters called out questions."Mr. Holloway! Mr. Holloway! What brings you to tonight's event?""Is Holloway Industries considering investment in the merger?""Any comments on the recent Yggdrasil Group market activity?"That last question made me pause. Word was already spreading about the movements I'd made. I smiled in what I hoped was Holloway's typically reserved manner."Simply here to enjoy an evening with colleagues and explore potential opportunities," I said, letting his accent carry the words. "No further comments this evening."I moved through the crowd of reporters and into the mansion, immediately struck by the opulence on display. Crystal chandeliers cast rainbow light across marble floors, while servers in white uniforms circulated with champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The guest l