Kim swallowed saliva, then whispered: "I want to recover my memories. I want to know who those faces were that I loved or lost. I want to know who I am — the reason I live — before they turn me into a plaything in their hands."
The System fell silent as if thinking, then said: "That is possible, but at a cost. Sealed memory is a digital layer — it is protected. To restore it you need resources: memory scrolls, breaching the rulers' protocols, or an exchange in return for your services. I have an option: I can leave you the King System — a small part of control privileges inside your mind or with you — to preserve you for a time and save you from direct pursuits. But it will subject you to greater surveillance. Or I can keep you independent, but you will remain hunted and scattered."
Kim raised his brows and replied firmly: "I do not want to be subordinate to another system, whatever its name. If the King gives me something, I will clutch my freedom with more chains. But if that means I can recover what was taken from me…"
The System interrupted him immediately: "If you want full restoration it will not be free. The King System will grant you tools — but with conditions. Remaining independent grants you greater freedom but broader risks: no kit to retrieve everything at once. The choice is yours."
Kim fell silent for a moment, then spoke in a heavy voice laced with cunning: "Leave me the King System now. I will use it to activate something — but I will not be your slave, nor theirs. I will take whatever you grant me and pay for it on my own terms. As advice from me: do not trust them. The rulers play without conscience. Their gifts are gilded chains."
Kim hesitated, then said: "Fine. Leave me a miniature copy — and I will carry the title of King with me, but if you wish to reclaim your favor — speak to me. This contract remains between us."
The System: "Very well. To have equal rights with me is something I favor and support. Kim, I look forward to what you will do in the future, but to avoid resemblance, I will leave you for a period."
Kim rose with difficulty, and with a final sharp tone while watching the dying city said: "Remember the System's words — all you passed through was a game in their hands. Do not be misled by what they give you. Do not trust their gifts, and do not believe their promises. If you are desired, you will be used; if you are greedy, you will be abandoned."
Kim replied in a cold voice, though with a hint of possibility: "Understood. I will record your advice." The channel disconnected, leaving Kim with aching silence, and the new name echoing in his chest: Death Tiger — a king on a field of ash, but a king in debt.