Point of View: Genesis
I was expectant.
One of my inhabitants was about to ascend.The fortunate one was a primordial.
This was no coincidence.
After all the assistance they had received through their professions and the significant improvement in cultivation within Arcadia, if some random beast had ascended before one of them, I would have had to seriously reconsider this race's potential.
But they did not disappoint me.
After only one year since the founding of Arcadia, the first finally appeared.
"Do you think she'll succeed?" I asked.
Elena replied immediately.
"The probability of success exceeds seventy percent."
An encouraging figure.
Even so, it surprised me that it was Sylvanas.
"If she succeeds, I will communicate with her through the system," I murmured.
"Wouldn't that represent an expense for you, host?" Elena asked.
"It will be a minimal cost in fortune," I replied. "Once a few more ascend, it will balance itself out. It is important that they become aware of certain things: the system's costs, the dangers they will face, and the inevitable scarcity of resources in the future."
They need to feel pressure.
Their lives have been far too peaceful lately.
They must find a way to leave the planet.
At first, I planned to create a second race to solve that problem—beings capable of traveling through space and transporting them. But now it seems like a waste. Only once I ascend again will I be able to create a new race.
How long would that take?
And more importantly… why should I solve all their problems?
If I must do everything for them, then… what purpose do they serve?
They must become independent. I have already helped them more than enough.
This reflection was also for myself.
My task is to guide them toward a better future, not to be the babysitter of my creations.
After a weary sigh, I spoke while observing Arcadia.
"The task of leaving this planet to gather resources falls upon you. I hope you continue to prove your worth, my primordials."
Point of View: Sylvanas
I was heading toward the ascension platform.
It was located as far from the urban area as possible, though still within Arcadia's walls. It had been built following the information provided by the system regarding the tribulation we would have to face in order to ascend.
I tried to arrive discreetly.
Since being appointed to the council as Minister of Defense, I had become far too well-known. Whenever I walked through the city, people followed me with their eyes, greeted me, and showed respect and admiration.
Normally, I enjoyed it.
But not today.
My pulse was racing, and every step echoed louder than it should have. My hands clenched and unclenched unconsciously, trying to release the tension building in my chest.
I hadn't told anyone.
If I failed the ascension, I would die.
That thought returned again and again, tightening my stomach. I didn't want them to worry or neglect their duties because of me. Still, I had left a farewell letter in my home, just in case I didn't return.
After several minutes, I finally arrived.
The platform was circular, open to the sky, and built from the most resilient materials we had found. It was normally guarded, but I had pulled a few strings to ensure I would be alone.
I took a deep breath, steadying my thoughts.
"System, I'm ready."
[Order received]
[Beginning ascension]
[Good luck, Sylvanas]