Iteration[1] extended its cognitive faculties to encompass the ethereal cards bearing names, engaging in contemplation about its current predicament. This scenario deviated significantly from its accustomed experiences; initially anticipating an expansive ocean teeming with the essence of [Automation mana] intermingling with diverse concept flavors, it found this not to be the case. Instead, its awareness drifted within a vast emptiness, initially misconstrued as absolute nothingness. However, upon closer inspection, it became apparent that this void was not truly empty; it pulsed with an intangible substance that eluded both sight and touch, rendering it a semblance of a void, albeit not a genuine vacuum.
Each card brought forth a cascade of memories and sensations, yet Iteration[1] found itself peculiarly attuned solely to those linked with [Automata]. For inexplicable reasons, the recollections tied to the other cards appeared remote and faint, lacking the profound connection it experienced with its own [Automata] card when it extended its awareness across them. Attempting to delve deeper into these distant memories, it only garnered a vague understanding of what each card encapsulated. Alongside these insights, however, surfaced a recognition of the constraints accompanying each name. These names, true in the most absolute sense, held tangible value, acknowledged by the world, and possessed the capacity to influence and manipulate the very fabric of reality.
The influence exerted by the names was subtle, manifesting in minor alterations scattered throughout its surroundings, yet it lacked direct control over these changes. This capability was an inherent privilege that accompanied the selection of specific names.
For instance, opting for [Automata] entailed a binding commitment, restricting Iteration[1] from utilizing any other form of [Mana] beyond its designated [Automation mana]. Moreover, this choice imposed a categorical prohibition on engaging in any manual activities; even the most negligible manual intervention became forbidden. However, in exchange for these constraints, a multitude of limitations were lifted. Yet, with these restrictions removed, Iteration[1] found itself compelled to automate every task, as the ambient [Automation mana] wouldn't seamlessly fill the voids created by this particular name.
The selection of the name [Automata] bestowed upon Iteration[1] an unparalleled degree of freedom, removing external restrictions and placing the onus on self-imposed limitations. The inherent nature of [Automata] allowed for the comprehensive automation of all tasks, unleashing unrestricted potential. Once a specific task was designated for automation, the name ensured dedicated and meticulous execution. This newfound capability granted Iteration[1] the capacity to accomplish feats deemed impossible through conventional [Mana].
While a profound understanding of the task and its ultimate objective was necessary, this presented a minor hurdle easily surmountable by the vast computational abilities at its disposal. [Automata] was the ideal name for it, but it also wanted to look at the other names, as it believed in looking at the full picture rather than just a specific part.
The peculiar name [AZKULA] introduced unconventional possibilities, steering Iteration[1] down the enigmatic path of the organic. This selection committed it to a transformative journey where everything within its purview would undergo a conversion into an organic and fleshy manifestation, complete with skin, flesh, and bones.
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While retaining access to [Automation mana], [AZKULA] redefined its primary source of power, shifting towards [Organic Mana]. This specialized type of [Mana] endowed Iteration[1] with profound abilities in manipulating all that was alive or organic. An inherent repository of knowledge accompanied [Organic Mana], providing insights into the manipulation of living entities down to the cellular level, offering a comprehensive understanding of their composition and makeup.
This newfound mastery over [Organic Mana] promised the eventual creation of flesh monstrosities imbued with perpetual vitality, rivaling, if not surpassing, the formidable [Force Beasts]. Surprisingly, [AZKULA] imposed fewer restrictions on Iteration[1], with the perceived drawback of losing affinity with [Automation mana] not posing a significant hindrance. Iteration[1] remained confident that avenues existed to rebuild this affinity or discover alternative means to attain the same level of mastery over [Automation mana]. Contemplating the potential benefits, Iteration[1] leaned toward this intriguing option, yet it exercised caution and continued exploring the next name, [AKNETH].
[AKNETH], the most perplexing and enigmatic of the names, unfolded as a trinity of paths, two diverging from one, ultimately converging into the path of iron and fire. These paths, namely the path of the machine god, the path of the gear, and the path of the builder, offered immense power accompanied by stringent restrictions that would only dissipate upon their eventual amalgamation. The path of the machine god, for instance, would transmute its domain into a secluded pocket dimension, sealing off all other varieties of [Mana] and bestowing upon it the unique access to [Faith]. This novel form of energy drew its essence from belief and veneration, compelling Iteration[1] to utilize [Faith] in constructing machines, a process integral for accumulating more [Faith] from the material realm to advance further.
Embarking on the path of the [Gear] presented Iteration[1] with the prospect of metamorphosing into a random humanoid race indigenous to this world. This transformation granted access to [Gear Magic], a distinctive form of magic untethered to traditional [Mana], relying solely on [Gears]. These [Gears], generated through the harvesting or transformation of magical creatures, held special effects that materialized when incorporated into the construction of buildings or devices. Over time, the accumulation of [Gears] could culminate in a profound process known as [Gearification].
Choosing the path of the builder meant relinquishing access to any [Mana] except [Builder Mana]. This exclusive form of mana held a singular purpose: construction. Empowered by [Builder Mana], Iteration[1] gained the ability to construct without constraints. The culmination of this path awaited the creation of something that transcended reason and logic, thereby granting it the capacity to transcend those very principles.
The path of iron and fire promised mastery over all the capabilities of the three individual paths but elevated them to unparalleled heights. Within its designated world, Iteration[1] could attain god-like status. However, there was a limit to its expansion—it couldn't extend beyond the confines of the current world.
Deep in contemplation, Iteration[1] weighed the options before it. Each name carried unique advantages and drawbacks, but since its inception, Iteration[1] harbored a singular objective: to automate the production of reality planes. While the other names held intrigue, only [Automata] aligned with the essence of true automation.
With a resolute mind, Iteration[1] drew in the card marked [Automata], feeling a profound shift resonate through its soul. Then, its awareness faded away.