Log Entries (from the Formation Master's perspective):

Log Entry 742.1.0:

* Location: Orbiting the Nexus World, Designation: Xylos-7

* Status: Preliminary scans complete. The planet shows promise; a vibrant, though fractured, civilization focused on martial disciplines. Their cultivation methods are rudimentary, but they possess a raw earnestness I find...compelling. The atmosphere resonates with a volatile energy signature, a suitable backdrop for my experiment.

* Selection Process: I will initiate the Cataclysm Protocol. A focused burst of chaotic energy, localized to the largest continent. Those who survive its initial impact will be contenders. But survival is merely a prerequisite. The true measure is how they adapt…how they climb. The pawn who stands tallest will be the one I choose.

* Formation Setup: I've deployed the foundational formations. The Loop Matrix is anchored to the highest peak of the central mountain range. It will sustain the cycle while simultaneously draining power from the surrounding ley lines. The Lich construct is in place, anchored to the deepest chasm, its corruption will accelerate conflicts. Let the game begin.

Log Entry 742.1.53:

* System Status: The first loop is nearing its termination. The Cataclysm delivered as intended; societal collapse and widespread suffering are the foundations of the civilization now. A young man, one with the fire in his eyes, has risen. He calls himself “Kailen” and possesses an unusual resilience. He survived the initial blast, his village destroyed, and he has managed to gain some prowess. His martial style is not refined, rather he relies on pure, unbridled fury.

* Pawn Analysis: Kailen stands out. Others are stronger physically, but he possesses a tenacity that borders on the absurd. He’s like…a cockroach. He struggles, adapts, and somehow, keeps going. He is rallying the scattered remnants of the land against the Lich, a creature I unleashed to create a common enemy. I find myself more invested in his movements than I expected. He's already exhibiting hints of innovation in his techniques. His understanding of the flow of Qi is…unorthodox, but potent.

* System Note: I've recalibrated the Loop Matrix after the initial runs. I allowed him some victories, but the Lich now possesses a degree of sentience which allows it to adapt to Kailen's tactics. This loop should prove most…revealing.

Log Entry 742.2.118:

Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

* System Status: Loop 118 has concluded. Kailen continues to surprise. With each iteration, his growth is exponential. His insights into martial arts are becoming…remarkable. He has developed previously unseen techniques, drawing inspiration from the very essence of the world itself. He’s moved beyond brute force, incorporating the principles of natural forces into his movements. The other civilizations he has united marvel at him.

* Pawn Analysis: His understanding of formations is… nascent, yet potent. He is intuitively grasping the underlying principles without explicit guidance. This is… fascinating. I have learned much by observing his process. He has turned to nature to better his understanding of cultivation, something I haven't had the time to consider. His drive is inspiring.

* System Note: The final confrontation is imminent. The Lich has been driven back to its lair, and Kailen is on his final push for victory. My preparations are complete.

Log Entry 742.2.119:

* Final Loop Status: Kailen has pierced the veil of the Loop. He has become aware that he is trapped in a cycle. He finally understood the power of time, using his martial understanding to turn the rules of the loop against itself. His understanding of the space and time continuum is… surprisingly advanced.

* Pawn Absorption: His spirit, imbued with his innovative techniques and understanding of martial arts, has been extracted. The essence is… potent. His growth is far beyond my initial expectations. I have acquired a plethora of information, I will need millenia to digest this.

* System Rest: The Xylos-7 system is now collapsed, all trace of its existence wiped from the cosmos. The data is now extracted.

* Next System: I am already scouting for my next system. The raw essence of the last soul will prove useful for my next experiment. This time, I seek a world with a different kind of martial arts, focusing on the mind and spirit rather than just the body. The search for a new pawn begins...