Jacob's form lay motionless amid the chaos of the clearing, surrounded by the mangled remains of Guardians he had defeated. The corpses were stark reminders of the danger he'd faced, yet the danger wasn't over. Jacob's core throbbed erratically, exhaustion seeping into every fiber of his being.

Jacob (frantically): "System... I can't... I can't stay here. What if someone finds me? What if... what if I don't wake up? Oh god... I'll just be a dead rock in a pile of corpses! A DEAD ROCK!"

System: "Jacob, breathe—well, metaphorically. You need to move. You're not safe here. Focus on survival. I'll guide you."

Jacob's mind spiraled. The fear of death clutched at him like an iron vice, each passing moment feeding the frenzy.

Jacob (panicked): "They'll find me. I know it. Some crazy mage like Eldrin or worse—what if it's someone who likes to collect rocks? I'll end up on a shelf somewhere, forgotten! This can't be it—I won't die like this!"

System (firmly): "You're not dying, Jacob. Focus. Move. Now."

Fighting through the terror and exhaustion, Jacob willed his battered form to roll. Each inch forward felt like a mile, his energy reserves scraping the bottom of the barrel. The system, recognizing his weakening state, began scanning the surroundings for shelter.

System: "There's a cave ahead. Narrow entrance, small interior—it'll hide you. Push on."

Jacob (breathing heavily): "If I... if I survive this, I'm... I'm never trusting you again."

After what felt like an eternity, Jacob reached the cave. The entrance was a small crack in the earth, barely wide enough for him to squeeze through. With his last ounce of strength, he wedged himself inside, his rocky form grinding against the jagged walls. Once inside, the silence and darkness wrapped around him like a cocoon.

Jacob (whispering): "Safe... I'm safe... right?"

System: "For now. Rest. I'll handle the next part."

Before Jacob could question what that meant, exhaustion claimed him, plunging him into unconsciousness.

The Evolution

The cave filled with a faint, pulsing glow as the system initiated the evolution process without Jacob's consent. The cores he had absorbed activated, their energies merging and reshaping his form. The rocky exterior softened, becoming more refined, sculpted. Limbs stretched and lengthened, joints formed, and his jagged edges smoothed into curves and planes that resembled human musculature.

Three hours passed, the cave trembling slightly with the energy of the transformation. Finally, the glow faded, leaving a figure sprawled on the floor—a man, not a rock.

System (admiring): "A masterpiece. I've created a work of art."

Jacob remained unaware, his new body motionless until an hour later when his consciousness stirred.

Jacob (groggy): "System...? What's... what's going on? Why do I feel... fingers?"

He sat up abruptly, the sensation of movement startling him. For the first time since his reincarnation, he felt his arms, legs, and even the texture of his skin—hard and smooth like polished stone.

Jacob (shouting): "I'm alive! I'm alive! I HAVE A BODY AGAIN!"

System (sharply): "Calm down, Jacob. You're going to bring the whole forest running with that yelling."

Jacob froze at the system's tone.

Jacob: "What the hell? Did you just tell me to shut up?"

System: "Yes, I did. You've undergone evolution. You're now a stone golem—a higher form of existence. While you slept, I also underwent an update. I am now more efficient in guiding you toward survival and strength."

The system's voice had changed—less sarcastic, more calculated. It unnerved Jacob, but he chose to focus on his body instead.

Jacob (hesitantly): "Right... evolution. What exactly am I now?"

System: "You are a stone golem. Your form mimics human anatomy, granting you mobility, functionality, and increased combat potential. Your skin is as hard as a monster's shell, and your new strength far surpasses your previous form. You are also... aesthetically pleasing."

Jacob: "Aesthetically—wait, are you calling me handsome?"

The system didn't respond directly, but Jacob felt a twinge of pride. Crawling toward the cave entrance, he realized how cramped the space had become.

Jacob (grumbling): "Great, I'm too big now. Let's see if this new strength is worth anything."

Placing his hand on the wall above the entrance, he pushed lightly. The rock crumbled effortlessly, creating a wider opening.

Jacob (grinning): "Okay, that's... kind of awesome."

As he stepped outside, a cool breeze swept over him. He paused, looking down at himself.

Jacob (alarmed): "Wait a minute—I'm naked! Why am I naked?!"

Panic set in as he realized his new form didn't include clothing. Though anatomically neutral, he felt exposed.

Jacob (frantically): "System! Clothes! I need clothes!"

System (dryly): "Perhaps the village can assist."

Jacob wasted no time, heading back toward the village. Under the cover of night, he snuck into an abandoned home, grabbing a set of rough peasant clothing.

Jacob (whispering): "Sorry, sorry... I'll pay you back. Promise."

After dressing, he made his way to a nearby river. Looking at his reflection for the first time, he froze.

Jacob (staring): "I'm... I'm fucking handsome."

Jacob stood at the riverbank, still captivated by his reflection. His rugged, chiseled features, framed by what could only be described as "artfully messy" stone-like hair, made him look more like a sculpture come to life than an actual person.

Jacob (grinning): "I mean, I'd call myself a masterpiece too. System, did you secretly give me a glow-up?"

System (flatly): "It's a natural result of your evolution. Aesthetic improvement was merely a side effect of optimizing your body for strength and durability."

As Jacob flexed his newfound fingers and admired his features, a creeping realization dawned. He clenched his fist experimentally, the sharp crackle of stone reverberating through the air. His grip felt powerful—too powerful.

Jacob (muttering): "Wait... just how strong am I?"

Testing his strength further, he swiped a nearby branch, intending to snap it in half. Instead, it disintegrated into a shower of splinters. His grin faltered.

Jacob (panicking): "Oh no... oh no, no, no. I'm way too strong. What if... what if I touch someone? Hug someone? A kid, even?! I'd snap their spine! What the hell have I turned into?"

The thought spiraled, growing darker with each passing second. He pictured a scenario where his lack of control led to tragedy, where his strength caused more harm than good. His chest tightened, and a sickly feeling bubbled within.

Jacob (retching): "I... I think I'm gonna be sick—"

With a violent heave, Jacob threw up—only for chunks of gravel to spill out, clattering to the ground. He stared at the mess, horrified.

Jacob (groaning): "Did I... just puke rocks? This is disgusting! System, what the hell is happening to me?!"

System (calmly): "You're adjusting to your new physiology. As a stone golem, your body has replaced biological processes with inorganic ones. Vomiting gravel is a byproduct of that."

Jacob (still horrified): "And you didn't think to warn me?!"

System: "It didn't seem immediately relevant."

Jacob groaned, burying his face in his hands before pausing. His hands felt smooth, cool, and hard. The strangeness of it all overwhelmed him again.

Jacob (weakly): "What do I even do now? I'm too strong for my own good, and apparently, I throw up gravel. This is my life now?"

System: "Adaptation is key. To control your strength, you'll need training. And for that, I suggest heading to a larger city within Count Tarmin's domain. There, you may find assistance—perhaps through an adventurers' guild or a combat instructor. Both would provide the means to develop finer control over your abilities."

Jacob (uncertain): "A city? What if I can't handle being around people? What if I mess up and hurt someone?"

System: "You're more likely to hurt someone by staying untrained. A city offers resources, challenges, and opportunities. It's your best option."

Though still nervous, Jacob nodded. He needed guidance, and the system's plan made sense.

A Taste of Bland Reality

Before leaving, Jacob decided to test another part of his new body—eating. In the storeroom of the village, he carefully selected a loaf of bread and some dried fruit.

Jacob (apologizing under his breath): "Sorry, whoever this belongs to. I'll repay you. I promise."

Sitting near the edge of the forest, he bit into the bread. His face scrunched immediately.

Jacob: "What the hell? This tastes like... nothing. Absolutely nothing!"

He tried the dried fruit next, only to find it equally tasteless. Confused, he turned to the system.

System: "Your taste buds are rudimentary, designed for efficiency rather than pleasure. Only extreme flavors—such as fiery spices or elemental nexuses—will register as distinct."

Jacob (grimacing): "So I'm stuck eating rocks and spicy fireballs? Fantastic."

The Village Bar

After preparing himself, Jacob waited until dawn to head into the village. The morning light revealed the poor state of the settlement: crooked shacks, muddy paths, and weary villagers going about their day.

Jacob made his way to the bar, a ramshackle structure held together by slime carcasses and wishful thinking. Ducking slightly to enter, he approached the counter.

Jacob: "Hey. I need a map."

The barkeep, a gruff man with a perpetual scowl, raised an eyebrow but said nothing, his hand subtly gesturing toward the counter—a clear demand for payment.

Jacob (irritated): "Oh, for crying out loud. Fine."

In his frustration, Jacob lightly tapped the counter, forgetting his newfound strength. The tap left a hole the size of his fist, causing the barkeep to pale.

Barkeep (stammering): "T-The village chief! H-He has maps! Town hall!"

Satisfied, Jacob left, ignoring the stares from the other patrons.

Meeting Chief Naurd

The town hall was slightly better constructed than the bar, though that wasn't saying much. Inside, Jacob found the village chief—a stout man with a thick beard—poring over papers.

Jacob: "Chief Naurd, right?"

Naurd (warily): "That's me. Who's asking?"

Jacob: "Just a traveler. I need directions to the nearest city—or a map, if you've got one."

Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Naurd's eyes narrowed, suspicion flickering across his face.

Naurd: "Why the interest in Erendoor?"

Jacob (shrugging): "Just want to explore. Heard cities are full of opportunity."

After a moment of silence, Naurd nodded, his suspicion fading.

Naurd: "East. About a six-hour carriage ride. No carriages run from here, though, so you'll have to walk."

Jacob: "Figures. Thanks, Chief."

As Jacob turned to leave, Naurd called after him.

Naurd: "Good luck getting to Erendoor. You'll need it."

The Journey Begins

Jacob left the village, following the beaten path toward the city. The morning air was crisp, and the sun painted the landscape in golden hues. Despite the serene surroundings, unease crept into his thoughts.

System (breaking the silence): "You're unusually quiet. Doubts?"

Jacob: "More like anxiety. What if the city's dangerous? What if I screw up again? Or worse—what if I'm just not cut out for this whole 'adventuring' thing?"

System (sternly): "Survival isn't about avoiding danger—it's about facing it head-on and growing stronger. Doubts won't kill you. Stagnation will."

The bluntness stung, but Jacob nodded, forcing his doubts aside.

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows over the wilderness. Jacob trudged along the uneven dirt path, his thoughts a tangle of frustration and unease. Erendoor felt impossibly far away, and every rustle of the wind set his nerves on edge.

Jacob: "Great plan, System. Send me off into the unknown with no supplies, no map, and no clue where I'm going."

System: "I did suggest asking the villagers for more detailed directions. You ignored me."

Jacob: "Yeah, because they already thought I was weird. Didn't want to add 'paranoid rock guy' to the list."

System: "Noted. If you perish due to your stubbornness, I'll log it as a learning opportunity."

Jacob rolled his eyes but stayed alert, scanning the horizon for signs of life. His heavy stone body moved awkwardly, and every step felt like a test of restraint. He'd already broken two saplings and crushed a few stones underfoot just by trying to stretch.

As the afternoon wore on, Jacob spotted a caravan stopped by the side of the road. Two wooden wagons with brightly painted sides sat in a small clearing, their horses grazing nearby. A small group of people bustled around, unloading supplies and setting up for a brief rest.

Jacob (to himself): "Finally, someone who might know what the hell I'm doing out here."

He approached cautiously, keeping his footsteps as light as possible. When he was within earshot, he called out.

Jacob: "Hello! Travelers, right? Mind if I ask a few questions?"

The group turned to him, startled. A middle-aged man with a weathered face stepped forward, his broad shoulders and steady gaze giving him an air of authority.

David: "We're merchants. Who's asking?"

Jacob raised his hands in a placating gesture.

Jacob: "Just a traveler. Name's Jacob. I'm heading to Erendoor and could use some advice."

David studied him for a moment, then nodded.

David: "Fair enough. We're resting here for a while. Come, join us."

As Jacob approached, a young woman around sixteen, with fiery red hair tied in a loose braid and a mischievous glint in her eye, stepped out from behind one of the wagons. She carried a small dagger at her hip and wore simple, travel-worn clothes.

Isabelle: "Father, you didn't tell me we were picking up strays."

David: "Isabelle, mind your manners."

Isabelle (grinning): "Fine, fine. Welcome, Jacob the Traveler."

Jacob chuckled awkwardly, unsure how to respond.

Jacob: "Thanks. So... what's Erendoor like?"

David gestured for Jacob to sit near the fire they'd started.

David: "Big city. Bustling trade, plenty of opportunity if you're smart about it. But it's dangerous too. The guards don't care much for fairness, and you'd best steer clear of the nobility's business."

Isabelle (cutting in): "Especially if you're a beastman. They're treated like dirt in Erendoor. Worse than dirt, actually. Slavery's illegal, but that doesn't stop people from... you know, taking liberties."

Jacob frowned.

Jacob: "That's horrible. How does anyone live there?"

David: "Carefully."

The conversation paused, and Isabelle leaned forward, her gaze lingering on Jacob.

Isabelle: "You've got a weird look about you. Ever thought of signing up with the adventurers' guild?"

Jacob scratched the back of his neck.

Jacob: "I, uh... haven't really thought that far ahead."

Isabelle (smirking): "Well, you should. You'd fit right in with that face."

Jacob blinked, caught off guard.

Jacob: "Wait... what's that supposed to mean?"

Isabelle (grinning): "You're handsome, idiot."

Jacob coughed, his face heating despite himself.

Jacob: "You're... how old are you?"

Isabelle: "Sixteen. Why?"

Jacob's expression froze, and he turned away awkwardly.

Jacob: "No reason. Just... maybe don't say stuff like that."

David, sensing Jacob's discomfort, intervened.

David: "Isabelle, stop teasing the man. Jacob, you're welcome to travel with us. We could use some extra help since our guards decided the job wasn't worth their time."

Jacob: "What happened to them?"

David: "They ran off after a horned rabbit showed up. Isabelle had to deal with it herself."

Jacob's face fell.

Jacob: "A... horned rabbit? That's what scared them off?"

Isabelle: "It was vicious! You wouldn't understand."

Jacob sighed.

Jacob: "Fine. I'll help you out. I can't promise much, but I'll do what I can."

David smiled warmly.

David: "Thank you. I'll make sure you're compensated when we reach Erendoor."

Nightfall

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group set up camp near a river. Jacob offered to keep watch but ended up climbing a tree to sleep. Isabelle kept glancing up at him from her tent, which didn't escape the system's notice.

System: "Her infatuation is concerning. Do you require advice on interpersonal boundaries?"

Jacob: "Nope. Definitely don't need advice. Go into sleep mode or something."

The system didn't respond, but Jacob could feel its digital disapproval.

Jacob woke to the sound of rustling in the bushes. His senses flared, and the system's voice rang in his mind.

System: "Twenty goblins approaching from the northeast. Armed. Quest triggered: Defeat the Goblins – Reward: 10 EP."

Jacob leaped down from the tree, landing silently.

Jacob (to David): "Wake up. Hide everyone. Goblins are coming."

David didn't hesitate, shaking Isabelle awake and ushering her to hide behind the wagons. Jacob stepped into the open, cracking his knuckles.

Jacob: "Alright, System. Time to see what I'm really made of."

The goblins emerged, snarling and waving their rusty weapons. Jacob clenched his fists, feeling his strength surge.

System: "Remember: precision over power. Avoid unnecessary damage."

Jacob (grinning): "No promises."

The first goblin charged, and Jacob met it with a punch to the chest. The creature's body crumpled like paper, exploding into a spray of blood and bone.

The other goblins screeched in terror but pressed forward. Jacob ducked under a clumsy swing, grabbing the attacker by the head and crushing it with a sickening pop.

A trio of goblins rushed him together. Jacob spun, his fist colliding with the lead goblin's torso, sending it flying into the others. They tumbled to the ground, limp and broken.

Jacob (laughing): "This is easier than I thought."

The remaining goblins hesitated, their confidence wavering. Jacob advanced, his movements fluid and unrelenting. One by one, the goblins fell, their blood staining the earth.

The last goblin, trembling with fear, tried to flee, but Jacob grabbed it by the arm and slammed it into the ground.

System: "All hostiles neutralized. Quest complete. Awarding 10 EP."

Jacob exhaled, surveying the carnage. His hands were slick with blood, and the metallic scent filled his nostrils.

Jacob (quietly): "I'm stronger than I thought... maybe too strong."

He turned back to the wagons, where David and Isabelle emerged, their faces pale.

David: "Thank you... I don't know how to repay you."

Jacob: "Just stay safe. Let's get moving at first light."

Jacob leaned against the wagon as the first rays of sunlight broke over the horizon, casting an amber glow over the blood-stained ground. His thoughts churned as he stared at his hands, now washed clean but still metaphorically drenched in the aftermath of the night's carnage. Twenty goblins dead, and it had barely been an effort.

Jacob (thinking): They didn't even stand a chance. I crushed them like they were nothing. Am I becoming a monster?

The system's voice intruded on his thoughts, cold and clinical.

System: "Your survival is dependent on this strength. Wasting time on guilt will not change your circumstances."

Jacob (sarcastic): "Thanks, System. Always a comfort."

System: "You're welcome. Now, we should move before scavengers arrive. Blood attracts predators."

Jacob nodded to himself, shaking off the remnants of his unease. He walked over to the wagons, where David and Isabelle were cautiously emerging from their hiding spot. Their faces were pale but resolute as they surveyed the remains of the goblin attack.

David: "Jacob... we owe you our lives. I don't know what we would've done if you hadn't been here."

Jacob: "Don't mention it. Just glad everyone's okay."

Isabelle, however, didn't seem as shaken as her father. She looked up at Jacob with an almost fiery determination, her green eyes piercing through his stoic expression.

Isabelle: "That was... amazing. How did you do that? Are you even human?"

The question caught Jacob off guard, and he glanced away, pretending to focus on adjusting his borrowed cloak.

Jacob: "Just... a lot of training, I guess."

System (quietly to Jacob): "Deflective and vague. A passable response."

David interrupted, sensing the tension.

David: "We should get moving. Isabelle, help pack up the camp. Jacob, can I ask you to scout ahead? Make sure the road is clear?"

Jacob nodded, grateful for the excuse to step away.

Exploring the Wilderness

The air was cool as Jacob moved ahead of the caravan, the dirt road winding through dense forests and open clearings. The wilderness was alive with the sounds of birds and the rustling of leaves, but Jacob's senses remained on high alert. He could feel the faint hum of mana in the air, a constant reminder of the dangers that lurked just beyond sight.

Jacob (thinking): This place is nothing like the world I knew. Monsters, magic, systems... It's like living in a game, but it's all too real.

As he walked, Jacob experimented with his newfound strength, carefully picking up and crushing rocks or snapping fallen branches. The ease with which he destroyed things was both exhilarating and terrifying.

Jacob (to System): "Hey, do you think I'll ever get used to this? To being... this strong?"

System: "Adaptation is inevitable. It is your nature now. Strength is survival, and survival is your priority."

Jacob: "Yeah, but I don't want to hurt people accidentally. What if I lose control?"

System: "Then control yourself. Fear is a distraction. Focus on precision and restraint."

Jacob sighed, unsure if the system's blunt advice was comforting or infuriating.

Further along the road, he came across a stream, the water clear and cold as it rushed over smooth stones. He knelt down, cupping his hands to take a sip, only to realize he wasn't thirsty.

Jacob (thinking): Right... stone golem. No need for food or water. Guess I'll have to find other ways to feel human.

Jacob (thinking): If I can't eat, drink, or sleep like I used to, how do I keep feeling... human?

A rustling sound from behind startled him. Jacob tensed, quickly scanning the area for any threats. Instead, Isabelle's voice rang out, clear and lighthearted.

Isabelle: "Hey, handsome! What are you doing over here all by yourself?"

Jacob turned, startled by her sudden approach. She stood a few feet away, hands on her hips, her vibrant green eyes filled with curiosity.

Jacob: "Just... thinking. Needed a moment alone."

Isabelle (tilting her head): "Thinking about what? The meaning of life?"

Jacob hesitated, then forced a small chuckle.

Jacob: "More like the meaning of everything. I guess I'm trying to make sense of this place—why people are the way they are. It's complicated."

Isabelle crossed her arms, looking thoughtful.

Isabelle: "Fair enough. Everyone needs a little solitude now and then. Still, it's not every day you find someone as handsome as you wandering the wilderness. What's your story? Don't tell me you're some noble running away from a stuffy estate."

The comment hit Jacob like a slap. His smile vanished, replaced by a scowl.

Jacob (sharply): "I'm no noble. And I'll never be one."

Isabelle blinked, startled by his sudden anger.

Jacob (sternly): "Do I look like the kind of person who sits in a mansion, lording over people? Taking from them, leaving them to rot while pretending everything's fine? No, I'm nothing like them."

His words hung in the air, heavy with bitterness. Isabelle seemed to sense the depth of his hatred and softened her expression. She took a step closer, her voice quieter.

Isabelle: "I didn't mean to offend you. I guess you've got your reasons for feeling that way. I won't pry."

Before Jacob could respond, Isabelle did something unexpected. She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him from behind, pulling him into a gentle hug.

Isabelle (softly): "It's okay, Jacob. Whatever's haunting you... it's okay."

Jacob froze. The warmth of her embrace seeped into him, despite his hardened exterior. It felt strange, unfamiliar—but comforting. For a moment, he closed his eyes, letting himself feel the weight of her arms. It was the first time in a long while that he felt anything close to home.

Jacob (thinking): Is this what I've been missing? This... connection?

He raised a hand tentatively, placing it over hers. A lump rose in his throat, but no tears came. He didn't think he could cry anymore.

System (gently): "Human bonds are precious. They are worth more than gold or strength. Treasure this moment, Jacob."

Jacob blinked, surprised by the system's unusually soft tone. For once, it wasn't pushing him toward survival or strength. It felt... almost kind.

Jacob (quietly): "Thank you."

Isabelle stepped back, giving him a small, reassuring smile.

Isabelle: "Well, don't let me interrupt your deep thoughts too much. But don't get too lost in them, okay? You've got people who care about you now."

Jacob watched as she walked back toward the camp, her ponytail swaying with each step. Something stirred inside him—a mix of gratitude, fondness, and something else he couldn't quite name.

The Road Ahead

As the group continued their journey, the air between Jacob and Isabelle felt lighter. They walked side by side, their conversation flowing effortlessly. Isabelle's outgoing nature kept the mood lively, even as they trudged through the wilderness.

Isabelle: "So, Jacob. If you could have any weapon in the world, what would it be?"

Jacob: "A weapon? I don't know... maybe a sword?"

Isabelle (mocking): "A sword? That's so boring! You're already strong enough to crush things with your bare hands. Why not go for something cool, like a giant hammer or a magical staff?"

Jacob (laughing): "Because I'm not trying to look flashy. A sword's practical."

Isabelle: "Practical is just another word for boring."

David chuckled from up ahead, glancing back at them.

David: "Don't let her get to you, Jacob. She always has an opinion about everything."

Isabelle (grinning): "And you love me for it!"

The group stopped to set up camp near a cluster of tall trees. David and the other merchants busied themselves unpacking supplies, while Isabelle set up her tent. Jacob offered to help, but she waved him off.

Isabelle: "I've got this. Go find something manly to do, like chopping firewood or staring broodingly into the distance."

Jacob: "Oh, so now I'm supposed to be the brooding type?"

Isabelle: "Obviously. You've got the whole mysterious traveler vibe going on. It's very attractive, by the way."

Jacob rolled his eyes but couldn't hide a small smile.

A Tent Shared

As the evening wore on, the camp settled into a comfortable rhythm. The merchants shared stories, their laughter echoing into the night. Isabelle, however, seemed unusually quiet.

Later, as Jacob prepared to settle down for the night, Isabelle approached him with a hesitant smile.

Isabelle: "Hey... I was wondering. It gets kind of lonely in my tent sometimes. Would you... want to share? Just for tonight?"

Jacob hesitated, caught off guard by the offer.

Jacob (thinking): Is she... is this a thing people do? Or am I reading too much into it?

He glanced at her, noting the faint pink tinge on her cheeks. She didn't seem to mean anything more than companionship, but the thought still made him nervous.

Jacob (awkwardly): "Uh, sure. I guess that's fine."

Isabelle's face lit up with a smile, and she handed him an extra blanket.

Isabelle: "Great! Just don't snore, okay?"

Jacob chuckled, shaking his head.

Jacob: "I don't think I even can anymore."

As they settled into the tent, Jacob found himself relaxing despite the cramped space. Isabelle curled up on one side, her breathing steady as she drifted off.

For the first time in what felt like forever, Jacob didn't feel alone.

System (quietly): "Human bonds are fragile, but they can be a source of strength. Do not squander this."

Jacob closed his eyes, letting the system's words sink in.

And for the first time in days, he allowed himself to sleep without fear.