Sitting in the middle of that grassy plain, Nox and Nyx were taking in this new world they came to.

Hot, the sky was bright blue without any clouds. Wildflowers scattered here and there, a soothing wind swept through the entire plain, swaying all plant life in its path. It appeared to be summer in Archaeos.

“Ok, let’s see exactly what we got from this universe. We were so busy with everything else, that we didn’t get the chance to look. “ Nox voiced with excitement.

“What was it that Elise said again? Think about a panel with our name on it? “

Remembering Elise’s instructions, Nox focused.

Barely a moment later, a panel of information appeared in front of Nox. Next to him, Nyx also seemed to focus when she heard his words. This panel was only visible to themselves.

Name Nox Ferrum Race Primordial Elemental Affinities ??? Lover(s) Nyx (Eternal) Spouse(s) Ling (Deceased) Children Stella Ferrum

Sweeping through all of the information that appeared, Nox was surprised, before his expression soured slightly as he read the second to last line.

*sigh*

‘I guess that makes sense… Well, it’s fine. The past is the past. You’ll always remain as my first love and the mother of our adorable daughter. I’ll keep being me, just like you wanted. I know you never would have minded, anyway.’ Nox thought, letting out a helpless sigh.

Tender arms suddenly wrapped around Nox, as he felt a soft sensation against his back, bringing him out of his thoughts. It was Nyx.

“Was Ling on there? Are you ok, master? “ Nyx said with care.

“She was... I’m fine, so don’t worry. Ling was part of my previous chapter, and this is my new one. I won’t be held back any longer.“ Nox gazed up at the sky and asserted with a burning resolution inside.

‘I’ll never let those circumstances repeat themselves. Never again!’ Nox vowed.

“I’m glad. “ sensing his emotions, Nyx hugged him tightly.

Nox felt warm. Yet, several minutes later, he became uncomfortable.

“Alright, are you going to let go of me? I can barely move. “ Nox glanced sideways at Nyx behind him.

“I refuse! “ Nyx declared as she hugged him even tighter than before. If he wasn’t strong, he might’ve already been crushed to death.

From Nyx’s behavior, although Nox didn’t mind being this close, he felt helpless, especially when he saw that content look on her face.

‘What have I gotten myself into?’

“At least loosen your hold... Well, whatever. Here, you can look at my information. I’m curious, so put yours next to mine. Just use your will to make it visible. “ Nox motioned with his hand. After materializing it for himself earlier, the method to show others came along with it; like it was second nature.

Gazing over Nox’s shoulder, Nyx saw his information pane floating in the air. Focusing on the spot next to it, she materialized her own.

Name Nyx Race Elder Black Dragon Affinities ??? Lover(s) Nox Ferrum (Eternal) Spouse(s) ??? Children ???

Viewing Nyx’s information, Nox compared it to his.

‘Pretty much the same, but that’s really weird. Why was this status pane in stories on both Earth and Tian? Now that I think about it, Tian didn't just have legends and fiction about Archaeos, but also about Earth and space... It seems that Ling and I slipping through isn’t as rare as I initially thought... if people remembering is so common, then why did it take Elise's intervention to awaken mine?' Nox began to feel that this was getting way too complex.

“You see that, master? Hehe, lovers. It even says ‘eternal’. “ Nyx giggled happily next to Nox’s ear while he was contemplating.

‘Of course, that would be the only thing in her eyes…’ Nox thought, slightly annoyed by her one-track mind, yet a slight smile surfaced on his face.

“I see it, don’t worry. “ Nox replied, burying his questions for another time.

“Nyx, you saw my memories, and the legends of Tian, so I don’t think we’ll be too lost here. “

“Yet… Primordial and Elder… I’m assuming we’re considered higher variants compared to regular ones. I can see how you’d be a dragon, but how the hell am I an elemental? I look like a regular human. “ Nox was perplexed.

Elemental? Nyx became silent and focused on the rest of his panel. Looking at Nox’s race, she seemed to remember something.

“That’s right! Master, maybe it has something to do with your body? I didn’t think much about it before, but when you removed your armor, your eyes actually glowed and turned white! “ Nyx mentioned with excitement.

‘Glowed and changed color?’

“Hmm, I see. If I’m really an Elemental, then that makes sense. Still, I feel that’s not all there is to it. “ Nox agreed with Nyx’s guess, but felt that it wasn’t so simple.

Putting that aside for the moment, he continued.

“I can feel this worlds energies, but I’m not too sure about the specifics. Are they the elements? Mana? As for affinities, it must be your control over them, or something similar. I wonder why ours don't show up." Nox pondered.

There were just too many things he didn’t know. Even if you can assume how some things work, that’s still assumption. No one wants to fully stay in the dark. Solid information is key.

‘Archaeos is vast. Things will become known in time.’ Just as he was about to leave it for another day, a dull and emotionless voice rang in Nox’s mind.

Surprise appeared on his face when he heard those words, before he grimaced.

‘Are you fucking kidding me right now? Is this a system??’ Nox began to feel increasingly annoyed.

‘That is correct. User, Nox Ferrum, has been designated for the use of I, the Giving System. I greet User.’ the emotionless voice greeted.

‘Giving System? What’s your use, and who decided this? Fate again? Dammit.’ Clearly irritated, Nox bombarded it with questions.

As nice as it sounds, Nox knew that systems always require annoying tasks in exchange for power. But, why would a being at the pinnacle need something like this?

‘If certain conditions are met, Fate will deem one appropriate to use me; one such as you. Much like the Status Panel, if User concentrates on the word System, my uses shall appear.’ the Giving System replied in that same, emotionless voice.

‘Damn Fate. I don’t know why I listened to Nyx… well, at least the name makes it seem useful.’ Nox muttered as he focused on the space in front of himself.

Meanwhile, Nyx, who was still latched onto him, looked at Nox curiously when she heard him mutter.

Focusing, grey smoke appeared in Nox’s vision, as It swiftly transformed into a type of menu with several categories. They were:

Quests – Items – Knowledge – ??? – Give

Beneath those bars, on the bottom right, was the word ‘Merit’ with the number 0 next to it.

Eyeing the menu, Nox wasn’t even surprised anymore.

‘System, explain these to me, especially Merit.’ Nox asked.

‘Merit is a type of currency which can be exchanged with me. Merit will be rewarded based upon the impact User has on the beings of Archaeos.

Quests are tasks which reward Merit. User can choose to complete a quest or not. How User accomplishes a quest has no relevance.

Merit can be exchanged for Items and Knowledge, as well as to Give. The vast majority of Items and Knowledge are inaccessible to the user and can only be gifted to another. After Giving, the knowledge or items can be accessed by User if the Gifted so chooses, but they can never be taken back.’ The System’s emotionless voice rang through Nox’s mind.

Nox expected this. If it was called the Giving System, why would he be able to have everything for himself?

‘And what about the unknown category? What requirements are needed to unlock it?’ Nox asked without any expectations.

‘I am not permitted to answer your query.’ System replied.

‘Yeah, yeah, figures.’ Nox thought.

Finished with his questions, Nox began to look through the different options, beginning with Quests.

-Join a guild or organization – Reward - 25 Merits

‘What? That’s it?’ Nox was perplexed.

From his memories, Nox assumed that there would be multiple quests, especially tedious ones such as “Kill x of something “ or “Collect x of something”, so this was a pleasant surprise. Guilds being in a world like this was obvious, and he was already planning on going that route. I mean, you had to in this situation, so there was no need to question such an easy quest.

Shortly after, he switched to Items.

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Opening it, there were many subcategories. They were: ‘Weapons’, ‘Armor ‘, ‘Clothing’, ‘Artifacts ‘, and ‘Consumables ‘.

The items contained in all the categories seemed very basic, with their uses written beneath. Items such as iron weapons, leather armor, clothes, amulets and rings that boosted your body’s natural healing very slightly, and ointments and plants that could slightly benefit your body. From all the items, the only ones he could use himself, were those from Clothes and a few consumables.

Without thinking about it, Nox moved onto Knowledge.

Glancing through it, there were many books, each with different titles and descriptions.

“Introduction to the Elements” , “Kingdoms of Archaeos “, “ Rudimentary Cooking “, “Basics of Hunting” , “Cycles of Archaeos “, etc.

Much like the Item category, the books were very simple with no advanced knowledge. Besides the ones pertaining to Archaeos, everything else was unusable for Nox. Not that it mattered, as they were all pretty much useless. You could probably find these in any random bookstore.

‘The more advanced items and books most likely need me to reach a specific merit threshold or quest to be completed.’ Nox deduced, as there was no way a system would have only these things.

Moving onto the Give function, as expected, it only required you to select the item you have and focus on an individual to Give it to.

‘I see, so I must have been assigned this System because nearly everything is useless to me, which means that I can easily Give to others. That was the requirement. The only question that remains, is why does Fate want me to Give? Is it for the same reason Archaeos wanted me here?’ Nox pondered.

‘I guess it doesn’t really matter. At least this system doesn’t seem that bad.’

Nox finished communicating with the System and stopped thinking about this matter. There’s no reason to bog down your mind with useless thoughts, especially those that aren’t currently possible to accomplish or understand. He let things like that affect him long enough.

Arms still wrapped around him, Nox turned his head and Nyx’s chin was resting on his shoulder, her face just centimeters away. Unblinkingly, they were just staring at each other.

“How long have you been staring at me? “ Nox asked.

“Forever! “ Nyx replied with a bright smile.

Looking away, Nox moved his gaze towards the sky above.

‘I guess this is pretty nice.’ Nox felt warm after seeing her smile, yet that warmth dwindled when a realization came.

‘Then again… she has barely let go of me once. ’ Nox became anxious, feeling that he must fix this now before it gets out of hand… What if she’s this clingy in public!?

“Nyx! “ Nox spoke seriously.

From his tone, Nyx looked puzzled. What could be so serious?

“Yes, master? “

“I know you were always with me when you were a sword, but you have a body now. When we’re out in public, try not to latch onto me so much. I really don’t want to be seen as some frivolous playboy...“ Nox said solemnly, gazing directly into Nyx’s ruby eyes.

Looking at Nox’s solemn face, Nyx gave a wide smile.

“Oh, a playboy? So, I’m that beautiful? “

“But, don’t worry, master. We’re not in public, so it’s fine, right?“ Nyx giggled and pushed Nox down, pecking him on the lips.

‘This damn woman is going to be the end of me!’ Nox shouted inwardly, before a bright light started to envelop him, and in turn, Nyx who was on top of him.

“Wait, what’s going on here? “ Nox looked at the light and felt an energy tugging at him, although it didn’t feel dangerous.

Unperturbed by this development, Nyx just continued to take advantage of him.

*Wooosh*

In a flash of light illuminating the entire grassy plain, Nox and Nyx vanished in a blink. It happened so quickly, Nox didn’t even get the chance to prevent it.

-In an imposing city-

Within a large hall able to fit a few thousand people, a young woman looking to be about 20 years old, was standing in front of a sphere that looked 5 meters tall and wide. This sphere was translucent, like the clearest of water, and without a speck of impurity.

On the side, several dozen spectators observed the young woman. Some appeared indifferent, but most were all waiting in anticipation.

Slowly moving, she placed both of her hands on the sphere, as a very subtle energy flowed into it from her body. Initially clear as water, light started to flicker and form various shapes, illuminating the girl’s visage.

Light blue hair reaching her waist and draping over her shoulders, two small white horns were piercing through the hair on her head.

Nearer than the rest of the spectators, a middle-aged man and woman were both shrouded in anticipation. Standing slightly behind the two, a young man and woman, both seemingly in their mid-twenties, had the same expression.

With a resolute expression, the young woman’s dazzling, emerald green eyes, fully accentuated by the light, peered intensely into the sphere, watching as the light started to change color, shape and size.

Dividing into three different sections, a light blue crystal, light green and slightly translucent strip, and a grey mass constantly changing shapes became distinct.

Compared to the huge sphere, the light blue crystal and light green strip were both the size of an adult human’s head, while that grey mass was only the size of a child’s fist.

Witnessing this scene, the young woman’s resolute expression faltered, changing into one of disappointment. The four closest to her changed as well, sympathy appearing in their eyes.

Whispers suddenly resounding through the hall, the guests gathered towards the group of four after the reveal. Giving their congratulations and farewells, inwardly, they could only sigh at this outcome. Such rare affinities, yet they couldn’t be fully utilized.

Several minutes later, the young woman was still standing silently in front of that sphere, which now reverted into its original, translucent state. The entire hall now only had very few people left.

Saying farewell to the last guest, the group of four walked up to the dejected young woman, as the middle-aged woman with dark blue hair and small white horns, brought the girl into her embrace.

Waving his hand, the few guards and servants remaining inside quickly exited the hall, as the burly, intimidating middle aged man with dark brown hair and long grey horns, along with a bushy beard walked up to her, putting his hand on her shoulder.

“Sylvie, this isn’t the end. Even though your affinities aren’t that high, you still have three of them, especially Ice and Spirit. They’re both rare amongst the majority of races, much less for us Demons. Even your wind affinity is uncommon for us. Although your end point won’t be as high as your brother and sister, you can still achieve much. Regardless of anything else, you know our house is always here for you to rely on. “ the middle-aged man consoled.

Giving a stern glare towards the burly idiot, the woman gazed at Sylvie with softness “Your father is right about how special your affinities are, even if they’re slightly weaker. But, no matter what he or anyone thinks, you can still achieve as much as your brother and sister, and even more. You only have to work a little harder. “ the woman encouraged.

Observing her parents, then glancing at her brother and sister to the side, the young woman, Sylvie, replied in a dull tone “Mom, dad, you don’t need to say anymore. Affinities are too important for us Demons. Everyone in our family has at least one Pinnacle element…. My Ice and Wind are only Above Average… while Spirit is Poor. I can’t become a Grand Sorceress with these... “

Looking at Sylvie’s dull expression, pain was evident in their eyes. This world wasn’t fair to everyone. What’s easy for one person, might be difficult for another.

Thinking for a moment, the burly middle-aged man’s eyes shone as he remembered something.

“Here.“ he motioned with his hand, as two old books appeared.

Parting from her mother, the books landed in Sylvie’s hands. Viewing them closely, Sylvie noticed that, although old, they were very well preserved. Their covers read ‘Way of the Spirit’, and ‘Natural Wonders ‘, respectively.

“These are two of the few books I've kept on my person throughout the years. ‘Way of the Spirit ‘ has information on your Spirit element. We never had someone in the family use Spirit, so I saved it. It seems that was a good choice.

As for ‘Natural Wonders ‘, it has information regarding legends and relatively recent occurrences of treasures born from Archaeos. I used it in my early days with your mother, and I only remembered it just now. “

“Although the world might be unfair, opportunities still exist for everyone; you just have to find them. You’re only 100 this year. Your life has only just begun. “ the middle-aged man said in a sonorous and encouraging voice.

“That’s right, there are always opportunities out there. You’re a Ragnarr! You’re destined to accomplish much. “ the man appearing in his mid 20s expressed with absolute conviction.

“Brother’s words are my words too! “ the older sister agreed seriously.

From her children’s and husbands’ words, praise was evident in the mother’s eyes.

“They’re right, you know. “

“Whatever you want in life, if you don’t give up, it will always be possible. “ she said lovingly to Sylvie.

Gazing at the books in her hands and listening to her families encouraging words, tears appeared in Sylvie’s eyes. Besides her mother, it was rare for her family to say such words, especially from her father.

Reflecting on their words, Sylvie’s expression became resolute once more, as a deep desire built up inside of her. A desire to achieve her dreams.

Witnessing her renewed vigor, faint smiles appeared on their faces.

“Go, read ‘Way of the Spirit’. Although your affinity is Poor, Spirit is very mystical. It might be the key to your future. “ the father expressed.

Nodding her head, Sylvie turned and walked up to the big hall door. Opening it, she gave her family a thankful look before leaving.

Watching her silhouette disappearing, the middle-aged man signaled the guards outside to close the door once more.

“Glenn, Avera, you two did well to encourage Sylvie. When your mother and I pass, you’ll only have each other left. Unlike those other families, we must never be divided! Only by being united, will you be able to overcome any difficulties. Remember this! “ the middle-aged man spoke solemnly towards his two children that remained.

“Yes, father! “ Glenn and Avera responded simultaneously with passion.

With his children’s affirmation, the middle-aged man nodded in approval. No land will remain peaceful forever, more so for kingdoms. There were always hidden undercurrents and plots brewing. If a family has trust and is united, it will never collapse from the inside. He wanted his children to understand that.

“Come, Valcor, you don’t need to say this all of the time, they're aren’t children anymore. They understand your words very well. “ the middle-aged woman spoke up in a gentle, yet slightly reprimanding tone.

“Ashuen, you know why I say these things. I don’t want hist-“ the middle-aged man, Valcor, defended himself.

“Yes, yes, history repeating itself. You’ve said so many times already. Unlike you brothers, only Avera cares somewhat about the estate. To Glenn and Sylvie, it doesn’t matter at all. There’s nothing to fight about, so stop your incessant worrying! “ Ashuen scolded Valcor.

“Bu-“ Valcor was instantly interrupted, as his entire being visibly weakened.

“No ‘buts’! It’s Sylvie’s birthday and she just awakened, so we don’t need your ridiculous words today!” Ashuen shouted before gaining a gentle smile. It was too quick of a change.

“Well, what you told Sylvie was indeed good. At least now I won’t have to beat some sense into you. “

Looking at his wife’s smile, a shiver ran down Valcor’s spine. Wiping the cold sweat off his brow, he felt lucky inside. It was good that he didn’t entirely keep his ‘severe father’ façade on.

Observing their mother and father, Avera and Glenn looked at each other with wry smiles. You might assume that the burly and muscular middle-aged man would be the ‘boss’. Alas, you would be very, very wrong.

Outside of the large hall, Sylvie was walking along a fine stone pathway. It was warm, but with a nice breeze, and the sky was bright blue with nearly no clouds.

On the sides of the walkway were buildings of varying sizes, but each looked very impressive and finely detailed. Guards were located at many different intervals, and servants could be seen fairly frequently.

Walking for several minutes, Sylvie arrived at a fenced off area with a large grated metal gate with two guards on the sides.

Noticing Sylvie coming, they both bowed and proceeded to open the gate, letting her inside.

Moving past and nodding to the guards in thanks, they closed the gate behind her.

Past the gate, it was like an entirely new land. Very green and lush, it was a large and magnificent garden. Trees of varying sizes, with some actually bearing fruit, multicolored flowers littered about, as well as very clear artificial stone ponds of varying sizes, some with running water, it was a very peaceful environment.

Walking off the stone path, Sylvie went underneath a tall, sturdy tree and sat on the grass.

Putting the book titled ‘Natural Wonders’ down, she flipped open and began to read ‘Way of the Spirit’.

“One of the ‘Special’ Elements, Spirit is extremely esoteric and difficult to grasp. Those lucky enough to gain any affinity to Spirit, have, without fail, become one of the influential in this vast world.

The reason being that one with Spirit can summon certain existences. The summons willingly follow your every command, but, unlike the Summoning Element, the beings linked to Spirit are extremely special. Monster, nor beast, they are called Elementals. Beings of pure mana, Elementals are formed completely from one specific Element. Being able to control such a being is what makes Spirit users powerful, regardless of affinity.”

Reading up to here, excitement built up inside of Sylvie.

‘I can summon an Elemental!’

Reading further, the book continued.

“To summon an Elemental, you must first set down an array with a diameter of at least 3 meters (See the diagram on the next page). This is because the Elementals can vary greatly in size.

To lay down the array, you must focus your mana on a finger, and let loose your Spirit energy to carve onto a surface. This is best done on dirt, as it’s easily penetrated by mana. Once you draw the array, place a drop of your blood at the very center and send your spirit energy into it. Your blood is used as the catalyst to activate the array.

Remember, the Elementals vary. This includes size and strength. Do not be disappointed if it’s weaker than others, because any Elemental is still more powerful than most.”

Finished reading that bit, Sylvie continued a bit more before stopping. An Elemental Summon was the only magic she could use with Spirit at the moment. It was a magic whose only prerequisite was to have Spirit energy.

Looking at the diagram, Sylvie bent down and meticulously drew the array. If a mistake was made, she would completely remake it.

An hour later, and after many tries, the array was finished.

Taking out a small dagger she carried with her, Sylvie poked her finger carefully and dripped a drop of blood on the arrays center.

Putting away the dagger and gazing nervously at the array, Sylvie extended her finger and sent a wisp of her Spirit filled mana into the blood.

With a soft light suddenly shrouding the blood, a grey color spread from the drop into all of the arrays lines. When the grey colors met on the outer edge that created the circle shape, a brilliant light erupted from the array, suffusing the surroundings and causing Sylvie to squint.

*Ughh*

A slight groan was heard from the light as a silhouette appeared seconds after the array activated.

The light started to disappear a few moments later. As the silhouette finally came into full view, it left Sylvie completely dumbfounded.