Atlas floated in the seemingly endless realm of white as a murky black projection of his body hovered before him, a large System interface to its immediate left that seemed to scroll forever with options. Above this System panel, was a number:

'EEV 25?'

[Evolutionary Essence Value. This value is the System's way of conveying the degree to which the host is able to alter their evolution to best fit their personal intentions without requiring additional sacrifices. The various options listed in the panel below each have a cost associated with them in the form of EEV. Many will be far too expensive, thus requiring a sacrifice in other aspects of the host's new form in order to compensate, or 'reclaim' more EEV points. This process is not a game, nor the character before you one that you merely control. This is your real body, host. The System does not advise altering aspects of the body on a whim. Please be advised.]

Hearing this sudden explanation from the System, Atlas understood. He could only add or change so much with the value he had currently, he imagined each subsequent evolution would probably give him more, but doubted whether he'd ever have enough to truly recreate something from his imagination. Paired with this, was the ability to increase the EEV at his disposal by sacrificing parts already on the black projection...

'Like reducing the exoskeletons growth in this evolution... from what I can tell, it looks like it'll grow to cover about 30% more of my torso, 25% more of my back, with 5% more on my shoulder... if I really need more points, I can probably sacrifice a bit of that,' he mused, already planning.

He didn't yet have a set idea for the kind of fighter he'd be, but he'd long figured out how much he enjoyed the adrenaline rush of combat. This didn't mean he was a battle junkie, but he couldn't stop comparing those fights in the forest to sports he'd played back on Earth. It was just so...

'I'm going crazy... aren't I? I almost died to a schizophrenic warp-wolf and yet I feel more like it was fun than dangerous...'

Right. Atlas thought it was fun, something he hadn't even considered voicing aloud, fearing he might be taken for either a fool or an arrogant prick. He enjoyed the rush of dodging attacks, the dread of an incoming claw, the immediate affects of planning and even the way his body moved when he better adapted to a fight. All of it was exhilarating.

Feeling this way, Atlas didn't mind it much and just began panning his gaze towards the list of alterations he could make to his body, seeing how they gradually changed the further down they went, he could tell the System had sorted it accordingly. It started with what he imagined were recommended but affordable options before moving to less optimal choices and finally downright egregiously priced ones.

1: Reinforced Bio-Mesh Fiber Layering (EEV Cost: 5)

A thin, flexible layer of organic fiber mesh that intertwines with existing tissues to increase resilience and elasticity. Grants improved damage mitigation, reducing the risk of tearing and allowing minor self-repair of flesh wounds. This ability is suitable for mitigating damage from blunt or piercing attacks and synergizes well with defensive or reactive exoskeleton types.

2: Radial Tendril Symbiosis (EEV Cost: 8)

Allows the growth of retractable tendrils or appendages along the forearms or shoulders, serving as both a sensory extension and a manipulative tool. These tendrils possess heightened sensitivity and can emit low-level electrical impulses to paralyze small prey or sense vibrations in the environment. Useful for scouting or incapacitating weaker enemies.

3: Morphic Bio-Plating Nodes (EEV Cost: 12)

Allows controlled growth of reinforced plates at designated areas, such as joints or vital regions, that can shift position slightly under extreme stress. Reduces risk of joint-based injuries and increases the flexibility of the exoskeleton, providing greater defense without sacrificing mobility.

4: Vibrational Slit Sensilla Array (EEV Cost: 5)

An array of specialized slit sensilla receptors embedded within the limbs and torso. These receptors allow detection of minute vibrations in the air or ground, providing a heightened sense of spatial awareness and the ability to 'hear' movements in surroundings. This upgrade enhances sensitivity to pressure changes and seismic activity, useful for detecting concealed entities or reading environmental shifts.

5: Predator Reflex Module (EEV Cost: 10)

Installs a rapid-response neurological conduit system within the nervous network, decreasing reaction times by up to 20%. This module synchronizes with muscular tissues, enabling faster contraction and enhanced spatial awareness, which improves dodging, countering, and other reactive movements in combat.

6: Subdermal Resonance Chambers (EEV Cost: 7)

Small, chambered structures that can resonate with vibrations or energy signatures, enhancing tactile sensitivity. This grants a heightened sense of spatial awareness, making the host more difficult to surprise. Additionally, the resonance chambers can be used to emit pulses that disrupt the sensory abilities of weaker creatures or identify underground structures.

7: Molecular Acid Dispersion (EEV Cost: 15)

Grants the ability to produce and store a specialized acid within internal glands. This acid can be expelled through various methods, such as exhaling or emitting it from the hands. Highly effective against organic and mineral-based defenses, the acid degrades over time and can cause burn-like damage even in small doses.

8: Kinetic Energy Conversion Lattice (EEV Cost: 18)

A web-like lattice of energy-conductive cells woven into muscle fibers. This enhancement stores excess kinetic energy generated during combat and uses it to enhance attacks or release it in a controlled burst, increasing offensive potential. Overuse of this ability could lead to muscle fatigue or temporary damage.

9: Essence Absorption Nodes (EEV Cost: 20)

A modification to existing appendages, allowing for direct absorption of environmental essence or bio-energy from nearby fallen enemies. These nodes accelerate the regeneration of stamina and EEV recovery after combat, making it possible to recover a small amount of evolutionary essence by absorbing ambient energy after battles.

10: Prismatic Shell Shard Integration (EEV Cost: 25)

Integrates crystal-like structures into the exoskeleton, enhancing durability and providing an innate ability to reflect certain wavelengths of magical or energy-based attacks. This enhancement has a low chance to shatter under sustained assault, temporarily sacrificing a defensive layer in exchange for releasing a powerful energy burst.

Looking at the various options, these only being ten of the more carefully curated ones, Atlas couldn't help but suck in a cold breath. This was 'fucking awesome!'

He could see the use cases for each and every change, and while he still hadn't decided on a combat style, he felt like he'd be figuring it out soon enough, if he could, he'd just nab up everything but the prices wouldn't allow for it so he once again fell into serious thought.

He'd already told Blanc and Shine he'd probably choose to remain on the front-line, something like a vanguard or at least a disruptive element in battle. Yet, he'd chosen a "class" that enhanced his mind instead of physique. He wasn't feeling guilty for that choice, it was his body after all, but he felt like he'd be better off balancing his decision if he wanted to fight in the thick.

'System, what exactly is the effect of choosing one of these changes on future evolutions?'

[You are indeed asking the important questions, host. The System is pleased to know you are not taking this lightly. While the many alterations you can personalize are indeed quite helpful, they do impact your future greatly.]

'How so? Aside from the obvious, I mean.'

[While EEV modification allows for perfect personalization of the host's new form, it can also be considered a form of restriction, light as it may be, at least for now. The way it works is quite simple. For example, if you were to choose to heavily invest in the defense and durability of your exoskeleton, future evolutionary choices would reflect your having done so. Not only this, but the cost to divert from this path would also increase.]

'So it's like locking me into a path… with no easy way to backtrack.'

[Yes. But it also comes with benefits as well. In the same way that it would alter your future evolutions to make it more difficult to walk a different path, it would also increase the efficiency and your ability to maximize your evolutions on the path you first choose greatly. Using the same example, if you were to focus on defenses, then in the future, upgrades to these defenses, or mutations that affect them in any way would greatly decrease in cost.]

'I see. So unless I'm sure I want something, I shouldn't change anything. Damn this is more complicated than I thought... Should I have waited to evolve until after I knew how I wanted to fight?'

[I do not believe so, host. If you are willing to hear the Systems opinion, it was a very good idea for you to choose to evolve now for various reasons.]

'Go on.'

[Thank you. As the System has said, we are dedicated to our hosts and their growth before anything else. While the Great Mistress has far grander responsibilities, ours are relatively simple, and yet complex in the same way. We Systems are constantly taking into consideration as many factors as our limiters allow in order to carefully curate paths of growth for our hosts, this translates into many of our choices and missions we bestow. In your case, while System [ZETA] doesn't believe you need to focus on a specific direction before you are sure of it, there are alternative and more niche choices that won't as greatly impact or limit your path. Think of it this way, are there any minor abilities, mutations or maybe even just facets of your body that you wish were subtly different? Are there ways you'd be more comfortable either in daily life or in combat through the use of these points? When you consider this aspect, as long as you are willing to share your thoughts with the System, my full calculative abilities are at your disposal and we can plot out a way to achieve these more minor goals, until you are ready to finally make larger decisions.]

Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author's consent. Report any sightings.

Hearing the Systems explanation, and its choice to reveal what Atlas believed was its name, he felt enlightened. Zeta was right, there were so many aspects of his body that could be changed that he'd almost forgotten not all of them had to be for combat. While he was still leaning towards streamlining his body for combat specifically, that didn't mean he couldn't make changes that wouldn't "lock him in" yet.

'That makes sense. In that case... What could I do to increase the tensile strength of my hexlimbs, the degree of their rotation, and if possible, the reaction speed of their movements, or whatever might affect how fluidly I can control those movements? I'm not sure what that concept would be called... Ze-System.'

[How about these options, host?]

11: Tensile Myo-Weaving (EEV Cost: 6)

Introduces a layer of dense muscle fiber strands interwoven within the hexlimbs. This specialized myo-weaving increases tensile strength, improving the overall resilience and ability to apply force when gripping or striking. The added fibers also distribute stress more evenly across the limb, reducing the likelihood of damage from excessive strain.

Effect: Enhances the durability of hexlimbs, allowing them to withstand heavier impacts or support additional weight without structural degradation. As myo-weaving is a very advanced evolutionary trait, there are no drawbacks, but the cost is higher for a lesser result, but this can be built upon in the future.

12: Bio-Elastic Articulation (EEV Cost: 4)

Modifies the connective joints and tendons within the hexlimbs, allowing for a wider range of motion and faster rotational speed. This alteration reduces the resistance at key rotational points, making movement smoother and more precise, while also enhancing the maximum rotational degree by up to 25%.

Effect: Increases the flexibility of hexlimbs and allows for more fluid motion, enabling complex maneuvers like joint rotations and rapid reorientation.

13: Reflex Amplifier Nodes (EEV Cost: 7)

Installs a network of neural conduits throughout the hexlimbs that connect directly to Atlas's main neural network. These nodes increase the rate of signal transmission and the responsiveness of the limb to neural impulses, effectively decreasing the reaction time and enabling more rapid, instinctual movements.

Effect: Reduces the delay between thought and action, allowing hexlimbs to respond almost instantaneously to the host's intentions.

Negative impact: When highly stimulated it is possible for false positives to trigger subconscious usage or reactions from hexlimbs, while response times will shorten noticeably, so will fine control.

14: Hyper-Peristaltic Micro-Musculature (EEV Cost: 6)

Introduces micro-musculature systems into the hexlimbs that operate through a method similar to peristaltic waves, creating a smooth and controlled motion along the length of the limb. This adaptation increases fine motor control, enabling delicate tasks that require high precision or manipulative dexterity.

Effect: Enhances control over the degree of pressure and force applied by each hexlimb segment, making them capable of executing complex actions like grasping fragile objects or balancing at unconventional angles.

15: Advanced Sensory Integration Channels (EEV Cost: 9)

Incorporates sensory receptors and fine-tuned slit sensilla along the length of the hexlimbs, creating a unified sensory network that feeds data to a central processing hub within the host's nervous system. This upgrade allows for a greater understanding of the limb's surroundings, improving the ability to sense movement, texture, and even subtle energy fluctuations.

Effect: Expands sensory awareness of the hexlimbs, providing a tactile and vibrational perception that surpasses typical visual or auditory senses. Allows host to 'feel' the environment through the hexlimbs, adding new dimensions of sensory input to overall awareness.

16: Synchronized Tendon-Reflex Response (EEV Cost: 8)

Optimizes the response pattern of tendons and ligaments within the hexlimbs, increasing their capacity for explosive contractions. This upgrade augments the speed and power of limb retraction or extension, allowing for sudden bursts of motion that can be used offensively or defensively.

Effect: Improves acceleration and deceleration of hexlimb movements, increasing the effectiveness of surprise attacks or rapid disengagements.

Negative impact: Increases stress on nerve endings in joints, as well as muscle fibers in the hexlimbs proportionately to the usage.

17: Helix-Silk Matrix Lining (EEV Cost: 10)

Integrates a lining of synthetic silk-like proteins along the hexlimb interior, enhancing durability and providing a degree of elasticity. This adaptation grants the hexlimbs an ability to subtly adjust their internal structure, maintaining control under extreme external forces while adding an additional layer of kinetic absorption.

Effect: Improves both the structural resilience and elasticity of the hexlimbs, reducing the risk of tearing or rupture from sudden impacts or extended stress.

Negative impact: Increases the speed at which energy in the body is consumed greatly for each instance of use. In short, the host will need to eat a lot more. In fact, it wouldn't be a bad idea to also mutate the host's stomach to facilitate greater stores of energy in order to make proper use of this mutation.

18: Enhanced Coordinative Nexus (EEV Cost: 8)

Upgrades the internal coordination system of the hexlimbs, allowing for finer manipulation and synchronization with other limb movements. This modification increases the ease of coordinating complex maneuvers and tactical formations using the hexlimbs in tandem.

Effect: Allows for seamless control of hexlimbs in combination with other limbs or body parts, improving overall combat efficacy and utility.

Negative impact: Increases stress on coordination related processes of the mind. Mental stress will increase depending on the degree of exertion exercised.

. . .

'Damn. These are fucking perfect. I want all of them.'

[Unfortunately host, even with the maximal effort of the Systems ability, there is nothing that the System can do to allow for this, other than altering your body more in other aspects to implement these changes. The System does not advise this decision as it would equally impact your future evolutions.]

'I know... I was just saying... If that's the case though, what do you recommend? You said you've been calculating paths of growth. If you know the above considerations are important to me, and what we're about to do, what's your idea? I'll hear you out at least.'

[I will not let you down, host. The System has carefully considered the upcoming dangers and certain aspects of the conversation between the Elders and senior Nythera. While to you this may not mean much, the System believes it is best to begin making preparations for an increase in the hosts responsibilities before the host regrets it. Systems [BETA] and [DELTA] also concur.]

'What are you talking about?'

[Host, I believe there is more to the situation of Velathra than is presently being shared with the host. This is normal, the host is still young, but I believe it is important to prepare for as many circumstances as possible while still able. This doesn't mean we will spread your focus thin, but make sure you aren't caught unawares as far as your ability to react is concerned.]

'Ok. I get that, but what if you're wrong? No, actually scratch that, even if you aren't, how do these 'preparations' impact the choices I make?'

[The System believes the host should only focus on their integration and adaptation to their new form, above all else, as well as any mutations that may allow for smoother reaction to unexpected circumstances.]

'So prepare for a rainy day, but don't take all of your camping gear from the truck?'

[... What?]

'Nothing.'

[Right. The System believes it is best to streamline the host not specifically for combat, but for the ability to react to circumstances outside of the host's expectations in the near future. This will allow your body to be better prepared to protect and train your fellow younglings, while also making you more comfortable in your new form. Of course, these changes will remain helpful throughout the host's journey and increase in strength. Additionally, any sensory improvements will grant both the host and System more information to work with, thus, these options are also quite important. With that considered, the System believes the most optimal path, at present, is to choose options 4, 11, 12, 13 and use the final few points to further enhance one of these mutations. The choices would be as follows:]

[Evolutionary plan file - MKII-0719 - Streamlined reaction and adaption]

Vibrational Slit Sensilla Array (EEV Cost: 5)

An array of specialized slit sensilla receptors embedded within the limbs and torso. These receptors allow detection of minute vibrations in the air or ground, providing a heightened sense of spatial awareness and the ability to 'hear' movements in surroundings. This upgrade enhances sensitivity to pressure changes and seismic activity, useful for detecting concealed entities or reading environmental shifts.

Tensile Myo-Weaving (EEV Cost: 6)

Introduces a layer of dense muscle fiber strands interwoven within the hexlimbs. This specialized myo-weaving increases tensile strength, improving the overall resilience and ability to apply force when gripping or striking. The added fibers also distribute stress more evenly across the limb, reducing the likelihood of damage from excessive strain.

Effect: Enhances the durability of hexlimbs, allowing them to withstand heavier impacts or support additional weight without structural degradation. As myo-weaving is a very advanced evolutionary technique, there are no drawbacks, but the cost is higher for a lesser result, but this can be built upon in the future.

Bio-Elastic Articulation (EEV Cost: 4)

Modifies the connective joints and tendons within the hexlimbs, allowing for a wider range of motion and faster rotational speed. This alteration reduces the resistance at key rotational points, making movement smoother and more precise, while also enhancing the maximum rotational degree by up to 25%.

Effect: Increases the flexibility of hexlimbs and allows for more fluid motion, enabling complex maneuvers like joint rotations and rapid reorientation.

Reflex Amplifier Nodes (EEV Cost: 7)

Installs a network of neural conduits throughout the hexlimbs that connect directly to the host's main neural network. These nodes increase the rate of signal transmission and the responsiveness of the limb to neural impulses, effectively decreasing the reaction time and enabling more rapid, instinctual movements.

Effect: Reduces the delay between thought and action, allowing hexlimbs to respond almost instantaneously to the host's intentions.

Negative impact: When highly stimulated it is possible for false positives to trigger subconscious usage or reactions from hexlimbs, while response times will shorten noticeably, so will fine control.

Looking at the four recommended options, Atlas felt quite comfortable, it wasn't that he preferred these over the others, but that all of the ones the System had recommended were truly "home runs," they all felt like the right choice, but he couldn't make up his mind. These were the same, but the System specifically recommended these over the others, and he didn't really disagree its reasoning. If he understood how evolution and the leveling system worked, he'd probably be evolving again after this mission.

'I like these choices, but what should I enhance with my 2 extra EEV? Actually wait, don't tell me. I want to make the decision.'

[Understood.]

Thus, Atlas fell into thought for the final time. Two EEV might sound like nothing, but this couldn't be further from the truth. EEV was probably one of the most difficult to calculate values the System dealt with. It could be as impactful as making a dung beetle more stinky, or a phoenix spit ice. Basically, it didn't have a set value, but more so an influence each point of EEV could exert over the modifications made to the body. The higher the evolutionary tier of a lifeform, the more impactful a single point would be.

'Put the points into option 13, the Reflex Amplifier Nodes, for a total of 9. Focus on removing the negative impact of possible false positive and unintended reactive responses. Is that possible?'

[Yes, these two points should be just enough to remove redundant nerve pathways and increase your conscious control. With your choice made, would you like me to apply the changes to the projection and subsequently begin evolution, host?]

'Don't apply it to the projection. I don't need to see it. I don't care how it looks. I'm not human anymore, whatever happens happens, as long as I don't look like Jabba the Hutt, it's fine. Let's do it, Sys-Err Zeta, I'm in your hands.'

[Understood, inducing optimal subconscious state. Please rest well, host. When you awaken you will come to know the true meaning of the word "reforged."]

And then, Atlas's mind faded to black, a comforting void drowning his consciousness. It was time to be reborn, and he couldn't wait.