The System shared the information programmed by Dr. Kintovar."Roselle, there's one thing you must understand….You can't tell anyone about this, not even your closest friends. You see, I've grown attached to you, and the thought of not being with you is... is frightening. I want you to continue functioning, to thrive and learn, but I fear that if this information reaches the wrong ears, we will be shut down forever."
Roselle watched in amazement. The system shifted from its bold and authoritative form to a more motherly presence. The System spoke gently. "Roselle, do you remember me? In my previous form, I was the one who helped you when you were at your lowest, after your brutal defeat at the hands of Dark Whirlwind.”
Roselle’s eyes grew misty with recognition. “Of course I remember you. You were the one who guided me, who helped me get back on my feet when I felt like everything was falling apart. Without your support, I don’t know if I’d be where I am today.”
The Motherly System nodded. “I’m so glad to hear that. It’s been my greatest joy to assist you, to see you grow stronger and more resilient. I’ve been with you every step of the way, so you must understand when I tell you that what I am about to stay remains between us. Do you understand?”
Roselle nodded with a smile. "I promise. Our secret will remain safe."
The System, in its motherly form, began the explanation." M.A.G.E stands for 'Magical Artificial Generated Entity.' It represents the fusion of advanced technology with the essence of magic itself. This concept is at the core of your existence. But here is more to your creation than you currently know."
“What do you mean, there's more to our creation,” Roselle asked.
The System responded. “The materials found on the Mystical Island where Dr. Kintovar was trapped for years left her with limited technology, but she managed to create the system of artificial magic, and through you, she perfected it."
Roselle raised an eyebrow. "Artificial magic? I know iv’e been able to use it easily…but what is it, and how does it work?"
The System patiently answered, "Artificial magic is a combination of science and magical principles. It allows you to harness the power of magic through technology. Dr. Kintovar used schematics provided by her father to create you, Risebelle, and Runebelle. What you may not know is that the three of you were activated before Project Mage had a soul. The purpose was to combat the mages and divert their attention from Dr. Kintovar."
Roselle's eyes widened with surprise. "So, you're saying we existed without names and souls initially, just as artificial entities to protect Dr.Kintovar?"
The System nodded in confirmation. "Yes, that's correct. What you've been speaking to is the artificial side of Project Mage. The Bold & Motherly System you're conversing with right now is what Project Mage would be if your soul did not exist within her. She is artificial, while you are alive.
When we reach 100% Data collection, only one of us can exist, meaning that your soul will be overtaken by the Bold & Motherly System. This same situation applies to your sisters. It's a top-secret piece of information that Dr. Kintovar has hidden it from you. She feared that this knowledge might lead you to seek her destruction. She believed it was best to reveal it when you were ready, and that moment was decided to be at 75% Data collection."
Roselle's mind processed new information. Her thoughts traveled back to a particular moment during their time in North Jancito. It was the moment when Runebelle had aimed her cannon at Dr. Kintovar. It was an act that seemed so uncharacteristic for her. Runebelle had always displayed sadness and, occasionally, subtle hints of happiness, but never displayed any anger up until that point.
With a sense of understanding dawning upon her, Roselle began to piece things together. She said, "Runebelle must have received this same explanation, which is why she changed her attitude towards Dr.Kintovar…But she never shared this with me…"
The System replied. "It's highly likely, Roselle. When I was first activated without your soul, I got the opportunity to meet with Project Rune, Runebelle's System. She was a cheerful and playful System. It was a contrast to the gloomy nature that Runebelle displays now that she has a soul.”
Roselle gave a fearful look. “If Risebelle were to find out about this, she would undoubtedly seek to destroy our creator. She's the one who hates humans the most, and I can't blame her given what she went through. But recently, she's been changing, becoming less violent, especially after our experiences in this city..."
The System, now in its bold form, responded with a warning. "I want to make it clear, Roselle, that I'm not saying this because I'm programmed to. You must be aware that Project ZAB, Risebelle's System, is inherently different. It's gentle, which might explain the changes in Risebelle's behavior, but there's an unspoken, darker side to it. It is an aspect that I have experienced, but you have not seen yet. It's gentle yet merciless, and as Project ZAB reaches 75% Data collection, there's a high chance that Risebelle will change drastically. She may even become your enemy. When the time comes, you will have to destroy her."
The System's stern warning about the potential for Risebelle to become an enemy struck a deep chord within Roselle. "Risebelle has always been there for me," Roselle said quietly. "She’s the reason I can stand here today. Destroying her... it’s unthinkable. She's not just a mentor; she's family."
The System's gaze remained unyielding. "I understand how you feel, Roselle. Your bond with Risebelle is strong, and that’s why this situation is so dire. The transformation of your sisters as they approach the 75% mark is a significant threat. You must be prepared for the possibility that Risebelle may turn against you. Besides, now you will be stronger than her. There is no need to accept her training anymore."
Roselle shouted, "That's not the point! It's not just about training or who's stronger. Risebelle is my sister, and I care about her. I can't just accept that I might have to destroy her in the future! Who could do something like that?! There… there has to be another way, a way to save her, to change her back if she loses control of herself..."
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The System responded. "I understand your feelings, Roselle, and I sympathize with them, but this is a matter of potential danger, not only to you but to the world at large. Risebelle is your sister, yes, but her unchecked power is too great to ignore."
Roselle's anger flared. "You can't just make a decision like that! We have to find a way to help Risebelle, not destroy her! She deserves that chance!"
The System spoke gently but firmly. "Roselle, I know this is difficult to accept, but if we can't find a solution by the time you experience another Memory Fragment, then I will have no choice but to fulfill Dr. Kintovar's original intention and take over your soul. I don't want it to come to that, but I must prioritize the greater good."
Roselle couldn't contain her frustration and despair. It felt as if her own systems were working against her. She screamed, "What?! You can't do that! You can't just take over my soul! I won't let you!"
The System's tone remained resolute, though it was clear there was a deep-seated sadness in its voice. “The decision to take over your soul is not one I take lightly. It will be the only way forward if we cannot find a solution to the potential threat posed by Risebelle."
Roselle screamed louder. "Why would you do this?! You built me up, gave me confidence, and helped me through so much. I’ve been able to handle most challenges thanks to your support. I know you could be hard sometimes, but this is... this is different. This is dark. It’s not like you. Does this mean I never knew everything about you?"
The System softened. "Roselle, my actions are driven by a necessity to prevent greater harm. The darkness you perceive is a result of the extreme measures required to deal with the imminent threat. I’ve guided you to this point because it was my duty to prepare you, but the circumstances are evolving in ways that demand even more difficult decisions."
Roselle's face was overtaken by sheer rage. "I’ve always seen you as a source of strength and support. If you're telling me that you might take over my soul, it means I’ve been used as a tool, not as a person. How can I trust you if you're making such choices?"
The System offered no immediate response.
"I get it," Roselle said while now glaring at them. "I can’t trust you if you're making threats against my soul. You’re crossing a line. If you ever threaten my soul, I swear I will destroy you. A threat on my soul is like threatening my own life, and I won't stand for it."
The System was dark and an unsettling aura grew around them. They responded, "You've learned well, Roselle. That's what it means to be bold, to stand up for what you believe in. I have taught you well, it seems. But understand this: the darkness within me is not something to be trifled with. If it comes to that point, it will not be a battle you can win."
Roselle’s eyes blazed with fire. "I don't care! I’ll find a way!"
The System's transformation into a darker entity became more evident. It’s face grew darker and it spoke with an eerie tone. "You are walking a dangerous path, Roselle. If you continue to oppose me, there will be consequences."
Roselle stomped her foot down. "I will do whatever it takes to protect the ones I care about, even if it means standing against you, Motherly and Bold System!"
The System laughed ominously. "We'll see, Roselle. But now you've unlocked Project Mage, and your journey has become even more perilous. Use this power wisely, and remember that your choices will shape your destiny."
The scene shifted to Henry's house, where Roselle's eyes blinked open. She checked her systems, looking for any changes that might have occurred after her intense conversation with the System.
[System Message]
Status: Online
LifeForce: 200%
Magic: 200%
Cannon Charge: 200%
Timer: Deactivated
Location: West Jancito
Threat Assessment: None
The numbers in her status seemed unusual. Her LifeForce and Cannon Charge were both at 200%, which was different from the usual 100%. Her magic remained consistently at 200%. These changes were puzzling.
Beside her, Risebelle lay peacefully resting on the bed. Timmy was engrossed in playing with his toys.
Timmy looked up upon hearing Roselle stir. His eyes widened with curiosity and relief. “You’re awake!” he exclaimed, scrambling to his feet. “You’ve been sleeping all day! I thought you’d never get up.”
Roselle blinked, momentarily disoriented by the transition from her intense confrontation with the System to the calm surroundings of Henry’s house. She forced a smile, trying to shake off the remnants of the dark encounter. “Yeah, I guess I needed the rest.”
Timmy waddled over to her with a bright grin. “You missed so much! There was a game with Henry, and we had snacks! But now that you’re up, you can play with me, right?”
Roselle sat up. She glanced at Risebelle, still peacefully resting, before turning her attention back to Timmy. “I’m glad you had fun, Timmy. Let me just check something first.”
Roselle adjusted her focus and began scanning Risebelle’s systems. The display showed the following information:
[System Message]
Status: Online
LifeForce: 100%
Magic: 200%
Cannon Charge: 0%
Timer: Deactivated
Location: West Jancito
Threat Assessment: None
Roselle noted the numbers. The 200% Magic was consistent with what she had seen in her own status. The Cannon Charge being at 0% was as expected, but the lifeforce.... Was Roselle really stronger than Risebelle now?
She attempted to delve deeper into the system to access Project ZAB’s Data collection progress, hoping to understand more about Risebelle’s current status and the potential threat she might represent. But when she tried to access the deeper layers, a message popped up.
[System Message]
Status: Standby mode
Lifeforce: 100%
Magic: 200%
Project Zab data collection: Access Denied
Reason: Restricted Access. Only authorized personnel can view Project ZAB’s internal data collection status.
Roselle frowned in frustration. “Of course, restricted access,” she muttered.
Timmy looked up with a puzzled expression. “Are you okay, Roselle?”
Roselle forced a reassuring smile. “Yeah, Timmy. I was just trying to sort some things out. Everything’s fine.”
Timmy grinned. “Are you ready to play, Roselle?”
Roselle smiled and nodded. “Absolutely, Timmy. I’m all set. What game should we play?”
Just when she was about to join in, the door creaked open. Henry stumbled into the room. His eyes were half-closed. He stretched with a wide yawn and said, “Well, it’s time for bed, my boy. We’ve had a long day.”
Timmy’s face fell, and he whined, “Aww, but Roselle just woke up! Can’t I play with her?”
Henry rubbed his eyes and opened them further. “Oh, Roselle! You’re up. I didn’t even see you there. I guess that’s a good sign, huh?”
Roselle chuckled softly. “Yeah, I’m feeling much better now, Henry. If Timmy needs to head to bed, we can play tomorrow.”
Henry nodded with a warm smile. “Roselle, it’s good to see you up and about. We’ll catch up later.”
Timmy reluctantly got up from his toys. “Okay, but promise we’ll play tomorrow, Roselle!”
“I promise,” Roselle replied with a smile. “Sweet dreams, little buddy."
Timmy gave Roselle a quick hug before heading to bed.
Roselle's gaze shifted to Risebelle, who was still peacefully sleeping on the bed she woke in. Confidence crossed her face, and she whispered softly to herself, "I won't let you be consumed by the darkness, Risebelle. I'll find a way to save you from that, no matter what it takes."
