Chapter 3: Inner Discovery
Chapter 3: Inner Discovery
As Ren continued to walk through the endless yellow corridors, he felt his mind and body adjust to the strange reality around him. Despite the unnerving nature of the place, his years of training kept him calm and focused. He felt that his physical abilities and mental clarity put him at an advantage against anything that might appear.
But something else was awakening inside him. A latent energy he had barely noticed until now.
"Ren, I've been analyzing your movements and physical responses to this environment,"_ the AI said in a slightly different tone than before, as if reevaluating the situation.
-"Oh yeah, what did you find? "_ asked Ren with interest, as he stretched his shoulders after walking so much.
"Your physical capabilities far exceed the limits expected of an ordinary human. You have demonstrated advanced control of your body, balance and strength. My database suggests that you have advanced combat skills? Is that correct?"_
Ren smiled slightly, recognizing that his facet as a hidden martial artist had been noticed.
-"You could say I have a few tricks up my sleeve"_"What good does it do you to know?".
In response to your skills, I have activated an additional sub-module to optimize your performance. In addition to providing you with information and storage, I can provide you with a special breathing technique that will increase your physical stats. This technique will allow you to endure longer in combat, and to better channel the energy available here."_
Ren arched an eyebrow, intrigued.
-A breathing technique, you say?" -he asked. "And what else?"
_"I will give you access to a way to harness the energy I find in this environment, especially in the entities you defeat. If you collect that energy, I will be able to break it down and turn it into an even stronger source of power for you. It will be a steady progression of your strength."_
-"So, in addition to surviving, I can become stronger? Sounds just like what I needed. Teach me that breathing technique".
Activating: Advanced Breathing Technique. Breathing mode 'Inner Strength' unlocked. By using it, your base stats will increase by 25%, and your life energy will regenerate faster. Furthermore, any energy provided by defeated entities will be processed and converted into concentrated energy for you."_
Ren closed his eyes for a moment and began to practice the breathing technique the AI was transmitting to him. As he took slow, deep breaths, he felt his body revitalize. The tension in his muscles disappeared, and his mind became even clearer. The energy circulating within him increased, flowing through his veins like a warm, powerful torrent.
-"Incredible. This is going to be useful".
Ren smiled as he opened his eyes. His body was stronger, his mind sharper. He knew he could now face anything in this strange place.