Absolute Control vs. Destructive Freedom

Bruce's voice had a captivating aura as he spoke to Eren.

"The chip allows contactless and gesture-less interaction with a lot of cutting-edge hardware the world is seeing these days. But that's not its main function.

The chip's purpose extends far beyond enhancing hardware interactions. You see, buried beneath the surface lies a complex runic inscription that enables the extraction of life essence."

As he spoke, Bruce settled back into his chair, the weight of his words visible in his contemplative expression. It was as if he carefully sifted through his thoughts, seeking to convey the truth in its entirety.

Eren's curiosity intensified, and he awaited Bruce's next revelation with unwavering composure. This was no time for emotional outbursts or futile resistance. To navigate the treacherous waters of this crumbling world, he needed a clear mind and unwavering determination.

Taking his time, Bruce snapped his fingers, causing the remnants of their meal to disappear into thin air. The table was cleared, leaving only two cups of Li-Cha tea, a serene presence in the midst of their conversation.

Bruce extended one of the cups to Eren. The latter accepted it, feeling the warmth of the tea seep into his hands, its aroma calming his senses.

"Before I divulge further, let me ask you a question," Bruce began, his eyes fixed on Eren. "Do you know the origin of the term 'MCP chip'?" Upon Eren's denial he spoke further quickly.

"Well… It stands for 'Mana Circuit Prevention Chip.

The mortals not living in Elysian cities have come up with various pseudo terms for that abbreviation these days. But that abbreviation only had one meaning in the beginning when the chip was named for the first time. And its purpose goes beyond restricting the formation of mana circuits within individuals."

Eren's mind whirled with this new information. The pieces of the puzzle were slowly falling into place, revealing a much larger picture. He pondered the significance of the name, the implications of preventing mana circuits, and the consequences it held.

"Sir Bruce, why would they do that if siphoning life essence was all they were after? I mean… I'm not sure I got this right. But preventing mana circuits would mean that humans with the implant would remain mortals.

Even so, I have seen many Metas in non-Elysian cities. How can they exist if MCP chips are implanted in them?" Eren asked his next question with eyes filled with curiosity for answers.

"You are correct, Eren," Bruce continued, acknowledging his understanding. "While the chip aims to prevent the formation of mana circuits, it does not guarantee absolute control. Some individuals, despite the restrictions imposed by the chip, still possess the ability to manifest mana circuits within their bodies. These individuals are what you call Metahumans."

Eren's eyebrows furrowed slightly, his curiosity intensifying. "If there are Metas among the Bourgys, why are they not allowed to fully explore their potential? Why limit them to a mere fifty years of life?"

Bruce's expression softened, and he leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with wisdom. 

"Every individual is unique, Eren. While some Metas may emerge among the Bourgys, it does not change the overarching plan. The limitations placed upon them ensure a controlled environment where their potential is harnessed without endangering the world at large."

Eren nodded, absorbing the explanation. It was a delicate balance between providing opportunities and minimizing risks. He understood the necessity of such measures, even if they seemed restrictive at first glance.

"But what about the extended lifespans of rankers?" Eren pressed further, a glimmer of hope in his voice. "Surely, the accumulation of life essence over an extended period would outweigh the need for a limited lifespan."

Bruce's smile held a tinge of melancholy, as if he had contemplated this question countless times before. "Ah, the allure of extended lifespans," he mused. "While it may seem desirable, it carries its own set of risks. History has shown us the catastrophic consequences when individuals with unchecked power are allowed to roam freely for centuries. The potential for destruction and chaos becomes all too real."

Eren's eyes widened as Bruce conjured a spectral screen, projecting images of ruined cities and devastation. He watched in stunned silence as the scenes unfolded, witnessing the horrors that had unfolded in the past.

Bruce's voice grew somber as he continued, the weight of centuries weighing upon his words. "Humanity has faced dark times, Eren. We have risen from the ashes before, rebuilding our civilization after calamities caused by unchecked powers. The remnants of a previous advanced civilization lie buried beneath the sands of time, a testament to the perils of uncontrolled potential."

Eren absorbed the gravity of Bruce's words, realizing the magnitude of the decisions that had shaped their world. It was a delicate dance between freedom and restraint, between chaos and order.

Bruce leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on Eren. "The establishment's choice to control the population of rankers and confine their growth to Elysian cities is a consequence of history's lessons. It ensures the balance between harnessing the power of exceptional individuals and preventing widespread destruction. It may seem harsh, but it safeguards humanity's future and enables us to focus on exploring other worlds, where true treasures lie."

Eren's mind raced, processing the intricate web of motivations and consequences that underpinned their reality. He had emerged from the depths of death-like slumber, only to discover a world shaped by calculated decisions and careful control.

His resolve hardened, his eyes filled with determination. He would not be a mere pawn in this game. Instead, he would navigate the intricate threads of these clues left behind by original Eren, unraveling the mysteries that lay ahead and forging his own path in this tumultuous world.