5

Then the warehouse scene before you starts to shine with a blinding white light, one that soon obliterates any detail altogether. When the light fades, you are standing in a wide natural cavern, with a mirror-smooth floor. On that floor has been inscribed a vast labyrinth, which glows with an eerie white luminescence. It precisely matches the shape of the symbol on your arm, you realize, although it is much, much larger.

"Another question," comes Masfiwi's voice. "Who is responsible—" But the voice is cut off; you catch the edge of a hacking cough.

"Hello?" you call out to the space around you. "I didn't hear the question."

"Who is responsible for the symbol currently on your arm?" says the voice, somewhat weaker now. "Who put it there?"

"Yes," says Masfiwi. "Anaru Katariki is responsible for the symbol on your arm. Before leaving MetaHuman Incorporated, he wove an enchantment into his own office, one that would attach itself to the company's next CEO. The symbol on your arm is the outward manifestation of that enchantment. It is not tailored to you, specifically: Katariki knew that the company's shareholders might not respect his wish that you replace him. He had hoped, however."

You allow yourself a slight nod of satisfaction.

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