From Shrimp Boy to Slapjack: System Activated

Levi

The fire crackled merrily in the opulent hearth, casting warm shadows across the mahogany walls. The revelation of our shared enemy and the rebellion simmered within me, a mixture of excitement and trepidation. But amidst the whirlwind of information, another detail tugged at the edges of my mind.

"There's something I owe you," I said, meeting Zephyr's gaze directly. Gratitude mingled with the curiosity simmering in my eyes. "The message after my… encounter with Bentley's goons. 'Welcome, Apexia,' it read. You intervened, didn't you?"

A knowing smile played on her lips. "Indeed, Benjamin. We at Apexia have a vested interest in those who… utilise the System in unconventional ways."

Relief washed over me, tinged with a hint of amusement. Unconventional, perhaps, but certainly effective in funding the Spark Library.

"I wanted to thank you," I continued, my voice sincere. "For ensuring my… survival. Not exactly the baptism by fire I expected, but a valuable lesson nonetheless."

A hint of