"Deeper Insights into the System Interface"

Snake Calendar, Year 2025

13th Day of August, Wednesday Late Afternoon

Astalight Archive

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, the two packed up their things and returned their borrowed books.

"Thanks for letting me tag along," Lila said as they stepped outside.

"Anytime," Accel replied. "I wouldn't mind some company next time, too."

Lila smiled warmly. "I'll hold you to that."

As they walked in opposite directions, Accel couldn't help but feel a sense of ease. For the first time in a while, it wasn't just about training or fighting. It was about connection, understanding, and, perhaps, the start of a deeper bond.

14th Day of August, Thursday Morning

Unity College of System Studies, Main Lecture Halls (5305)

It was almost 9 AM, and Accel was walking slowly due to the soreness throughout his body from the intense training he endured last Tuesday. He had not fully recovered yet. By the time the clock struck 9 AM, Accel managed to arrive at class, still feeling the effects of his exertion. His back, arms, and legs ached, but he barely managed to make it as the professor entered the classroom and began taking attendance.

After taking attendance, Professor Lucan Ironwing will continue his lecture on gaining a deeper understanding of system interfaces. If he manages to finish Lesson Two on this topic, he will then move on to Lesson Three.

"Good morning, class! Last time, we explored the foundational aspects of the System Interface—its history, basic structure, and the profound impact it has on our lives. Today, we shall delve deeper into its mechanics and how you can leverage its potential to your advantage."

He tapped the lectern, and the holographic panel expanded into a detailed diagram of a typical System Interface. "Now, let's review the components we've discussed: the User Interface, the System's Foundation, and the Activation Process. I'll also expand on a critical topic many overlook—System Customization and Optimization."

The User Interface: A Closer Look

Professor Lucan gestured toward the screen, zooming into a sub-menu of the System. "As I mentioned previously, the User Interface (UI) is the bridge that connects you to your System. Its design may vary depending on your class or personal preferences, but the core functionalities remain consistent. Let's examine these sections more thoroughly."

The screen displayed examples of menus: Stats, Inventory, Quests, Skills, and Notifications.

Stats Menu: Professor Lucan highlighted the bars indicating Strength, Agility, Intelligence, Vitality, and Energy. "Each attribute contributes uniquely to your abilities. For instance, increasing Strength enhances your physical damage and carrying capacity, while Intelligence amplifies the power and efficiency of your skills."

Inventory Menu: "Your inventory is more than a bag. It categorizes items by type—consumables, equipment, materials—and allows for quick access during battle. Remember to organize it efficiently to avoid fumbling in crucial moments."

Skills Menu: "This menu not only lists your skills but also displays their levels, cooldowns, and upgrade options. Pay attention to how mastery levels impact their effectiveness."

Other Menu: "Menu you wanted to edit like Skills, Titles, Achievements, even Companion Status, and many more based on your imagination to create your perfect system customization."

Professor Lucan paused to let his students take notes before continuing. "Understanding these nuances can make the difference between success and failure."

Suddenly, a hand shot up from the middle of the hall. The student, a wiry young man with dark hair and a furrowed brow, stood up. "Professor, your explanation is fascinating, but it seems... different. When most of us awakened our Systems, we saw a different set of options. Specifically:

I. Introduction

II. User System Attributes

III. Neural Commands

IV. Auto-Adaptation

V. System-Based Attributes

Why is it that your explanation includes menus like Skills, Titles, Achievements, and even Companion Status? I've never seen those before."

The room quieted as students murmured in agreement. Professor Lucan adjusted his spectacles, his expression a mixture of amusement and patience. "Ah, an excellent observation. What you've described is the Default System Interface, the version presented to all new System users upon awakening. It provides the essentials to get started but is intentionally simplified. The additional menus I've mentioned—Stats, Skills, Titles, Achievements, and more—become accessible only when specific conditions are met."

He tapped his lectern, bringing up a new slide that highlighted a progression tree. "You see, your System is adaptive and evolves as you do. What many of you may not realize is that you can customize how your System is displayed. This includes reordering menus, adding shortcuts, or even creating entirely new categories. However, such editing options are locked until your System Level reaches Level 25."

A collective gasp echoed through the hall. A girl near the front raised her hand timidly. "Wait, are you saying we can decide how our System looks and functions?"

"Precisely," Professor Lucan confirmed with a nod. "At Level 25, you gain access to Basic Editing. This allows you to rearrange menus like Stats, Inventory, and Skills, or choose which sections to emphasize based on your priorities. As your System Level increases further, you'll unlock Advanced Customization and eventually Complex Editing, where you can create entirely personalized interfaces tailored to your specific needs and preferences."

System's Foundation: The Heart of Adaptation

He transitioned to the next section, displaying a glowing matrix of symbols and data streams. "Now, the System's Foundation is where ancient runic magic intertwines with advanced algorithms. It is this harmony that allows the System to adapt to its user."

The holographic display zoomed in on a single rune surrounded by pulsating energy. "These runes act as the building blocks of the System. They store information, process commands, and execute skills. The energy coursing through them originates from your reserves, which is why efficient energy management is essential."

Activation Process: Precision and Efficiency

Professor Lucan's expression grew more animated as he discussed the Activation Process. "Activation is not just a mechanical action; it is a mental art. You must visualize the flow of energy and direct it toward the skill you wish to activate."

To demonstrate, he raised his hand and spoke, "Neural Command: Energy Barrier." A translucent shield materialized around him. "Now watch what happens if I activate it purely through visualization."

He repeated the process without speaking, and the barrier formed almost instantly. "As you can see, mental activation is significantly faster. While vocal commands can be useful for beginners, I encourage you to practice silent activation for greater efficiency."

System Customization and Optimization

The lecture took a more practical turn as Professor Lucan addressed the customization of attributes. "Your System is as versatile as you make it. Allocating attribute points is one of the most critical decisions you'll face. Do not squander them."

He highlighted a live example on the screen. "For instance, placing points into Agility improves speed and evasion, while Vitality enhances your stamina and health. However, focusing too heavily on one attribute can lead to diminishing returns."

A student raised her hand. "Professor, is it possible to reallocate points if we make a mistake?"

Professor Lucan nodded. "Yes, but only through an item called the Attribute Reset. It is a Rare Tier item, often costly and difficult to acquire. Therefore, I urge you to be cautious in your decisions."

As Professor Lucan concluded the main lecture, he opened the floor for questions. Accel hesitated but finally raised his hand. "Professor, what happens if someone attempts to access sub-menus they're not yet qualified for?"

Professor Lucan smiled slightly. "Ah, an excellent question. The System employs a Permission Lock mechanism. Attempting to access restricted areas will usually result in a warning. However, in rare cases of forceful tampering, the System might retaliate with a temporary lockout or worse—damage to your neural pathways. So, proceed with caution."

As the lecture drew to a close, Professor Lucan tapped his lectern one final time. "Remember, your System is not just a tool; it is a partner in your journey. Treat it with respect, and it will reward you in ways you cannot yet imagine."