rastq12

Jack’s past life ended in betrayal—sold for parts by those he trusted. Reincarnated into a world of dragons, magic, and monstrous wonders, he awakens as a beggar with nothing but his wits and a mysterious quantum computer-like plug-in. Armed with his **photographic memory** and the ever-evolving system, Jack must rise from the slums to the pinnacle of power.

In this world, where strength is measured by monster cores and alliances are forged in blood, Jack outsmarts enemies, uncovers ancient secrets, and builds his own faction to challenge the world’s corrupt powers. But as he ascends, he must decide whether to save this world—or burn it to the ground

Ascendant Shadows

The journey back to Vermillion Reach was uneventful, but the city itself was anything but. As Jack and the Crimson Talons entered the gates, they were met with a buzz of activity. Merchants shouted over each other, adventurers swapped stories, and guards patrolled with an air of tension.

Jack kept his hood low, his eyes scanning the crowd. The Thunderclaw Bear core was safely tucked away in his pack, its unstable energy a constant reminder of the mystery surrounding it. He needed answers, and Vermillion Reach was the best place to start.

As the group disbanded, Kaela approached Jack, her expression unreadable.

"You did well out there," she said, her voice low. "But don't think that means you're off the hook. The Talons have their eyes on you."

Jack raised an eyebrow. "Is that a threat or a compliment?"

Kaela smirked. "Take it however you like. Just remember—trust is earned, not given."

She walked away, leaving Jack with more questions than answers. He activated the plug-in.

"Analyze Kaela's behavior," he said quietly.

**[Kaela: Observing, Calculating.]**

**[Possible Motives: Testing Recruits, Hidden Agenda.]**

**[Recommendation: Monitor Closely.]]

Jack nodded. He didn't trust Kaela, but for now, he had bigger problems.

As he made his way through the market, Jack overheard snippets of conversation that piqued his interest.

"Did you hear? The Crimson Veil was spotted near the Wastelands," one merchant said to another.

"The Crimson Veil?" the second merchant replied, his voice tinged with fear. "I thought they were just a myth."

"Myth or not, they're bad news. Word is they're after something big."

Jack filed the information away. The Crimson Veil—sounded like another shadow

Chapter 10: "Whispers of the Veil"