Hacking the Game Didn't Go as Intended [Part One]

CHAPTER 22: True Intentions

The kingdom's scorn and our subsequent condemnation only stoked my resolve to thrive. With revenge as a driving force, I now stand at the precipice of a wondrous breakthrough, fueled by ambition and the thirst for retribution."

At the center of his lab, Reginald unveiled his current endeavor with an almost crazed grin. He invited Daisuke to approach. A long table was organized with a myriad of elements plucked from the periodic table—an array of powders and sands, rocks fragments and ores, and liquids of various colors. A collection of materials sourced from plants and creatures also constituted the list.

Next to the table, the stone floor showcased a wide transmutation circle drawn in chalk, stretching about ten feet in diameter. And at its heart sat a rectangular object covered with a plain white sheet.

As the man vented his frustration about a minor yet elusive snag in the formula that thwarted his aspirations, Daisuke felt an inexplicable pull towards the scattered parchments on the table. Each sheet featured an intricate rendering of the inner circles: symmetrical lines, arches, symbols, and letters that made up the larger model etched on the ground. Daisuke found himself skimming through them, entranced as if caught in the embrace of an otherworldly spell.

In mathematics, a particular sequence existed that had to be followed when solving an equation. One added to one equal two; six divided by two results in three; and four multiplied by four yields sixteen. But what happens when you intertwine all these expressions with diverse operations—for example: 3 x (4+2) – 8 ÷2?

If calculations are carried out from left to right without any specific sequence, the answer becomes ten, which is incorrect. The right answer is actually fourteen. To properly solve this expression, one must adhere to the order of operations, often remembered using the acronym PEMDAS (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication and Division, Addition and Subtraction).

In the case of the alchemical formula, what was lacking were indicators—symbols that would signify the sequence in which each inner circle resonated with one another within the transmutation circle.

Whether propelled subconsciously, by ego, or some other equally potent force, Daisuke instinctively began addressing the discrepancy, even before his conscious mind could fully grasp the task.

"Stop! What do you think you're doing?" Reginald barked venomously, his gaze malicious.

Infuriated by what he perceived as vandalism, the man's rage manifested in a violent kick that sent Daisuke hurtling to the ground with a pained grunt.

"W-Wait! This is... I can't believe it! You've actually rectified the problem that's tormented me for years!"

Rather than offering a formal apology for the unnecessary assault, Reginald's emotions shot toward elation instead. His visage contorted into a bizarre expression, a malevolent grin that stretched from ear to ear.

With a contented huff, he removed the sheet covering the object nestled within the circle's center, revealing a disheveled and distressed woman. She was gagged and bounded by chains, her smudged cosmetics and tattered regal attire hinting at nobility.

Daisuke's eyes widened in alarm, darting between Reginald, who seemed utterly absorbed in his own realm, and the woman, who seemed on the brink of death.

"This... Wait! Who is she?"

"My mother," came the response, delivered without an ounce of empathy. "Or, at least, that's who she once was to me. Now, she's nothing but a contemptible woman who's plummeted from grace.

If she hadn't left after the incident, my father might still be alive. The ease with which she abandoned us is proof enough that she's a harlot—a parasitic presence who cares about not a soul but herself. It's only fitting that she pays for her transgressions with her wretched life."

Daisuke didn't argue.

Instead, Sylvia's earlier comments about Reginald's tendency to use slaves as experimental subjects resurfaced in his mind. It was quite evident that, at this point in the man's desensitized existence, human life held little significance for him, particularly those who had crossed him.

While Daisuke cast a sympathetic gaze toward the woman, Reginald shot her one of disdain before pouring his energy into the transmutation circle. "Give the former king my regards... when you see him in hell."

The woman's eyes widened with terror as the circle hummed to life and began emanating a blinding light. Despite her gagged cries and frantic thrashing, her desperate will to survive proved futile against the unyielding restraints. Meanwhile, her son's cold heart remained unmoved, rejecting her very existence.

Daisuke yelled at the unhinged manic, pleading for him to reconsider, to have mercy, but his menacing guffaw pierced the air, overshadowing all but his own voice. When his mother was suddenly engulfed by an unholy fire that seared her flesh and twisted her humanity like metal within a forge, Reginald finally swallowed his laugh. Wide, beady eyes watched the manifestation of his life's work with uncontrollably excitement.

"...I knew all along."

Daisuke rose to his feet as those words descended upon him like a dark curse. He slowly began stepping back toward the exit as a foul and sinister energy began rolling off the entity that was gradually taking shape in the circle.

"I was fully aware of your deception from the very beginning."

Fear of monsters& the unknown: 24.4%