"What do you mean you're formless and only I can see you?" Lemonk asked, squinting at the glowing blue text floating in front of him.
"Exactly what I said. I did awaken, just like any soul artefact, but I don't have a physical form. I'm a Mythical-Rank Soul Artefact, and my main function is to synchronize with your natural talent and form a system around it. My purpose is to strengthen your talent and help you grow through it."
Lemonk blinked. "So… if my talent was sewing, you'd become, like… a sewing system? So I'd become the best tailor or something?"
"Yes and no, you thick-skulled mortal."
"What do you mean?"
"I'd become the perfect aid in sewing, but that doesn't mean you instantly become the best. You'd still need to learn things like fabric cutting, design theory, thread quality, material handling, etc. But once you've grasped the basics, I'd elevate your ability to insane levels, like sewing clothes, limbs, broken artifacts, even souls into bodies. If it involves sewing, you'd master it."
Lemonk's eyes widened. "So basically… if something can be done through sewing, I can do it?"
"YES. You get it. Finally. Congratulations, you win a donut."
"You're starting with the insults again…" Lemonk muttered.
"Oh? Should I call you a donkey instead, my beloved host? I'm being generous with 'idiot.'"
"Y-You…!" Lemonk sputtered. Words failed him. It was impossible to win an argument with his own soul artefact.
It was kind of hilarious, in a tragic sort of way, his own soul artefact didn't give a single damn about his pride.
Lemonk clenched his jaw and swallowed his frustration.
One day… I'll outwit you. Just you wait, you smug piece of glowing text.
"Sure thing."
"…What?"
"I said sure, idiot. Did you go deaf now?"
Lemonk's face turned red. "Wait, you can hear my thoughts, too?!"
"Obviously. How else do you think I'll track your mental progress? I'm integrated, moron."
Letting out a long sigh, Lemonk rubbed his temples. "Alright… fine. Serious question time."
"Wow. You can focus. Go on."
"Why didn't you show up when I awakened?"
"Finally, a decent question. I was busy assimilating with your talent. That's why I didn't appear right away. Creating a custom system isn't instant, you know."
"So… what is this system called? What do I even call you?"
"Oho! You finally ask! I'm honored. Wahahaha!"
Lemonk stared blankly. "...I'm ignoring that laugh."
"Tsk. No fun at all."
The glowing blue screen pulsed.
Then—ding.
[System Designation: Progress System][Linked Talent: Strengthen][Host Synchronization: 100%][Features: Skill Enhancement | Physical Growth | Attribute Analysis | Hidden Potential Detection | ??? (Locked)]
The air shimmered around him. A sleek interface unfolded, hovering before his eyes like a personal console only he could see.
"There. Happy now?"
Lemonk blinked at the information. Then he grinned slowly.
"My name is Lemonk. And I've got a Mythical-Rank Soul Artefact…"
"...with a dumb host."
"Yeah, yeah," Lemonk muttered, smirking. "Let's see who's dumb once I learn how to use you."