The Extra's Rise

Chapter 587 - 587: Bone Symbiote (2)

The return flight to the Ebony Tower took place in the early hours of the morning, with Jin's private jet cutting through the pre-dawn darkness while I reviewed my notes one final time. Paul's urgent message had been brief but intriguing—he wanted to discuss "additional theoretical implications" of my paper and was prepared to work through the night if necessary.

"He sounded excited," Jin observed as he scrolled through messages on his phone. "Either that, or completely unhinged. With necromantic re

"What kind of timeline are we looking at?" Jin asked.

Valdris consulted his tablet, apparently running calculations based on the theoretical framework they'd developed. "Material acquisition and preparation, perhaps one week. Actual construction and integration, another one to two weeks. Testing and refinement could take additional time depending on complications."

"Four weeks minimum," Paul summarized. "Possibly longer if we encounter unexpected challenges."

I studied the holographic model one final time, trying to process the sheer complexity of what they were proposing to create. This was far beyond anything I'd originally conceived—a true fusion of cutting-edge magical theory and innovative necromantic techniques.

"There's one more consideration," Dr. Thorne said quietly. "Success with this project would fundamentally change necromantic summoning theory. We're not just creating a unique construct—we're establishing an entirely new category of magical entity."

"The implications for the field would be revolutionary," Paul agreed. "Other researchers would want to understand and replicate these techniques."

Paul nodded solemnly. "Which means we need to document everything carefully. This isn't just about Arthur's capabilities—it's about advancing the entire discipline."

I felt the weight of that responsibility settling around me like a familiar burden. Creating something unprecedented came with obligations that extended far beyond personal advancement.

"Are you prepared for that level of scrutiny?" Paul asked me directly. "Success with this project would make you a figure of significant interest in the necromantic research community."

I looked around at the assembled researchers, at Jin's supportive expression, at the holographic model of something that could change everything.

"Let's begin," I said firmly.

Paul's grin was brilliant in the morning light. "Excellent. Master Valdris, please begin material acquisition. Dr. Thorne, start developing the consciousness integration protocols for dual-state functionality. We have four weeks to create something that will redefine what's possible in necromantic summoning."

As the team began dispersing to their respective tasks, Jin placed a hand on my shoulder. "You realize you've just committed to the most complex magical project attempted in recent history?"

"I'm beginning to understand that," I replied, watching Paul and his colleagues dive into their work with obvious enthusiasm.

"Well," Jin said with characteristic dry humor, "at least it won't be boring."

Looking at the holographic model of my future bone symbiote, I had to agree with that assessment.