Reincarnated with the Country System-Chapter 184: The Birth of Artificial Mages

The rhythmic thrum of the helicopter blades echoed across the dense forest as Alberto's private aircraft descended toward the Arcane Research Institute (ARI).

From above, it appeared as nothing more than a series of unremarkable buildings nestled in the wilderness. Only those who knew the truth understood the vast, subterranean labyrinth that lay beneath—a place where science and magic intertwined to push the boundaries of what was possible.

The helicopter touched down on a concealed landing pad, its rotors slowing as the Alberto stepped out, flanked by his personal guard.

He had come to witness the fruits of his most ambitious project, one that could redefine the future of the Bernard Empire.

Circe stood at the edge of the landing pad.

"Your Majesty," Circe greeted, her voice steady. "Welcome to the Arcane Research Institute. We are honored by your presence."

Alberto nodded. "I trust the project has progressed as planned?" he asked, his tone calm but laced with expectation.

"Beyond expectations, Your Majesty," Circe replied, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "The artificial mages are ready for demonstration."

Alberto's eyes gleamed with interest. "Lead the way."

The group moved toward the cave, its entrance camouflaged by natural rock formations and overgrown vegetation. To the untrained eye, it was nothing more than a shallow grotto. But as they stepped inside, the true nature of the facility revealed itself. A sleek, metallic elevator door slid open, its surface blending seamlessly with the cave walls. Alberto and his entourage stepped inside, and the elevator descended rapidly, plunging them into the heart of the research center.

Bright fluorescent lights illuminated the sterile corridors, their walls lined with intricate runes that pulsed faintly with magical energy.

As they walked, Circe provided a brief overview of their progress. "Your Majesty, the artificial mage project has reached a critical milestone. We have successfully integrated genetic enhancements with arcane modifications, creating individuals capable of wielding magic without the need for years of training or innate talent. The results are… extraordinary."

Alberto's expression remained impassive, but his eyes betrayed his excitement. "Show me."

They arrived at a large observation room overlooking a training chamber. Inside, a single figure stood—a young man, no older than twenty, dressed in a form-fitting suit designed to monitor his vitals. His eyes glowed faintly, a telltale sign of the arcane energy coursing through his veins.

"This is Subject Alpha," Circe explained, her voice tinged with pride. "He is the first fully stable artificial mage. His body has been enhanced with the ACTN3 gene, granting him superior physical capabilities, and his mana core has been successfully integrated, allowing him to channel magic with precision and control."

Alberto leaned forward, his gaze fixed on the young man. "What can he do?"

Circe gestured to the technician at the control panel. "Begin the demonstration."

The chamber lights dimmed, and a series of holographic targets materialized around Subject Alpha. Without hesitation, he raised his hand, and a surge of arcane energy erupted from his fingertips. The energy coalesced into a bolt of lightning, striking the nearest target with pinpoint accuracy. The target disintegrated in a burst of light and smoke.

Alberto's eyes widened slightly. "Impressive."

But the demonstration was far from over. Subject Alpha moved with fluid grace, his enhanced muscles allowing him to dodge incoming projectiles with ease. He conjured a barrier of shimmering energy to deflect a barrage of simulated attacks, then unleashed a wave of fire that engulfed the remaining targets. The chamber trembled with the force of his magic, the air crackling with residual energy.

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When the demonstration concluded, Subject Alpha stood calmly in the center of the chamber, his breathing steady and his expression composed. Alberto turned to Circe, his voice filled with quiet admiration. "How many like him do you have?"

"Currently, we have ten stable subjects," Circe replied. "Each one possesses unique abilities tailored to their genetic and magical profile. Some excel in offensive magic, while others are more adept at defensive or supportive roles. With further refinement, we believe we can create an entire army of artificial mages."

Alberto nodded. "And the risks? The failures?"

Circe's expression darkened slightly. "The process is not without its challenges. Many subjects do not survive the initial integration of the mana core. The human body is fragile, and the strain of channeling such power can be… overwhelming. However, the demi-human subjects have shown greater resilience, with a higher success rate. We are working to improve the procedure for humans."

Alberto's gaze hardened. "The demi-humans are useful, but our priority must be the humans. The empire's strength lies in its people. We cannot rely on outsiders."

Circe inclined her head. "Understood, Your Majesty. We are already making progress in that regard. The latest batch of human subjects has shown promising results."

Alberto turned back to the observation window, his eyes narrowing as he watched Subject Alpha. "What about their loyalty? Can they be controlled?"

"Absolutely," Circe assured him. "Each subject undergoes rigorous conditioning to ensure their loyalty to the empire. They are programmed to obey without question, their minds as disciplined as their bodies."

A faint smile played on the Alberto's lips. "Good. The last thing we need is a rogue mage with that kind of power."

They visited the genetics lab, where rows of vials and genetic samples were meticulously cataloged, and the arcane research wing, where ancient tomes and artifacts were studied for their magical properties. They even stopped by the holding cells, where the next batch of subjects awaited their transformation.

They presented detailed reports on their findings, including the long-term effects of the enhancements and the potential for mass production.

"Your Majesty," Circe concluded, "with your continued support, we believe we can achieve full-scale deployment within the next two years. The artificial mages will give the empire an unparalleled advantage on the battlefield and beyond."

"You have done well, Circe. This project has the potential to change the course of history. I want more power. And it's a source of my power"

"Of course, Your Majesty," Circe replied.