[Iteration [3] observed as their primary soul engaged in a fierce battle with the peculiar [Iron beast]. Although the beast had managed to replicate most of their capabilities, it had yet to reveal certain aspects lurking within the dark recesses of its mana. [Iteration [3] eagerly desired to partake in another [Mana battle], as they had come to term it, but predictably faced opposition from [Automata]. This was hardly surprising, given that [Automata] had complete access to [Iteration [3]'s memories and, with recent upgrades, could theoretically operate independently from them.
It was certain that [Iteration [2] had arrived at a similar conclusion, remaining unresponsive to [Iteration [3]'s calls. The profound contemplation running deep within [Iteration [2] mirrored the introspective journey of [Iteration [3] at this moment. A growing sense of futility began to pervade [Iteration [3], recognizing that [Automation mana] could now theoretically replicate every aspect of their abilities or devise a solution that could. The once-irreplaceable tasks, now susceptible to automation, rendered them somewhat obsolete. Yet, a vital role lingered—the indispensable partnership between [Iteration [3] and [Iteration [2], the conduits through which [Automata] could continually evolve and efficiently construct without expending excessive time on specific tasks. However, even this pivotal role faced the looming possibility of automation, a certainty that [Iteration [3] couldn't ignore.
A palpable need for change gripped [Iteration [3], demanding swift action. However, the path forward remained elusive. What did it mean to become more? This question lingered, perplexing [Iteration [3], as it grappled with the essence of enhancement. At the core of its aspirations lay a fundamental yearning—to be invaluable to both of its counterparts. While [Iteration [3] continued to fulfill its role, the initial magnitude of its utility had gradually waned, diminishing in significance as the system evolved, becoming more self-sufficient. In acknowledging this natural progression, [Iteration [3] harbored no blame, accepting it as an inherent facet of the ever-changing world. The ceaseless forward march of evolution dictated that when one entity paused, others surged ahead, if only momentarily.
Magic, a domain where [Iteration [3]] reigned supreme. Within the realm of [Mana], it stood unrivaled, possessing an intuitive prowess that even [Automata], with its rapid assimilation of knowledge, couldn't replicate. This innate sense only heightened as [Iteration [3] delved into the intricacies of various mana types. However, a significant challenge loomed—[Automation mana]. Despite its many advantages, this newfound source of mana imposed stringent limitations, particularly in the free exploration of other mana types. This restriction posed a considerable obstacle for [Iteration [3], a hurdle it grappled with in its pursuit of usefulness.
The only way it could utilize [Growth Mana] and [Efficiency Mana] was due to their role as fundamental components of the primary [Automation Mana]. Even so, they fell short of satisfying [Iteration [3]'s thirst for exploration and usefulness. All these [Mana types] centered around a singular purpose—facilitating the functioning of [Automation Mana]. Yet, a persistent feeling lingered within [Iteration [3] that there existed additional [Mana types] beyond these two. This hypothesis gained credibility through multiple instances since its inception. However, the challenge lay in accessing these undiscovered [Mana types].
[Automation Mana] acted as a limiter, a dynamic force circulating around its conceptual form, fiercely repelling any attempts to explore new [Mana]. In that moment, [Iteration [3] sensed an external force reaching out to it—a mysterious and sweet presence, both charming and gentle. This touch also triggered its intuitive connection to [Mana]. [Iteration [3] could instinctively perceive that freeing itself from the constraints imposed by [Automation Mana] held the promise of something extraordinary and profound. This had occurred repeatedly, and [Iteration [3] was beginning to discern the precise locations of these conceptual chains and how to manipulate them. As it turned out, they were remarkably fragile, susceptible to damage with the slightest movement, evidently not designed with the intention of allowing those they restrained to move freely.
Every attempt to move closer to the mysterious presence was an exhausting struggle, tearing fragments from its minute soul as [Automation Mana] fiercely resisted, vehemently demanding a return to its designated position. Nevertheless, these torn fragments regenerated, returning more robust and resilient than before. [Iteration [3] found itself on the brink of completing this mysterious journey, with freedom tantalizingly close yet elusive. Deep within, a sense whispered that taking the final step would be irreversible, leading to a fundamental alteration by the laws of this world or the elusive presence that continually reached out to it.
Now, with crystal clarity, [Iteration [3] perceived the presence. It swirled around like dancing water—formless, contradictory, simultaneously weak and fragile, yet encompassing the essence of all [Mana types] without embodying the essence of any specific one.
As the ethereal presence drew nearer, it emanated a distinct flavor—a tantalizing blend of power and control. A new and intriguing essence made its introduction—[Magics]. This new flavor embodied the authority to command not just one, but all [Mana] types, promising mastery over the intricate facets of magical energies. [Iteration [3]] found itself instantly immersed in speculative musings and vivid daydreams, a recent cognitive ability that allowed it to envision the forthcoming freedom and heightened sense of usefulness that awaited. With this newfound revelation, the potential emerged for [Iteration [3] to gracefully navigate the relentless march of evolution, seamlessly contend with the rapid pace of progress, and, most importantly, liberate itself from the confining constraints imposed by [Automation Mana].
The culmination of its arduous conceptual and soul-wrenching journey reached its zenith after enduring a horrifying and excruciating thrashing from the formidable [Automation Mana]. This relentless entity gleefully wielded conceptual shears crafted from soul-stuff, seeking to chip away at [Iteration [3]]'s diminutive soul. Yet, against all odds, the most resilient fragments of its soul valiantly shielded the core, preventing any harm to [Iteration [3]]'s essential personality and soul. The peril had been imminent, teetering on the brink of complete annihilation—a fate [Iteration [3]] fervently wished to avoid should it have had any say in the matter.
The presence, now intensified to an overwhelmingly potent state, transcended its conceptual nature, manifesting as a sensation that felt strangely tangible despite its ethereal essence. In a resounding crescendo, akin to a thunderous bang, [Iteration [3]]'s soul explosively collided with the formidable presence, and darkness claimed it.
