CH 4 - The Price of Creation: Plans & Play

With his coffee cup cradled between his hands, Nexus sank into the tranquility of his surroundings. The pitter-patter of the rain added a layer of magic, encapsulating him in a cocoon of serenity.

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Taking a contemplative sip, he savored the warmth against the backdrop of the cool drizzle. "Such a captivating view it is, isn't it Lumos?" he remarked.

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Lumos responded in agreement, "Indeed, Master."

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A sigh escaped Nexus. "It's been a long time since I've felt this peaceful."

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The moment lingered, the ambiance enveloping him. But soon, determination shimmered in his gaze. "As much as I've cherished this tranquility, it's time to channel some creativity."

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As he prepared to stand, a blue panel blinked to life in front of him, displaying a message icon.

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Surprised, Nexus asked, "What's this, Lumos?"

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Lumos explained, "It seems to be a message from my creator."

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Intrigued, Nexus instructed, "Let's see what The Omnipotent Being has to convey."

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The panel brightened, revealing an elegantly scripted message:

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[Dear Nexus,

It warms my being to see the profound joy and tranquility you've found in this realm I've granted you. The serene interludes, the encompassing beauty—I hope they've imparted the peace and rejuvenation you so richly deserve.

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However, it's important to remember that every gift, no matter its magnificence, brings with it certain responsibilities. Your newfound dominion over this realm and its powers are not exempt from this truth.

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Let me introduce you to the concept of Energy Coins, or "EC" for brevity. While your realm seems infinite, it relies on an energy system. This system aids in maintaining unique operations you've established, like your directive for rain only on even days. Moreover, the EC acts as a defense for your realm, given its location beyond the confines of any known universe. While unlikely, beings might exist with the capability to traverse between universes. The EC ensures a layer of protection.

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Additionally, EC is crucial in developing your games. As a Dimensional Game Maker, the energy needed can vary based on the intricacy and nature of the games you wish to design.

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It's paramount to understand that while this realm is unconditionally yours, its creative and transformative processes require energy. Whether it's a game you dream of creating, a change you wish to bring, or even minor aesthetic adjustments within your realm, they'll cost EC.

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The realm does produce a basic amount of EC with each dawn to support its fundamental functions. However, bigger operations will demand greater energy.

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Nexus, the task of gathering more EC is now yours. There are numerous ways to earn them, but finding these routes relies on your intuition and innovation.

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Tread wisely on this path and seize the opportunities that come your way.

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With kindest regards,

The Omnipotent Being (As you named me)]

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After reading the message, Nexus remarked, "Wow... Now that's something interesting."

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The constraints laid down by The Omnipotent Being didn't dampen Nexus's spirits; instead, it fueled his enthusiasm.

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For Nexus, a game without challenges held little appeal. In contrast, a challenging game resonated with the essence of true players, and he was undoubtedly one of them.

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Even in his previous life, Nexus wasn't one to seek shortcuts for fleeting triumphs. Every achievement was genuinely the fruit of his hard labor. This was his source of joy in a world filled with schemers eager to exploit him.

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Thus, the prospect of a challenge now only invigorated him further.

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Nexus paused, allowing the weight of the message to sink in. His fingers played with the remnants of his coffee, the cup's warmth matching the fire of determination brewing within him.

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Lumos, sensing the thoughtful aura around Nexus, ventured a question, "Master, what will be your first move?"

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Nexus looked up, a glint of determination in his eyes. "First, we need to understand the exact workings of these Energy Coins. How much energy does each task consume? I need data, Lumos."

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Lumos nodded. "Understood, Master. I'll provide a breakdown."

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As Lumos started detailing the energy consumption for various tasks, Nexus grabbed a digital pad that materialized beside him. He began making notes, charting out a preliminary plan.

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"Starting a new game, for instance," Lumos explained, "will consume 50 EC. The energy cost will vary depending on the intricacy of the game being designed. Meanwhile, changing the weather pattern for a day will take twenty. Altering the appearance of a mountain or river could require a hundred or even more, depending on the scale of the change."

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Nexus nodded, processing the information. "We have a foundational reserve that generates daily. That's our baseline. Anything we wish to do beyond that means we need to find ways to earn more EC."

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"And how do you propose we do that, Master?" Lumos inquired.

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A smile played on Nexus's lips. "Well, that's the game, isn't it? And games are what I do best. Let's start with a demo. Something small, but captivating. A baseline of what's to come—a precursor to our grander vision."

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Lumos's circuits buzzed with anticipation. "What do you have in mind?"

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Nexus leaned back, lost in thought. "For the demo... Let's offer a teaser of what players can expect in our future games. This will not only set the stage but also gauge their interest. Moreover, by limiting the availability and making it a paid experience, we introduce exclusivity. Let's set the download limit to 100 and make it a premium experience. The description could say, 'Download now for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.' Early players will receive special privileges, with only 10 among them, chosen from different regions, being granted the coveted creator rights. And let's price it slightly higher, to maintain that aura of mystery and value."

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Lumos's digital eyes widened. "It's a bold move, Master. But it might just work, given the allure of exclusivity and the promise of future privileges."

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Nexus grinned, "Yes, it is a bold one. Because for it to work, we need to have at least 1-2 players and have them stream it. For that, we need patience. Besides, it's just the beginning, Lumos. We have a realm to expand, and an infinite number of games to create. Now let this be the start of our adventure."