[You're a creation of that bastard Nathaniel?]
Miles considered this. [All right... that does sound like something he'd do.]
As he spoke, he began studying his surroundings closely.
The "life-support chamber" before him was far more primitive than he had first imagined. There was no sign of modern technology. Thick metal pipes ran along the walls, connecting everything together, while several old piston pumps continuously forced nutrient solution into the transparent chamber. There were no visible instruments monitoring pressure, temperature, or flow. Normally, such a crude system should have struggled to perform even its most basic functions... yet it was running with remarkable stability. Unnatural stability...
[Are you controlling the life-support equipment here?]
Miles suddenly asked.
[I'd die if I didn't.]
Think Tank answered matter-of-factly. [The equipment itself only handles basic fluid circulation. I personally make all the adjustments to pressure, temperature, flow rate, and composition.]
As he spoke, the metal components inside a nearby piston pump vibrated slightly. At the same time, several valves turned without anyone touching them.
Miles's expression tightened at the sight.
Electronic Signal Manipulation alone would not be enough to control old mechanical structures like these.
[You've mastered Electromagnetic Manipulation?]
Miles asked.
[Only in part,] Think Tank answered. [Telepathy, Electronic Signal Manipulation, and limited electromagnetic control... those are what I inherited from the Progenitor.]
[Right. Your genes came from the Black Spirit King, after all.]
Miles nodded. He was about to continue when Think Tank suddenly interrupted him.
[Wait, Miles... are you carrying something "unusual"?]
[What sort of thing?]
Miles was puzzled.
[Something dangerous that might be connected to the Black Spirit King.]
"Hm?"
After a moment's thought, Miles took out a sealed iron box.
[Could you open it?] Think Tank asked.
[There's some risk involved,] Miles said hesitantly. [Can't you sense it while it's