Genesis Code: The Genetic Awakening-Chapter 39: Gene Splicing

Caleb combined the system’s [Bio-Interface] and [Gene Splicing] skills to map out the Cavecrawler Beetle’s genetic sequence. The information unfolded around him, and he studied every detail of the monster’s DNA.

"Even across worlds, the genetic code is universal," he remarked, a gleeful smile spreading across his face as he connected with the genetic data.

He unravelled the condensed sequence, exposing the nucleotide bases. The light ability gene should be close to the eye structure, he thought, scanning through the sequence until he pinpointed what he was looking for.

Alongside the nucleotide bases, histone proteins were present, playing a role in packaging the DNA. A few other components were also visible.

[Selected sequence is 2,657 bases long, including intronic regions,] the system informed him.

’Alternative splicing is just as crucial,’ Caleb acknowledged internally. His focus shifted to the histone proteins.

These were essential for stabilizing the gene once spliced into his own DNA. However, there could be variations between the proteins of humans and monsters.

"Could these associated proteins cause complications?" he asked the system. Copying the sequence alone wasn’t enough—he needed assurance it wouldn’t harm him.

[Negative]

The brief response eased his concerns. "Good. Isolate the sequences for these proteins along with the light ability gene," he instructed, his confidence bolstered by the system’s confirmation.

Caleb watched as the system isolated the targeted sequence, pushing aside everything else. All the components he needed to replicate the beetle’s skill were now separated and ready.

Still, one question lingered in his mind. "How exactly does this light-stunting ability function?"

[The sequence activates the development of a specialized photophore organ. These photophores emit wavelengths that interfere with visible light, effectively negating illumination within a specific radius]

"That’s good to know," Caleb muttered, nodding. "But what about the energy source? The beetles had light-attributed cores. How is that powered?"

[Mana serves as the sole energy source. Mana adapts to the properties of any ability being used. This enables individuals to absorb monster cores of any attribute without conflict.]

"Makes sense," Caleb acknowledged. The problem, however, was that he didn’t yet possess any mana. But that could be resolved in due time.

"Now, where to insert the sequence?" he mused aloud, weighing his options. "I could place it in the non-coding regions of my genome. That would avoid disrupting any vital genetic functions.

"But since this ability is light-based and tied to the beetle’s eyes, I’m considering using epigenetic controls for its activation. What do you think, system?"

[Both methods are feasible]

Instead of permanently inserting the genes into the non-coding regions, Caleb contemplated overlaying them onto the existing genes responsible for the cells and proteins in his eyes. This way, the proteins would form exactly where they were needed.

"Could this interfere with the existing genes?" he asked cautiously.

[...]

The system’s silence made him uneasy. ’That’s not a good sign,’ he thought, swallowing hard.

Deciding it was better to play it safe, Caleb abandoned the idea of epigenetic control and reverted to using the non-coding sequences instead.

"Let’s go with the non-coding regions," he conceded with a sigh.

[Confirmed]

Caleb watched as the system analyzed his genome, identifying the ideal region for inserting the sequence.

He held his breath while it worked, removing unnecessary elements and ensuring the sequence would only be active where needed.

The system carefully adjusted regulatory regions, ensuring the sequence would be downregulated in cells where the ability wasn’t required.

Once the sequence was fully matched to his genome, the system performed multiple checks to rule out potential risks like mutations, instability, or rejection by his body.

When all tests came back negative, a triumphant smile spread across Caleb’s face.

[Sequence ready for splicing.]

[Proceed?]

[Y/N]

Caleb took a deep breath, releasing his domain sense to scan the area for any nearby monsters. The surroundings were clear, with no threats in sight.

"How long will this process take?" he asked, his voice steady but wary. The last time he tampered with his genome, the pain had been unbearable.

[Estimated duration: two minutes and fifteen seconds]

Caleb swallowed hard. The time was mostly for the system to insert the sequence and ensure it reached all the cells in his body.

Since nearly every cell contained a complete copy of his genome, the process had to be thorough.

’I can handle it,’ he assured himself, steeling his resolve. He found a relatively clean spot and sat down, staring at the [Y/N] prompt for a long moment before finally making his decision.

With a sharp inhale, he closed his eyes, bracing for the pain to hit immediately. But to his surprise, nothing happened. For an entire minute, there was only silence and stillness.

’Did I miscalculate?’ he wondered, though deep down, he didn’t think that was the case. His thoughts drifted back to the last time he underwent this process and the drastic physical changes it had involved.

’Ah... that’s it. Those changes were far more physical—restructuring my cells, tissues, and even bones,’ he realized.

"Ugh!"

A sharp, stabbing pain suddenly surged through Caleb’s eyes and brain, drawing a groan from him. The intensity built rapidly until he screamed at the top of his lungs.

"Ahhh... What the hell?!" he yelled, his voice raw with agony.

The pain in his head and eyes was unbearable like someone was driving spikes through his skull. Blood trickled from the corners of his eyes as the system carried out its task.

For what felt like an eternity, Caleb’s screams echoed through the dungeon, though it had only been just over a minute. Then, as abruptly as it began, the pain vanished.

He collapsed onto his back, panting heavily. Sweat drenched his brow and soaked his back as he lay still, trying to catch his breath.

"Damn... That was excruciating," Caleb muttered, releasing a shaky sigh. A wry chuckle escaped his lips as he realized the process had worked.

[Gene splicing successful. All parameters normal]

Through some instinctive understanding, he knew the ability was his now and exactly how to wield it. "It’s not just about granting abilities—it also gives the knowledge to use them," he noted with a grin.

His eyes remained their usual brilliant blue, but occasionally, their colour shifted, reflecting the iridescent sheen of a Cavecrawler Beetle’s exoskeleton.

Before he could savour his success, the ground beneath him trembled violently. Caleb’s smile faltered as realization struck. His cries of pain had drawn attention.

And from the rumbling, Caleb knew the Burrower Worms were coming for him.