Kai quickened his pace back toward the city, but his mind remained on the mysterious man's words.
"That core is special. If you absorb it, you might awaken something beyond your understanding."
What did he mean? Was this core different from normal Tier 5 cores?
Kai had heard of powerful cultivators absorbing Monster Cores to strengthen themselves, but it was dangerous. If the beast's energy overpowered the user, it could lead to death… or worse.
Despite the risk, he couldn't ignore the possibility. If he successfully absorbed it, he might gain incredible power.
By the time he reached the city gates, the sky had turned dark. The guards glanced at him but didn't stop him—his reputation as a top-tier cook had spread, and many had started recognizing him.
Kai walked through the bustling night streets, heading toward his inn. He needed to rest, but his curiosity about the Monster Core wouldn't let him sleep.
Inside his room, he locked the door, placed the core on the table, and sat down, staring at it. It pulsed with a deep crimson light, almost like a beating heart.
He hesitated for a moment, then reached out, letting his energy probe the core.
The moment his energy touched it, a burning sensation shot up his arm.
His vision blurred.
A deep, ancient voice echoed in his mind.
"You seek power… but are you worthy?"
Kai gasped, snapping his hand back. His breathing was heavy. What was that? A consciousness within the core?
Sweat dripped down his face as he stared at the glowing crystal.
This wasn't just any Monster Core.
This was something far more dangerous.