Chapter 26: Crimson Core and a Second Chance

After freezing time within the area, I dispatched the zombie with a single, decisive strike. Only once a crimson core materialized in my palm did I fully release the temporal suspension.

The immense energy drain from my ability left me gasping, my body instantly collapsing to my knees, using my knife as a desperate anchor. Sweat plastered my entire body, as if I had just emerged from a scorching sauna.

My depleted stamina was slowly returning. I estimated only a few more minutes would pass before I could regain enough strength to walk.

Fortunately, the presence of this enhanced zombie had inadvertently cleared out all the nearby Level 0 infected. This fortunate circumstance allowed me to remain calmly in place, awaiting my body’s full recovery.

The emergence of a Level 1 zombie invariably heralded the demise of numerous Level 0 infected. This particular enhanced variant, far more formidable than its common counterparts, also demanded a greater influx of energy.

Unlike typical zombies, these enhanced variants possessed formidable strength, yet their evolution demanded twice the energy of a standard infected. This explained the eerie silence: the enhanced zombie had consumed all the Level 0 infected in the vicinity.

As I rested, I extended my hand, revealing the crimson core nestled in my palm, and a genuine smile finally graced my lips. This crimson core, a [Sky] type, was precisely what I needed!

If my previous awakening attempt had failed due to insufficient core energy, then this Level 1 core would surely prove more than adequate. A single Level 1 core held the power of ten Level 0 cores. Even if the ability I sought to awaken was exceptionally potent, it couldn’t possibly consume the equivalent of ten Level 0 cores!

Once my body felt sufficiently rested, I sheathed my knife and proceeded down the alley toward a nearby shop. Though I could walk again, my recovery was far from complete.

I desperately needed a secluded place to recuperate and, crucially, to attempt another ability awakening! Spotting a clothing store with its entrance ajar, I slipped inside, promptly securing and locking the glass door behind me.

I then meticulously searched the premises for any lingering infected. Finding no trace of them, I nodded in satisfaction.

My previous awakening failure had left my physical constitution severely lacking. That was why, after unleashing my ability earlier, I had been too exhausted to even stand upright.

If this next attempt at awakening proved successful, I would finally gain a crucial sense of security. At the very least, it would ensure I retained enough energy to flee after utilizing my power.

Thus, in these nascent days of the apocalypse, I would possess a vital self-preservation capability, never again forced to fight with such desperate abandon as I had today!

Having confirmed the absence of zombies, I retreated into a fitting room for added security, locking the door from within. Though the fitting room was somewhat cramped, its enclosed privacy offered a profound sense of safety.

With everything now prepared, I retrieved the crimson core and settled it into my palm.

The distinction between a Level 1 and a Level 0 core wasn’t merely the three additional colors now visible within. Upon closer inspection, one would discern a tiny black speck embedded within the core itself.

Level 2 cores bore two such specks, Level 3 cores three, and so forth; the higher the core’s grade, the greater the number of these enigmatic black dots. Whispers had once circulated, suggesting a grim connection between these black specks and the zombie virus itself.

However, such theories held little importance for me now. What truly mattered was this: armed with a Level 1 core, I was poised to attempt another ability awakening.

I fervently hoped for success this time, praying for no further missteps. Otherwise, the consequences would be far beyond a mere fit of frustration.