I didn't realize how exhausted I was until I stopped.
Not physically.
Core-deep exhaustion.
---
> Spirit Core Integrity: 62%
I hid in the upper floors of an abandoned building.
Cracked windows.
Silent hallways.
Safe.
For now.
---
> [Data Analysis Complete.]
Oh?
That was new.
---
Blue text flooded my vision.
> [Insight Reward Unlocked.]
— Hunter Pattern Recognition (Passive – Locked)
Requirement: Spirit Core Lv.2
"…So close."
> [Progress: 73% toward Spirit Core Lv.2]
Of course.
---
More windows appeared.
> [Technique Acquired – Prototype]
Name: Emotional Camouflage
Status: Unstable
Effect:
• Blend presence with surrounding emotional noise
• Reduce detection chance
Cost: Continuous Spirit Energy
"…I made that on accident."
> [Conclusion: Correct.]
---
I tested it lightly.
The pressure faded.
Not gone.
Muted.
---
> Detection Probability: Reduced
"…I like this."
> [Warning: Prolonged use may strain core.]
I sighed.
"Nothing good is free."
---
A faint ripple brushed past me.
Mira.
Watching.
Not intervening.
---
"You learn fast," her voice echoed faintly.
"That's bad news," I replied.
She laughed softly.
---
> [Contract Update:]
Remaining Favors: 2
I didn't feel better seeing that number.
---
Outside, the city moved on.
Hunters regrouped.
Plans adjusted.
---
> [Hunter Network: Alert Level Raised]
"…So we escalated things."
> [Assessment: Significantly.]
---
I floated near the window.
Watching distant lights.
---
"I need to get stronger," I murmured.
"Faster."
> [Path of Return: Accelerated Risk Detected.]
I smiled thinly.
"…Story of my life."
---