Shen Kai stood with Gestalt in the observation chamber above. The thick, one-way, reinforced glass blocked out all sounds and energy ripples from below, leaving only an unsettling sense of solemnity.
In the No. 1 adaptation chamber below, Ryan lay flat on a complex silver-white metal platform with various biological sensors and energy conduits connected to his body. In the center of the platform was a fist-sized "red" Allochromatic Core that emitted a fiery ruby glow and floated quietly in a light blue energy-stabilizing liquid.
"Ryan has chosen a high-purity 'red' allochromatic core," Gestalt said in a low voice beside Shen Kai.
"It is usually formed when an individual experiences extreme anger or an unyielding fighting spirit and their soul deeply combines with 'Allochromatic' energy, transforming it."
"It contains unparalleled destructive power, but its 'core whisper' is also the most violent and difficult to control."
"It suits his simple-minded personality, but it's extremely dangerous."
The adaptation program officially began.
The moment the "Red" core was implanted precisely into the pre-reserved interface on Ryan's chest by the mechanical arm—
"BOOM——!!!"
A furious, primal red energy torrent carrying the scent of destruction erupted uncontrollably from Ryan's body!
In Shen Kai's perceptual field, it was an unbearably blinding, furious color filled with anger and murderous intent that brutally washed over and attempted to devour Ryan's already restless fiery red energy. He could even "hear" a silent roar emanating from the soul level belonging to the original host, filled with resentment and a desire for destruction.
The adaptation chamber immediately echoed with Ryan's agonizing, uncontrollable screams, as if his soul were being torn apart. His body convulsed violently on the metal platform, his veins bulging like angry dragons.
"The physiological strain and mental shock of the first core synchronization are a life-or-death threshold that anyone seeking extraordinary power must cross," Gestalt said in a complex tone.
"If one's will is not firm enough, the best outcome is mental collapse and becoming a 'worthless person'; the worst is becoming an outright 'mutant.'"
Time ticked away. Ryan's screams gradually grew weaker and were replaced by heavy, labored breathing like a broken bellows. Through the observation window, the violent crimson energy storm began to subside. The energy within Ryan, once uncontrollable, seemed to gradually become suppressed and tamed by his stubborn will, relentless as a wild bull.
About ten minutes later, the hatch slid open. Ryan staggered out, his combat suit soaked with sweat and his face as pale as paper. His sunken eyes, however, shone with astonishing intensity, as if two eternal flames burned within them, mingling the exhilaration of survival with a hint of predatory fervor.
Ryan cracked his dry lips, his voice hoarse.
"It feels... fucking... amazing!"
"I feel like I could punch a full-grown Ash Giant Scorpion to pieces with one blow!"
Next, it was Nadeshiko's turn.
"Nadeshiko has chosen the core of the 'Emerald Green' effect," Gestalt explained, his gaze softening slightly.
"It can effectively enhance healing effects and soothe herself and her teammates through the 'Core Whisper.' However, her direct combat strength is relatively weak, so she will need special protection on the front lines."
When the "Emerald Green" core was implanted into the interface on Nadeshiko's chest, a pure green energy flow—far more peaceful than what Ryan had experienced, yet equally vast—gently enveloped her petite form like silent spring rain.
According to Shen Kai, it was an ancient and profound "color" filled with endless protective obsession and compassion. Unlike the "Red" core, which sought to destroy, this core sought to "assimilate" Nadeshiko in an irresistible manner. This made her bear the immense emotions of countless past hosts who had desperately sought healing.
Due to the energy impact, Nadeshiko's expression instantly turned painful, and beads of sweat formed on her forehead. However, she reacted with serene endurance and almost devout resilience.
Ultimately, she successfully guided and accepted this force through her resilient willpower and her unique understanding of life.
When she stepped out of the compatibility chamber, her face showed obvious fatigue, but her beautiful eyes were softer, brighter, and more resolute than ever. She slowly extended her right hand, and a faint yet exceptionally pure green light flickered and danced in her pale palm like the glow of a newborn firefly.
"It is...calling to me," she whispered.
"It tells me to protect more lives."
Shen Kai stood in the shadows of the observation room, overwhelmed with emotion, watching her two companions who had completed their initial core adaptation and now emitted distinctly different yet equally powerful core energy fluctuations.
Through this ritual, they had implanted the "Allochromatic Core," which originated from the extreme pain and obsession of others, into their bodies, gaining power but also bearing an eternal curse.
And what about himself?
He subconsciously placed his hand on his chest. How should he understand and control his innate, colorless core that required no implantation ritual?
Could the Federation's Technical Department truly find the right path for him?
Or would they treat him as an invaluable "anomaly" specimen and subject him to endless research and experimentation?
Suddenly, a chill crept into his heart, like the tentacles of an abyss.