Chapter 10: Experiment with Mind Shadow Parasite

Li Chen's expression grew more serious. "It's not just about the Soul Stone's properties. I've heard whispers about a deeper, hidden agenda within the society. There are rumors of the mother source of all Soul Stones, something they're searching for in these islands."

Ye Fan's curiosity deepened as he listened to Li Chen's words. It was clear that the society had more in mind than just mining the Soul Stone. There were layers of intrigue and hidden objectives that he was determined to uncover, "Have you learned anything about the Aboriginals, the people resisting the society's incursions?"

Li Chen nodded. "I've managed to gather a few details. The Aboriginals are a diverse group, and they've lived on these islands for generations. They have a deep connection to the land and its resources. To them, the Soul Stone is not just a mineral; it holds cultural and spiritual significance. They've been fighting to protect their way of life, and they're determined to resist the society's incursions."

Ye Fan's curiosity was piqued as he inquired further, "How did you manage to gather this information? It seems like the society keeps a tight lid on everything."

Li Chen leaned in, his voice low and cautious. "Well, I have managed to make a friend in the science and technology department. He's been here for the last three years and has managed to uncover some details. Although, they keep a close watch on us, but he's had a knack for finding the cracks in their surveillance."

listening to this Ye Fan asked about tomorrow's mission details which he was more concerned about.

Li Chen's expression turned serious as he responded, "I have some information about tomorrow's mission it involves a major operation to secure a Soul Stone mining site on one of the nearby islands. This mission is significant for the society, and they've assigned a select group of awakeners for it. But don't worry we just awakened recently; our only task tomorrow is to mine the soul stones secured by higher-ups."

Ye Fan listened attentively to Li Chen's words, understanding the gravity of the upcoming mission. He couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation about the mission and what it might entail.

Li Chen's reassurance about their role in the operation offered some relief. "So, our main task is to mine the Soul Stones secured by the higher-ups? It sounds like a challenging mission, but at least we won't be at the forefront of the operation, right?"

Li Chen nodded in agreement, "Exactly. Our part is important, but we won't be directly engaging with the Aboriginals or the more dangerous aspects of the mission. We'll be focused on gathering the resources they need. Just be prepared for a demanding day of hard work, and make sure to follow orders."

After finishing their meal, Ye Fan and Li Chen approached the counter to pay the bill. As they neared the counter, a vibrant splash of color snagged their attention.

Behind the worn wooden counter stood a woman, sunlight streaming through the window highlighting the fiery brilliance of her attire. A crimson suit, tailored to frame her curves, hugged her like a second skin. Her raven hair was tamed in a sleek bun, showcasing sharp cheekbones and eyes that gleamed with an emerald-flecked curiosity. She moved with the practiced grace of a seasoned performer, effortlessly juggling orders and dispensing cheerful banter to the patrons.

Li Chen whistled under his breath, nudging Ye Fan with a smirk. "Boss, check out the view," he murmured, a playful glint in his eyes.

Ye Fan couldn't help but return the smirk. The woman was undeniably striking, with a magnetism that could melt glaciers whispering about the reason behind the restaurant's full house. "It seems like many people come here not just for the food but to catch a glimpse of the lady at the counter."

Li Chen smiled at his comment, but he wisely refrained from saying anything aloud. Ye Fan paid, utilizing the initial funds allocated to him by the Shadow Eclipse Society while keeping the pleasant memory of the restaurant's ambiance and the captivating lady at the counter in the back of his mind.

After bidding farewell to Li Chen, Ye Fan made his way back to his room. Ye Fan couldn't help but notice the increased presence of birds, cats, dogs, and wild squirrels on the streets as he made his way back to his apartment. It struck him as unusual, but he didn't dwell on it for too long. Upon reaching his room, he was eager to continue his experiments with the Mind Shadow Parasite and the potential influence of Spiritual Power.

Inside his apartment, Ye Fan took a moment to make sure that he was alone and that there were no prying eyes or ears. Once he was certain of his privacy, he turned his attention to the Mind Shadow Parasite dwelling within his body.

With his heightened senses as a result of awakening to Black Iron and the added attribute bonuses, Ye Fan became acutely aware of the presence of the Mind Shadow Parasite residing within him. This minuscule creature with hair-like filaments was entangled outside his heart, its purpose being to absorb blood from its host. Ye Fan could sense some of the filaments extending towards his nerves, binding them in a way that could allow control over the host when required.

Mind Shadow Parasite still seemed to be in an overdraft state, Ye Fan decided to use his identification ability on the Mind Shadow Parasite in an attempt to glean more information about it and its current status.

[ Name: Mind Shadow Parasite

Level: Black Iron (87%)

Description: The Mind Shadow Parasite is a unique entity that thrives on absorbing and manipulating the vital energy (Qi) and blood of its host. Higher-quality parasites can easily control lower-quality parasites in their genetic group.

Skill:

-Qi Drain - The Mind Shadow Parasite has the ability to siphon and absorb the vital energy (Qi) from the host's body, enabling it to bolster its own strength and vitality. ]

"Any way now it's time to check if infusing spiritual power can help me control it." he pondered and started to gather small amounts of spiritual power into his heart. "let's see if the bug can absorb spiritual power through heart or I need to find another way." Ye Fan decided to put his newfound knowledge to the test. Maybe because the spiritual derived from his talent he can subconsciously control it to move towards his heart near to the Mind Shadow parasite.

As Ye Fan concentrated, he felt a subtle change, it was as though an unseen bridge had been established, allowing the spiritual energy to flow toward the tiny creature. The delicate, hair-like filaments extending from the parasite quivered in response to the influx of spiritual power.