'How should I even explain a thod that helps them grow stronger quickly? Anyone with common sense would think it's completely wrong the mont they hear it. Whatever. If the results aren't great, I'll just think of another way.'
After pondering for a while, he shook off the thought.
"Will you two just take a mont to listen? I have to tell you about the world as it is right now. It's not the one you recall," Dusk remarked seriously.
Seeing the serious look on his face, Darius and Garrick imdiately focused, sensing sothing important.
"The violent quake yesterday wasn't just a natural disaster. Long ago, Earth was sealed beneath a great barrier. Now, that seal is slowly unraveling. Demons will begin to appear. If you wish to spread your love to the world... you'll need the strength to eliminate them."
The two of them froze, as if what they had just heard was so twisted joke—or the plot of a movie.
However, they could tell from Dusk's solemn face that this was no funny affair. There was a brief period of silence before Darius lost the ability to contain himself.
"Why... why do you know this?"
"You both know I'm not exactly normal, right? This morning, I received a ssage in my mind—soone sent a warning about what's to co," Dusk replied.
Though the story sounded unbelievable, neither of them thought Dusk had any reason to joke about sothing this serious.
"Then what are we supposed to do? If demons are really going to appear, what can we do with our current strength? Maybe the military could do sothing, but ordinary people like us? It's hopeless," Garrick voiced his concern. He didn't believe he had any chance of defeating demons.
Sensing their anxiety, Dusk stepped forward and placed a hand on each of their shoulders.
"Don't overthink it. The ssage I received also included a way to beco stronger—by becoming a Heart Master."
"Heart Master? What's that supposed to an?" Darius asked, completely unfamiliar with the term.
"A heart master can be understood as a cultivator in this new age. The heart, originally ant to pump blood throughout the body, has now returned to its true nature—it is the core of energy within all living beings. By strengthening the energy inside one's own heart, we gradually evolve... eventually surpassing both humans and demons," Dusk explained.
"So how do we strengthen the heart?" Garrick asked, unable to form any clear idea from what he'd just heard.
According to Dusk, his heart was no longer normal, but Garrick didn't feel any significant change within himself.
"I don't know all the details," Dusk admitted. "I only know that Heart Masters progress through several ranks. The first rank is simply called Rank 1. Reaching it is actually quite easy—just by eating, breathing, and living as usual... but it would take many, many years."
Of course, we don't have that kind of ti. So there's a faster thod—absorbing energy from other living beings. And no, I don't an eating at or seafood like usual."
The two of them froze. Disturbing images surfaced in their minds.
Noticing the direction of their thoughts, Dusk didn't give them a chance to speak before continuing.
"The heart is the central reservoir of energy in every creature. Absorbing the dark energy stored within those hearts is the most efficient way to grow stronger.
However, between species, there's a clear hierarchy. Demons and humans hold vastly more dark energy than regular animals. That's why... The human heart is the fastest path to power."
Darius and Garrick recoiled slightly, a chill crawling up their spines. A sudden sense of fear took root—Dusk's once holy image in their hearts was beginning to crumble.
They weren't fools. They understood exactly what Dusk was implying: he was suggesting they kill people—and harvest their hearts.
This was not the way of a righteous man.
Seeing the fear in their eyes, Dusk's expression grew lancholic, and he let out a weary sigh.
"Haiz... I knew it. You won't be able to walk this path with . The path I've chosen... it will surely be condemned by many. But what does it matter? My love for humanity will never waver. Let bear all the sin, all the sorrow. I only hope... you both find a better life."
Dusk made his declaration boldly, his face showing no trace of fear despite the imnse challenges ahead.
Both Garrick and Darius were visibly shaken by his conviction. Though deeply moved, they still weren't ready to carry out what he had suggested.
"But... killing good people... how can that ever be right?" Darius asked, his voice tinged with hesitation.
"What nonsense are you spouting?" Dusk shot back. "Why would I kill good people? I only target two kinds: first, those whose futures are dood, who are destined to live tragic, broken lives. I grant them release and let their power walk beside to save others. Second, those who steal, harm, and corrupt. Scum who bring nothing but pain to society. If we can use their strength to help others—then that, to , is righteous."
The two n found themselves swayed again. Dusk's reasoning didn't conflict with the sense of justice they held in their hearts. In fact, it aligned with it, however twisted the path seed.
"But... do we have to eat it raw?" Garrick asked hesitantly. As a chef, the thought of eating sothing uncooked was deeply offensive to his sensibilities.
Dusk chuckled—he hadn't expected anyone to focus on that part.
"Don't worry. We're not savages. Cook it however you like—just don't waste it."
"Phew, good. If I really had to eat it raw... I'd have to pass." Garrick and Darius both sighed in relief.
Though not spoken outright, Dusk could sense it—their hearts had already accepted the path.
"Then let's split up for now. I'm currently a wanted man, and traveling together would only make things worse for you. One last thing—only the hearts of those at the sa rank as you contain energy worth absorbing. Once you reach Rank 1, there's no point in eating hearts anymore. Instead, begin training others—those willing to spread our love across the world."
The two nodded solemnly, fully embracing the weight of their new mission.
"We'll carry it out, no matter the cost. Even if our flesh is torn and our bones are shattered—we won't turn away," they declared with unwavering determination.
"Good. Then it's ti for to go. I hope that when we et again... none of you will be re mortals anymore," Dusk said, turning his back to them before walking off into the unknown.
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