Chapter 5: Crystals of Power

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Chapter 5: Crystals of Power

Inside the bunker, Alex notices something strange about the bodies of the Evolved Zombies they defeated. Embedded in their skulls are glowing crystals, pulsing faintly with energy. Eliza and Xander explain that these crystals are known as Cores, remnants of the experiments that created the creatures.

“They’re the key to getting stronger,” Eliza says, holding up a crystal she extracted. “Absorb the energy, and you can enhance your abilities. But it’s risky—push too far, and the power could consume you.”

Alex studies the pencil in his hand, wondering if it could interact with the crystals. On a whim, he scribbles the word absorb in the air. To his surprise, the crystal in his hand dissolves into a stream of light, which flows into him. His body tingles with newfound strength, and his vision sharpens.

“It works,” he says, his voice tinged with excitement.

From that moment, hunting Evolved Zombies for their Cores becomes a priority. Each Core strengthens Alex and his companions, allowing them to unlock new abilities. Xander’s hammer grows more powerful, capable of creating shockwaves that obliterate entire groups of enemies. Eliza’s daggers gain a magnetic field that allows her to pull enemies toward her.

Alex, however, feels the most dramatic change. The pencil’s powers grow stronger and more versatile, allowing him to summon larger weapons, barriers, and even temporary allies. But with each use, he feels a faint pull, as if the pencil is demanding something from him in return.

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