The quest (67)

Confirmation Prompt: Ashborn Heart Acquisition

Warning: The Ashborn Heart is a rare and powerful artifact with unknown properties. By choosing to acquire it, you agree to accept any consequences associated with its usage. Do you wish to proceed?

[Yes] [No]

System Notification: Ashborn Heart Acquired

Kenzo's affirmative click on "Yes" triggered a cascade of events. The virtual screen dissipated, and an ethereal sensation enveloped him. The ambient magical energy within the virtual realm surged, resonating with the acquisition of the Ashborn Heart.

As he placed his hand on his chest, a subtle yet profound change manifested within Kenzo. It wasn't a physical alteration, but rather a resonance with the essence of the artifact. The Ashborn Heart, now a part of him, seemed to integrate seamlessly, its mystical properties interfacing with Kenzo's innate sorcerous energies.

The feeling was akin to unlocking a dormant potential, a surge of otherworldly power coursing through his being. Kenzo could sense a newfound depth within himself, an uncharted territory that held the essence of death—the very core of the Ashborn Heart.

System Notification: Dungeon - Monarch Succession

As the announcement of the new dungeon, "Monarch Succession," echoed in the virtual interface, Kenzo couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement. The name alone hinted at challenges and mysteries entwined with the grandeur of sorcerous power.

System Notification: Dungeon Risk Assessment - Monarch Succession

Kenzo's eyes scanned the virtual interface, seeking more information about the newly unlocked dungeon. As he accessed the details, a stark revelation greeted him.

Dungeon Name: Monarch Succession

Risk Level: Scarily High

Dungeon Rating: SS+

The gravity of the situation sank in. The dungeon, with its daunting risk level and the prestigious SS+ rating, hinted at challenges that transcended the ordinary. It was a domain of trials and tribulations where only the most formidable could hope to succeed.

[Explore Dungeon] [Later]

Kenzo's eyes lingered on the ominous details of the Monarch Succession dungeon—its scarily high risk level and the prestigious SS+ rating. A furrow formed on his brow as he contemplated the possible reasons behind the unparalleled difficulty.

"What makes this dungeon so challenging?" Kenzo muttered to himself, his thoughts racing through the potential factors contributing to its intimidating rating.

He pondered the notion that the Monarch Succession might be designed to test not only one's magical prowess but also strategic thinking and adaptability. The very name suggested a connection to the concept of monarchs and rulers, hinting at a trial that transcended mere combat.

"Is it a test of leadership, perhaps?" Kenzo wondered aloud, considering the possibility that the challenges within might demand not just raw power but also the ability to command and make crucial decisions.

Another theory crossed his mind—the dungeon might be infused with a complex array of curses, each more potent than the last. The very essence of the Monarch Succession might be a crucible for overcoming curses and honing one's resistance.

Kenzo's perceptive eyes caught a crucial detail that he had initially overlooked—the imminent teleportation into the Monarch Succession dungeon by the next day. The realization added a layer of urgency to his decision, intensifying the gravity of the situation.

"So, no time to waste," Kenzo mused, realizing that he wouldn't have the luxury of extensive preparation. The immediacy of the teleportation suggested that the challenges within were time-sensitive or required a swift response.

His mind whirred with questions. "How strong are the enemies in that dungeon? What awaits me beyond its gates?" Kenzo mulled over the possibilities, considering the diverse range of adversaries that could be lurking within the SS+ rated domain.

Kenzo, aware of the urgency to inform Gojo and Maki about his impending journey into the Monarch Succession dungeon, expanded his sensory awareness. The sensation of stretching his perception beyond its usual limits was a revelation, and he marveled at the increased range.

"I can feel it... so much broader now," Kenzo whispered to himself, a newfound sense of spatial awareness tingling through his senses. With his heightened capabilities, locating Gojo, the sorcerer with the most potent curse energy output, became a straightforward task.

Maki's distinctive curse energy, though minimal, held a unique resonance that Kenzo recognized well. His expanded perception allowed him to pinpoint her location effortlessly.

"Found her," Kenzo said with a determined grin. Without hesitation, he harnessed his teleportation skill, and in an instant, he materialized right in front of Maki. The sudden appearance drew her attention, and she regarded Kenzo with a mixture of curiosity and surprise.

"Yow Maki,how you doing"Kenzo said with a nonchalant attitude placed on his face.

Kenzo's sudden appearance had startled Maki, but as she recognized him and understood the reason for his visit, her guard gradually relaxed. When Kenzo greeted her with a nonchalant attitude, Maki responded with a playful eye-roll.

"Kenzo, you could've just sent a message or something. Teleporting in like that is unnecessary," Maki remarked, her tone a mix of amusement and mild reproach. Despite her words, there was a subtle smile on her face, indicating that she wasn't genuinely upset.

Kenzo chuckled in response. "Where's the fun in that? Plus, I wanted to see your stunned expression. It's priceless," he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Maki crossed her arms, feigning annoyance. "Well, mission accomplished, I guess,but why are you here"

Kenzo feigned innocence, adopting an exaggerated expression of surprise. "Oh, you can read minds now? That's a new skill," he quipped, attempting to divert attention from any lingering thoughts.

Maki rolled her eyes, seeing through Kenzo's attempt at misdirection. "Nice try, but I've known you long enough to pick up on those little cues. So spill, what's on your mind?"

Maki listened thoughtfully as Kenzo explained the nature of the Monarch Succession dungeon, its higher risk, and the likelihood of encountering formidable opponents, possibly surpassing even the special grade level.

"How is that different from normal dungeons?" Maki inquired, her expression reflecting a genuine curiosity about the intricacies of this particular dungeon.

Kenzo pondered for a moment before responding, "It's not just about the strength of the monsters but the overall difficulty. The Monarch Succession is on a whole other level. Everything in there is expected to be top-tier, way beyond the usual challenges."

Maki absorbed the information, a contemplative look on her face. "Just beat them all to a pulp," she declared confidently.

A small smile graced Kenzo's lips as he responded, "Oh, trust me, I will."

Maki's expression shifted, her confidence laced with a touch of concern. "Just come back, don't die," she said, the sincerity in her words evident.

Kenzo met her gaze, his smile softening. "I'll be back in one piece, Maki. Take care of things here, and I'll catch you on the flip side."

With those words, Kenzo activated his teleportation skill once again, ready to face the challenges that awaited him in the Monarch Succession dungeon.

With Maki taking care of it, time to tell Satoru.

A/N anyone who has read Solo Leveling should have a rough idea of where he will be and what quest will be about