Shu, with the mask now merged onto his face, couldn't help but wonder about the nature of the purple flame. "What is the significance of this purple flame?" he asked Sinkon, his curiosity piqued.
Sinkon, the wise black cat, responded with a knowing smile. "That flame is a manifestation of my previous master's power. It represents a mere fraction, approximately 10%, of his true strength. When my master infused his life essence into this mask, a residue of his power remained, embodied within the flame."
Understanding began to dawn upon Shu as he absorbed Sinkon's words. "So, this flame carries the residual power of your former master, a remnant of his soul within the mask."
Sinkon nodded approvingly. "Indeed, Shu. The mask serves as a vessel for his spirit and the flame acts as a symbol of his indomitable will. It is a testament to his strength and dedication."
Shu reached up to touch the mask, feeling the warmth emanating from the purple flame. "To possess a portion of his power is an honor," he remarked, a sense of reverence in his voice. "I will wield it with great care and respect, honoring his legacy."
Sinkon's eyes gleamed with approval. "I have faith in you, Shu. By embracing the power within the mask, you carry forward the spirit of your master and embark on a path that will leave a lasting impact."
Shu, still curious about the memories of his transformation into a weretiger, questioned Sinkon about the experience. "Sinkon, what happened during my transformation into the weretiger? Why did the evil within you go berserk?"
Sinkon, with a solemn expression, began to explain. "After waiting for 10,000 years, I had absorbed a significant amount of evil aura. When you first tapped into my power, the surge of energy awakened the dormant darkness within me. It momentarily overwhelmed your control, resulting in the berserker state."
Shu listened intently, trying to comprehend the implications of Sinkon's words. "So, the evil aura that you absorbed influenced my transformation and caused me to lose control?"
Sinkon nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "Yes, Shu. The tainted energy within me tainted your own power, momentarily overtaking your consciousness. However, with time, practice, and discipline, you will gain mastery over this power. You must learn to channel and control the darkness within without succumbing to its corrupting influence."
After a minute of harnessing the power within the mask, the flames surrounding Shu began to fade, and the mask slowly slipped off his face. Shu felt a sudden wave of exhaustion washing over him, and he turned to Sinkon, seeking an explanation.
"Sinkon, what just happened? Why did the flames fade, and why do I feel so tired?" Shu inquired, trying to catch his breath.
Sinkon, understanding the situation, responded with a calm voice. "Shu, the mask you wore granted you temporary access to the power of Unison Art. However, your current state is not yet capable of fully harnessing and controlling that level of power. The exhaustion you feel is a result of pushing yourself beyond your limits."
Shu nodded, realizing the implications of Sinkon's words. "So, the mask forced the activation of Unison Art, but my body and spirit are not yet ready to handle it completely?"
Sinkon affirmed his understanding. "Exactly, Shu. Unison Art is a formidable and complex technique that requires immense strength and harmony between body and spirit. It seems that you are not yet fully attuned to its demands. But fear not, with time, training, and the development of your abilities, you will grow stronger and be able to wield Unison Art with greater ease."
Shu, despite feeling weary, mustered a determined smile. "I won't let this setback discourage me, Sinkon. I will continue to train diligently and prepare myself to wield Unison Art properly. I know that with your guidance, I will eventually reach a level where I can fully control this power."
So what is this mask, Sinkon?" Shu asked curiously. Sinkon replied, "This is the Mask of Sinkon, a Supreme Item crafted by the Supreme Blacksmith!"
"Supreme Item?!" Shu exclaimed, his shock evident. "I've heard of different item grades like normal, rare, unique, ultimate, but never a Supreme Item. It must be the highest class of item."
Sinkon nodded in affirmation. "Indeed, a Supreme Item is the epitome of greatness. It belongs to a class above all others, surpassing even the Ultimate grade. The five grades are normal, rare, unique, ultimate, and supreme, with Supreme Items standing at the pinnacle of power and rarity."
Shu's mind raced as he realized the significance of possessing such a remarkable artifact. He understood that wielding a Supreme Item carried immense prestige and influence.
"Who is this supreme blacksmith?" Shu asked, his curiosity piqued.
Sinkon's eyes gleamed with pride as he responded, "My previous master, Glenn.".
To be continue...