Kaiju No.8: Devour and Evolve

"Beep... beep…

Host is currently dealing with a canine-type kaiju. Would you like to devour its abilities: fangs, claws, and enhanced sense of smell?"

Drake Myers froze, then swallowed hard. This was it—the golden opportunity he had been waiting for!

"Devour!" he answered without hesitation.

"To avoid detection by nearby entities, the kaiju essence has been absorbed discreetly. No disturbances will be caused," the system reassured.

Drake nearly laughed out loud. This system wasn't just powerful—it was considerate!

A sharp jolt hit his brain, like a heavy hammer striking him, and suddenly, his mind was flooded with knowledge.

Heightened sense of smell!

For canine species, their greatest survival asset wasn't raw power but their sense of smell. Following closely were their sharp fangs and claws.

Drake grinned, though a part of him lamented that he couldn't transform into a character as majestic as Sesshomaru from Inuyasha. The thought of Sesshomaru, the original beautiful and tragic anti-hero, crossed his mind briefly.

Even without full transformation, his newfound abilities—heightened senses, fangs, and claws—already set him leagues above ordinary people in this kaiju-filled world. Unlike Kafka's transformation into a full kaiju, which brought immense attention, Drake's powers remained subtle and undetectable.

As he worked to dissect the massive mutant Tibetan mastiff, he felt the abilities integrating seamlessly into his body. The most significant improvement wasn't just the new abilities but the enhancement of his physical constitution.

The best part? He still looked completely human, avoiding any unwanted attention from the Defense Force's constant surveillance.

The following days passed in a blur of dissection work. Drake busied himself cleaning up the kaiju remains, learning more about their anatomy, and subtly adapting to his newfound abilities.

Three days later, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Kafka stretched, removing his protective mask, and patted Drake on the shoulder with a satisfied smile.

"You've really changed, kid. I'll treat you to a drink!" said Kafka.

Drake chuckled and accepted the offer.

Even though he could venture out to absorb more kaiju abilities, he preferred to keep a low profile for now. This world, despite its kaiju attacks, was a highly advanced, surveillance-heavy society.

Kafka's dream of joining the Defense Force, for example, had less to do with his measurable aptitude and more with his ability to attract the right attention. Vice Commander Soshiro Hoshina had vouched for Kafka not because of his strength but for his potential as a wild card to monitor.

Drake knew better than to stand out too much, especially while he was still growing his power. Any reckless behavior could bring the entire country's scrutiny upon him—a situation no amount of bravery or skill could save him from.

At a Local Ramen Shop

The smell of ramen, sake, and side dishes filled the air as the two sat at a small corner table.

"Haha! You've really grown, Drake. Back then, I couldn't help but feel frustrated with your lack of ambition. But now... I'm proud of you!" Kafka laughed, raising his glass.

Drake smiled and clinked glasses with him.

"I've just been doing my best, Kafka. You've been a great mentor."

As the conversation shifted, Kafka grew introspective, reminiscing about his younger years. He spoke of Mina Ashiro, his childhood friend, now the formidable captain of the Defense Force's Third Division.

"Back then, we made a promise... to join the Defense Force together," Kafka said, his gaze distant. "But I failed, and Mina kept moving forward. The gap between us is only growing wider."

Drake listened quietly. He already knew most of Kafka's story, but hearing it in person made it more poignant.

"This year is my last chance," Kafka continued. "If I don't join the Defense Force before I turn 32, I'll be ineligible. I'm already 30, and competing against young talents like you feels impossible."

Drake raised his glass. "Kafka, don't give up. I believe you'll make it!"

His confidence wasn't just empty words. Once Kafka underwent his transformation, joining the Defense Force would be inevitable.

"Drake, why did you join the cleanup crew?" Kafka asked suddenly, his tone more serious.

Drake hesitated before answering. "Honestly? To make a living. I'm an orphan, after all. I needed the stability."

That was only part of the truth. His real goal lay far beyond just survival.

"Have you ever thought about joining the Defense Force?" Kafka asked, his voice earnest.

Drake nearly choked on his drink. Was Kafka out of his mind? He hadn't even secured his own spot yet!

"Not really, Kafka. I'm happy here in the cleanup crew. The benefits are great, and the work suits me," Drake replied, quickly brushing off the suggestion.

Kafka, however, wasn't convinced. "Drake, come with me. Let's both apply to the Defense Force. If I fail, I'll at least recommend you. It's the least I can do as your mentor."

Drake sighed deeply. He understood Kafka's desperation but couldn't believe he was so serious about this plan.

"Kafka, you've never given up on your dream. Don't start now," Drake said firmly.

The table fell silent for a moment before Kafka nodded, his determination returning.

"Thanks, Drake. You're right."

And with that, their conversation shifted back to lighter topics, the weight of their dreams temporarily set aside as they enjoyed the night.

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