Dr. Akira placed a blood sample beneath the microscope.
"After studying dozens of monster blood samples," he began, "I believe I've found a way to classify monsters."
The room fell silent.
Everyone leaned in.
"It all depends on the amount of Eradium in their blood."
He held up the first sample.
"If there are two Eradium crystals for every six blood cells, the monster is weak, slow, and barely intelligent."
He placed the sample on the table.
"We'll classify these as Type 4 Monsters."
One of the elders nodded.
"Continue."
Akira picked up another slide.
"If there are six crystals in six blood cells, the monster becomes much smarter."
"It can think ahead."
"It can set traps."
"It can make simple plans."
Yamato, who was happily eating vanilla ice cream, looked up.
"Seriously?"
Akira nodded.
"These are Type 3 Monsters."
He then picked up two more samples.
"If a monster has eight crystals in six blood cells, its body becomes much stronger."
"It can use its abilities to their full potential."
"And..."
He paused.
"...it can communicate through signs."
A murmur spread through the room.
"So those are..." one elder said.
"Type 2 Monsters."
Finally, Akira unfolded several research papers.
His expression became serious.
"This last category is only theoretical."
Everyone's attention shifted to him.
"We believe that out of every 100,000 monsters, one may possess ten Eradium crystals in six blood cells."
The room became completely silent.
"Such a monster..."
"...could possess intelligence equal to an average scientist."
"...and strength approaching that of a Monster King."
A hunter swallowed nervously.
"So..."
"That would be a Type 1 Monster?"
Akira slowly nodded.
"Yes."
No one spoke.
The thought alone was terrifying.
As the meeting continued...
My mind drifted elsewhere.
Ten crystals.
Monster King level.
Intelligence.
I remembered the battlefield.
Thirty dead monsters.
A boy who stood among them without fear.
Creature.
I looked down at my hands.
"...Just what are you?"