The note from Vault Master Silen burned brightly in Kai's mind as he made his way through Braisenhold's winding alleys. The Flamecore Lobster was whispered about in chef circles like a myth—an elusive crustacean said to reside deep in the volcanic vents off the southern coast of Ardentia. Its shell glowed with molten veins, and its meat was prized for igniting powerful flavor enhancements.
Only chefs with the sharpest skills and boldest hearts dared seek it.
Kai arrived at the harbor by midday, the salty sea breeze carrying the scent of brine and adventure. He had just enough coin left from his recent earnings to rent a small fishing boat for the day. His fingers tightened around the edge of the vessel as he prepared to leave the safety of the docks.
The Guild's inner vault access granted him the latest map—etched in silver ink and pulsing faintly with mana—showing the known Flamecore Lobster lairs.
[System Notification]
Quest Activated: "Hunt the Flamecore Lobster"
Rank: B
Objective: Capture a live Flamecore Lobster.
Reward: +90 XP, +2 Reputation, +1 Stat Point,
Rare Ingredient: Flamecore Lobster (Tier 3)
Hours passed as Kai navigated treacherous rocks and boiling waters. His Heat Control and Mana would be crucial here; the volcanic vents emitted bursts of scorching steam, ready to singe the unprepared.
At last, in a bubbling cave pool, a radiant glow revealed the Flamecore Lobster, its shell a shifting lattice of fiery orange and red. It eyed Kai with intelligence, claws clicking like distant thunder.
Kai steadied himself, channeling his mana to keep the lobster calm, recalling his Flame Artistry skill. But his Mana gauge flashed warning—15 MP was required to use Flame Artistry I, and his Mana was dangerously low.
He held back, relying instead on his Focus and Knife Technique.
A sudden flash—the lobster lunged! Kai dodged, then used a finely honed throw of a specially crafted net, enchanted lightly with heat resistance. The lobster struggled but was trapped.
Exhausted but victorious, Kai secured the creature, his heart pounding.
Back at the Guild, the Vault Master greeted him with a rare smile.
"Well done, Junior Chef. Few earn the right to wield this ingredient."
Kai felt a surge of pride as the Flamecore Lobster was logged into his inventory.
[System Notification]
Quest Complete: "Hunt the Flamecore Lobster"
+90 XP
+2 Reputation
+1 Stat Point
Current XP: 280 / 300
Reputation: 42
Kai rested that evening, planning how best to use the Lobster's unique properties in his next dish. The Guild's culinary ladder was steeper than ever, but with each step, his flame grew stronger.