A plan

Nioh's new residence was nothing to boast about—a cramped metallic chamber with a cot, a sink, and a storage unit. Barely more than a cell. The water ran ice-cold, but he welcomed it, letting the sharp chill wash away the grime of his journey. More than that, it jolted him into focus.

"Why is there a difference in strength between Corebinders of the same level?"

That was the question Grimmes had left him with. A key to something deeper.

Nioh sat on the cot, his fingers drumming against his knee as he thought it over. He had fought plenty of people at his level before, but some had felt leagues beyond others. Was it battle experience? Advanced techniques? Biocore tiers? No, none of those alone explained the massive gaps in power he had encountered.

"Do you have an answer?" he asked, glancing at Ekoh.

"I do," Ekoh replied, his voice calm, knowing. "But it would be best if you figure it out yourself."