The next morning, the sun poured through the window, bathing the room in a golden light that seemed to awaken the very essence of the universe. Luke stirred from his slumber, a fire igniting within him—a renewed sense of determination coursing through his veins.
'Status'
With a flick of his wrist, Luke summoned his system panel, eager to assess the fruits of his labor from the previous day.
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{★ Luke Dawnbringer}
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Age: 18/103
Race: Human
Body: Oblivion Nexus Body (Sealed)
Cultivation Level: Early 1-Star Warrior
Cultivation Technique:
Basic Cosmic Energy Cultivation Technique [+1]
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{★ Stats}
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Strength (Fist Power): [100 kg]
Speed: [10 m/s]
Cosmic Energy: [130] | White |
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God Points: [0]
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{★ Skills & Abilities}
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Skills: ★Iron Crushing Fist (Basic Level)
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His Iron Crushing Fist, though merely a 1-star technique, had reached Basic Level mastery. When unleashed, it would amplify his fist power by 15%, bringing it to a total of 115 kg.
A modest increase, yet Luke understood the potential that lay ahead. If he could elevate the Iron Crushing Fist to the advanced level, the boost would soar to an impressive 50%; that meant that his fist power would be comparable to someone in the 1-Star Mid-Stage.
However, he was acutely aware that as he ascended to the 2-Star Warrior Stage, this technique would begin to pale in comparison to the 2-Star and higher techniques.
"To elevate this technique to the intermediate level, I need 400 GP. Damn it!"
Gazing at his meager 0 GP, frustration bubbled within him. His options were limited—he could either await a mission from the system or venture into the wilderness to seek his luck, though this was not possible before passing the warrior test.
"Sigh, I just hope it doesn't take too long. Time is of the essence if I wish to become a powerful warrior," Luke mused, determination etched on his face.
Suddenly, a thought struck him. "Wait, didn't I earn a free technique after defeating Nolan?"
His heart raced as he recalled the battle and quickly checked the system.
[Ding~]
****************
★[Task: Completed]
★[Defeat All Your Opponents]
★[Reward: 1 New Technique]
****************
[Does the host want to check the new technique now or save it for later use?]
[Yes/No]
"Of course, I want to check it now!!"
Luke's eyes sparkled with excitement as he eagerly selected the option to unveil his new skill.
Boom!
A torrent of information surged into his mind, and he gasped in astonishment at the revelation.
****************
★Name: Stellar Infusion
★Rank: 1/9-Star [Early Stage]
★Type: Cosmic Energy Absorption Technique
★Cosmic Energy: 10 Per Minute
****************
His heart raced as he absorbed the details of this newfound technique—exactly what he had been yearning for. Unlike other skills, cultivation techniques were rare and extremely costly.
To acquire a 2-star cultivation technique, he would have to part with a small fortune. Yet here it was, a treasure bestowed upon him by the system.
Stellar Infusion—a powerful 9-star skill that would allow him to absorb cosmic energy at an accelerated rate and refine it, hastening his cultivation journey. For now, he would not need to concern himself with other cultivation techniques until he reached the 9-Star Warrior Stage.
Cultivation techniques were distinct from other skills; they did not follow the same mastery system, as they are categorized from 1-star to 9-star, with each level containing four mastery stages: Early, Intermediate, Late, and Peak.
Even though Stellar Infusion was a 9-star technique, Luke could only access the first part of the 1-Star Stage.
Fortunately, since the technique came directly from the system, it already placed him at the Early Stage of the technique.
As the knowledge settled within him, Luke felt a surge of cosmic energy coursing through his veins, invigorating his very being.
Despite being at the Early Stage, he could already sense the immense power and potential of the Stellar Infusion technique.
His Basic Cosmic Energy Cultivation Technique had been replaced in the system interface, and now, it would take him only 10 minutes to fully recover his cosmic energy. He could also feel his cosmic cultivation advancing, albeit slowly but surely.
'It can absorb energy automatically from the surroundings, and if I focus enough, I can accelerate the process even further,' Luke contemplated, determination igniting within him.
"I will focus on cultivating my cosmic energy, since I can't do anything with my lack of GP until the Warrior text is over."
With that, Luke decided to dedicate all his time to practicing the Stellar Infusion technique.
************
In the days that followed, Luke adhered to his routine, hitting the gym and occasionally meeting with Matty, who was diligently learning the ropes of managing his family's store.
With school out of the picture, Luke found himself with ample free time, which he dedicated to honing his combat skills and practicing the Stellar Infusion technique daily.
Leila was also preparing to return to her university, and so Luke spent more time with her before her departure.
For Leila, time with Luke was priceless; she understood that once he became a warrior, their time together would become scarce. Each shared laugh and conversation was a treasure she held dear.
As the days slipped by, the long-awaited day of the exam finally dawned.
Luke awoke early, a whirlwind of nerves and excitement swirling within him. He knew that today would be the culmination of all his hard work and dedication. Leila wished him luck before heading off to university, promising to call and celebrate his success.
With a heart full of determination, Luke set off for the Extreme Dojo.
As he walked, he glanced at his interface, a smile breaking across his face as he noted the progress he had made.
His Cosmic Energy had surged to 185, while his fist strength and speed had increased to 115 kg and 10.7 m/s, respectively.
Upon arriving at the dojo, he was greeted by a sea of eager participants, all around his age, waiting for the test to commence.
The crowd was larger than he had anticipated, and he could sense the palpable energy in the air, a mix of excitement and anxiety. Each participant was a potential rival, and Luke felt the weight of the moment settle upon him.
He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenges ahead. Today was not just a test; it was a testament to his future growth, his resolve, and the path he had chosen.
With every heartbeat, he reminded himself of his goals, the dreams that fueled his ambition, and the promise he had made to himself to become a powerful warrior.
To take care of his mother and sister, to also… return to his earth, to his family and also the person he once loved with all his hurt.
He had to see them again.