The anticipation hung in the air as Cedric approached the final day of inscribing the orbs, a process that had spanned 2 weeks and 6 days, leaving him with four orbs on his back. Today's task was the most crucial, as it involved the delicate placement of the fifth orb on his cervical spine—a position that promised heightened pain due to the sensitivity of the mana gate.
Cedric adhered to his established routine, beginning the day with a refreshing bath, dressing in readiness, and partaking in a hearty breakfast. With each step, he knew the significance of the day and the challenges it would bring.
Heading to the training ground, where his brother Alan awaited, Cedric engaged in a brief exchange.
Alan: "Brother, you're finally coming to the end of the first part, huh? You must be happy."
Cedric, though acknowledging the significance, responded with a reminder of his unique journey.
Cedric: "I have to go through this way, Alan. Unlike you, I was not lucky enough to be born with the untainted body."
The untainted body, a very rare body constitution possessed by Alan, bestowed individuals with 100% mana purity upon reaching the silver rank. This transformative moment often acted as a hurdle for those without a good trait as there was a modification happening in the body and that's when Alan untainted body finally modified his body and purified his mana to 100% and why he was not interested in the rune experiment, creating a gap that proved challenging to overcome, trapping many in the bronze rank.
Alan chuckled at Cedric's remark, understanding the weight of the untainted body's advantage.
Alan: "Well, you've chosen your path, brother. And each path comes with its challenges."
Cedric nodded, recognizing that his journey involved unique trials and unconventional methods. The decision to infuse dragon blood and undergo the intricate inscription process was his way of forging a path tailored to his circumstances.
As Cedric continued his training, the impending ritual added an extra layer of intensity to his exercises. The family, aware of Cedric's transformative journey, awaited his return from the training ground. Each step, each swing of the sword, carried the determination to bridge the gap and emerge stronger on the other side.
Later, as Cedric entered Isabella's laboratory for the final inscription, he did so with a mix of apprehension and resolve. The delicate positioning of the orb on his cervical spine presented a challenge, but Cedric was prepared to face the pain for the promise of enhanced abilities.
The support of his family and the acknowledgment of his unique circumstances propelled Cedric forward on his extraordinary journey, inching closer to a power that would redefine his place within the Northstar legacy.
Isabella guided Cedric to lie down on the familiar mana gold platform, the ritual space that had become a symbolic arena for his transformative journey. As he began to operate his meditation technique, she meticulously prepared for the crucial inscription of the fifth orb on his cervical spine. The room, filled with a palpable tension, attested to the significance of this final step.
Isabella, typically known for her casual demeanor, surprised those present with an unprecedented level of focus and care. Every stroke of the inscribing tool carried the weight of responsibility, showcasing the magnitude of the process. It was a moment that underscored the gravity of Cedric's journey and the trust placed in Isabella's expertise.
Cedric, in the throes of electrifying pain, clenched his teeth and endured. The intense sensations coursing through his body were a testament to the intricacy and sensitivity of the cervical spine's mana gate. The process unfolded over an agonizing four hours, each minute stretching the limits of Cedric's endurance. The pain, a symphony of discomfort, became the backdrop to a transformative ritual that held the promise of unparalleled power.
Finally, as Isabella completed the last stroke of the inscription, a sense of relief washed over Cedric. The culmination of weeks of endurance and determination manifested in this single moment. The pain, though still lingering, was now intertwined with a profound sense of accomplishment.
Cedric, almost overwhelmed by the flood of emotions, felt a surge of joy that threatened to spill over into tears. Eustace, observing his grandson's expression, couldn't help but laugh heartily. The seasoned warrior, who had weathered his fair share of challenges, understood the significance of Cedric's achievement.
Eustace: "Well done, Cedric! Enduring the full process is no small feat. You've proven your resilience."
His congratulatory words echoed through the room, acknowledging not just Cedric's physical endurance but also the mental fortitude required to navigate such a transformative experience.
As Cedric gradually composed himself, the completion of the inscription of the orb marked the end of this chapter, opening the door to the final step and a future where Cedric's abilities would be forever altered. The journey was far from over, but in this moment, there was a sense of triumph that resonated not only with Cedric but with everyone who had witnessed the arduous process.