The group advanced deeper into the tunnel until they reached a significant discovery—an ancient stele covered in inscriptions that seemed to hold the key to achieving a breakthrough to the gold rank. Seating themselves around the stele, each member initiated a meditation session, absorbing the ancient wisdom embedded in the mysterious scriptures.
As Cedric focused on deciphering the symbols, he experienced a sudden shift, entering a trance-like state. In this altered state of consciousness, he encountered a vivid vision—an image of a skilled warrior wielding the same weapons as him. However, the distinctiveness lay in the warrior's ability to infuse intent into every strike. Intrigued and eager to learn, Cedric absorbed the nuances of the warrior's techniques, determined to incorporate this newfound knowledge into his own combat style.
Externally, an observable change unfolded—the aura surrounding Cedric intensified, accompanied by a perceptible heat radiating from his body. Unbeknownst to the others, Cedric delved deeper into his mindscape, actively engaging in mental training to internalize and master the essence of intent within his strikes.
The rigorous mental and physical exercises persisted until, at last, Cedric successfully integrated intent into his attacks. The transformative journey had not only unlocked a new level of martial prowess for Cedric but also provided a glimpse into the profound teachings of the ancient stele.
Cedric's journey towards mastering intent culminated in a moment of profound revelation. His aura surged dramatically, causing the ancient stele to respond with an intense brilliance. A protective dome formed around Cedric, shielding the others in their meditative state from the energetic fluctuations.
The impending breakthrough to the gold rank had long been within Cedric's grasp, hindered only by the absence of intent in his martial prowess. As his body radiated intense heat, an emblem began to manifest on his forehead. Cedric found himself immersed in a transformative experience—a cosmic journey through the life cycle of a sun, from nuclear fission to its majestic radiance and eventual transformation into a red dwarf, culminating in the creation of a black hole. This profound cosmic knowledge embedded itself in Cedric's consciousness.
In this transcendent state, Cedric perceived himself as a sun, embodying the powerful forces of creation and destruction. As he completed the breakthrough, he awoke to his new reality, realizing that he now possessed the Sun attribute. This attribute granted him the ability to use intent, infuse mana with a specific attribute—in this case, the fiery essence of the sun—and marked the initiation of a new phase in his martial journey.
Cedric: "I've unlocked the Sun attribute. With intent and attribute manipulation, my capabilities have transcended to a new level."
The term "gold rank" in the martial world held profound significance. Achieving this rank implied mastery over intent and the ability to wield mana with attributes. For warriors, this breakthrough marked the true manifestation of their worth on the continent. The Sun attribute, specific to Cedric, meant that he could harness the power of fire in his attacks and maneuvers.
In the lore of this mystical realm, reaching gold rank wasn't solely about obtaining enhanced strength. It also bestowed certain traits upon the individual. These traits were often aligned with the attribute acquired during the breakthrough. For example, a person gaining the fire attribute might inherit the "Fire Wizard" trait, amplifying their proficiency in fire-based techniques.
Cedric, now bearing the Sun attribute, felt the immense energy coursing through him. His newfound abilities would undoubtedly reshape the dynamics of their team and enhance his contribution to their shared quest. As Cedric marveled at his transformed self, the dome dissipated, revealing the others still engrossed in their meditative pursuit of a breakthrough.
Cedric: "The stele has granted me more than I could have imagined. Let's support each other as we continue our journey. There's much more to uncover in this realm."
His words carried the weight of newfound wisdom and the promise of even greater challenges ahead. With the Sun attribute at his disposal, Cedric stood ready to illuminate the path for his companions and explore the untapped potential within the gold rank.
Conqueror System Interface:
- Host: Cedric Northstar
- Rank: Gold 1
- Martial Art Level:Expert
Attributes:
1. Strength: 4090
2. Agility: 4090
3. Constitution: 3400
4. Mana: 2700
5. Intelligence: 675
6. Charm: 675
Next Rank: Gold 2 (Requires approximately 21,000 cumulative stat points)
Skills Unlocked:
1. [Northstar Footwork] - Proficiency: advanced (35% completion)
2. [Northstar Sword Art] - Proficiency : advanced (26% completion)
Aspects:
Dragon Martial Saint Aspects:
- [Dragon Martial Saint Might]: When in combat, increase the host's stats by 50%.
- [Martial Genius]: Facilitates easier learning of techniques and enhances the power of techniques by 20%.
- [Dragon Martial Saint Body]: Increases the physical stats by 30%.
- [Dragon Vitality]: Increases the rate of healing and mana replenishment by 50%.
Conqueror Aspects:
- [Conqueror's Aura]: Enhances the ease of bending things to the user's will by 10%.
- [Conqueror's Will]: Provides protection against mind control.
- [Conqueror Might]: Increases attack power by 15%.
- [Conqueror Tenacity]: When fighting opponents of higher rank, increase combat power by 20%.
Now, the stats add up to a total of 18,000, reflecting Cedric's enhanced capabilities after reaching Gold 1 and incorporating the new Dragon Vitality and Conqueror Tenacity aspect.
With the breakthrough to Gold rank, Cedric and his companions underwent a profound transformation, each acquiring unique attributes and abilities. The ancient stele, a source of enlightenment, played a pivotal role in unlocking their latent potentials.
Raya, now attuned to the soil attribute, emanated an earthy presence. This newfound connection with the earth bestowed upon him enhanced defensive capabilities and mastery over soil manipulation. The twins, Andy and Eddy, harnessed the powers of wind and fire, respectively. Their elemental synergy promised a formidable force on the battlefield.
Amelia and Elma, the mages of the group, achieved a breakthrough in their magical prowess. Opening their mana mindscapes marked a significant milestone, enabling them to record and cast spells instantly. Amelia embraced the nurturing forces of nature, aligning with her newfound nature attribute. Elma, on the other hand, wielded the power of plants, adding a unique and potent aspect to her magical arsenal.
Goldenfist, the most intriguing member of the group, underwent a remarkable transformation. Standing at an impressive 4 meters tall, he exuded an even more formidable aura. While the specifics of his new ability remained unclear, the air around Goldenfist hinted at an increased level of strength and prowess.
Cedric, satisfied with the newfound strength of his companions, also experienced a significant enhancement in his abilities. The breakthrough to Gold rank not only bolstered his combat skills but also revitalized his Central Star. The celestial entity, dormant for a while, now pulsed with renewed energy, aligning seamlessly with Cedric's heightened state.
As the group gathered after the breakthrough, Raya addressed them, "This stele has proven invaluable. Our newfound attributes and abilities will undoubtedly elevate our strength. Now that we are Gold-ranked, we must return to the surface and utilize our enhanced capabilities for the challenges that await."
Cedric, in agreement, added, "Our journey in the Thundra forest has been fruitful. Let us return to the surface and explore the world with our newfound powers. The mysteries of the Gold rank are now within our grasp."
With their enhanced abilities and the rekindling of Cedric's Central Star, the group prepared to ascend from the depths of the Thundra forest. The surface awaited them, brimming with possibilities and challenges only Gold-ranked individuals could face. The journey ahead promised new horizons and adventures for Cedric and his companions.