After Evan returned to the city, news spread that the Black Cave Dungeon had vanished without a trace.
Not long after, at the now-empty location of the dungeon, a group of hooded and masked figures arrived, their presence heavy with the stench of blood. They exchanged tense words in hushed tones.
"Where is the cave? Did someone conquer it?" one asked, his voice low and sharp.
"It seems so," another replied. "Dungeons usually disappear after being conquered, and the conqueror receives the reward for it."
"What about the ritual weapon? Where is it? Has it vanished too?"
A third figure interjected grimly, "We've confirmed it—there's no trace of it. But the ritual cannot be delayed further, or the consequences will be catastrophic. Bloodbath is inevitable."
The tension in the air thickened as a man stepped forward, his pale face half-hidden by a mask. His striking red eyes gleamed with fury, and his voice dripped with contempt. "So annoying. You worthless insects couldn't even handle such a simple task!"
The group recoiled slightly at his outburst, but before they could respond, a blurry figure emerged from the shadows. His presence exuded authority. "We have to inform the General about this immediately," the newcomer said. "If we delay any longer, the opposing faction may intercept us."
The pale-faced man sneered, his disdain evident. "Tsk, who cares about those pests? Let's go. Whoever dared interfere won't escape with an easy death."
Without another word, the group vanished into the darkness, their movements swift and deliberate.
Moments later, a middle-aged man dressed in a guard patrol uniform arrived with his team. He surveyed the area, his expression grim.
"We need to inform the City Lord about this immediately," he said with urgency. "Something serious is happening here."
With that, the guards quickly moved out, leaving the desolate dungeon site behind.
---
Evan returned to his room, eager to organize his gains from the Black Cave Dungeon.
He sat down, recalling the treasures he now possessed:
Though Jacob I acquired "The Art of War Joker" - a semi-grandmaster technique
Blood clans "Black Blood Saber" - a soul weapon (broken)
The core formation technique "Primordial Core Triad Matrix" (Legendary)
Evan leaned back, his thoughts racing.
"Although some things weren't part of my original goals, my main objective was to prevent Jacob's tragedy—the rampage that claimed his life. Yet, these gains… they're completely unexpected."
His gaze sharpened as he considered his next steps. "No, this changes everything. I initially planned to accumulate power through the academy and take a more gradual approach. But with these gains, such methods are unnecessary. I can fast-track my growth and still avoid interfering with the protagonist's path."
Excitement bubbled within him as he began formulating a new plan, envisioning the challenges and opportunities the academy admission would bring.
If we generalize profession and on the power system of the world, organizing it into its four primary energy categories:
Mages, Sorcerers, warlocks, and even black magicians use Mana to create magic circles.
Knights and Hunters use Aura to produce physical force beyond human limits.
Martial artists and Art users use Ki Force to enhance their body capability
Awakeners or Mystic art users used Spiritual or psychic energy to attain supernatural powers and manipulate intangible elements.
Evan clenched his fists, determination lighting up his eyes. "With these resources and knowledge, the possibilities are endless. I just need to play my cards right."
In this world, many people began forming their cores at a young age, an essential step to establishing a stable energy flow within their bodies. The technique used for core formation was critical, as it determined one's potential and growth trajectory.
"Before," Evan muttered to himself, "I was planning to go for the Nine-Element Core Formation technique—an ultra-rare method stored in the Academy Dean's laboratory in the game. It was a solid choice, with balanced growth potential and versatility."
He paused, his lips curling into a small smile. "But now, with what I've acquired…"
Evan reached for the scroll of the Primordial Core Triad Matrix, its aura faintly radiating an ancient and profound energy.
"Let's see just how powerful this legendary technique is," he said, his voice tinged with anticipation.
He unrolled the scroll, diving into its intricate details, eager to uncover its mysteries and begin the next phase of his transformation.
===
Primordial Core Triad Matrix
An epitome of spiritual engineering, this technique stands at the pinnacle of core formation methods. It consists of three distinct yet interconnected matrix formations, each contributing to unparalleled versatility and potential.,
Soul Matrix Formation -This phase involves the creation of three trigram points within the soul, connected in a triangular formation. The trigram points act as energy nodes, capable of harnessing and utilizing the souls of monsters or demonic beings. Each node can store and replicate one monster ability, granting the user up to three unique, artificial talents.
Body Matrix Formation -Similar to general core formation techniques, this phase involves constructing an intricate energy circuit within the body. It uses major organs as node points, connecting the seven nodes to form a stable energy engine. This circuit ensures a balanced and sustainable energy flow, enhancing the body's physical and energy manipulation capabilities.
External Star Matrix Formation -The final phase extends beyond the body, forming an imaginary matrix of thirteen-star nodes. These nodes create a energy cycle and can be imbued with specific attributes, tailored to the user's needs and preferences. This matrix serves as an energy amplifier and a tool for external manipulation of energy fields.
===
While the technique's potential is unmatched, its resource requirements are equally immense, particularly for synchronizing the three matrices. However, each matrix can be created independently, allowing for gradual progression. Synchronization between the matrices is a complex process but yields exponential growth in power.
Each stage of mastery demands reaching a specified number of energy nodes within the respective matrices. With every advancement, the user unlocks greater energy flow, versatility, and combat potential.
"For now, I can only proceed with the Body Matrix Formation," Evan decided, rolling up the scroll. "The requirements aren't as outrageous, and the materials can be found in the market."
With a clear plan in mind, he resolved to dedicate the next few months to establishing a strong foundation for his body and mastering The Art of War Joker. The intricacies of Jacob's martial technique demanded time, patience, and relentless practice, but Evan was determined to unlock its full potential.
As for the Black Blood Saber, he glanced at the broken soul weapon resting in the corner of his room. It radiated a faint, eerie aura, its power unmistakable despite its shattered state.
"That can wait," he muttered. "Rushing won't help, and I'll need to be stronger to truly wield it."
And so, Evan plunged himself into rigorous training, the path to power stretching endlessly before him. His focus was unwavering, his resolve like tempered steel. Every move, every ounce of effort, was a step closer to reshaping his destiny.