The next morning, Lu Fan woke up early, his mind still buzzing from the revelation of his talent. He had barely slept, turning over the implications of his extraordinary ability in his mind. The academy saw him as an E-grade tamer, but in truth, he had the power to identify and analyze the hidden potential in beasts and objects alike.
Today, he decided, was the day he would put that power to the test.
After a quick breakfast in the dormitory, Lu Fan made his way to the bustling market district just outside the academy grounds. The market was a lively place, filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of countless merchants selling everything from exotic fruits to rare beast materials. But what caught Lu Fan's attention were the numerous stalls and shops dedicated to selling beast cubs.
Spirit beasts of all kinds were on display, each one vying for the attention of potential tamers. Some were small and unassuming, while others were fierce-looking, already showing signs of the power they would one day wield.
Lu Fan walked slowly through the market, his eyes scanning the various cubs. He wasn't looking for the most powerful or the rarest beast. Instead, he was searching for something with hidden potential—something that others might overlook but that he could nurture into a formidable companion.
He stopped in front of a stall run by an elderly merchant. The man had a wide array of beast cubs, each one kept in a small, secure enclosure. Lu Fan could see that most of the cubs were ordinary, likely low-tier beasts that would only ever be used as companions or for menial tasks.
"Looking for a spirit beast, young man?" the merchant asked, noticing Lu Fan's interest.
"Yes," Lu Fan replied, trying to sound confident. "But I'm looking for something special."
The merchant chuckled. "Aren't we all? But special comes at a price. What's your budget?"
"Not much," Lu Fan admitted. "But I'm hoping to find something with potential."
The merchant shrugged. "Well, have a look around. You might get lucky."
Lu Fan nodded and began to examine the cubs more closely. As he did, he activated his Identify ability, focusing on each beast in turn. Most of them displayed the expected information—low-grade abilities, limited growth potential, nothing extraordinary.
But then, as he moved to the back of the stall, his ability highlighted something different.
[Beast: Young Ram (Tup) of Nellore Sheep]
Type: Battle
Potential: High
Skills:
Crushing Horns: The ram can deliver a powerful headbutt with its horns, capable of breaking through barriers and causing significant impact damage.
Shielding Charge: The ram can charge with its body low to the ground, using its dense frame to block and deflect attacks, providing temporary protection to itself and its allies.
Growth Path:
War Ram (Requires rigorous training and exposure to combat. With proper nurturing, evolves into a powerful battle beast with enhanced physical strength and combat skills.)
Ironclad Titan (Requires rare minerals and intense combat experience. Evolution into this form grants the beast unparalleled defensive capabilities and resistance to physical damage.)
Materials Required for Evolution:
War Ram: Combat training sessions, high-protein feed, regular exercise.
Ironclad Titan: Mithril Ore (to be embedded in its horns), high-intensity combat drills, specialized defensive training.
The young ram was a sturdy, muscular creature with short, coarse white fur. Its small, curved horns were already showing signs of growth, and its eyes held a determined, almost defiant glint. Most people would pass it by, seeing it as just another sheep, but Lu Fan's ability revealed the truth.
This was no ordinary livestock animal. The Nellore breed was known for its strength and endurance, and this young ram had the potential to become a formidable battle companion. The skills of Crushing Horns and Shielding Charge made it clear that the ram was not just a passive beast but one with impressive combat capabilities. The evolution paths indicated a future of impressive prowess if properly trained and equipped.
"This one," Lu Fan said, pointing to the young ram.
The merchant raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure? It's just a ram. Not many people choose them as battle companions."
"I'm sure," Lu Fan replied, his voice firm.
The merchant studied him for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, it's your choice. Since it's not in high demand, I'll give you a good price."
Lu Fan handed over the coins, feeling a thrill of excitement as he completed the purchase. The merchant handed him the young ram in a small, portable enclosure, and Lu Fan carefully took it in his hands.
"Take good care of it," the merchant advised. "You never know—maybe it'll surprise you."
Lu Fan smiled to himself. He already knew the truth. The young Nellore ram would indeed surprise everyone, including the academy. As he left the market and made his way back to the dormitory, Lu Fan felt a growing sense of confidence. This was just the beginning. With his unique talent and a bit of patience, he was certain that he and the young ram would rise far beyond anyone's expectations.