The atmosphere in the hall grew more intense as the elders watched with an especially sharp eye. Adam, Evan, and Lily had each shown immense potential, with ranks that held the promise of great strength. But more importantly, the elders were overjoyed because they understood the immense value of these high rankings, especially as the stakes grew at higher levels.
In most ranks, such as F or -F, there were differences in power, but they were relatively manageable. An F ranker might be three or four times stronger than a -F, but a skilled -F ranker still had a chance if they used tactics wisely. Yet, as individuals progressed to higher ranks, these gaps expanded dramatically. For example, an S ranker could easily defeat a -S ranker in just a few moves, with the difference in power being too significant to overcome.
Once warriors reached SS rank, this disparity was even more pronounced. An SS ranker could be ten times more powerful than an S ranker. But the true distinction appeared with +SS ranks, who were immensely stronger than SS. It was said that a single +SS ranker could hold their own against at least ten SS rankers, making them invaluable assets to their clan or faction.
This disparity was precisely why the elders celebrated every awakening of SS and +SS ranks with such excitement. In a world where demons posed a severe threat, these high ranks weren't just powerful warriors; they were essential protectors, and each one of them represented hope against the rising tide of demonic power. Although the Asura Clan boasted more than ten SSS rankers, their true pillar of strength lay in Lucas' grandfather, the clan's only +SSS ranker. His unmatched rank placed him among the god-level warriors who could alter the outcome of a battle single-handedly.
However, there was still concern, especially among those who knew the threat of the demons well. The elders understood that demons of the same rank were generally stronger than other races. This meant that a demon of +SSS rank could potentially defeat multiple +SSS rankers from other clans. This power imbalance was a constant worry, as only a few god-level clans possessed even a single +SSS ranker, making them invaluable but dangerously outnumbered.
The demons themselves posed even greater threats beyond individual strength. Unlike dragons, who were strong but hindered by their pride, demons were unburdened by honor or pride. They were relentless and ruthless, willing to use any method necessary to achieve victory. This tactical ruthlessness made them formidable adversaries in war, especially when combined with their raw strength.
As Lucas watched the ceremony, he was well aware of this looming threat. He knew that demon forces led by +SSS rankers, such as Demon Kings and the Demon God, would be devastating if they invaded. These demonic leaders were beings of legend, known to be above even +SSS rank, which put them in a league of their own. With this knowledge, Lucas understood the gravity of the Asura Clan's duty to nurture and empower future generations.
This was why his father Dorian's speech resonated so deeply with the clan members. It was not just about personal achievement but about ensuring the clan's strength and securing the future of humanity in the face of the demon menace.
As each candidate stepped forward, the weight of these expectations was palpable. Adam and Evan, with their dual elements and impressive ranks, had already impressed the elders. But Lucas was still waiting for his turn. When Emily finally stepped forward and unlocked her nature and shadow elements along with her +SS potential, the elders were thrilled. Many of them congratulated Dorian, knowing that his family was contributing greatly to the future strength of the clan.
Lucas' mind raced with these thoughts as the ceremony unfolded. Though he appeared calm on the outside, he couldn't ignore the underlying fear that lingered in his heart. Even with ten SSS rankers, his clan was vulnerable. The elders' joy over every high-ranking awakening was a reminder of the heavy burden the Asura Clan carried. And with Lucas knowing the fate foretold in his previous life's novel, he was determined more than ever to stand strong, not only for his family and clan but for humanity itself.
As the ceremony continued, he glanced around, knowing that each young Asura who awakened high potential today would be part of a united front against the dangers they would face in the years to come.
As the fourth elder called Emily's name, a ripple of anticipation spread through the crowd. Lucas watched his sister take a deep breath, her nerves evident but her determination unwavering. With steady steps, she moved forward, her gaze focused on the glowing radiating ball that would reveal her elemental affinities.
Emily placed her hands on the ball, which began to radiate a soft, pulsing light. The room fell silent as everyone waited in suspense. Then, the ball emitted a brilliant glow, followed by a subtle shift in colors. The fourth elder's voice rang out, announcing, "Emily has awakened the elements of nature, fire, and shadow!"
A mixture of awe and pride filled the hall as whispers of excitement swept through the crowd. Three elements, and such a unique combination! It was rare to see someone awaken even two elements, let alone three, and among the Asura Clan, shadow was expected due to their bloodline. Yet to have both nature and fire in addition to shadow was an extraordinary blessing.
Emily's face lit up with a shy smile as she stepped over to the second ball—the one designed to measure her potential. This ball, set atop an intricately carved magic circle, was glowing brightly, prepared to reveal the latent power within her. With a steadying breath, Emily placed her hand on it.
There was a sudden surge of energy as the magic circle beneath the ball pulsed, filling the hall with a vibrant, almost electric energy. Then, in a powerful voice, the fourth elder announced, "Emily has unlocked a potential of +SS!"
For a brief moment, silence hung in the air as the significance of her achievement sank in. Then, the entire hall erupted in cheers, the applause echoing off the high ceilings. Clan members celebrated with heartfelt enthusiasm, their voices blending into a united cheer: "Hail to the Asuras!"
The elders exchanged pleased glances, their joy evident. They understood the profound importance of her +SS rank, especially in the face of the looming threat of the demons. The difference in power at higher ranks was substantial; a +SS ranker was vastly stronger than an SS ranker, capable of facing multiple opponents of a lower rank with ease. As Emily joined the ranks of those with high potential, she represented a valuable addition to the clan's strength.
Lucas watched in awe and pride as his sister basked in the admiration of the crowd. He knew just how important this was, not only for their family but for the entire Asura Clan. Emily met his gaze and gave him a determined nod, a silent promise that she would stand strong beside him in the battles to come.
As the applause began to fade, the fourth elder raised his hands, calling for quiet. His voice resonated through the hall, "The Asura Clan stands proud today. Our young ones are proving themselves to be true heirs of our legacy. Let us continue with the ceremony. Emily, well done."
With that, the ceremony continued, but the energy in the room was electric, charged with the hope and promise of a new generation ready to face whatever dangers lay ahead.