Chapter 4: The Breaking of Limits
The day after Alex's sparring match with Marcus, he found himself lost in thought. He had advanced to F2 effortlessly during the fight, his system doing the heavy lifting without the need for external energy absorption. But now, he was curious—just how different was he from the others?
Sitting cross-legged on his bed, Alex opened his personal system interface.
[Name: Alex Johnson]
[Rank: F2]
[Stats:]
Strength (STR): 300
Dexterity (DEX): 300
Defense (DEF): 300
Mana Points (MP): ∞
He noticed the jump in his stats from F1 to F2. His strength, dexterity, and defense had all tripled compared to when he was at F1. Alex had been told that normal awakeners experienced similar exponential growth, but his case felt... unusual.
"System," Alex said, "why are my stats so much higher than normal F2s? Shouldn't I have to work harder for this growth?"
The system's calm voice echoed in his mind. "Incorrect. Your growth is not unusual; it is simply unimpeded. Normal awakeners cannot reach their full potential due to the limitations of the planetary system and their own physical constitution. You, however, are different. Your Infinite Physique and core allow you to break those limits naturally."
"Explain the planetary limits to me," Alex said, intrigued.
The system displayed a glowing diagram in his mind, showing a human figure surrounded by a spherical energy core. "Every awakened individual is born with a core that determines their potential. This core grows as they absorb spiritual energy, and its size defines the threshold for leveling up. For example, an individual with an iron-tier physique requires their core to reach a radius of 10 centimeters to advance to F2. A diamond-tier physique, on the other hand, requires 100 centimeters for the same advancement."
Alex frowned. "What about their stats? Why can't they just push their limits?"
"Their physical limits are absolute. At F1, the theoretical maximum for any stat is 100. However, the planetary system pushes them to advance levels before they can fully reach that cap. Only rare geniuses, those with exceptional physiques, can come close to maxing out a stat, and even then, only for one or two attributes. Reaching 100 across all stats at F1 is unheard of."
Alex glanced at his own stats again. He had hit 100 across the board at F1 without even trying.
"What about me?" Alex asked. "What's my core limit?"
The system paused before replying. "Your core is unique. It does not grow or expand with levels. Instead, it remains constant, generating infinite energy to sustain your growth. Your body will adapt and surpass the physical limits imposed on others as you level up. This is why your stats will multiply exponentially without requiring external energy absorption."
Alex's eyes widened. This wasn't just an advantage—it was an overwhelming superiority. While others were limited by their cores and the planetary system, he was entirely free of those constraints.
---
The Survey of Geniuses
Meanwhile, across the planet, governments had begun organizing large-scale surveys to identify and nurture exceptional awakeners. With the spiritual awakening of the world, countless treasures and resources had surfaced—hidden realms, spiritual herbs, and mystical ores. These treasures were highly sought after, and the governments wanted to ensure they fell into the hands of their most talented individuals.
In the Empire of Solaris, a man in military uniform stood before a massive screen in the Ministry of Awakened Affairs. On the screen were rows of data—names, physiques, power levels, and current ranks of recently awakened individuals.
"Status update," the man ordered.
A woman in a lab coat stepped forward. "Sir, we've identified approximately 30,000 awakeners across the empire. Among them, 5,000 have been classified with bronze-tier physiques, 2,000 with silver-tier, 700 with gold-tier, and 30 with diamond-tier physiques. No platinum or higher physiques have been discovered yet."
The man frowned. "Only 30 diamond-tier physiques? I expected more given the planet's awakening. What about their stats and growth potential?"
The woman adjusted her glasses. "Most diamond-tier awakeners have demonstrated exceptional growth in one or two stats, nearing the maximum limit for F1. For example, one individual, Marcus Reid, has achieved 98 STR and 96 DEF. He is projected to reach F2 soon."
"Good," the man said. "What about anomalies?"
The woman hesitated. "There is... one irregularity, sir."
The man's eyes narrowed. "Go on."
"We've detected an anomaly in the planetary system," she continued. "One individual appears to be completely disconnected from it. We cannot track their core size, energy absorption, or rank progression. It's as if they're operating outside the system entirely."
"Name?"
"Alex Johnson. He was recently recorded sparring at a local training ground, where he defeated Marcus Reid with overwhelming ease. Based on eyewitness accounts, he advanced to F2 mid-battle without absorbing any spiritual energy."
The man leaned forward, his expression grave. "Keep an eye on him. If he truly operates outside the planetary system, he could become a threat—or an asset."
---
Alex's Training
Unaware of the government's interest in him, Alex decided to put his system to the test. He walked to a nearby forest, away from prying eyes, and began experimenting with his newfound strength.
First, he focused on his physical abilities. At F2, his strength, dexterity, and defense had tripled compared to when he was at F1. He tested his strength by punching a thick tree trunk. The impact was so powerful that the tree cracked and toppled over.
"Not bad," Alex muttered, shaking his hand. The energy in his body seemed to replenish itself instantly, as if the exertion had never happened.
Next, he tried testing his dexterity. He sprinted through the forest, weaving between trees and leaping over obstacles with ease. His speed and agility were far beyond what he had ever experienced before.
Finally, he tested his defense by standing still and letting a boulder fall toward him. When the rock struck his shoulder, it shattered into pieces, leaving Alex completely unscathed.
"All right," Alex said, breathing heavily. "What about my energy?"
The system responded immediately. "Your Infinite Modus Operandi is operating at full capacity. Your energy reserves remain infinite and will continue to sustain your growth passively."
Alex smirked. "So, no limits, huh? Let's see how far I can push this."
---
The Shadow of Competition
As Alex continued training, the rest of the world buzzed with excitement over the awakening. The government surveys began to bear fruit, and lists of geniuses were published, sparking fierce competition among the awakened.
At the top of the list was a name that caught Alex's attention: Marcus Reid.
"Still clinging to your pride, huh?" Alex muttered, remembering Marcus's humiliation in their fight.
But Marcus wasn't done. Back in the capital, Marcus stood before a panel of government officials.
"You're recommending me for the treasure expedition?" Marcus asked, his tone filled with determination.
The official nodded. "You've shown great potential for your rank. If you reach F2 before the expedition begins, you'll be among the candidates sent to explore the recently uncovered Mystic Caverns."
Marcus clenched his fists. The Mystic Caverns were said to contain spiritual treasures capable of propelling someone's growth to the next level. If he could acquire one, he might surpass Alex and reclaim his dignity.
---
A Warning from the System
Back in the forest, Alex was interrupted by a sudden notification from his system.
"Warning: Surveillance detected. Planetary overseers are monitoring your progress."
Alex's expression darkened. "What does that mean?"
"Your disconnection from the planetary system has drawn attention. They are likely assessing whether you pose a threat."
Alex sighed. He had wanted to keep a low profile, but it seemed that his uniqueness wouldn't allow it.
"Let them watch," Alex said, his voice firm. "I'm not going to stop growing, no matter who's watching."