Chapter 5: Into the Secret Realm
The moment Alex stepped into the secret realm, he felt an otherworldly serenity wash over him. The realm was breathtaking—a vast expanse of radiant greenery, crystalline rivers that sparkled like molten silver, and skies painted with hues of purple and gold. Strange plants glowed softly, exuding faint spiritual energy. The air was rich, humming with power, and Alex could feel the difference in his very bones.
Opening his system interface, Alex checked his stats:
[Name: Alex Johnson
Realm: F5 (Infinite Physique)
Stats:
STR - 8100
DEX - 8100
DEF - 8100
MP - Infinite]
He smirked. It had only been a month since the world awakened, and he had already reached F5—a realm that even geniuses took years to achieve. His Infinite Modus Operandi had made it possible. While others painstakingly gathered spiritual energy to expand their cores, Alex's system effortlessly generated infinite energy, bypassing every limitation.
Closing the interface, Alex began wandering the realm aimlessly, marveling at its beauty. The flora and fauna were unlike anything he had ever seen. Vibrant flowers emitted melodious hums, and small spirit beasts darted about, their auras hinting at latent power.
His tranquil stroll was interrupted by a rustling in the bushes ahead. A massive lion-like beast emerged, its fur shimmering like molten gold and its eyes burning with a crimson glow.
"System, scan it," Alex commanded mentally.
The interface materialized in his mind's eye.
Name: Golden Mane Lion
Realm: F2
Stats: STR - 250, DEX - 150, DEF -200
"An F2 beast? That's not even a warm-up," Alex said, his voice calm but tinged with amusement.
The lion roared, pouncing at Alex with terrifying speed. But before its claws could even graze him, Alex clenched his fist and delivered a single punch. The air rippled with the force of his strike. The lion's massive body was hurled backward, slamming into a tree and crumpling to the ground, lifeless.
"Too easy," Alex muttered, dusting off his hands.
Over the next few hours, Alex encountered more beasts—some stronger, some weaker. Wolves, serpents, and even an eagle with razor-sharp wings. But none posed a challenge. Every fight ended in a single, decisive blow.
As Alex ventured deeper into the realm, the environment began to change. The vibrant greenery gave way to a darker, more ominous forest. The air grew thicker, saturated with an oppressive energy that would have made lesser beings falter. But Alex pressed on, his determination unshaken.
Suddenly, voices echoed through the trees. Alex approached cautiously, keeping to the shadows. A clearing came into view, where a heated confrontation was taking place.
On one side stood Max, Alex's best friend, his body bruised but his stance resolute. Opposite him was a group of geniuses from another country. At their center was a young man with an air of arrogance, his aura radiating the power of F2 but almost F3.
Between them lay a radiant fruit glowing with a golden light.
"That Spirit Core Fruit belongs to us!" the arrogant genius declared. "You're not even from a powerful country. Hand it over before you regret it."
Max wiped blood from his lips and tightened his grip on his weapon. "I found it first. If you want it, come and take it."
The tension was palpable. Alex decided it was time to step in. He strode into the clearing, his calm but commanding presence immediately drawing everyone's attention.
"Alex!" Max exclaimed, relief washing over his face.
The arrogant genius frowned. "And who might you be?"
"Just someone who doesn't like bullies," Alex replied, his voice even.
The genius sneered. "Do you have any idea who I am? I'm Lucas of the Silver Talon Nation. I'm F2 pinnacle and will reach F3 soon. You think you can stand against me?"
Alex chuckled softly. "System, scan him."
Name: Lucas
Realm: F2
Stats: STR - 270, DEX - 200, DEF - 28০০0
"Not bad," Alex said, stepping forward. "But not enough."
Before Lucas could react, Alex vanished from his spot, reappearing inches away from him. He delivered a light tap on Lucas's chest—light for Alex, but devastating for the genius. Lucas was sent flying, crashing into a tree and slumping to the ground, unconscious.
The other geniuses paled, retreating without a word.
"Cowards," Alex muttered, shaking his head. He turned to Max. "You alright?"
Max nodded, a grin spreading across his face. "Thanks to you."
Alex picked up the Spirit Core Fruit and handed it to Max.
"Here. This will help you expand your core."
Max's eyes widened. "But what about you?"
"I don't need it," Alex said with a smile. "My system works differently. You're my friend, Max. You deserve this."
Max hesitated for a moment before accepting it. "Thanks, Alex. I owe you one."
With the conflict resolved, the two friends ventured deeper into the realm together. Along the way, they encountered more treasures—rare herbs, glowing crystals, and even a strange flower that emitted a soothing melody. But the most valuable find was a Space Ring, hidden in a small, dilapidated temple.
Alex examined the ring closely. It was an unassuming silver band, but his system confirmed its incredible value.
Item: Space Ring
Description: Contains a dimensional storage space of 100 cubic meters.
"This will come in handy," Alex said, slipping the ring onto his finger.
As they delved further into the realm, the journey became more perilous. The beasts grew stronger, and the terrain became increasingly treacherous. Yet, Alex was unfazed. For him, this was more than just an adventure—it was a chance to chase a dream he had harbored for years.
"I've always wanted to be a swordsman," Alex confessed to Max as they rested by a stream. "Reading all those fantasy novels back in the day… it was all I ever wanted. But life didn't give me the chance. Now, with this power, I can finally make it happen."
Max laughed. "You? A swordsman? I always pictured you as more of a brawler."
Alex grinned. "Just wait. Once I find that sword, I'll show you."
The two shared a laugh before pressing on. But Alex's resolve was clear. In the deepest part of the realm, a legendary sword awaited him—one that would mark the beginning of his journey as the Ruler of Infinity.