The week leading up to the coming-of-age ceremony was a whirlwind of frantic learning. Lin Hao, aided by the System Interface, devoured every scroll and book he could find on cultivation, gene mutations, and the history of the Crimson Dynasty. He discovered that this world, while technologically advanced in some ways, was ruled by a rigid hierarchy. Nobles, like his father, held dominion over vast territories, their power derived from their mutated genes and their ability to cultivate cosmic energy. Below them were commoners, many of whom were enslaved or indentured. And at the very bottom were the "Unchosen," those without mutated genes, often relegated to the most menial tasks.
The Crimson Dynasty was a complex tapestry woven with threads of ancient traditions, futuristic technology, and the ever-present threat of monstrous beasts and transmigrated creatures from other realms. These creatures, empowered by the same cosmic energy that fueled human cultivation, roamed the wilderness, posing a constant danger to civilization.
Lin Hao diligently practiced the Breath of the Cosmos, feeling the faint stirrings of power within him. His Cosmic Spark gene was slowly awakening, inching closer to full activation. The System Interface constantly provided updates, tracking his progress and rewarding him with experience points for even the smallest advancements.
Finally, the day of the ceremony arrived. The courtyard of the Baron's estate was packed with nobles, officials, and commoners. A raised platform had been erected, where Lin Hao would demonstrate his abilities. He stood nervously, dressed in ornate robes, facing his father and the assembled crowd.
Baron Zheng stepped forward. "Today, my son, Lin Hao, will prove his worthiness to inherit the Barony. Let us witness the power of the Zheng bloodline!"
Lin Hao took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart. He stepped onto the platform. The System Interface shimmered before him.
[Lin Hao]
[Level: 1 - Mortal Vessel]
[Gene: Cosmic Spark (Awakening: 5%)]
[Skills: Breath of the Cosmos (Proficient)]
[Cultivation Technique: None]
[Golden Finger: System Interface (Active)]
He had managed to increase his gene awakening to 5% through diligent practice. It wasn't much, but it was enough. He closed his eyes and focused on the Breath of the Cosmos. He circulated the energy within him, feeling a warm tingling sensation spreading through his body. He then focused his intent on a nearby stone, willing it to move.
A collective gasp rippled through the crowd. The stone, small and insignificant, levitated a few inches off the ground. It wasn't much, but it was enough to prove that Lin Hao possessed some aptitude for cultivation.
Baron Zheng nodded, a flicker of approval in his eyes. "Well done, Lin Hao. You have shown promise."
The crowd murmured. Some were impressed, others were skeptical. Lin Hao knew that this was just the beginning. He had barely scratched the surface of his potential.
After the ceremony, Baron Zheng summoned Lin Hao to his private chambers. "Your performance was… adequate," he said, his tone still gruff. "But it is clear you have much to learn. I have arranged for you to train with Master Zhao, a renowned cultivator, at the Azure Cloud Sect."
The Azure Cloud Sect! It was one of the most prestigious cultivation sects in the realm. Lin Hao's heart leaped with excitement. This was his chance to truly unlock the power of his Cosmic Spark gene and ascend to new heights.
"Thank you, Father," he said, bowing.
Baron Zheng nodded. "The Azure Cloud Sect is a harsh environment. Only the strong survive. Do not disappoint me, Lin Hao."
Lin Hao met his father's gaze, his eyes filled with determination. "I will not," he vowed.
As he left his father's chambers, Lin Hao knew that his life was about to change dramatically.