Ling stood in the bustling training hall, surrounded by other newly awakened individuals, each eager to explore their newfound abilities. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation, but Ling felt a knot of anxiety tightening in his stomach. He had awakened the "Infinite Ascension System," a power that promised great potential, but he had no idea how to wield it effectively.
"Okay, everyone, gather around!" Professor Armitage called out, his voice cutting through the chatter. "Today marks the beginning of your training. We will help you harness your abilities and learn how to use them responsibly."
Ling joined the group as they gathered closer to Armitage. He could see various individuals displaying their powers—some conjured flames at their fingertips, while others demonstrated enhanced strength by lifting heavy objects effortlessly. The diversity of talents on display was awe-inspiring, but it also made Ling acutely aware of his own uncertainty.
"First, we'll begin with basic exercises to help you understand your abilities," Armitage explained. "For those with combat-oriented powers, we'll focus on control and precision. For those like Ling, who possess unique systems, we'll explore how to absorb and utilize traits effectively."
Ling felt a surge of adrenaline at the mention of his name. He was eager to learn how to tap into his power but also nervous about the responsibility that came with it.
"Let's start with a simple exercise," Armitage instructed. "I want each of you to visualize your power and focus on channeling it outward."
Ling closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to calm the whirlwind of thoughts racing through his mind. He envisioned the warm energy that had enveloped him during his awakening—the light that had surged from within him.
As he concentrated, he felt that warmth begin to rise again from the base of his skull. It spread through his body like a gentle wave, filling him with confidence. He opened his eyes and extended his hands before him.
"Now!" Armitage encouraged. "Release that energy!"
Ling focused intently, imagining the energy flowing from him like a stream of light. To his astonishment, a faint glow began to emanate from his palms—a soft radiance that pulsed in rhythm with his heartbeat.
"Good! Keep it steady!" Armitage praised as he observed Ling's progress.
Encouraged by the professor's words, Ling concentrated harder, willing the light to grow brighter. The glow intensified until it became a brilliant orb hovering between his hands. He felt exhilarated—this was just the beginning!
Suddenly, he sensed movement beside him. Ling glanced over to see Kai Zhang practicing nearby. Kai had awakened an A-rank talent that enhanced his physical abilities, and he was currently engaged in an intense training session.
With a swift motion, Kai launched himself into the air, performing an impressive flip before landing gracefully on his feet. The crowd around him erupted into cheers.
"Show-off," Ling muttered under his breath but couldn't help feeling impressed.
As Kai basked in the attention, he caught Ling's eye and grinned. "Hey! You're glowing over there! What's your secret?"
Ling chuckled nervously. "Just trying to figure things out."
"Let me know when you're ready for a real challenge," Kai said with a wink before returning to his training.
Ling shook his head with a smile but felt a flicker of determination ignite within him. He would prove himself—not just to Kai but to everyone who doubted him.
As training continued throughout the day, Ling learned more about controlling and amplifying his powers. He practiced absorbing energy from various objects around him—rocks, pieces of metal—each time feeling an exhilarating rush as he tapped into their essence.
After hours of training and demonstrations from fellow awakened individuals, Professor Armitage called for everyone's attention once more.
"Now that you've had some practice," he said, "we will move on to more advanced techniques tomorrow. For today, I want each of you to reflect on what you've learned and how you can use your abilities for good."
Ling stood in awe as he stared at the glowing blue screen hovering before him. The words [Infinite Ascension System Activated] pulsed faintly at the top.
He reached out instinctively, and as if responding to his intent, new tabs appeared on the screen: [Stats], [Skills], [XP Progression], [Absorption Log].
"This is incredible," Ling murmured as he scrolled through each section.
Under [Stats], he saw basic attributes like Strength (10), Agility (12), Intelligence (15), and an intriguing category labeled [Potential: Infinite].
The [Skills] tab was empty except for one entry: [Light Burst – Level 1].
"So this tracks everything about me?" Ling asked aloud.
"Not just tracks," Professor Armitage interjected from across the room. "Your system will evolve with you. It adapts based on your actions, decisions, and how you use your powers."
Ling nodded thoughtfully as he absorbed Armitage's words. He realized that this journey wasn't just about gaining power; it was about understanding its purpose and responsibility.
As the day came to an end and everyone began to disperse, Mei Lin approached Ling with an excited grin on her face.
"How did it go?" she asked eagerly.
"I think I'm starting to get the hang of it," Ling replied, feeling a sense of pride swell within him. "I managed to create this light orb!"
Mei Lin's eyes sparkled as she reached out to touch the faint glow still lingering around Ling's hands. "That's amazing! I can't wait to see what else you can do!"
They walked together toward the exit of the training hall when suddenly they were interrupted by a loud commotion coming from outside.
"What's happening?" Mei Lin asked as they hurried outside to investigate.
A crowd had gathered near one of the main gates leading out of their temporary headquarters. Ling felt a sense of unease wash over him as he pushed through the throng of people alongside Mei Lin.
When they reached the front, they were met with a shocking sight—a group of monstrous creatures had emerged from one of the newly opened dimensional gates! They were grotesque beings with twisted limbs and glowing eyes that sent shivers down Ling's spine.
Panic spread through the crowd as people began shouting and scrambling for safety. Ling's heart raced as he realized this was no ordinary training day; this was their first real test against the monsters they had only heard about in whispers.
"Stay back!" Professor Armitage shouted as he stepped forward, trying to maintain order amidst the chaos. "We need everyone who is awakened to form a line! Prepare for battle!"
Ling felt adrenaline surge through him; this was what he had been training for! He turned to Mei Lin, determination etched on his face.
"We have to help!" he declared.
Mei Lin nodded resolutely. "Together!"
As they joined their fellow awakened individuals in preparation for battle against these monstrous threats, Ling knew this was just the beginning of their journey—a journey filled with challenges that would test not only their powers but also their resolve and courage in protecting those they loved.