Embrace of the void

Michael spent an entire week at home acclimating to his new powers and advancing his techniques. With the Voltblade Fury technique, he had mastered the ability to encase his sword in destructive lightning, allowing him to unleash bolts of lightning at incredible speed. However, other techniques required deeper understanding and greater mana control.

In terms of the Desolation Barrage technique, he had progressed to summoning two spears of the same element. He attempted to diversify his elemental affinities but found his mana control insufficient for such endeavors.

Now, I need to visit Uncle Matt and inform him that I have successfully awakened my class. After a quick shower and a change of clothes, Michael set out. Uncle Matt's house was just two doors down, making them neighbors.

As he walked, Michael admired the street. Although this world was less developed than his previous one, the architectural style was far more enchanting. The street was beautiful, and people strolled by with cheerful expressions, contributing to a lively atmosphere despite the quietness of the neighborhood.

Upon reaching Uncle Matt's house, Michael noticed it was larger than his own, with two guards stationed outside the door. Uncle Matt hailed from a powerful family known as the Selverfangs, who were part of the influential Onyx Alliance. This affiliation deterred many families from targeting Michael; those who did still found it unwise to confront him directly, opting instead to search for treasures without causing harm. Others, however, resorted to attempts at kidnapping or bullying.

Michael approached the guards and requested to see Uncle Matt. One guard instructed him to wait while he went inside to check.

After a brief interval, the guard returned. "Mr. Matt isn't here, but Mrs. Nora would like to meet you."

Michael was curious. Wasn't Nora Uncle Matt's wife? What could she want with him? "Alright, I'll meet her."

The guard led him inside, where a servant awaited to escort him further.

"This way, please," said Julian, the housekeeper and head butler, a sharp-looking older man dressed in a neat servant's outfit. It was the first time Michael had encountered such attire in person; his own parents, despite their power, preferred privacy and never employed servants.

Julian guided Michael into a beautifully decorated room, clearly designed for receiving guests. Michael took a seat on the sofa, pondering what Uncle Matt's wife might want from him.

Shortly after, Mrs. Nora entered. She was stunning, appearing to be in her late twenties, with dark brown hair and striking green eyes. Michael recalled that in his previous world, he had lost his own mother during pregnancy; this world felt different in many ways.

Standing, he greeted her, "Hello, Mrs. Nora. It's an honor to meet you."

"Welcome, Michael. I hope you enjoy our home."

"It's wonderful," he replied.

"Julian, please bring us some tea, and let's have a chat," she requested.

"Of course, ma'am," Julian replied, departing.

"My husband informed me that you've successfully awakened," Mrs. Nora continued, her gaze fixed intently on him. "I can sense the mana radiating from you."

Michael was taken aback. "You can perceive that?"

"Yes, but you still lack control over your mana. Mastery is essential," she replied. "I, too, am already at the A+ rank, despite my appearance."

He was astonished by her strength. "Are you surprised that a woman like me possesses such power?"

"Not at all," he answered, still processing her words. "I understand that noble families typically require their young to reach at least the B rank before moving forward in life."

"Indeed, with the exception of family heirs, who must attain at least the A+ rank," she elaborated.

"Why is that?" he inquired, curiosity piqued.

"Primarily for self-protection," she explained. "Even among our own kind, conflicts are common—most often driven by competition for resources, treasures, or territorial control. Families urge their young to achieve the B rank to safeguard against assassinations and plots, ensuring a robust number of awakened individuals."

"Is this truly necessary, especially when we are already at war with demons and vampires?" Michael asked

"Why would they object?" she countered. "We have many traitors aligned with demons and vampires. These conflicts only exacerbate the issue."

"How do you think the demons and vampires were able to seize territory on the human continent? Betrayal and infighting have weakened us," she added.

"That's why the alliance of demons and vampires has never managed to conquer elven lands. Despite their many divisions, the elves have remained united, refusing to betray their race in the face of war."

Michael listened intently, absorbing every revelation.

"You may not realize it, but you've also been the target of numerous assassination attempts," she stated.

Michael's eyes widened in surprise. "Why would anyone want to harm me?"

"My husband has protected you from the assassins sent after you," she revealed.

"Is it because of my parents' wealth?"

"Not quite. While there are certainly greedy individuals, your parents' wealth alone isn't enough to warrant such risks. If it had been, even my husband would struggle to keep you safe."

It seemed Uncle Matt had kept the truth about the ring hidden from her, which was a relief for Michael. No one should know about it.

"Your parents made many enemies throughout their journeys," Nora continued. "Though they weren't nobles, they reached the sixth rank."

She explained the rank system: Ranks are categorized from F- to SSS, with those from F- to A+ considered within the bounds of human potential, each rank exhibiting distinct characteristics. Upon achieving Rank S, individuals transcend human limitations. At this stage, their bloodlines awaken, resulting in extended lifespans, the ability to fly, and a comprehension of laws that extend beyond mere elemental manipulation. This system pertains specifically to humans.

An individual at the peak of F-rank might have the ability to defeat someone at E-rank by effectively utilizing their class and connections. However, as one ascends the ranks, the disparity in power becomes increasingly apparent. It is nearly impossible for someone at the upper echelons of A-rank to defeat an S-rank opponent, and an individual at the peak of S-rank cannot defeat an experienced SS-rank opponent. This highlights the significant escalation in power and ability that accompanies the higher ranks, emphasizing the importance of continuous advancement in the ranking system.

"Your parents have exceeded those restrictions," she noted. "I even heard that your mother possessed a forbidden class, prompting the Emperor to list her as a potential threat to humanity, albeit without taking direct action against her. Even at rank S, your parents could compete with SS-rank awakened beings. Their immense reputation deterred trouble during their lifetimes, and after their deaths, some idiots dared to target you." Michael listened, his mind racing at the consequences.

"However, I must warn you," Nora continued, her tone turning serious. "My husband withheld this information from you, intending to share it once you reached rank B. But it is important that you understand: in my view, you pose a danger to us as well." Michael met her gaze calmly, taking in the weight of her words.