Right now, Ryuk didn't need anyone to inform him before he became aware that he was, no doubt, at the lowest plane of cultivation, the Plane of Origin.
But he also had questions of his own. He felt like there had to be some further distinction.
Surely everyone in the same cultivation plane cannot be equally as powerful as each other.
What separates the power levels of those present in the same cultivation stage, or is everyone in the same plane of existence just as strong as each other?
His answer was something that was present right on the next page.
Page 4: Cultivation Stages Within Each Plane
Even within a single plane, the strength of two cultivators will rarely be the same. Mastery over Apex Energy determines dominance, and this mastery is divided into stages.
Each plane is subdivided into three core stages:
1. Initial Stage: The beginning of mastery, where the cultivator has just entered the plane. Their energy is highly unstable, and their control over their skills is limited.
2. Core Stage: The cultivator refines their energy flow, enhancing control and efficiency. Power becomes stable and significantly potent.
3. Peak Stage: The cultivator reaches the limits of the plane, mastering its techniques and abilities. They stand ready to ascend to the next plane.
In rare cases, a cultivator may achieve perfection within a plane. This requires complete mastery, enabling them to rival those of the next plane.
---
Why Strength Differs Within the Same Plane
Several factors explain why cultivators differ in strength:
Talent and Affinity: Some individuals are naturally attuned to Apex Energy and progress faster.
Resources: Access to rare Apex materials and advanced techniques strengthens the energy foundation.
Experience: Practical combat experience hones technique and sharpens instincts, often making the difference between life and death.
Inner Realm or Domain Development: The quality and depth of a cultivator's Realm or Domain heavily influence their strength.
Willpower: The stronger the spirit, the greater the energy flow.
No matter the stage or plane, constant refinement and dedication separate the weak from the strong.
And like that, the Apex Codex finished.
Ryuk let out a loud exhale after finishing the book. He had just been exposed to things he had never known, and he was undoubtedly flabbergasted. But now, at least he knew exactly what was going on and very well had answers to what might come off as questions for him in the future.
"So now I'm at the Initial Stage of the Origin Plane..." Ryuk muttered as he unconsciously raised his head from the book, looking at his hands.
---
[To advance, Host will have to cultivate the given cultivation technique he had purchased and obtain his own Ice Apex Energy, familiarizing himself with its techniques. Once Host fully masters his ability, he will receive an increase in strength and progress to the next stage.]
[Also, if Host manages to absolutely master his acquired skill to its absolute maximum, the technique has a chance of evolving into something greater. This is what is referred to as the Perfection Stage,] the system further explained, and Ryuk nodded.
'Good.'
'Now I know where I need to go and what I need to do. All I need is patience and consistency, and I'll reach my goals,' Ryuk thought to himself, clenching his fists in his palms before releasing them and turning his attention to the next book on the table.
It was none other than the second book given to him by Duke Thalion, titled The 2nd Most Powerful Grade of Endearth.
Without wasting any more time, Ryuk opened to its first page.
---
Foreword:
To understand the intricate workings of Grade B is to glimpse into the ambitions, alliances, and power struggles that define one of Endearth's most legendary cities. Grade B is a realm of unmatched conception, where strength is a currency, and influence is the key to survival. This book serves as your guide to navigating this complex world.
The foreword was nothing short of adrenaline-inducing for Ryuk, and he swiftly turned to the next page of the book with focused eyes.
---
The Landscape of Grade B
Grade B, known as The City of Ascension, is a realm filled with races, each striving to reach the pinnacle of power. While Grade B lacks the unrestrained might of Grade A (the strongest grade of Endearth), it holds its own as a pillar of opportunity and peril.
This city is governed by a hierarchy of races, laws, and traditions.
At its heart are the Ten Hegemony Families, whose domination shapes Grade B's politics, economy, and warfare. Each family represents a powerful race, with their own territories, legacies, and ambitions.
Easily digesting the information, Ryuk moved on to the next page.
---
The Ten Hegemony Families
1. The Fallen Family (Fallen Angels)
Known for their mastery of both light and shadow, the Fallen Family is the epitome of elegance and destruction.
Their Fallen status imbues them with a unique mix of celestial grace and a hunger for power, making them one of the most dangerous families to cross.
They are the most enigmatic of the Ten Families, with most of their alliances shifting like the wind and their operations kept in absolute secrecy.
Their territory is known as the Eclipsed Citadel, a fortress of gothic spires and eternal twilight.
CAUTION NOTE: Unless one has an unavoidable fate with the Fallen Family, it would probably be in everyone's best interest to keep their nose out of their business as much as possible!
---
"Huuu..."
Ryuk's loud thumping chest finally regained a breath of calm after reading the message as he exhaled heavily.
The people who were to do him this favor were the Fallen Family.
A family of the Fallen Angel race.
Ryuk didn't have much idea what that race even was, but judging from just the description, he could feel their influence wasn't a world to take lightly.
The Caution Note wasn't helping him at all and only made his heart tighten even more.
"I just need to get their wish from me granted, and I'll have nothing to do with them."
"Just get in, get my card request accepted, and then get out just as quick."
"What could go wrong?"