Let's level up (The power upgrade system)

06 Double Swords of Ice and Fire and The Inter-Realm Summoning System Mall

As the group approached the eerie entrance of the Goblin Forest Dungeon, Jimin could feel the electric energy buzzing in the air, mirroring the rising excitement around him. The flickering torches cast dancing shadows along the ancient stone walls, each step bringing an exhilarating rush as he considered the formidable challenges that awaited him inside—especially since he would be facing them alone.

"Hey, remember," Rayan said, turning to the group with a serious demeanor. "The key is to roll with the punches and learn from every encounter. We'll all come out stronger together."

"Absolutely," Jimin replied, taking a deep breath as he stared into the dark portal that led to another dimension. "We'll train hard and share what we learn, no matter what happens inside."

Layla flashed him a cheeky grin, her competitive spirit ablaze. "Just don't fall behind too much, Jimin. The Night Shadow Assassin thrives on stealth and cunning; you might want to pick up the pace!"

Ali lingered at the back, his gaze fixed on a nearby weapon rack, uncertainty flashing across his features. Despite being a Dual Lionheart Warrior, he felt the pressure weighing on him. "Let's get in there and take those goblins out! They won't know what hit them!" he declared, although his bravado failed to mask the tremor in his voice.

Jimin smiled, feeling a wave of camaraderie. "Right! But we need to be smart about it. It's not all about brute strength."

Rayan shifted his expression, seriousness returning as he pointed toward the ominous black portal. "Remember, this dungeon has multiple difficulty levels: Easy, Normal, Hard, Nightmare, and—" he paused dramatically, emphasizing his words, "Hell."

"Hell, huh?" Layla raised an eyebrow, leaning closer to Rayan, curious. "I've heard rumors about that level. They say no one has ever defeated it. What's the story with the Goblin Commander?"

Rayan ran a hand through his hair, recalling the chilling tales. "It's said to be a monster beyond imagination—a goblin commander leading a horde of a thousand goblins and a hundred elite soldiers. Only the best contenders make it that far, and most just give up before facing it. I'd love to see someone tackle it, but the rumors suggest it's nearly impossible."

"Impossible, huh?" Jimin's eyes sparkled with ambition. "Think I should aim for Hell, then?"

Rayan hesitated. "Hell would be an excellent test of your skills, but…"

"Come on, is everyone just scared?" Jimin teased, a playful hint of mischief in his eyes. "I've got to give it a shot! I'm an SSS grade talent with two Supreme Grade Summons ; it's time to prove myself!"

Layla chuckled, giving him a light nudge. "Just be careful—what if you accidentally stumble into Hell-level like a rookie? Confidence is great, but recklessness is another story."

Ali suddenly spoke with an edge in his voice, "You should try Hell, Jimin. You have the talent, right?"

Rayan shot him an inquisitive look. "You mean to throw caution to the wind? Doesn't that seem a bit reckless?"

Jimin frowned slightly, the competitive nature in Ali's tone registering. "If I'm going in, I might as well go big," he replied, attempting to deflect the tension. "What's the fun in just gliding through Nightmare?"

Ali's expression darkened slightly, cloaked in quiet envy. "Yeah, go for it. But just know everyone will talk about you if you fail. You might become another cautionary tale instead of the legend you're aiming to be."

Layla rolled her eyes but tried to smooth over the brewing tension. "You're not wrong, Ali, but Jimin has the skills. He deserves a chance to test himself. Just promise us, Jimin—don't be reckless."

Jimin could feel the undercurrent of Ali's resentment and nodded, determined. "Thanks, but fear won't hold me back. I want to see what I'm truly capable of! If I'm going for Hell, it means I either come back as a hero or… well, I don't come back at all."

Ali clenched his fists, a competitive spark igniting inside him, as he tried to shake off his feelings of inadequacy. "Just don't drag me down with you. If you make it, great—but I'll show everyone that I won't fade into the background either."

Rayan, sensing the tension dangling in the air, nodded as Layla added enthusiastically, "We'll support you through Nightmare, Jimin! Just promise—stay safe and don't get reckless!"

As they prepared to plunge into the unknown, Jimin's heart raced with mixed excitement and apprehension. He could feel Ali's intensity beside him, a reminder that this adventure was not just a test of strength but a fiercely competitive challenge.

Standing before the ancient stone archway of the Goblin Forest Dungeon, the air thick with tension, Jimin felt the weight of anticipation pressing down on him. Rayan, Layla, and Ali formed an encouraging circle, exchanging excited glances intertwined with nervous energy.

"Alright, who's going first?" Rayan asked, the eagerness in his tone unmistakable.

"I will!" Layla declared confidently, her competitive spirit electrifying the air. "I can't wait to show off the skills I've honed as a Night Shadow Assassin."

As she stepped into the entrance, the dark portal shimmered with an ethereal light, swirling around her. Jimin took pride in watching her disappear into the abyss. He turned to Rayan and Ali, who stood beside him, both wearing expressions of determination.

"Maybe I should go next," Rayan suggested. "I want to see how effectively I can integrate my combat style with my magic."

With a nod of agreement from Jimin, Rayan moved forward with resolve. "Good luck, Layla! Make sure to show those goblins who's in charge!" he called as he stepped into the darkness.

"And don't hold back, Rayan!" Jimin shouted after him, a mix of excitement and concern swirling in his chest.

Finally, Ali stood hesitatingly, as if torn between commitment and self-doubt. "Time to show everyone what a Dual Lionheart Warrior can achieve," he muttered, trying to muster his courage before stepping through the portal.

Jimin watched as his friends vanished into the dungeon. The moment was heavy with unspoken thoughts, and as the swirling light of the portal faded, a sense of emptiness enveloped him. He stood alone at the entrance for a moment, allowing himself to breathe deeply, adrenaline still coursing through his veins.

*Now it's my turn,* he thought, adjusting his posture. But just as he was about to step forward, a sudden realization struck him.

He wanted to check the Inter-Realm Summoning System and the rewards it had to offer. It wouldn't feel right diving into the dungeon without maximizing his potential with Latios and Latias. The weight of expectation clung to him, and he wanted to be fully prepared for whatever lay ahead.

"Perhaps I should take some time to adjust to my new abilities first," Jimin murmured to himself, glancing back at the entrance one last time before stepping back.

With resolute determination, he withdrew to a secluded corner nearby that provided a sense of privacy. 

"System, show me my Panel!"

With a soft chime, the captivating interface of the Abyssal System appeared in his mind, illuminated by radiant holographic displays.

"Welcome, Jimin Lightbringer! Here is your current status:"

[Name: Jimin Lightbringer] 

[Occupation: Summoner] 

[Level: Level 1, 0 transfers] 

[Strength: (10 + 10) x 2 = 40 ] 

[Physique: (10 + 15) x 2 = 50 ] 

[Agility: (10 + 20) x 2 = 60 ] 

[Intelligence: (30 + 15) x 2 = 90] 

[Weapon: Double Swords of Ice and Fire]

[Double Swords Weapon Mastery: Double Swords Grandmaster

**Description**:

The Double Swords Grandmaster is an esteemed mastery encompassing unparalleled techniques and combat prowess with dual-wielded swords. This mastery specializes in fluid movements, quick strikes, and devastating combos, allowing practitioners to confuse opponents and exploit weaknesses in their defenses. Those who reach this level of expertise can channel martial skill and energy manipulation, enhancing their attacks with elemental properties, augmenting both speed and power.

Key Abilities:

Blade Dance: A rapid series of strikes that confound enemies while dealing substantial damage. Elemental Infusion: Imbue swords with elemental properties (fire, ice, lightning) to amplify damage and produce unique effects upon impact. Dueling Stance: While in this stance, practitioners gain increased critical hit rates and reduced incoming damage. Twin Echo: Duplicate a sword skill immediately after executing it, creating a surprise attack that catches foes off guard. Master's Parry: A perfect block that counters enemy attacks, stunning them and leaving them open to follow-ups. Whirlwind Flash: Glide through enemies while executing a spinning attack that hits multiple foes, creating a whirlwind of blades.]

[Skills:

Summons: 01 -Supreme Grade Battle Beast: Latios. 02 -Supreme Grade Battle Beast: Latias]

[Talent: (SSS Grade Unique) The Heart of the Truest Summoner] 

- Effect 01: Raise the grade of your summons by one grade (upper limit is SSS Grade). 

- Effect 02: The number of your summons is doubled. 

- Effect 03: Your overall power and that of your summons increases by 100%. 

- Effect 04: Your recovery speed and that of your summons increases by 300%. 

- Effect 05: You can copy one skill of your summons to use yourself. 

- Effect 06: You gain 5% of the overall power of each of your summons.

"Everything looks incredible,"* Jimin thought, a rush of confidence flooding his senses. *"I just need to familiarize myself with my bonuses."*

"Now let's see how to best utilize Latios and Latias." Excitement surged within him at the thought of summoning his powerful allies.

"Latios and Latias, come out!"

With the words, vibrant portals re-emerged, twisting and swirling with brilliant light, signaling the arrival of his formidable companions. The air vibrated with energy, and soon, the ethereal forms of Latios and Latias manifested before him, their majestic wings spreading wide in the dim light around the dungeon entrance.

Jimin marveled at their radiant appearance as they settled beside him. "You two are astonishing!" he exclaimed, filled with awe. "Now, we must strategize how we will overcome any challenges that await us in the dungeon."

Latios tilted its head, emitting a low rumble as if to convey understanding. Latias brushed against him, a soft and warm energy pulsing through him that fortified their bond.

"Together, we can conquer anything. Let's review your skills," Jimin said, excitedly diving into this newfound alliance while checking the impressive attributes and capabilities of his summons.

The two Supreme Grade battle beasts surged with immense power. Their abilities would provide support, healing, and formidable attacks. He felt their strengths aligning perfectly with his Talent, each doubling their stats and propelling them to even greater heights.

*"I can't wait to put all of your abilities to use,"* he declared, excitement bubbling within him.

As he ran through the details of their skills, the confidence thrumming within him surged. They would not only face the dungeon ahead but exceed any expectations.

Suddenly, a realization struck him. He needed to duplicate a skill from them. "What skill should I copy?" he pondered, contemplating the scrolling abilities displayed within his line of sight.

Finally, he chose! "I'll gain Heal Pulse and Dragon Breath! Those could be invaluable for both my summons and me during battles."

[Ding! Congratulations! You have copied the skill: Heal Pulse. This allows you to emit a healing pulse that restores vitality.]

[Ding! Congratulations! You have copied the skill: Dragon Breath. This allows you to emit a powerful gust that inflicts damage and may cause paralysis.]

"Amazing! This will change the game!" he exclaimed, bursting with enthusiasm as the promise of their combined abilities danced within reach.

Taking a deep breath to calm his exhilaration, he reached out towards Latios and Latias, recognizing that their connection was not merely that of partners; they were allies woven together by trust and fate.

Next, Jimin retrieved the Double Swords of Ice and Fire from his inventory.

"System, show me the panel for The Double Swords of Ice and Fire!"

[Growth Weapons: Double Swords of Ice and Fire.

Description Panel

Name: Double Swords of Ice and Fire 

Type: Growth Weapon 

Classification: Legendary 

Current Level: 1 

Status: Excellent condition

Description:

Forged in the ancient crucible of elemental magic, the Double Swords of Ice and Fire are exquisite twin blades that embody the essence of both ice and fire. Crafted by a legendary blacksmith, these swords amplify the wielder's abilities, allowing seamless integration of elemental magic and combat prowess. Each sword radiates with dual hues—one glowing frosty blue, the other igniting with a fiery crimson light.

---

Abilities:

Elemental Fusion:

 Each strike unleashes a wave of elemental energy, shifting seamlessly between ice and fire. This elemental damage has the potential to freeze enemies in place or engulf them in flames.

Dual Strike:

 The wielder can deliver rapid attacks with both swords, each slash increasing in intensity for up to three consecutive hits, maximizing damage output.

Elemental Adaptation:

 The swords automatically shift their elemental properties based on the user's requirements during combat. After a successful hit, the user can opt to switch between ice techniques (slowing enemies) or fire-based attacks (causing burn damage over time).

Frostfire Enchantment: 

 The swords imbue a unique Frostfire ability into the wielder's attacks, granting a chance to deal both ice and fire damage simultaneously, inflicting both freeze and burn effects on hit (10% of total damage).

---

Growth Mechanism:

As Jimin levels up, the Double Swords of Ice and Fire will grow in strength, elevating their damage output and unlocking new abilities. Each level up provides the following enhancements:

- Level 10:

 - Damage Increase: Base damage increases by 20%.

 - Special Skill Unlocked: Frostfire Blade - Release a devastating wave of frost and flame, dealing area damage and potentially applying freeze or burn to all enemies struck.

- Level 20:

 - Damage Increase: Base damage increases by 30%.

 - Special Skill Unlocked: Glacial Inferno - Engulfs an area, dealing ice and fire damage while slowing or igniting enemies for 5 seconds.

- Level 30:

 - Damage Increase: Base damage increases by 40%.

 - Special Skill Unlocked: Elemental Storm - Summon a swirling storm of ice and fire around the user, enhancing attack speed by 50% and inflicting explosive elemental damage with each strike for a duration.

- Level 40:

 - Damage Increase: Base damage increases by 50%.

 - Ultimate Skill Unlocked: Eternal Blaze and Frozen Embrace - Channel the combined elemental powers of the swords, doubling damage output for a brief period and applying both freeze and burn effects on every hit.]

---

"Fantastic! These Double Swords of Ice and Fire not only serve as pure power but as an extension of my growth as a Summoner. Their integration of elemental damage and evolving capabilities will encourage creative combat strategies, enhancing my strength and the dynamics of our team. Each level brings me closer to mastery while solidifying the bond between me and my summons, empowering us during upcoming battles." He paused, ready to explore how the Inter-Realm Summoning System would aid his journey.

[Inter-Realm Summoning System Panel]

[System Overview: The Inter-Realm Summoning System provides access to a vast array of resources for aspiring summoners, enabling users to call upon powerful allies, acquire equipment, learn skills, and obtain consumables to assist in battles and exploration.

Mall Categories

Point Section: 

Current points: 0

Summoning Cards Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Wisp [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: Forest Guardian [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Flame Sprite [10 000 points] 

…

Equipment Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Wooden Staff [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: Steel Gauntlets [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Twin Blades of the Elemental Furies [10 000 points] 

…

Skills Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Basic Slash [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: Swift Strikes [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Elemental Mastery [10 000 points] 

…

Potions Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Refreshing Water [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: Elixir of Fortitude [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Potion of Speed [10 000 points] 

…

Materials Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Moon Flower [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: Black Iron Ore [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Elemental Essence [10 000 points] 

…

Treasures Chest Mall (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade SSS: Treasures Chest [100 000 points] [One free Treasures Chest available weekly]

 - Description: A shimmering chest that conceals hidden power.

 - Effect: Open it to potentially unlock a random item or receive a Summoning Card.

…

The Bazaar (Grade F to SSS)

- Grade F: Trinket of Whispers [1 000 points] 

…

- Grade E: 'Adventurer's Wrap' [5 000 points] 

…

- Grade D: Enchanted Lantern [10 000 points] 

…]

Jimin was relieved by the vast number of opportunities that presented themselves to him. He felt like he had discovered a treasure map leading to endless potential.

*I need points to purchase the equipment and skills I want,* he thought, biting his lip in determination. *These items can make me stronger and help me face any challenge that arises.*

He scanned the interface again, examining the various categories within the System Mall. *This is incredible—a world of items and allies at my disposal!*

"Current points: 0…" Jimin murmured to himself, feeling a brief pang of disappointment. *The first step is to defeat monsters and gather points. The Goblin Forest Dungeon is the ideal starting point!*

Visions of opportunities danced in his mind. Defeating monsters would yield experience while also translating into valuable points that could be spent on all sorts of items. *More summons, better weapons, new skills—everything to aid my growth!*

His attention drifted back to the skills on offer in the System Mall. There were so many enticing choices: skills to enhance his combat effectiveness, survivability, and even entirely new abilities that could amplify his potential. Earning points would be essential for his progress.

*To realize my ultimate goal… I must tackle the hardest challenges.* The thought of facing Hell-level monsters ignited a thrill of excitement within him. Battling those creatures would not only hone his skills but would solidify his legacy as a true champion.

*Imagine if I could conquer the Hell difficulty.*

With passion surging through him, he clenched his fists, resolute. *I will eradicate every monster within that dungeon! I won't stop until I reach the pinnacle!*

His mind raced with strategies for the challenges ahead. The thrill of defeating each adversary filled him with anticipation—their points flooding into his system like a waterfall, flowing beneath the weight of his unstoppable drive.

He envisioned utilizing every trick at his disposal, employing newly acquired skills, and forging a powerful bond with Latios and Latias. The exhilarating prospect of unleashing his unique talents alongside his summons electrified him!

But a thought interrupted his excitement. It wouldn't simply be about battling run-of-the-mill foes; he would be facing formidable enemies. *I need to prepare myself mentally and physically. No distractions; this is a serious mission.*

Taking a deep breath, he clutched the Double Swords of Ice and Fire to his chest. The mystical glow of icy blue and fiery crimson radiating from the blades filled him with resolve. *Together, we won't back down from anything!*

Pacing back and forth, his thoughts crystallized. erasing any lingering fears from his mind, he fixed his gaze toward the dungeon entrance. *I need strategy for everything I do within. This is a fight for survival, and I can't let my confidence turn into overestimation.*

He turned back to the Summoning System, replaying every detail again. The treasures within his reach! The legendary equipment and skills just awaiting his discovery! *This is the beginning of something incredible. Earning points will not only assist in my survival but also help me evolve into a master tactician!*

"Absolutely! Conquer every level, collect points, grow stronger!" he exclaimed out loud, affirming his strategy with enthusiasm. His voice echoed against the walls, reinforcing his confidence.

The call of Hell difficulty beckoned him—a relentless allure promising immense challenge and glory. Images of fierce monsters lurking within that level filled his mind with an intoxicating mix of pain and triumph.

*I must focus on refining my skills and strategies,* he thought. *With every point earned, I'll climb closer to ultimate power. Conquering Hell is my objective!*

His eyes sparkled with determination as his expression set into one of fierce resolve. Confidence surged within him, igniting his spirit like a roaring flame. "I'm going to show everyone just what an SSS Grade Talent can achieve!"

Strength isn't defined solely by raw power, but also by tenacity, courage, and the determination to face what others fear. He would become a beacon among friends, inspiring them while reaching for new heights.

With renewed vigor, Jimin approached the dungeon entrance, each calculated step fueled by purpose. The portal loomed like a gaping maw of uncharted potential. It was time to embark on his journey into the Goblin Forest Dungeon, prepared to battle monsters, earn points, and ultimately carve a path toward conquering Hell.

*Let's go!* he thought fervently, ready for whatever awaited him within those walls. Adventure beckoned. The promise of victory shimmered ahead, and he couldn't wait to seize it all!