Chapter 11: Breakthrough to Bronze Knight
The days in seclusion passed like a blur for Edwin. His decision to focus entirely on his training and development in the workshop proved fruitful. For eight days, he lived in a strict routine of rigorous physical training, aura cultivation, and strategic planning. The food and water he had stockpiled sustained him, and the solitude gave him the peace he needed to concentrate.
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Edwin began each day early, waking up before dawn. He descended into the workshop basement, where his AI-assisted equipment and mechanical robots stood ready to assist. The basement, with its advanced medieval-meets-modern design, had become his sanctuary. It was outfitted with solar-powered lights, reinforced walls, and cutting-edge equipment that made it feel like a fortress.
He would start with the knight breathing technique, modified by the AI for maximum efficiency. His routine involved hours of precise, deliberate movements to refine his aura control and physical strength. The technique, originally limited to the Silver Knight rank, now had the potential to push him far beyond thanks to the AI's optimizations.
"Maintain your rhythm," the AI's voice would occasionally remind him as he trained. "Efficient energy circulation will ensure faster progress."
Edwin's swordsmanship training followed his breathing exercises. Each swing of his blade echoed through the spacious basement, his strikes growing sharper, faster, and more powerful with each repetition. Sweat poured down his face as he pushed his limits, refusing to relent even when exhaustion threatened to overtake him.
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By the fourth day, Edwin noticed significant changes. His body, once lean and unremarkable, began to transform. His muscles grew more defined, his reflexes sharper, and his stamina nearly doubled. Even his aura became more vibrant, radiating with newfound strength.
On the fifth day, He broke through late stage of iron ranked knight, Edwin started incorporating combat simulations into his training. Using holographic projections generated by the AI, he fought against virtual opponents. These simulations pushed him to adapt and refine his techniques, simulating battles with opponents ranging from Iron Knights to low-tier Bronze Knights.
"These simulations are surprisingly helpful," Edwin remarked after a particularly challenging session. "It's like fighting real opponents without the risk of injury."
"Your progress is commendable," the AI replied. "You are nearing the threshold for a Bronze Knight breakthrough. Maintain this pace."
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On the eighth day, Edwin was already pinnacle of iron knight, He felt a noticeable shift in his aura during his morning meditation. It was subtle at first, a faint stirring deep within his core. But as he focused, the energy grew stronger, surging through his body like a powerful tide. Edwin opened his eyes, his breathing steady but heavy.
"Is this it?" he muttered, standing up. The sword in his hand felt lighter, and his movements carried a newfound fluidity.
The AI's voice confirmed his suspicion. "You are on the verge of breaking through to Bronze Knight. Proceed with the next phase of training to complete the process."
Edwin nodded and began an intense series of sword forms, channeling his aura into each strike. His movements were faster and more precise than ever before, the room filled with the hum of energy as his aura expanded. Hours passed as he poured every ounce of his focus into the breakthrough, the boundary between Iron and Bronze Knight seeming closer with each passing moment.
Finally, as the sun dipped below the horizon, a surge of energy erupted within him. Edwin dropped to one knee, his body trembling as his aura solidified and stabilized. A wave of power coursed through him, and he exhaled sharply, a triumphant smile spreading across his face.
"Congratulations, Master Edwin," the AI announced. "You have successfully ascended to Bronze Knight rank."
Edwin stood, his gray eyes gleaming with determination. He clenched his fists, marveling at the strength coursing through his veins.
Weekly Power Status
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Ranking 
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stone