Kenji felt a rush of power unlike the volatile rush of the High-Rank Scrap. This was controlled, clean power.
[Sonic Disruptor]: A small, focused blast of pure, low-frequency sonic energy, capable of momentarily shattering low-rank defenses or destabilizing mid-rank elemental constructs. Cost: Minimal Core Energy.
He tested it immediately, firing a small, silent ripple at a collapsing piece of tunnel. The section, which should have shattered, simply vibrated apart, the damage contained and directed.
"You did it," Elara whispered, a hint of awe softening her severe expression. "You actually took scrap magic and forged a quantifiable, permanent skill."
Kenji looked at her, exhausted but energized. "It's small, but it's mine. And I wouldn't have done it without your control."
Before the moment could linger, the familiar blue interface flashed again, updating his path.
[RANK UP PATH ADVANCEMENT]
USER: KENJI TANAKA (RANK 2)
OBJECTIVE 3: RANK UP TO RANK 3 (LOW)
Requirement: Acquire one Epic Scrap (Fragment of specialized defense magic) and successfully utilize [Sonic Disruptor] to defeat a C-Rank Boss with high defensive resistance.
REWARD: Rank Up to Rank 3 (Low) & Second Permanent Skill Slot Unlock.
"An Epic Scrap…" Kenji murmured. He knew those were found only in established, heavily protected Rank B D-Hs. He was still only a Rank 2 Fledgling.
Elara was already calculating the logistics. "The nearest Rank B D-H with specialized defensive magic is the old Garrison Ruins. It's crawling with Geomancy Golems. I can get you access, but you'll need a team, not just Rio."
Before Kenji could accept, the tunnel entrance exploded.
A squad of armored Rankers, bearing the Obsidian Blackwood crest, poured in, led by a furious Damon Blackwood.
"There you are, Scrapsmith!" Damon roared, his Obsidian power already manifesting into sharp black spikes around him. "My father is furious! Your 'cleaning' of the industrial park destabilized a vital energy line! You've caused massive fines! You are under arrest!"
Kenji quickly pulled Elara behind him, a small, focused sonic ripple vibrating between his hands. He was outranked, outnumbered, and targeted by a powerful family, but now he had a plan, a partner (however grudging), and a permanent skill.
"Arrest me, Blackwood? I just ranked up and forged a weapon. Come and take it."