Chapter 12: Breaking Through: Purges and Pulse

Tu tu tu...

I woke up to a pungent smell of rotten eggs. The smell hit my nose like a sledgehammer, obliterating any remnants of sleepiness. As I opened my eyes to see where the smell came from, I noticed a sticky feeling on my skin.

The sticky feeling added to my discomfort, and I felt a sense of dread as I pushed my blanket away with a little bit of force. There it was: a black oil-like substance causing that horrendous smell, which almost made my stomach turn.

Just to be cautious, I asked the Impartial Goddess, the 3D AI from chapter one, to look up similar results.

"Impartial Goddess, can you analyze this substance and find any similar cases?" I requested, trying not to gag from the stench.

The holographic form of the Impartial Goddess materialized before me, her serene expression unchanged.

"Analyzing substance... Please hold."

A beam of light scanned the black substance, and within moments, data began to scroll across a translucent screen.

"Substance analysis complete. Composition: primarily organic waste, toxins, and various impurities commonly found in the human body."

I frowned. "What does that mean? Has anyone else experienced this?"

The Impartial Goddess's eyes glowed briefly as she accessed additional data.

"Accessing historical and medical records... Matching cases found. Displaying results."

A series of images and reports appeared, showing individuals covered in similar black, oily substances.

"These cases are primarily documented in ancient cultivation practices and modern detoxification processes. The substance is often referred to as 'body impurities' or 'toxins' expelled during significant physical or spiritual breakthroughs typically found after the advancement of the Martial Master realm."

I nodded, intrigued. "Can you explain how these impurities are expelled?"

The Impartial Goddess's voice took on an instructive tone. "Certainly. During intense cultivation or detoxification, the body undergoes accelerated metabolic processes. These processes break down accumulated toxins and impurities within the body's cells.

When the internal energy reaches a certain threshold, these impurities are expelled through the skin, resulting in the black, oily substance observed. This phenomenon is usually observed after breakthroughs to the martial master realm."

"Can you show me the calculations or data that led to this conclusion?"

I asked, wanting to understand more deeply.

"Of course. Displaying calculation model."

A new screen appeared, filled with complex equations and data sets. The Impartial Goddess began to narrate: ....

The data was compelling. "So, this is a good sign, then? A sign of progress?"

The Impartial Goddess nodded.

"Correct. The expulsion of impurities indicates that your body is purging harmful substances, likely as a result of your recent advancements in cultivation. This process, though unpleasant, is beneficial for your overall health and future progress."

Feeling a bit more reassured, I nodded. "Thank you, Impartial Goddess. I guess I need a shower now."

"Recommended," she agreed, her form flickering out as I made my way to the bathroom, ready to cleanse myself of the remnants of my "breakthrough".

My Father Is amazing, updating the impartial Goddesses code and making her even better, just for our family. The Out of the Box version is not able to do what she does.

After a long, relaxing shower, where I noticed my clear skin, I felt refreshed and invigorated. I stepped out, wrapped a towel around my waist, and headed to my room to get dressed. As I reached for my clothes, the Impartial Goddess suddenly materialized right beside me, her holographic form startlingly close.

"Victor, urgent notice: your heartbeat is irregularly powerful. Caution is advised."

I jumped back, nearly losing my balance, my heart in my throat. "Goddess! You scared the life out of me! "

I needed a moment to compose myself, taking deep breaths to steady my nerves.

"Fuhh, What do you mean, 'irregularly powerful'?"

The Impartial Goddess's expression remained calm and composed.

"During your recent breakthrough, your heart rate increased significantly. Current readings indicate your heart is now beating with abnormal strength and irregular patterns."

"Where could It come from?" I thought, a chill creeping through my body.

"This could be a result of the energy influx from your cultivation with that fire seed."

I froze in fear, I forgot that the Impartial Goddess monitors my and Elaine's cultivation. " Did you say anything about the orbs or the seeds to my family?"

"No, your private things, are only used for creating advice in times of need. Not to be distributed without consent."

I sighed in relief at her foresight, "Thank You"

"You're welcome, rely on me more. I'm your biggest ally"

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "Let's get back on topic, Is this situation dangerous?"

"It is advisable to monitor your condition closely. Such irregularities can indicate potential complications. I recommend performing a series of diagnostic tests to ensure there are no underlying issues."

I nodded, my mind racing with concern.

"Alright, let's run those tests. What do I need to do?"

"Please sit down and remain calm," she instructed. "I will conduct the tests now."

I sat on the edge of my bed, my heart pounding with both anxiety and its newfound power, raging like a flame. The Impartial Goddess extended a beam of light over my chest, and I felt a tingling sensation as the diagnostics began.

After a few moments, the light faded, and the Impartial Goddess reviewed the results.

"Initial diagnostics complete. Your heart's increased power is likely a result of enhanced physical capabilities from your recent breakthroughs and a combination of the seeds. However, there are no immediate signs of damage or dysfunction."

I let out a sigh of relief. "So, I'm okay for now?"

"Correct, but continued monitoring is essential. If you experience any pain, dizziness, or other symptoms, seek immediate medical attention."

I nodded, feeling a mix of relief and lingering caution.

"Thank you, Impartial Goddess. I'll be careful."

"You're welcome, Victor. Remember, your health is paramount to your cultivation journey... and the peace of my heart."

" Did you say something?"

"Nothing to be concerned about Victor," She said before fading away.

After the Impartial Goddess's check-up, I finished getting dressed and made my way downstairs, eager to join my family for breakfast. The comforting aroma of pancakes and freshly brewed coffee filled the air as I entered the kitchen.

"Morning, Victor!" Elaine greeted cheerfully, already seated at the table.

My parents were busy preparing the last touches for breakfast. My mother, as usual, was humming a tune while flipping pancakes, and setting out fresh fruit and juice. My Father as usual set with his newspaper.

"Morning, everyone," I replied, taking a seat beside Elaine. The food looked as inviting as ever.

"Wow, Victor," Elaine said, leaning in closer to inspect my face. "Your skin looks amazing! Did you get a secret facial treatment or something?"

I blushed, remembering the black, oily substance that had covered me earlier. "Not exactly. I had a bit of a... medical situation last night," I explained vaguely.

"Oh, a medical situation, huh?" Elaine teased, a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, part of becoming stronger involves turning a sick mess and then emerging with baby-soft skin?"

My mother chuckled as she brought over a plate of steaming pancakes. "Sounds like quite the transformation, Victor. Are you feeling okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. The Impartial Goddess said it's just my body expelling impurities," I replied, trying to keep the explanation simple.

"Well, whatever it was, it's definitely working," Elaine said, poking my cheek playfully. "You're practically glowing."

I swatted her hand away, embarrassed. "Cut it out, Elaine."

My father at some point put away the newspaper and came to us at the table, a plate of pancakes in hand. "I'm glad to hear you are well, Victor. Just remember to take it easy and monitor any changes, alright?"

"Sure thing, Dad," I said, helping myself to a stack of pancakes. "The Impartial Goddess is keeping an eye on things."

Breakfast continued with pleasant conversation and the usual family banter. Elaine couldn't resist making a few more jokes about my "beauty routine," I took it in stride, enjoying the lightheartedness of the moment.

As we finished eating, Elaine leaned over and whispered, "Seriously, though, Victor, you do look different. Stronger. Just be careful, okay?"

I nodded, appreciating her concern despite the teasing. "I will, Elaine. Thanks."

With breakfast over, I made my way to school letting the wind carry my steps.