Chapter 4: The Rise of the Outlier

Derek was sitting on the brink of a cliff, gazing down at the wide-open space below, as the sun had just started to set, turning the sky a vibrant pink and orange. Derek has seen significant changes in the globe since the golden light's arrival. It had been an arduous road, full with obstacles and epiphanies that had driven him to the limit. But in the middle of the confusion, one thing had become obvious: his path was unique.

In the weeks that followed his meeting with Lila, Derek's viewpoint changed. He was no longer interested in dominance for the sake of power. The meaningless quest of strength had given way to a desire to lead, protect, and encourage everyone around him. This was his real purpose.

As he went on as Derek trained and developed his skills, he learned something amazing about his System of Ultimate Potential. Derek's system was special because it could bring out the best in people, unlike previous systems that were just concerned with improving the individual. He had the ability to coach and guide them, and by doing so, he might increase the extent of their powers.

Derek was apprehensive to use this power at first. Why would he voluntarily assist others in becoming stronger in a society where everyone was trying to outdo each other? However, Lila's words continued to ring in his ears, reminding him of the value of relationships, trust, and the ties that provide the basis of real power.

Derek once strolled through a small town's busy streets one evening, he saw several kids having trouble maintaining control over their newfound powers. A female with telekinesis sent a market booth flying across the plaza, and a boy with fire power unintentionally lit a tree on fire. The town's terrified residents were attempting to control the tumultuous scenario.

Derek intervened right away. He approached the kids with composure, exuding a powerful yet compassionate demeanor. Derek knelt next to the burning youngster and put his hand on his shoulder.

Softly, Derek murmured, "Focus." "Take charge of the fire, don't allow it control you."

With terrified eyes, the youngster glanced up at Derek, yet he paid attention. The flames eventually subsided under Derek's direction, leaving behind merely a blackened tree trunk. Derek immediately pivoted to face the girl, still shaking from the surprise of her own abilities. He gave her some encouragement and she was able to regain control, carefully placing the stall back on the ground with his aid.

The villagers were in amazement as they watched, their dread giving way to appreciation and thankfulness. Derek was a kind person who was prepared to support others in their ascent, not just another farmer looking to establish his own value.

As more people learned about Derek's acts, more people started looking for him. While some were having trouble using their abilities, others were lost in the competitive sea and didn't know how to make a name for themselves in this strange new environment. Derek greeted them all, taught them, and used his method to maximize their potential not just how to develop their skills but also how to apply them effectively.

Derek's reputation increased with time. He earned the moniker "Outlier" for choosing an alternative course during the period of widespread cultivation. Derek concentrated on bringing people together, while others sought to outperform their colleagues. Under his leadership, his formerly dispersed and insecure followers started to become more devoted. Their steadfast allegiance to Derek and their combined strength made them a formidable force, rather than any individual's ability to succeed.

A few well-known figures joined Derek, including Kai, the brazen swordsman, and Emma, the healer with the golden heart. Derek had captivated them not only with his physical prowess but also with the way he recognized promise in everyone, the way he motivated others. Derek's group developed into a close-knit family with them by his side, with each member lending their special skills to the group as a whole.

Derek's crew faced obstacles no one else dared confront as they journeyed from town to town. They unearthed old knowledge lost in the confusion of the new world, defended the helpless, and arbitrated conflicts between opposing groups. With every triumph, their camaraderie grew stronger and they became a more cohesive team.

Derek, nevertheless, was aware that their adventure was far from ended. There were still dangerous people in the world who would stop at nothing to get power. There were evil powers at work, and a powerful a confrontation that would put all Derek and his friends had constructed to the test was approaching.

Derek was no longer terrified, though. He had discovered his calling and his genuine path, and he was confident that he and the people he loved could get through any challenge together.

Derek stood at the brink of the cliff, his heart full with resolution as the sun began to set. The Outlier's ascent was far from over, and he was prepared for whatever lied ahead.