The morning sun cast long shadows across the training grounds, but Ash preferred the quiet corners of the sect. Most disciples were already sparring or practicing their Qi control, but Ash's focus lay elsewhere.
He squatted beside a small patch of wildflowers near the orchard's edge, eyes closed as his system hummed softly.
Skill Panel Active: "Scented Step" (Current Level: Moderate)New Experiment: Infuse "Scented Step" with "Rooted Calm" — a skill to slow heartbeats and sharpen senses.Predicted Effect: Improved reaction time, longer stealth duration.Risk: Over-calming could cause sluggishness if improperly balanced.
Trial and Error
Ash inhaled deeply, mentally layering the calming effect over his existing skill. His breath slowed, heartbeat settling into a rhythmic pulse.
Sensory Input: Heightened auditory and olfactory senses detected.Physical State: Slight heaviness in limbs, manageable.Stability: 75%
He opened his eyes and took a cautious step forward. The scent veil expanded softly around him, blending perfectly with the earth and air.
Suddenly, a twig snapped nearby.
Ash froze instinctively, heart pounding — but the calm skill steadied him.
He smiled quietly. "Balance… that's the key."
A Familiar Voice
"Hey Ash! Trying to disappear on me again?" Mei's teasing voice broke the stillness.
Ash turned to see her leaning casually against a tree, a playful smirk on her face.
"Just testing some new ideas," he said, shrugging. "This skill's like a plant — it needs time to grow, and the right conditions."
Mei nodded thoughtfully. "You and your farming analogies."
Sharing Knowledge
Later, over a simple meal of steamed vegetables and wild herbs, Ash and Mei exchanged stories of their progress.
She admitted struggling to improve her "Flame Whip" skill, noting its tendency to burn out quickly during extended use.
Ash suggested, "Maybe try integrating a 'Pulse Control' skill — regulate your Qi flow, like irrigation for your flames."
Mei's eyes brightened. "That might work. Never thought of it like that."
A Moment of Levity
As they laughed over the metaphor, Jin approached, raising an eyebrow.
"Plotting to turn the sect into a garden club?" he joked.
Ash grinned. "Maybe. But a well-tended garden beats a wild jungle any day."
The Road Ahead
That evening, Ash sat outside beneath the stars, system panel open as he cataloged his day's findings.
New Skills Proposed: "Rooted Calm," "Pulse Control"Current Skill Stability: ImprovingPhysical Condition: Good — body strengthening through herbs and rest.
He felt the familiar hum of potential beneath his skin.
The system was more than just power — it was a craft, a patient art.
And with each careful experiment, Ash was learning how to cultivate strength that could outlast even the fiercest storm.
End of Chapter 18