The dawn light filtered softly through the dense canopy, scattering patches of gold across the dew-laden orchard. Ash's morning began like many before — a quiet ritual of tending his small garden patch before the formal training sessions.
The silvershade root he had been nurturing for weeks seemed to respond to his careful care, its pale leaves glistening as though aware of his presence. Ash crouched, fingers gently probing the soil, sensing the subtle pulse of life beneath.
Morning Rituals and Simple Joys
"Morning, Ash," came a voice from behind. Mei, wrapped in a worn cloak, smiled as she approached, carrying a basket of freshly gathered herbs.
"Morning," Ash replied, standing slowly, muscles stretching against the cool air.
She dropped the basket beside him. "Figured you'd want some fresh moonleaf petals. Heard they help with stamina and focus."
Ash's system panel glowed faintly in his mind:
Herb Status: Moonleaf petals – Stamina boost +7%, Mental acuity +5%Current Body Status: Endurance +15%, Strength +9%, Qi Flow 85%
"Thanks," he said quietly. "These little things add up. Even the smallest edge counts."
Mei chuckled. "You and your edges. Ever think about just relaxing once in a while?"
Ash smirked. "Relaxing is fine… once I figure out how to do that without losing progress."
The Science of Skill Creation
After breakfast, Ash retreated to his modest training hut, a place cluttered with scrolls, dried herbs, and simple training tools. The system's interface floated in his mind's eye, waiting for input.
Today's goal: refine "Root Bind" and begin conceptualizing a complementary skill—"Pulse Lash."
He began with the familiar Root Bind interface:
Current Skill: Root BindStability: 52%Energy Consumption: ModerateEffect: Immobilizes small to medium targets by binding with roots/vinesWeakness: Requires proximity to living plants
He tapped into the system's guidance, breaking down the skill's parameters:
Suggested Upgrade Path:
Increase skill radius
Enhance root toughness
Reduce energy cost via Qi efficiency
With careful mental focus, Ash initiated the first upgrade step, feeling the subtle hum of energy channeling through him.
Minutes passed. The roots beneath the hut's wooden floorboards twisted more eagerly, creeping a little further than before, gaining a newfound strength.
Satisfied but not content, Ash shifted attention to "Pulse Lash."
Input Skill Concept: Pulse LashSkill Type: Offensive — Focused Qi strike to disrupt enemy balanceEnergy Cost: LowComplexity: ModerateRestrictions: Requires precise Qi control and timing
He envisioned a strike of compressed energy radiating from his palm, like a whip of pure force.
Skill Creation Initiated...
The system began the stepwise skill generation:
Base form established.
Testing phase: minor pulse emitted, knocking over a small training dummy.
Ash smiled faintly. "Not bad for a first try."
Unexpected Human Moments
Midday, the sect's training grounds were alive with the sounds of swords clashing and grunts of exertion. Ash found himself drawn into a casual sparring match with Mei — not serious, just light.
"Try not to fall over too fast," she teased, circling him.
Ash grinned. "No promises."
Their duel was filled with playful jabs and near misses, Mei's fire skills dancing against Ash's careful root and pulse maneuvers. For a moment, the weight of the sect's looming troubles faded.
The Visitors' Watchful Eyes
Later, as Ash rested under a tree, Elder Wei and a few senior disciples approached. Their faces unreadable, they observed Ash's recent practice from a distance.
Elder Wei's voice was low, almost thoughtful. "Your skill development is… unorthodox. But there is merit in your patience."
One disciple whispered, "Most rush for power. He takes his time."
Ash caught the glance, feeling neither pride nor irritation. It was just how he worked.
Evening Reflections
Night blanketed the orchard, stars flickering like distant fires. Ash sat by a small fire, nibbling on roasted silvershade roots and sipping a bitter herbal tea.
His system panel softly pulsed:
Current Status:Skills: Root Bind (Upgraded radius 1.2x), Pulse Lash (Base form completed)Body Cultivation: +16% endurance, +10% strength, Qi Flow 88%External Watch: Elder Wei's interest rising, sect tensions stable
He closed his eyes briefly, savoring the calm.
"Step by step," he whispered. "Roots grow deep before they break the surface."
End of Chapter 22