Kai's meditation in the heart of Naimisha Forest had yielded unexpected results.
The warm, earthy energy of the forest had fused with his Spiritual Energy, and he had unlocked the Root Chakra within himself.
This newfound connection to the Earth had left him with an increased sense of vitality, but it had also come at a cost—his Spiritual Energy was steadily decreasing.
With a mix of excitement and concern, Kai examined the notifications from the system. The smile on his face faded as he read the messages.
It was indeed a double-edged sword: the Root Chakra purification process was siphoning away some of his Spiritual Energy.
[You have unlocked the Root Chakra]
[You have reached the initial phase in Elemental Soulforge Technique]
[Vitality has increased by 27]
[Quest has been completed]
[The Rewards have been sent to your Inventory]
[You have unlocked a new feature "Title"]
[Root Chakra is now moving smoothly]
[Root Chakra is now purifying the host's Spiritual Energy]
[Spiritual Energy has decreased by 5]
[Spiritual Energy has decreased by 2]
[...]
Kai couldn't help but worry about the declining Spiritual Energy, especially when he looked at his Status Window:
[Status Window]
Name: Kai
Age: 17
Nature: Good: 49% Evil: 51%
Rank: Novice (Lower)
Title: None
Level: 2
Experience: 61/200
Strength: 84
Defense: 76
Agility: 71
Intelligence: 22
Endurance: 96
Spirit: 42
Luck: 32
Charm: 22
Vitality: 156
Spiritual Energy: 197
Additional Stat Points: 0
Exclusive Skill: [Ability Acquisition]
Skills:
1. Spiritual Absorption
2. Spirit Manipulation (Level 6)
3. Pain Tolerance (Level 12)
4. Sword Mastery (Level 11)
5. Poison Resistance (Level 10)
6. Soul Analyze (Level 2)
7. Nature's Attunement (Level 1)
Techniques:
1. Spiritual Gathering (Not usable)
2. Bone Refining Art
3. Dragon's Breath
4. Elemental Soulforge Technique (Initial)
Kai's Spiritual Energy had plummeted significantly, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of anxiety.
However, his concern was quelled when he remembered the System's explanation.
The Root Chakra purification process was part of his cultivation journey, and the decrease in Spiritual Energy was a temporary byproduct of this transformation.
To seek clarity, he called out to the System, "Hey, System!"
The System materialized before him and asked, "Yes, Kai?"
Kai's voice carried a mix of confusion and impatience. "What's going on? Why is my Spiritual Energy decreasing so rapidly?"
The System's calming response helped soothe Kai's worries. "First of all, calm down, Kai. Let me explain. The decrease in your Spiritual Energy is due to the purification process initiated by the Root Chakra. It's releasing and purifying the residual Spiritual Energy within you.
This might result in a temporary decrease, but in the end, it will grant you the purest form of Spiritual Energy."
Kai, although still somewhat perplexed, hesitated before responding, "How will this help me?"
The System offered a cryptic smile. "That's something you'll discover on your journey. For now, trust in the process, Kai."
Before Kai could probe further, the System vanished with a faint glimmer, leaving Kai alone with his thoughts.
After their conversation, Kai took a moment to reflect. He needed to return to the station urgently.
Glancing at his phone, he saw the time—3:25 a.m. Panic welled up inside him; he had missed the last returning train.
His heart pounded with anticipation as he realized he would need to discover a way to exit the forest.
Feeling a sense of urgency Kai hastened his steps. He retraced his route hoping to reach the forest's outskirts and seek assistance or get in touch with his friends or family.
However, in his rush, he made a turn. Inadvertently ventured further into the depths of the forest.
Suddenly it dawned on him. A slight tingling of unease crept into his determination.He couldn't afford to get lost in the labyrinthine depths of Naimisha Forest.
As he searched for the way back, his senses sharpened. The night seemed to hold its breath around him, and the forest whispered with secrets he had yet to uncover.
Then, from his blind spot, a sudden rustling and the sound of rapid movement disrupted the night's tranquility.
Kai spun around, heart pounding, to face whatever was approaching him at a quick and deliberate pace.