Two weeks had passed since Lassim began the rigorous daily regimen under Master Caelum Ferrum's watchful eye. Each morning's ascent to the Headmaster's secluded abode was followed by the intense, transformative sessions of the Elemental Forge, and each afternoon was dedicated to completing a variety of missions from the academy's mission hall.
Master Ferrum observed Lassim's progress with a discerning eye, noting the significant improvements in his disciple's physical resilience and elemental attunement.
"Your body has become a more fitting vessel for your powers, Lassim. It is time we turned our focus towards refining your combat techniques," he declared one morning, his voice echoing a new phase of training that awaited them.
"I saw your duel with Edric when it occurred, but so far you've only shown some skill in movement and positioning on the battlefield, and that charged skill. First, show me your current forms and what you currently practicing."
Lassim nodded, centering himself and then demonstrated the initial move of the [Storm Bringer] technique—the elemental [Thrust] he had crafted from his unique affinity with water and lightning. His body moved with precision, channeling the water and lightning elements through his halberd, creating a dazzling display of power.
"Master, unfortunately that is the only move in the battle art version of my [Storm Bringer] cultivation technique."
Then he explained his attempts to adapt the [Fire Halberd] technique of the Vanthar family into his burgeoning [Storm Bringer] repertoire.
"I've been trying to merge the principles of my family's [Fire Halberd] technique, that I've practiced since I was 5 years old, with my own elemental affinities, Master. But, it's still a work in progress for me to recreate the techniques with two elements harmoniously," Lassim confessed, his frustration palpable.
Master Ferrum pondered the issue, his gaze drifting towards the horizon as he considered the unique challenge presented by Lassim's dual affinities. "The [Fire Halberd] technique is potent, grounded in the fierce and unyielding nature of fire. Your [Storm Bringer], however, speaks to the tempestuous and ever-changing essence of torrential storms and violent lightning. The key, Lassim, is not in forcing two separate elements into the mold of a technique meant for one, but in finding the point where your elements are better suited for certain moves over others—creating a balanced harmony."
Master Ferrum rose, his two-handed axe suddenly appearing in his hands from his heart world.
"Let me show you," he said, stepping into the open area that served as their training ground.
With a series of movements that were both fluid and precise, Master Ferrum demonstrated a sequence that wove together the principles of the [Fire Halberd] with the elemental essence of metal. Yet, it was clear some moves that involved slicing and stabbing felt more powerful than the sweeping moves.
"As you may have noticed, the metal element favors certain styles of attack more than others within the [Fire Halberd] technique. With this in mind, let's consider the nature of a storm—the way it builds, shifts, and releases its power. You have the unique power to utilize your dual elements to embody this principle in your technique."
Master Ferrum continued, "When you use your thrust, you're actually only using the lightning element currently. Your opponent being soaked in water is just a byproduct of the nature of your technique's elements being released. If we let your movements gather energy and release it in bursts that mirror lightning's unpredictable strikes with the flash flooding of a downpour, it will be like the brewing of a tempest. This will be more in tune with your elemental nature and empower your battle art overall."
A sense of understanding was slowly growing in Lassim's mind as he listed to his master's words.
"My idea is that we can adapt some of your moves like the [Sweep] to utilizing the strength with a wall of water can quickly knock down even the mightiest of Metal Rams. Your water can be used to empower the [Slam] move as well, crashing against and drowning your enemies with the weight of an entire lake or ocean. The other moves like [Thrust], [Chop], and [Slash] can utilize your lightning element's quickness and destructive power. This harmony of switching between lightning to water and then back to lightning in unpredictable ways will not only enhance the potency of your battle art but also grant you the flexibility to adapt to the ebb and flow of battle," Master Ferrum explained, his demonstration a revelation to Lassim.
"If you master this, you will truly become a fierce and deadly force to all in your path." Master Ferrum's words were solemn and inspiring to him.
"Thank you, Master. Today, I've seen a path forward, , a way to bring together the disparate parts of my power into something greater." Lassim gave his Master a short bow.
Master Ferrum nodded, a hint of pride in his eyes. "You have the potential to surpass even your own expectations, Lassim. Remember, the journey of a spirit warrior is one of endless discovery and growth. Keep pushing your limits, and you will find the way."
Inspired, Lassim practiced the new sequence under Master Ferrum's guidance, feeling a sense of clarity and purpose infuse his movements. The [Storm Bringer] technique began to evolve, taking on a new form that embraced the chaos and harmony of his elemental affinities. It was a breakthrough in a problem that was troubling Lassim and one that marked a significant step forward in creating the legend of the "Storm Bringer".
'The creation of the [Storm Bringer] technique is just the beginning. If I must grow stronger, then I will need more variety in my repertoire.' Lassim thought to himself.
Lassim stood in the clearing, his brow furrowed with contemplation, "Master, I'm also concerned about another area where I think I fall short. I lack the ability to control my opponents and I'm not quite sure what to do." He stated, expressing his concern and seeking guidance from Master Ferrum.
Master Ferrum nodded, understanding the crux of Lassim's concern. "Control and restriction are fundamental to mastering the battlefield. Your affinity for lightning and water offers unique opportunities for such tactics," he began, his voice echoing with the wisdom of years spent mastering the metal element.
"Let us consider your lightning element first. Lightning is swift and precise, capable of striking with devastating accuracy. You could develop a technique that harnesses this precision to target a single enemy, binding them with an electrical charge that not only restricts their movement but also inflicts pain, making it difficult for them to continue fighting effectively. The more intense the charge, the stronger the paralytic and torturous effects."
Master Ferrum paused, gathering the ambient metal energy to demonstrate. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned metallic strands that mimicked the behavior he described, wrapping around a nearby tree trunk in a tight grip that represented the paralyzing effect of Lassim's potential technique.
"For this single-target technique, I propose the name [Lightning Lash]. It embodies the whip-like speed and the binding nature of the attack," Master Ferrum suggested, his eyes locking onto Lassim's to gauge his reaction.
Lassim visualized the concept, the idea resonating with him. "I'd be honored to have you name my technique." He was truly appreciative, "and, Master, what about for controlling larger groups?" he inquired, eager to expand his tactical versatility.
"For wider control, use your affinity for water. Water flows and adapts, capable of enveloping multiple foes at once. Imagine a technique where you summon a torrential downpour, or even a localized flood, to envelop the battlefield. The sudden surge of water can disrupt footing, hinder movement, and create openings for further attacks. This won't be as debilitating as [Lightning Lash], but it will give you the upper hand in managing the flow of combat. You also have a natural effect of this when you rotate your cultivation technique at this stage of power anyways. The mist and rain you summon as a passive effect should make this one the easier of the two to utilize effectively when your control is strong enough."
Again, Master Ferrum demonstrated, this time using the metallic strands to simulate the encompassing nature of the proposed technique, ensnaring multiple objects within the clearing in a wave to illustrate the concept.
"For this technique, consider the name [Storm's Grasp]. It signifies the encompassing hold of lightning against many opponents over a wide area, utilizing the water element to control the field," he elaborated.
Lassim absorbed the teachings, the potential of [Lightning Lash] and [Storm's Grasp] igniting a spark of inspiration within him. "These suggestions open new avenues for me, thank you Master. [Lightning Lash] and [Storm's Grasp]... I can see how they'd complement my how my [Storm Bringer] battle art technique will grow, offering the control I need."
"Indeed. Mastery in combat is not just about the strength of your attacks but the versatility of your strategy. These new techniques will help you in rounding out your capabilities, making you a formidable spirit warrior on any battlefield," Master Ferrum concluded, his demonstration helping Lassim's growth.
"Eventually, once your body is stronger, we will also create some defensive techniques for you. However, I don't want to overwhelm you just yet with things to practice as we still must continue with the elemental forging. For now, go complete today's mission and we can further prepare you for the upcoming trial in the elemental plane." Master Ferrum announced, urging him to head down the mountain for his daily routine mission.
Yet, suddenly, Lassim felt an horrible feeling twitch through his body after hearing the mentioning of the elemental plane. His connection to the elements had grown more powerful thanks to the elemental forging technique, and somehow it felt like he was just given a signal of warning and danger via the water and lightning elements in the air and through his elemental spirits in his heart world.
'What was that?' Lassim clutched his chest briefly as he headed down the mountain.