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Chapter 10 - Reflection

Curie sat on her bed, staring at the holographic projection emanating from her communicator. Around the room, dozens of papers and books lay scattered in what appeared to be a chaotic mess. However, for Curie, it was an organized chaos—a system that she understood intimately. 

She was analyzing the vast trove of information she had gathered from the trials, cross-referencing it with the general knowledge available to the Ascended. Her goal was to improve her foundation as an Ascended by reflecting on her abilities and progress. 

She began by reviewing the role of the Conscious Mind in her thoughts. The Conscious Mind is what the Ascended use to control the energy of their soul, enabling Soul Incantations and combat styles for their Vessels. To achieve this, Ascended individuals develop specific thought processes that dictate how the energy of their soul behaves—such as her own process of rapid analysis of information. 

Curie sighed, then muttered aloud, "Unfortunately, my Conscious Mind and thought process are already at a high level. I doubt I can make much progress in either within such a short span of time. It's frustrating because the better the Conscious Mind, the more efficient Soul Incantations and combat styles become." 

Her thoughts shifted to the energy of the soul itself. Soul energy holds limitless applications, but its outcomes are ultimately constrained by the potential of the Ascended. As Ascended, they create Soul Incantations to produce desired effects. The one she had learned suited her well, though it wasn't uniquely hers. 

"It will be rewarding to create one of my own," she thought aloud, "even if it's a challenge." 

Deciding to act on her musings, Curie grabbed a nearby book containing basic Soul Incantations. As she skimmed its contents, she spoke again, "Once I've passed the trials and joined one of the factions, I'll need to use my foundation to create my own unique qualities as an Ascended." 

 

She began contemplating her Vessel with a frown. I had understood that my Vessel was somewhat lacking, but I had never realized to what degree until today. Even though I performed well, it was primarily due to my Conscious Mind and Soul Incantation. I'm sure other capable combatants, like Sandro and the guy with the sword, could likely exploit this weakness if I were forced to go up against them. While it wouldn't guarantee them a victory, it would certainly give them a slight advantage. 

Curie started reviewing her notes on potential upgrades that could enhance her Vessel. "I could possibly implement Ascended Objects or Spirit Alchemy—once I've acquired some Spirit Materials," she mused. 

What she referred to was fairly common in the world of the Ascended. Ascended Objects were items imbued with properties similar to those of an Ascended being, while Spirit Alchemy involved unique potions crafted from materials originating in the spirit world. The creation of both relied on rare components known as Spirit Materials. 

Curie spent the remainder of her evening reflecting on various battles she had either participated in or observed. She carefully analyzed her flaws in judgment or execution, aiming to use this insight to improve herself.