A Dance of Defense and Offense

Ashen opened the book, and the aroma of lignin washed over him, carrying him away to a world of wonder and excitement. With bated breath, he peered at the pages, his eyes widening with curiosity and fascination.

The technique described in the book involved the mastery of both defense and offense. It was akin to holding a shield, sturdy and impenetrable, while wielding a spear, sharp and deadly.

The user must possess immense skill and precision to execute this technique flawlessly, as it demanded a synchronized movement of both the shield and spear. Only expert timing and positioning would allow one to strike their opponent while protecting themselves from incoming attacks.

In essence, this technique was like a graceful dance between two foes, each moving with calculated precision and skill, anticipating the other's next move. It was a beautiful and deadly art, and only those with the dedication and mastery could hope to wield it to its fullest potential.

It is a highly effective technique for close combat, enabling the user to engage their opponent with simultaneous offense and defense. The shield serves as a bulwark against incoming attacks, while the spear acts as a sharp, extending arm, allowing the user to keep their adversary at a distance and strike with precision.

To master this technique, one must possess not only great physical strength and dexterity but also a keen sense of strategy and timing. The warrior must artfully wield both weapons in tandem, blending the defensive solidity of the shield with the agile thrusts of the spear.

Indeed, this technique demands the utmost finesse and skill, as the warrior must balance the weight and movements of both the spear and the shield, much like a skilled dancer performs with grace and precision.

Only then can the warrior successfully navigate the battlefield, cutting through enemy ranks with ease and emerging victorious.

Overall, the "Iron Phalanx" technique is a formidable combat strategy that demands extensive training and mastery. It is an invaluable skill for any warrior or fighter who desires to be an unstoppable force on the battlefield.

Upon reading the description, Ashen felt a sense of relief and joy in discovering his combat style for survival. Rahil noticed the excitement on Ashen's face and promptly suggested that they start practicing the technique as soon as possible. Furthermore, Rahil generously offered to assist Ashen in his practice.

Ashen had made up his mind to follow Rahil's advice and master the art of spear and shield combat. He devoted himself to several hours of rigorous training with his mentor, relinquishing his trusty daggers for a more robust fighting style.

Rahil proved to be an excellent tutor, guiding Ashen through each step with precision and patience. With each passing moment, Ashen grew more confident, refining his technique with each movement.

Rahil's feedback was like a soothing balm, providing constructive criticism that propelled Ashen's training to new heights.

Despite his initial hesitation, Ashen found that he enjoyed learning these new skills. Every time he successfully executed a new move or technique, he felt a sense of accomplishment, as if he was a bird soaring in the sky.

He appreciated the camaraderie he felt with Rahil and Dominic, who supported him and offered guidance whenever he struggled, like sturdy trees in the forest.

As Ashen grew more proficient with the spear and shield, he found himself becoming more confident in his ability to defend himself, like a lion that had sharpened its claws and strengthened its muscles for the hunt.

Rahil approached Ashen and said, "My lord, until everyone returns from their assignments, I believe that you are ready to face a true challenge. Would you be interested in embarking on a hunt with me?"

Intrigued by the offer, Ashen eagerly agreed. The two of them plunged into the depths of the underwater world, Rahil leading the way with his two daggers securely fastened to his waist.

They moved through the water with agility and grace, their senses heightened and alert to any potential threats lurking in the shadows.

Rahil patiently explained the fundamentals of hunting to Ashen, imparting his knowledge of tracking prey, moving stealthily through the water, and wielding the spear and shield with precision.

As they ventured through the murky depths of the ocean, Ashen's heart pounded with excitement and anticipation, eager to test his newly acquired skills and prove himself as a skilled hunter.

After some time, Rahil's sharp eyes spotted a school of fish swimming in the distance, their iridescent scales glimmering like jewels in the water. With a flick of his hand, he signaled to Ashen to prepare himself.

The two hunters crept forward cautiously, each movement deliberate and calculated to avoid startling their prey.

As they drew nearer, Ashen readied his spear and shield, his heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation.

It was his inaugural hunt, and he couldn't help but feel a fluttering of apprehension in his stomach, knowing it could prove to be a perilous and challenging endeavour for an inexperienced person.

Despite his fears, he found solace in the fact that Rahil was by his side, ready to shield him from any unexpected threats that may arise.

Like a stalwart guardian, Rahil's presence provided Ashen with a sense of security and confidence, allowing him to focus on the task at hand.

When they came within range, Ashen's movements were swift and precise, lunging forward with his spear to strike his prey. The fish scattered frantically, but with a steady hand and keen eye, he managed to catch a few more, using his shield to deflect any counterattacks.

Rahil nodded in approval at Ashen's success. "Well done, my lord," he said with a smile. "You have proven yourself to be a skilled hunter. With continued practice and experience, you will undoubtedly become a master of the spear and shield, a force to be reckoned with."

As Ashen glanced at his attribute window and saw the notification pop up congratulating him on reaching level 2, he felt a sense of accomplishment wash over him like the gentle waves of the sea.

The window showed him a new level of his abilities, a reminder that he had grown stronger and more skilled in his pursuits.

Ashen beamed with pride and gratitude. He knew that he still had much to learn, but he was eager to continue his training and improve his skills. He also realized that the knowledge and experience he gained from hunting with Rahil would not only help him in combat but also in his role as a leader.

As they made back after the hunt to their palace, Moon was step down Ashen realized how much time he has spent almost about 10 to 15 hours.

Upon seeing the glow of palace because of the lamp filled with fireflies it was just mesmerizing and addition to that the life of tree's roots were glowing blue in night was beautiful to watch.

When Ashen and Rahil entered the palace Dominic and Ethan were present there to greet him after hunt and congratulate after his first hunt.

Dominic observed with concern, "My lord, before you ascend the throne room, you might want to freshen up. Your face is glistening with sweat, as if you were perspiring even underwater."

Guiding Ashen with a sweeping gesture, Dominic led him towards a serene oasis. The pool was an oasis of tranquillity, surrounded by ornate columns and adorned with intricate designs on the walls, which were aglow with a gentle, blue light.

The water in the pool was as clear as crystal, its surface smooth and unruffled. In the background, aquatic plants and coral formations swayed in the current.

Above them, the palace ceiling appeared to be made of glass or some other transparent material, allowing the ethereal moonlight to filter through and cast a soft glow on the pool and the surrounding area.

After thoroughly washing himself and enjoying a refreshing swim, Ashen feels as though a heavy weight has been lifted, and his body is now light as a feather.

Donning his majestic outfit, he sets off towards the throne room where his loyal subjects eagerly await his arrival to hear the day's collections.

Along the way, he stops to gather cooking books he found in the library for the villagers, hoping to share his knowledge and improve their meals.

Handing over "The Magic of Fire Underwater" and "The Magic of Seafood" to Ethan, Ashen inquires, "Do you recognize the ingredients listed in these books, Ethan?"

Ethan peruses the pages with a look of surprise on his face before nodding and replying, "Yes, my lord. These ingredients are abundant in our region, yet we were unaware of their nutritional benefits. Thank you for sharing this knowledge with us."

Ethan presented the books to the mermaids, who were well-versed in the surrounding area. He instructed them to procure the ingredients and prepare food as per the instructions in the books.

Turning towards Ashen, Ethan reported on the day's hunt and gathering. "My lord, we have amassed enough food and precious materials to sustain ourselves for five days or more," he said. He added that if they continued to work with the same zeal, they could survive for seven days or longer.

Ashen was delighted with the report and expressed his gratitude towards everyone for their hard work. He also introduced Rahil as the palace's new guardian.

Rahil stepped forward and introduced himself as the loyal servant of the lord, a stalwart guardian of this palace.

"My lord, food is ready," said Dominic, sensing the exhaustion of the day's hunt. "You must be famished."

Ashen turned to the others gathered and addressed them. "Thank you all for your hard work. Please, take a break, eat and rest well."

The mood was lifted as Ashen praised everyone for their tireless efforts.

Ashen followed Dominic to the grand dining room, the dining table was grand, enough to seat twelve people comfortably, and Ashen settled into the head of the table, watching in awe as two mermaids prepared his plate with an array of delectable food.

But, to his surprise, the dishes were mostly vegetarian, with only a few crispy fish meats scattered here and there.

Bewildered, Ashen's furrowed brows caught the mermaids' attention, and one of them explained, "My lord, we couldn't prepare everything according to the recipe book. There was a mutual ingredient missing - the wave fire, whose secret we are yet to uncover."