Morning sunlight spilled across Holy Spirit Village, painting the rooftops gold. Most children were busy playing by the fields, but Ayan was heading in the opposite direction, a small cloth satchel slung across his shoulder.
He had overheard the village chief talking to the healer about a common strengthening herb that grew near the outer forest — Copperleaf Grass. In the stories, it was barely worth mentioning, but combined with a simple bath, it could toughen muscles and improve blood circulation. For most villagers, that was nothing special. For someone preparing for Spirit Awakening, it could make a difference.
The forest loomed ahead, its edge marked by tall birches and thick underbrush. Ayan moved quietly, scanning the ground for the copper-green leaves he'd memorized from the healer's description.
After a short search, he found a patch growing between rocks, the leaves faintly glistening with morning dew. He crouched and carefully plucked them, wrapping them in cloth to preserve their potency.
Step one, done.
He was about to leave when a soft rustle caught his ear. Freezing in place, he turned toward the sound — a brown forest rabbit was nibbling grass near a fallen log.
Ayan's stomach growled, but this was about more than hunger. Fresh meat, especially from wild animals, carried natural essence — subtle nutrients and vitality energy from the prey's life force. A healthy body before awakening meant stronger spirit power afterward.
Slowly, Ayan picked up a smooth stone, weighing it in his hand. He crept closer, careful not to snap any twigs.
The rabbit lifted its head, ears twitching — too late.
The stone flew from Ayan's hand, striking it cleanly on the head. The creature slumped without a sound.
He approached, feeling a strange mix of pride and guilt. He had never killed an animal in his previous life, but here… this was survival. He whispered a quick apology, then picked up the rabbit and tucked it into his satchel.
By the time he returned to the village, the sun was high. He slipped into the back of the chief's house, hiding the herbs and rabbit from curious eyes. Tonight, he would boil the Copperleaf Grass, add the meat to the pot, and bathe in the infused water before eating.
As he imagined the heat seeping into his muscles and the flavor of fresh meat on his tongue, he smiled faintly.
Every little advantage counts. By the time my Spirit Awakening comes, I'll be ready.