World Seedling {Book One}

Noah picked up the Flixy pouch, its leather tie cool and smooth under his fingers. As he untied it, the pouch’s opening revealed a palm-sized white stone nestled inside. The stone’s surface was cold and smooth, almost like polished marble, though it appeared to be an ordinary river rock.

Noah examined the stone closely, its pale hue contrasting with the rich brown of the leather pouch. He held it gently, feeling the subtle weight in his palm, and walked over to the small tree seedling he had been tending. The soft rustling of leaves and the faint scent of earth filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere.

He positioned the stone close to the base of the seedling, hoping for a sign of change. As he stood there, the shadows of the surrounding trees danced gently in the sunlight. He watched intently, his heart racing with a mix of anticipation and scepticism.

He waited.

And waited.

The minutes stretched, and the plant remained still, its delicate leaves unfazed. The stone, now resting beside the seedling, seemed to hold its quiet secret.

But nothing happened.

Noah sighed, feeling a twinge of disappointment. He had hoped for something more, some sign of magic or transformation. He glanced at the stone one last time, then turned his attention back to the seedling, wondering if he had missed something or if perhaps the magic needed more time.

Sighing deeply, Noah stepped into his small, cozy home. The familiar scent of old wood and lingering spices greeted him as he closed the door behind him with a soft click. He carefully placed the stone on the kitchen bench, its cool, smooth surface catching the light from the ceiling fixture and casting subtle reflections. The kitchen was sparsely decorated, with only a few mismatched items on the counters and walls, a testament to Noah’s simple, practical lifestyle.

Turning his attention to the final item on his list, Noah approached the wooden box resting on a cluttered table near the window. The box had an old-world charm, its surface darkened with age and marked by a burnt-in image of a compass. The compass rose was intricately carved, each directional point—North, East, South, and West—highlighted by the first letter of its name, as if guiding Noah towards a hidden purpose.

Gently lifting the lid, Noah revealed the compass inside. It was a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, encased in a wooden frame with delicate, almost ethereal engravings that swirled around the edges. The metal clip at the centre, though simple, had an old-fashioned elegance, and it held the compass face firmly. Above the centre of the compass, a small red arrow pointed decisively to ‘N’, indicating True North.

On the compass face, eight greenish crystals were set into the design. Four of these crystals were evenly spaced around the dial, their greenish hue barely noticeable unless caught in the right light. The other two, located at the bottom, glowed faintly, their greenish light pulsating gently. The compass needle, though steady, pointed firmly southwest, its motion precise and unwavering.

With a curious glance, Noah set the compass aside and moved quickly to check on his plants. He approached the seedling, its tiny green leaves poking through the soil, and carefully ensured it had enough water. The earthy smell of the damp soil filled his nostrils. Next, he turned his attention to the unknown herb he had obtained yesterday. A small, hopeful smile crossed his face as he saw the herb’s delicate leaves emerging, a promising sign of growth.

Satisfied, Noah decided to inspect the riverbed. He walked towards the area where the water had gathered, the ground beneath his feet feeling cool and firm. The riverbed, though still quite low, had a tranquil beauty. The water, barely more than a trickle, glistened in the sunlight, and the makeshift dam at the outer rim added an air of rustic ingenuity to the scene.

With his observations complete, Noah returned to his home. He grabbed his car keys, wallet, and a few bottles of water, carefully packing them into his bag. The heat outside was already rising, the oppressive warmth making the air feel heavy and thick. As he stepped into his car, the leather seat was warm from the sun, and he adjusted the air conditioning to cool the interior. The engine roared to life, and the vehicle’s vibrations seemed to sync with the pulse of the day, setting the rhythm for Noah’s journey.

Turning off his damaged driveway, Noah began his drive up the road, veering south as the compass indicated. The road ahead was less maintained, lined with abandoned houses that were either in ruins or precariously perched halfway to collapse. As he navigated through this desolate area, Noah kept a watchful eye on the compass, which now pointed slightly west. Three of the green gems on the compass had illuminated, casting a faint, eerie glow in the dim interior of his car.

Muttering to himself, Noah maneuvered around the crumbling remnants of the street. "Good thing my car can go off-road," he said, a hint of relief in his voice as he slowed down and drove into the bush. The terrain grew bumpier, but his vehicle handled the uneven ground with relative ease. The compass directed him forward, and Noah observed as another two gems lit up, their glow intensifying with each passing moment. Only one gem remained unlit.

As he continued driving, the last gem on the compass flared to life, causing the other gems to flash rapidly in a synchronized pattern. Noah brought the car to a stop and shifted it into the park. He turned off the engine, the sudden silence of the bush contrasting sharply with the engine’s previous hum. With the compass in hand, he exited the vehicle and took a moment to assess his surroundings.

The compass indicated a more northern direction now, but the gems' flashing dimmed slightly as he adjusted his path. When he turned south again, the flashing became more pronounced, guiding him with increasing urgency. "South it is then," he concluded, setting out on foot.

Noah walked for about five minutes, the rhythmic crunch of leaves and twigs underfoot accompanying his steps. The compass' flashing lights eventually steadied into a solid green glow. He scanned the area and noticed a small, almost inconspicuous hole in the ground, partially concealed by overgrown grass and underbrush.

Curiosity piqued, Noah knelt beside the hole. Within it lay a dark rock, its surface emitting a faint, eerie glow. The rock seemed to be an impact fragment, likely from a meteor that had fallen during the recent meteor shower. The sight of the rock, illuminated by the soft, otherworldly light, added a sense of gravitas to the discovery.

Gently, Noah touched the meteor fragment with his palm. As he made contact, a hidden quest appeared before him, its details shimmering faintly in the dim light. The moment was filled with a mixture of awe and anticipation as Noah prepared to uncover what lay ahead.

Hidden Quest, Do you wish to accept? Y/N?

Choosing Yes, the window disappeared before returning, making his eyes widen in surprise.

Warning Trial Dungeon is extremely low in mana.

New Quest: Power the Core: 0/1

Reward: Dungeon Trial Run.

Noah knelt there for a while, staring at the meteor fragment, which had revealed itself to be a dungeon core. As he pondered his next move, he glanced at the magical compass. With a determined expression, he touched the compass to the core.

The greenish gems on the compass began to blink out one by one, and a low humming sound resonated from the core. The humming grew louder and more intense until the last gem light disappeared. The core’s glow intensified, and a strange, pulsating light surrounded it.

Suddenly, the meteor fragment began to sink into the ground. Noah stepped back as a deep rumble echoed beneath him. The ground shifted, and a staircase emerged from the earth, bathed in a soft, misty light that beckoned him forward.

Noah stood at the entrance, the air around him charged with anticipation and a hint of trepidation. The descent into the unknown awaited him, and with a final glance at the compass, he steeled himself for whatever lay ahead.

Quest Completed: Power the core 1/1

Reward: Dungeon Trial Run

Noah stood before the staircase, a mix of curiosity and unease bubbling within him. He had heard of dungeon trials before but never imagined he would face one himself. With a deep breath, he steeled himself and began his descent.

As Noah entered the stone chamber, the first thing he noticed was the room's stark, rugged appearance. The walls were made of rough-hewn stone, with scattered flecks of red that seemed to pulse faintly in the dim light. The air was cool and slightly musty, carrying a faint scent of earth and ancient dust.

At the far end of the room stood a wooden table, its surface worn and splintered with age. Resting atop the table was a piece of parchment, looking almost out of place against the cold stone backdrop. The faint glow of the dungeon core illuminated the parchment, casting eerie shadows on the walls.

Noah approached the table with cautious steps. As he reached for the note, a shimmering screen materialized before him, its edges crackling with arcane energy. The screen displayed a series of instructions, written in an elegant, flowing script.

“Welcome, Seeker,” the screen read. “You have unlocked the dungeon trial. To proceed, you must solve the riddle presented here and retrieve the key that lies hidden within this chamber. Beware of the traps and illusions designed to test your resolve.”

Noah scanned the parchment and found a riddle inscribed in faded ink:

"In the heart of stone, where shadows dance,

A flame concealed gives you a chance.

Seek the light that never fades,

And find the path where truth is laid."

As he absorbed the riddle, Noah felt a chill run down his spine. The room seemed to shift subtly, and he could hear the faint whisper of distant echoes. With a determined nod, he knew he had to solve this puzzle to advance. The mystery of the dungeon trial had only just begun.

Dungeon Trial: Create an Uncommon Seed

Objective: Create an uncommon seed (0/1)

Reward: Upgrade Token, Basic Skill Book in Mana Manipulation, Mystic Waterskin

Do you accept Dungeon Quest? Y/N

Choosing to accept the quest, the note’s window vanished, and a low rumble echoed through the stone chamber. Noah glanced upwards, where a timer, etched into the stone wall, flickered to life, displaying Two Hours. The timer began to count down with a steady, ominous tick.

A sudden flash of light illuminated the room, and Noah noticed several items materializing before him. Three books and four pouches of seeds appeared in the centre of the stone floor. The rumbling intensified as the room began to shift and transform.

Garden Beds:

Four medium-sized garden beds emerged from the ground, each with rich, dark soil. The wooden frames of the beds were sturdy and well-constructed, and the soil seemed fresh and fertile.

Pond:

In the far-left corner of the room, a small pond began to form, its surface gradually filling with water. The pond’s water level rose steadily, creating ripples that glistened under the faint light.

Books and Pouches:

Magical Botanical 101:

The first book, titled Magical Botanical 101, had a worn leather cover with gold embossed letters. It appeared to be a comprehensive guide to magical plants and their uses, with illustrations and descriptions of various herbs and flowers.

Notebook with Pen:

The second book was a blank notebook, accompanied by a sleek, silver pen. The notebook’s cover was a deep green, and it looked like it was intended for detailed notes or sketches.

Magnifying Glass Book:

The third book had an intricate magnifying glass embossed on the cover. As Noah picked it up, a windowed box materialized before him. The box contained several compartments, each labelled with different elements like “Earth,” “Fire,” “Water,” and “Air.” It looked like it was designed to hold various items related to the elemental trials.

As Noah examined the room and the newly appeared items, another window popped up in front of him:

“Would you like to learn the skill Analyse? Y/N”

The prompt hovered in the air, giving Noah a moment to consider the option. The skill could potentially provide him with valuable insights into the items and challenges he faced. With the ticking timer reminding him of the urgency, Noah weighed his choices carefully.

With the room now fully transformed and the timer steadily counting down, Noah took a deep breath, preparing himself for the trials ahead. Choosing Yes, Noah watched as the window box in front of him shimmered and the book began to change. The book’s cover seemed to warp and expand before it disintegrated into a cloud of dust, which fell gently to the ground. The dust then dissolved, and with a sudden surge, new knowledge flowed into Noah's mind. He felt an innate understanding of the skill of analysis settling within him as if it had always been a part of him.

With this newfound ability, Noah turned his attention to the seed pouches. As he focused on them, a window appeared above each pouch, detailing their contents and properties

Pouch 1 - Sunfire Flower Seeds

Description: These seeds grow into flowers that radiate a warm light. They are useful for heating and illuminating spaces, providing both light and warmth in dark or cold environments.

Pouch 2 - Aquafern Seeds:

Description: Seeds that grow into plants thrive in water-rich environments. They have the ability to purify and control water sources, making them valuable for managing aquatic environments and ensuring clean water.

Pouch 3 - Earthbloom Seeds

Description: Seeds that produce plants with roots capable of strengthening and enriching the soil. These plants enhance soil fertility and stability, making them ideal for improving agricultural conditions and ensuring robust plant growth.

Pouch 4 - Windwhisper Seeds

Description: Seeds that grow into plants that release gentle breezes. They are useful for ventilation, dispersing airborne threats, and providing a refreshing airflow in confined spaces.

Noah’s gaze shifted to the garden beds and the pond, now equipped with the knowledge from the Analyse skill. He knew he needed to carefully plan how to use the seeds and the environment to complete the quest before the timer reached zero.

As he considered his options, the faint sound of dripping water and the steady ticking of the timer reminded him of the urgency. With a clear plan forming in his mind, Noah set to work, ready to tackle the challenges of the trial ahead. He wondered why there were four seeds, each representing one of the elements.

Grabbing the Magical Botanical 101 book, Noah settled on the ground, spending the next half-hour immersing himself in its contents. He flipped through the pages, absorbing as much information as he could. The book offered insights into the properties and uses of different magical plants, their interactions with elements, and how to cultivate them effectively. With the notebook beside him, he jotted down key points, noting the best methods for growing each type of seed and potential combinations that might be beneficial.

After gaining valuable knowledge from the book, Noah quickly used his new Analyse skills on the garden beds and the pond. The skill provided him with detailed information about the soil composition, water quality, and how each element could be effectively utilized.

Planting boxes, owned by the Dungeon, these boxes have been magically enhanced to make the growth of anything planted inside them 20 times faster than normal.

Standing up and noting that he had over an hour left on the timer, Noah gathered all four pouches of seeds and approached the first planter box. He carefully planted a Sunfire Flower seed and a Windwhisper seed, spacing them about a foot and a half apart to ensure they had enough room to grow without interfering with each other’s development. With this done, he moved to the second planter box.

In the second box, Noah decided to create a more complex arrangement. He planted a Sunfire Flower seed, an Aquafern seed, and an Earthbloom seed in a triangular formation, leaving the centre empty. This open space was intended for possible crossbreeding between the seeds, potentially yielding hybrid plants with combined properties.

Next, Noah approached the third box. Here, he planted two seeds: an Aquafern seed and a Windwhisper seed. He positioned them with a careful consideration of their future interaction.

For the last planter box, Noah placed an Earthbloom seed and a Windwhisper seed, ensuring they were planted at a suitable distance to accommodate their growth and the interaction between their elements.

With the planting complete, Noah picked up the watering can, which he had filled at the small pond now steadily filling with water. He methodically watered each planter box, ensuring the seeds received enough moisture to begin germinating. After emptying the watering can, he returned to the pond to refill it.

Back at his planting area, Noah pulled out his notebook. He noted that he still had a few seeds left and marked them according to the basic elements they aligned with. This was a preparatory step for potential adjustments or additional planting, should the need arise.

With his tasks progressing smoothly and the knowledge from the Magical Botanical 101 book guiding his actions, Noah felt a growing sense of confidence. He continued to monitor the planter boxes and prepare for the next phase of the trial, fully aware that every decision he made could impact the outcome of the quest.

Fire Seeds: 2

Earth Seeds: 2

Water Seeds: 2

Air Seeds: 1

With only a few seeds left, Noah considered whether he should attempt a four-way crossbreed. Sighing, he rose and checked the planter boxes, noting that the seeds had already begun to sprout. Each type of seed showed unique growth patterns:

Hearing a soft clatter near the table, Noah looked over to see a few feather-like brushes had appeared. Grabbing one, he carefully began pollinating the plants. He worked diligently, ensuring that each plant was adequately pollinated. As he finished, he observed pods starting to form and swell on the plants. He watched with a sense of amusement and fascination as the magic of the seeds took shape before him.

The pods continued to grow and swell until they turned dark and took on a dry appearance. Once they reached this stage, Noah harvested them, carefully collecting each pod and grouping them on the table. He examined the first group and found that the seeds inside were mostly similar to those from the Sunfire Flower and Windwhisper plants.

Opening the last group, Noah noticed something different. The seeds were small, about the size of a peppercorn, and had a distinctive appearance. Curious, he held one of the seeds and said, "Analyse."

The skill activated, and a detailed description of the seed appeared before him. Noah eagerly read the information, hoping it would provide insight into its unique properties and how it might be used in his quest.

Radiant Air Herb Seeds

Rarity: Uncommon Size: The seeds are small, about the size of a peppercorn, making them easy to handle and plant. Shape: They have an oval shape with a slightly pointed tip, giving them a streamlined appearance. Colour: The seeds are a shimmering blend of light red and pale blue, reflecting their parent plants' radiant heat and air affinity. Texture: The surface of the seeds is smooth, with faint swirling patterns that resemble gusts of wind while the top has patterns of reds. Aura: When held in the palm, the seeds emit a faint, warm glow and feel slightly cool to the touch, hinting at their unique magical properties.

Noah's smile broadened as he realized he had found his first uncommon seed. The pile of seed pods on the table included those from the Sunfire Flower, Aquafern, and Earthbloom plants. There were a total of seven seed pods.

Opening the first few pods yielded familiar results: two Sunfire Flower seeds, two Aquafern seeds, and two Earthbloom seeds. Holding the last pod, Noah noticed it was noticeably larger than the others. He hoped this final pod would reveal something extraordinary.

When he cracked open the last seed pod, he was met with an unexpected sight. Inside was a single seed that shimmered with a blend of gold and deep ocean blue, with faint green veins tracing its surface. The seed seemed to pulse with a subtle, ethereal light.

Curious, Noah used his Analyse skill once more. The information that appeared before him was both surprising and intriguing

Mystic Nexus Seed

Description: A rare seed with an otherworldly appearance, featuring a blend of shimmering gold and deep ocean blue with faint green veins. It is known for its potent and versatile magical properties.

Properties: This seed can create plants with enhanced magical capabilities. When cultivated, it may produce plants that can channel and amplify magical energies, potentially offering powerful benefits in various magical disciplines.

Potential Uses: Ideal for creating magical enhancements, protective wards, or magical energy sources. Requires careful handling and expert cultivation to unlock its full potential.

Noah's eyes widened as he absorbed the details. The Mystic Nexus Seed was a rare find with the potential to significantly impact his quest. With renewed excitement, he began considering how to best utilize this powerful seed and integrate it into his plan.

Noah smiled as he looked at the unusual seed he had found. It was his first uncommon seed, and it had a fascinating appearance. The pile of seed pods yielded seeds from the Sunfire Flower, Aquafern, and Earthbloom. Seven pods in total: two of Sunfire Flower seeds, two Aquafern seeds, and two Earthbloom seeds. Holding the last pod, Noah was hopeful it would hold something special.

When he opened it, he was not disappointed. Inside was a Radiant Aqua Sunbloom Seed, its shimmering gold and deep ocean blue surface veined with faint green. The seed had a smooth, slightly glossy finish and emitted a soft, bioluminescent glow, alternating between golden and blue hues. It was a rare find, and Noah could tell it was something extraordinary.

Using his Analyse skill again, Noah read the information that appeared.

Radiant Aqua Sunbloom Seed

Rarity: Rare

Description: This unique seed embodies the essence of the Sunfire Flower, Aquafern, and Earthbloom. Its blend of shimmering gold and deep blue with green veins signifies a plant with extraordinary properties.

Appearance

Shape: Oval and slightly elongated with a smooth surface.

Colour: A blend of shimmering gold and deep blue with faint green veins.

Size: About the size of a small marble (1 cm in diameter).

Texture: Slightly glossy and cool to the touch.

Luminescence: Emits a soft, bioluminescent glow in low light, alternating between golden and blue hues.

Noah was impressed by the detailed description and the seed’s unique characteristics. It seemed to hold the potential for a plant with powerful and possibly magical properties.

As he examined the seed, he thought about how to use it. The garden beds were already showing signs of the seeds taking root, with the Sunfire Flower seeds growing long and bulbous, the Aquafern seeds developing arm-like limbs with greenish-blue leaves, the Earthbloom seeds producing earthy-smelling grass-like plants with small flowers, and the Windwhisper seeds creating thin, fern-like leaves that gently released a breeze.

With a final glance at the timer, Noah decided to use the Radiant Aqua Sunbloom Seed in one of the remaining planter boxes. He carefully planted the seed in a fresh, empty bed, ensuring it was placed in the perfect spot to thrive. As he watered the new planting and tidied up the remaining seeds and equipment, Noah felt a surge of anticipation. The trial was nearly complete, and the results would soon reveal the fruits of his labour.

He sat back, watching the plants and the Radiant Aqua Sunbloom Seed, eager to see what would emerge from this rare and intriguing seed.

He couldn’t help but smile at the Radiant Aqua Sunbloom Seed. As he continued his examination, he turned his attention to the remaining seed pods. The second-to-last pod, when opened, revealed an unexpected surprise: a large quantity of rice grain-sized seeds spilling out.

Curious, Noah picked up one of the small seeds and used his Analyse skill once more.

Wind-Earth Grass Seed

Rarity: Uncommon Description: The Wind-Earth Grass seed is a distinct and intriguing seed that hints at the fusion of its elemental origins, combining the aspects of air and earth to create a plant with unique properties.

Appearance

Shape: The seed is small and slightly elongated, with a pointed tip at one end, resembling a tiny teardrop.

Colour: The seed features a gradient colour scheme, starting with a pale, almost translucent green at the pointed tip, and fading into a rich, earthy brown at the base. This colour transition reflects its dual nature.

Size: The seed is about the size of a grain of rice, approximately 0.5 cm in length.

Texture: The surface of the seed is smooth but has tiny, intricate patterns etched into it, resembling the veins of a leaf and the texture of the soil.

Luminescence: The seed has a faint, natural glow in daylight, highlighting its pale green tip. This glow intensifies slightly when exposed to moving air, giving it an almost ethereal quality.

Starting with the last pile, Noah began to open the remaining pods. As he worked, he accidentally spilled some water onto a few of them. “Shit,” he muttered under his breath, quickly trying to dry the seeds with his shirt.

To his surprise, he noticed one of the pods absorbing the spilled water, almost as if it were draining the liquid from the table. Intrigued, Noah picked up the pod and carefully opened it. Inside, he found several pebble-like seeds. He selected one of these and used his Analyse skill for one final check. The results would soon reveal the nature of these peculiar seeds and their potential use in the quest ahead.

Hydrobreeze Bloom Seed

Rarity: Uncommon

Description: The Hydrobreeze Bloom seed combines the essence of water and air, resulting in a seed that promises a plant with a gentle flow of water and the lightness of air.

Appearance

Shape: The seed is oval-shaped, with a slightly flattened profile, resembling a tiny, smooth pebble.

Colour: It has a swirling pattern of deep blue and pale azure, reminiscent of the ocean and sky. The colours seem to move subtly when the seed is tilted, creating an illusion of flowing water and breeze.

Size: The seed is small, about 0.7 cm in length and 0.4 cm in width.

Texture: The surface of the seed is smooth and slightly glossy, with a cool touch that feels like a fresh breeze.

Luminescence: The seed emits a faint, soft glow that becomes more noticeable in dim light. This glow pulsates gently, mimicking the ebb and flow of tides and the gentle movement of air.

Harvesting all the seed pods, Noah ended up with ten seeds from each elemental plant and at least five new, unique seeds. After carefully collecting and sorting the seeds, he pulled out the plants, leaving the planter boxes empty and ready for their next use.

Noah opened his notebook and began jotting down possible combinations with the new seeds. His mind raced with potential strategies as he considered the best ways to utilize each type. He felt a sense of accomplishment at the variety of seeds he had acquired and the knowledge he had gained. Glancing at the timer, he saw he had 55 minutes left to complete the trial and place an uncommon seed into the stone bowl embedded in the wall.

With a determined nod, Noah set to work. He approached the first planter box and carefully planted a Hydrobreeze Bloom seed and a Wind-Earth Grass seed, ensuring they were spaced about a foot apart. He watered them quickly, trying not to waste any time.

Moving on to the second planter box, Noah planted a Radiant Air Herb, followed by a Hydrobreeze Bloom seed and a Wind-Earth Grass seed. He made sure to water these thoroughly as well, feeling the pressure of the ticking timer.

For the third box, he decided on a more complex mix: a Hydrobreeze Bloom seed, a Radiant Air Herb, a Radiant Aqua Sunbloom, and a Wind-Earth Grass seed. As he watered these, he observed how rapidly the seedlings were sprouting. The sight of their quick growth filled him with optimism.

With the timer now showing 45 minutes remaining, Noah looked over at the stone bowl embedded in the wall, its presence a constant reminder of the approaching deadline. He needed to select and place an uncommon seed into it soon. Returning to his spot on the ground, he watched the growing plants with a mix of anticipation and focus.

He closed his eyes, letting the quietness of the room envelop him. The soft rustle of the growing plants and the gentle hum of the dungeon’s magic were the only sounds that accompanied his thoughts. As he waited for the final moments of the trial, Noah embraced the calm and allowed himself to fully concentrate on the task ahead.

Opening his eyes, Noah noticed that several plants had already begun to bloom in the first planter box. He quickly stood up and grabbed the brush he had used earlier to clean the pollen. With focused precision, he went to work cross-pollinating the flowers. His movements were deliberate, each touch and stroke designed to maximize the potential of the plants.

As he finished pollinating, Noah watched with bated breath. The flowers went through their natural cycle of growing and swelling at the base as seed pods began to form. He observed with fascination as the pods gradually enlarged, their development accelerated by the magical environment.

However, the ticking timer on the wall reminded him of the urgency of the situation. He had only 30 minutes left, and a sense of panic began to rise in his chest. He desperately hoped that the pods would grow quickly enough to meet the trial’s demands. The pods swelled larger than usual, and a few even began to emit a faint glow before vanishing.

When the pods were finally ready, Noah moved swiftly to open each one. Most of the seeds inside were similar to those from the parent plants, but one particular pod caught his attention. It contained seeds that seemed different from the rest. The first planter box, which had been planted with Hydrobreeze Bloom and Wind-Earth Grass, yielded something unexpected.

He held up the peculiar seeds and activated his Analyse skill. As the information appeared before him, Noah’s eyes widened in surprise. The seeds from this pod had unique properties that set them apart from the others.

Aquatic Earthgrass Seed

Rarity: uncommon +1 Description: A robust grass species with broad, emerald-green blades that shimmer with a faint aquatic sheen. Its roots delve deep into the earth, extracting moisture and nutrients efficiently. Appearance: The grass blades are thicker and more resilient than typical grass, with a slight curl at the tips that resembles small waves. When touched, they exude a cool, refreshing sensation akin to running water

Appearance

Shape: The seed is oval, slightly elongated, and smooth to the touch, with a surface that feels cool and refreshing.

Colour: The seed features a blend of deep emerald green and hints of shimmering blue. The green represents its strong connection to Earth, while the blue reflects its aquatic nature.

Size: About 1 cm in diameter, the seed is roughly the size of a small marble.

Texture: The surface of the seed has a glossy finish and feels cool, mimicking the texture of water-retentive plants. It is slightly slippery to the touch, enhancing its aquatic feel.

Luminescence: In dim light, the seed emits a soft bioluminescent glow. The light alternates between emerald green and deep blue hues, symbolizing the balance between its earth and water traits.

Noah studied the results with a mix of satisfaction and curiosity. The seeds from the second planter box offered valuable insights into the interaction between different plant types. The presence of the larger seeds suggested that the crossbreeding had yielded some particularly promising results.

With the timer ticking down to the final moments of his trial, Noah worked quickly to harvest the remaining pods, carefully cataloguing each seed. He was determined to make the most of the time he had left and ensure that every opportunity was seized before the quest concluded.

Zephyr Bloom Seed

Rarity: Uncommon +1

Description: The Zephyr Bloom is a delicate herbaceous plant that embodies the essence of air, water, and earth. Its leaves are slender and airy, with a shimmering quality reminiscent of misty mornings. The petals of its blooms are a soft blend of blue and green, with a subtle iridescence that reflects sunlight in a calming manner.

Special Features: Zephyr Bloom emits a faint, refreshing breeze around it, creating a microclimate of coolness and moisture. It is known to attract beneficial insects and butterflies with its gentle fragrance, contributing to pollination in garden environments.

Uses: The leaves and petals of Zephyr Bloom can be brewed into a soothing tea that promotes relaxation and mental clarity. It is also used in herbal remedies for respiratory ailments due to its purifying properties.

Noah moved to the third planter box, hoping for a different outcome. However, as he harvested the seed pods, he found they contained the same species of plants as before. Frustration etched on his face, he sighed and glanced at the timer. With only 20 minutes left before the trial ended, he needed to act quickly.

Heading towards the stone bowl on the wall, Noah reached for one of the Zephyr Bloom seeds, preparing to place it into the bowl. Just as he was about to drop the seed in, a strange sensation stopped him in his tracks. It felt as though the air around him was thickening, and he noticed an unsettling swell behind him.

Turning around, Noah’s eyes widened in astonishment. The plants in the planter boxes began to emit a dazzling, bright light. The light grew more intense, and the plants started to disappear, their forms merging into a single, radiant spectacle in the centre of the room.

As the brilliance subsided, Noah saw that something extraordinary was unfolding before him. From the centre of the room, a new formation began to take shape, rapidly growing towards him. Star-shaped blossoms shimmered with a radiant aqua hue, reminiscent of the morning sky trapped within their petals. The blossoms were accompanied by four seed pods, which sprouted rapidly at the tops of the flowers, almost as if they were inviting him to take them.

Noah’s heart raced as he realized the significance of what he was witnessing. He used his Analyse skill on the newly formed pods, holding his breath in anticipation. The results appeared before him, revealing information that left him in awe.

Celestial Aegis Blossom

Rarity: Epic Description: The Celestial Aegis Blossom is an extraordinary flowering plant that harmoniously blends the elements of water, air, earth, and sunlight. Its star-shaped blossoms radiate a vivid aqua hue reminiscent of a sunny sky, and its foliage is lush with a dynamic network of veins.

Elemental Affinity: Channels elemental energies to create a protective aura around itself and nearby plants.

Growth Enhancement: Boosts growth and resilience of vegetation in its vicinity, promoting vibrant blooms and lush greenery even in harsh conditions.

Alchemical Applications: Extracts are highly valued for enhancing protective spells and wards.

Potion Infusion: Petals and leaves can be used to create potions that offer temporary resistance to elemental damage.

The plant began to wither, its vibrant blossoms fading as Noah quickly gathered the four seed pods. He watched as the now withered plant crumbled away into nothingness. "Thank you," he whispered, his gratitude directed toward the mysterious forces that had guided him—whether it was the dungeon, the plants themselves, or something else entirely.

Without dwelling on it, Noah carefully stored the seeds, keeping one out for the final step. He placed the seed into the stone bowl embedded in the wall. The bowl responded with a radiant burst of light, and Noah suddenly found himself standing outside, the dungeon's entrance vanishing before him. He looked down and saw the staircase and surrounding earth slowly returning to their original positions, sealing the dungeon.

Noah stood there, a mixture of relief and uncertainty washing over him. Had he completed the quest successfully? The remnants of the dungeon were now obscured, leaving him to ponder the outcome of his efforts.

As Noah absorbed the message, a sense of accomplishment settled over him. The quest had been completed successfully, and he’d earned the following rewards:

Quest Completed: Dungeon Trial

Objective: Create an uncommon seed (1/1)

Reward:

Upgrade Token

Basic Skill Book in Mana Manipulation

Mystic Waterskin

However, a new message then appeared on his screen

Warning: Detecting a higher tier of seed from the quest. Please stand by while bonuses are generated.

Noah watched with anticipation as the message hinted at additional rewards. The air seemed to shimmer with the promise of more to come.

Two items materialized before Noah: a book and a waterskin. He bent down to retrieve them, examining each with a sense of curiosity and anticipation. The waterskin was empty, its surface crafted from a supple, yet durable material. Noah quickly stored it away for future use.

Next, he turned his attention to the Upgrade Token. He took it out of his inventory, marvelling at its design. The token was a small, flat medallion, about the size of a large coin. It was made of a shimmering material that changed colours depending on the angle of light, predominantly displaying hues of emerald green and deep sapphire blue. The centre of the token featured an intricate engraving of a world tree, its branches and roots extending towards the edges of the medallion. The tree’s leaves were inlaid with tiny, sparkling gemstones, creating the illusion of a living, radiant entity. Ancient runes circled the edge of the token, glowing softly with a golden light, pulsing gently to indicate the magical power contained within.

The surface of the token felt smooth and cool to the touch, yet it emitted a subtle warmth, suggesting its readiness for use. On the reverse side, a stylized sun and moon were depicted in a harmonious circle, symbolizing balance and the cyclical nature of growth and transformation. Noah carefully placed the token back into his storage, feeling a sense of satisfaction with this powerful reward.

Turning to the skill book, Noah noted its title, "Basic Skill Book in Mana Manipulation." The cover was a deep, rich blue, embossed with silver symbols and intricate patterns that seemed to pulse with an inner light. The title was written in an elegant, flowing script, adding an air of importance and mystery to the book. As Noah focused on the text, a system window appeared, signalling that he could now delve into the new skill and explore its potential.

Would you like to use the skill book? Y/N

With a sense of anticipation, Noah selected "Yes." Instantly, the book disintegrated into a cascade of dirt, and a wave of mana surged toward him. Thick blue lines, glowing with an inner light, emanated from the crumbling book, wrapping around his body in a warm, comforting embrace. The lines pulsed rhythmically, their glow growing more intense as they merged with his consciousness.

Noah felt a profound rush of information flood his mind. Concepts of mana manipulation, techniques for channelling energy, and intricate details of spells flooded his thoughts in a torrent. It was as if years of study and practice had been compressed into a single, overwhelming moment. The knowledge was both exhilarating and intense, weaving itself seamlessly into his understanding of the world.

As the blue lines slowly faded, Noah stood in awe, his senses heightened. He now felt a newfound connection to the mana around him, a subtle but profound awareness that allowed him to sense its presence more acutely. Looking towards the northeast, he sensed a faint but distinct source of mana drifting through the air. It was a gentle, pulsing current, almost like a whisper on the breeze.

“That’s the direction to the world seedling,” Noah said to himself, his gaze fixed on the horizon.