Early preparation: weapon upgrades, bells and medicine

Build around a comfortable weapon

Look for upgrade materials while exploring, strengthen a weapon you enjoy and read its newly unlocked skills. PC Gamer reports that reforging returns upgrade materials: free through level 10, with a reforge item needed afterwards. Confirm the current conditions in the game.

The developer's official overview also describes recovering materials through reforging, so upgrades need not be assumed permanent.

Section sources: PC Gamer: combat and resource tips · S-GAME / PlayStation Blog: combat and regional dates

Bells and recovery

PC Gamer reports that resting at bells replenishes medicine and Phantom Edge uses; in its experience, resting does not reset regular enemies as in some comparable games. Look for a nearby bell before exploring an unfamiliar route.

Section sources: PC Gamer: combat and resource tips

Medicine upgrades arrive later

PC Gamer places medicine upgrades at Green Serpent House in western Pangzhen, after advancing its story and defeating Xie Qiudong. Speak with the Apprentice Healer and use the relevant Healer's Memories; the first visit also gives Green Serpent Brew.

If you cannot find the upgrade option early on, continue the story rather than repeatedly searching the starting area. This site has not tested item counts or version differences.

Section sources: PC Gamer: medicine upgrades