Category: This Necromancer Wants to Capture the Hearts of Deceased Beautiful Girls

Chapter 40: Bottled Divine Grace

“Where are you two from?” an elf alchemist asked, his golden hair streaked with silver. Elves lived twice as long as humans, so he must have been at least one hundred and fifty years old.

“I’m a traveling alchemist, and he’s my… partner,” Rebecca replied, curtseying politely. “You can call me Ray.”

“Just call me Abyss. I’m her assistant,” Abyss said, introducing himself. “Ray is fascinated by Lavoisier City’s alchemists’ gathering, so we came here hoping to participate and learn from the masters.”

The alchemists nodded, although they found it hard to believe that a traveling alchemist could possess such extraordinary skills. However, before Rebecca’s arrival, Professor Kom had shared his struggles with the potion formula, which this young woman had effortlessly deciphered. Her abilities had earned their respect.

With such talent, any alchemical organization in the world would welcome her with open arms. No one would refuse a genius.

As for her age, they assumed she was an older woman who used potions to maintain her youthful appearance. Rebecca, sensing their assumption, simply smiled. If she counted her time as an undead, she would be a sixty-year-old grandmother.

“Do you have any new ideas you’d like to share? We can discuss them,” an alchemist asked.

Rebecca pondered. She usually developed potions with specific goals in mind, driven by her own needs. Her inspiration often came from observing and analyzing details, which was why she enjoyed studying other alchemists’ work. She did possess some unique potions, like the antidote she had given Abyss and the potion that neutralized the toxins in the other world’s factory, but those weren’t worth sharing.

“Not at the moment. I’m simply curious about your discussion. May I listen in? If I have any ideas, I’ll share them,” she said.

“Alright, sit over there with your assistant. We were just discussing something. We can continue now.”

“Thank you,” Rebecca said, nodding, taking Abyss’s hand and leading him to a corner of the room, ready to observe the alchemists’ discussion.

It was clear they had been engrossed in their conversation before her arrival. The moment she sat down, their voices filled the room, their aged faces animated with excitement as they passionately shared their opinions.

“I’m telling you, this potion is revolutionary! It’s a precious legacy from our ancestors, something that will forever change Hai-Teweru!” a dwarf alchemist exclaimed, pounding his fist on the table, his bushy beard swaying with each breath.

“Don’t be ridiculous. Before you change the world, consider the possibility of the Church burning you at the stake!” an elderly woman scoffed. “I’ve said it many times, don’t trust those ancient formulas from tombs! Look at this inscription. It’s pure evil!”

Abyss, hearing the word “tomb,” perked up. He glanced at the woman. She was holding a large sheet of paper, a rubbing of an ancient inscription, likely from a tombstone. As a mage who frequently used ancient languages in his spells, he recognized the writing. It read: “This potion can store Divine Grace. Pray to the Nine Gods, asking them to heal your ailments. Hold this potion, and when Divine Grace descends, its power will infuse the potion. Consume it immediately.”

“How is storing Divine Grace evil?!” the dwarf protested, taking a long drag from his pipe, exhaling a thick cloud of smoke. “It’s simply delaying the use of God’s blessings! If we can unlock its secrets, it will revolutionize alchemy!”

“If this potion can store Divine Grace, it must be connected to the Church’s Divine Arts users. Why is this potion unknown now? Why has the Church suppressed this information?” the elderly woman asked with a sneer. “Where do you think those who created this potion ended up? Some unknown individuals left these formulas in their tombs, and you’re foolish enough to follow them blindly?”

Rebecca, listening intently, felt a surge of disbelief. She was undoubtedly the most talented alchemist in the world, yet she had never heard of a potion that interacted with Divine Arts.

Most potions relied on mana, either manipulating the user’s internal mana or facilitating the absorption of external mana. Alchemy was intrinsically linked to the principles of mana manipulation, hence the term “potion.” Only a small number of potions relied solely on their inherent properties, mostly for medicinal purposes.

But how could a potion interact with Divine Arts? Rebecca, well-versed in various fields of knowledge, could understand the ancient inscription. It clearly stated that the potion could store Divine Grace, specifically the power of healing, transforming it into a divinely empowered healing potion.

“Excuse me, could you explain what they’re arguing about?” Rebecca asked the alchemist beside her, tapping his shoulder gently.

The alchemist turned to face her. “Ah… That dwarf, Horst, recently explored an ancient ruin with his students. They discovered a stone tablet with a potion formula in an ancient tomb. It claims that the potion can store Divine Grace. But the problem is, some of the ingredients are rare, and everyone’s afraid of attracting the Church’s attention. If they discover this research, they’ll send their Paladins after us. We could all be executed.”

“Such a potion exists? Is there any evidence that it actually works?” Rebecca asked, her curiosity piqued.

“No, the tomb’s owner and its age are unknown. There’s only that cryptic stone tablet,” the alchemist said, shaking his head. “I wish they would change the subject. It’s too dangerous. And it clearly requires the cooperation of a Divine Arts user from the Church. It’s impossible. Where would we find such an obedient Divine Arts user?”

“Ah, thank you,” Rebecca said, then stood up, raising her hand to get everyone’s attention. “Mr. Horst, could I see that ancient potion formula?”

Chapter 39: The Entrance Exam

The male student, with a mischievous grin, pulled a sheet of paper from his book. It was covered in scribbled notes, a potion formula, but clearly incomplete. A circle was drawn around a blank space, with a small note beside it: “What to add?”

He knew that behind that iron door was a gathering of the continent’s most brilliant alchemists, where groundbreaking and often dangerous inventions were shared and discussed. Such a prestigious event wouldn’t allow just any novice alchemist to enter. Judging by their appearance, the young man and woman before him weren’t even as old as he was.

And he, with his abrasive personality and his tendency to offend people, had never had a girlfriend. Seeing a beautiful woman accompanied by a seemingly ordinary young man, their audacity to request entry into this exclusive gathering fueled his resentment. He was determined to make things difficult for them.

The paper he held wasn’t his own homework, but his mentor’s research notes. His mentor was a professor at the Mendeleev Academy of Alchemy and a member of the Royal Alchemist Association, a renowned figure in the world of alchemy, his expertise unmatched.

Even this esteemed alchemist had spent six months on this research, conducting countless experiments and consultations, finally achieving a partial success—the potion worked, but its effects were far from ideal.

Alchemy, thanks to Baron Bottel Viper’s revolution, was no longer a haphazard practice of throwing random ingredients into a pot and hoping for the best. The complex reactions between different materials under various conditions required precise calculations and estimations, making advanced alchemy a challenging and intricate field. Every ingredient added to a potion required careful consideration and experimentation. Finding a workable solution was a significant achievement.

His mentor had intended to discuss this research with his colleagues, hoping to gain new insights. He, as a student, was tasked with carrying these notes and other research materials.

This formula could stump the world’s greatest alchemists. It would surely teach this arrogant woman, who thought her beauty was enough to grant her access, a lesson.

Rebecca studied the paper for a moment, then looked up, asking, “Could you tell me the purpose of this potion?”

“This potion? It can stimulate a mage’s magical core, temporarily enhancing their mana capacity,” the student replied casually. “So, can you figure out what ingredient to add here? You seem to be struggling to even understand the formula.”

“That’s an interesting idea. A simple and cost-effective approach would be to add an extract of Mana Reed. It’s suitable for initial testing,” Rebecca said, stroking her chin thoughtfully.

The student’s jaw dropped.

His mentor’s recent discovery, the “makeshift” solution he had celebrated with a bottle of vintage wine from his cellar, was indeed to add Mana Reed extract! How did she know?

“This…”

“However, for optimal results, a simple extract isn’t enough. You would need to heat the extract and add a few drops of pure ghoul bile in a ten-to-one ratio. Then, have a qualified Elemental mage continuously heat the container with mana, slowly blending it with the other ingredients at high temperature… This should temporarily elevate a mid-level mage’s mana capacity to high-level. Of course, there are side effects. It will permanently damage the liver and temporarily impair brain function, causing severe headaches. Who came up with this idea? It’s quite bold.”

As the student stood there, speechless, Rebecca continued her analysis, accurately describing the potion’s side effects. His mentor had indeed observed these side effects during experiments on goblins. She was spot on!

“I… I need to inform my mentor!” he exclaimed, rushing through the door.

Inside the room, a group of alchemists were engaged in a lively discussion, their voices a mix of excitement and skepticism, the air thick with smoke from their pipes. The student’s sudden intrusion startled them. His mentor, an elderly alchemist with a wild, bushy beard, glared at him. “Malz! Why did you barge in? I told you to guard the door and not let anyone in!”

“Professor Kom, I had to. There’s a young alchemist outside who, after a single glance at your notes, deduced the formula you spent six months developing. She even offered a method to maximize its effectiveness! She wants to enter the room with her companion. I think you should meet her,” the student explained hurriedly.

Professor Kom’s eyes widened in astonishment. “What? Impossible! My formula is incredibly complex. Every ingredient interacts with the others, creating a delicate balance. How could she possibly know what to add just by looking at it?”

“I don’t know…” the student said, scratching his head.

“Bring her in!” Professor Kom exclaimed, slamming his fist on the table.

The student rushed back to the door, his arrogance gone, replaced by a newfound respect. He ushered Rebecca and Abyss into the room, his demeanor now polite and deferential.

As he closed the door behind them, he silently admonished himself for judging alchemists by their appearance. Some alchemists used potions to alter their appearance. This busty beauty and seemingly frail young man might be much older than they appeared…

…

As Abyss and Rebecca entered the room, they were met with curious stares from the assembled alchemists.

The room was hazy with smoke from their pipes, their faces, mostly elderly, barely visible through the haze. They scrutinized the two young newcomers, trying to discern their true identities.

Professor Kom, his aged eyes watery, stared at Rebecca. She looked familiar, but he couldn’t place her.

He felt a sense of recognition, as if she were part of a distant memory… Who was she?

Chapter 38: Rebecca’s Clever Tactics

For most people, the potions acquired from the auction were mere novelties, but for Rebecca, they held a different kind of value.

She could analyze a potion’s ingredients simply by smelling and tasting it. No matter how complex the formula or intricate the process, a single sip and a few seconds of savoring were all she needed to replicate it.

This ability stemmed partly from her heightened senses of taste and smell, and partly from her extensive knowledge of alchemical ingredients. She had memorized their properties and flavors to the point where she could write the most comprehensive and detailed alchemy textbook in the world, given enough paper and time.

In life, she hadn’t possessed such an extraordinary ability. Analyzing an unknown potion required specialized equipment, especially for toxic or non-consumable potions. But now, as an undead, her already exceptional senses were amplified, and her immunity to toxins eliminated the need for specialized equipment. She was a walking, talking analytical machine, capable of discerning the ingredients of most potions in the world with just a taste.

“Impressive, right? My tongue is amazing!” Rebecca said proudly, emerging from the potion testing room, followed by Leona and Flora. Abyss trailed behind them.

They had tested several potions in the room. Abyss had even consumed one that promised “the blissful feeling of a full night’s sleep after a long day of work.” A wave of relaxation washed over him, making him stretch and sigh contentedly.

“Amazing! I want to learn that too! You have to teach me!” Leona said, impressed by Rebecca’s ability to decipher potion formulas with a single taste. But she wasn’t interested in advanced potions. She envisioned Rebecca memorizing the recipes of delicious dishes and drinks, allowing Abyss to recreate them, ensuring access to gourmet food wherever they went.

“Your tongue is truly remarkable, Rebecca. I’d call it a divine tongue,” Abyss said, his voice filled with genuine admiration, his face still relaxed from the potion’s effects. He too, thanks to his high toxin resistance, could analyze potions through tasting, but his skills paled in comparison to Rebecca’s. “I’m truly impressed.”

“Heehee, thank you,” Rebecca said, giggling, sticking out her pink tongue playfully.

Leona and Flora, wanting to try the potion-infused drinks at the bar, headed towards the ground floor, while Abyss and Rebecca, with the alchemists’ gathering approaching, decided to try their luck downstairs.

The staff member from the auction was still sitting in the hall. He watched them leave the room, their laughter echoing behind them, a puzzled expression on his face.

“My god… Did they do that in there? How scandalous… Damn it… I wish I had three lovely girls to keep me company…” he muttered to himself.

…

“Here’s some spending money. It should be enough for your drinks tonight,” Rebecca said, handing a handful of imperial coins to Leona and Flora as they reached the basement level, where the bar was located. The bar was bustling with activity, filled with alchemists chatting and drinking, along with a few ordinary patrons. The shelves behind the counter were lined with a variety of unusual bottles, clearly concoctions brewed by alchemists. “The old Alchemy Club had a small bar, but this one is much larger. I used to spend about one or two hundred imperial coins here per night.”

Leona eagerly accepted the coins, the shiny metal clinking pleasantly in her small hand. She quickly counted them, her eyes widening as she realized there were ten one-hundred imperial coin denominations.

“Spend it all, don’t hold back,” Rebecca said, smiling, patting Leona’s arm.

Flora, observing their interaction, smiled knowingly. She understood that Rebecca’s display of wealth was a way of appeasing Leona, providing her with a sense of financial security. Despite being a princess, Leona was more naive than most common girls. Give her good food, good drink, and a bit of respect, and she would trust you like a well-fed kitten.

Rebecca was clever. Aware that she was the newcomer in Abyss’s inner circle, she was actively working to build rapport with the others. Although her affection for Abyss wasn’t deep yet, she was serious about winning his heart, not just engaging in a childish infatuation. This proactive approach was probably one of the reasons she had become so successful at such a young age.

Flora saw through Rebecca’s tactics but chose not to expose them. She didn’t dislike Rebecca. Despite her methods, Flora sensed her sincerity, her genuine desire to be accepted and loved by the group, not to manipulate them.

Leona, her hand in Flora’s, skipped towards the bar, eager to try the unique potion-infused drinks. They quickly found a table and settled down, waving at Abyss and Rebecca, signaling them to go about their business.

“Let’s go. I’m eager to see this gathering of bold alchemists. It didn’t exist when I was alive,” Rebecca said, taking Abyss’s arm, smiling.

Abyss nodded, and they headed towards the stairs leading to the lower basement level.

Following the student’s directions, they easily found the iron door she had mentioned. They could hear voices from inside, muffled conversations filtering through the metal.

A male student sat by the door, reading a book, likely a poor soul forced to guard the entrance by his mentor.

“Hello, is this where the alchemists are meeting? Can we enter?” Rebecca asked politely.

The student glanced at them, his voice impatient. “Who are you? Academy students? This room is for important figures in the alchemy world. Go away.”

“What if we can prove we possess the same level of expertise as those inside?” Abyss asked, his voice serious.

The student looked at Abyss’s emerald eyes, feeling a sudden wave of drowsiness. His impatience grew. “You want to enter? Fine, solve this problem. If you can’t, leave.”

Chapter 37: Who’s the Most Compatible?

By the end of the auction, Abyss and his companions had acquired the most potions. Rebecca, her enthusiasm boundless, had bid on almost every unusual potion she had never seen before. Leona, obsessed with becoming “more feminine,” focused on potions with related effects. And Flora, ever the pragmatist, purchased every potion with potential health benefits.

Abyss had wanted to buy a few potions for himself, but the enthusiastic girls had already snatched up everything that caught his eye. He settled for being a passive observer.

Concerned about causing a commotion by summoning his magical catfish in public, Abyss purchased several bottles from the club, carefully transferring the potions they had acquired, his bag clinking with the sound of glass. However, one beaker, containing the compatibility-testing potion, remained unpacked.

“We’ll consume this one here,” Rebecca said to the staff member handling the potion distribution. “Is it alright to test it here?”

“If you’re testing potions, there’s a room for that. I suggest you use it,” the staff member said, pointing to a door across from the auction hall. “That room is specifically designed for potion testing. It’s reinforced, soundproofed, and equipped with emergency supplies. It’s quite convenient.”

“Great!” Rebecca said, grabbing the beaker filled with the strangely colored potion. “We’ll return the beaker after we’re done!”

“Alright, go ahead,” the staff member said, waving his hand dismissively. He was accustomed to such requests and found nothing unusual about it.

It wasn’t until he watched Abyss being led away by the three girls that he felt a pang of envy. “Tsk… That young man… So many girlfriends? Damn, those youngsters are living the good life. No wonder he’s so pale. I guess there’s a price for everything…”

…

The room, as the staff member had described, was ideal for potion testing. It had protective magic arrays, soundproofing materials, and a comprehensive first-aid kit for emergencies.

Abyss and the girls sat in a circle on the floor. Rebecca was eager to test the potion, and Leona and Flora were curious. Only Abyss seemed indifferent. As the most experienced mage among them, he knew that with the current level of magic and alchemy on the continent, accurately determining compatibility through a simple potion was impossible. It was just a novelty item, not to be taken seriously.

Rebecca placed the beaker in the center of the circle, her eyes sparkling. “There’s quite a lot of potion. Enough for all four of us. Leona, Flora, do you want to try it?”

“I… Why would I drink that? I don’t want to play such a silly game with ABC. It’s all fake, not accurate at all. Besides, I…”

“I’d like to try,” Flora said suddenly.

Leona immediately changed her tune. “Well, I guess I can try too.”

“Great! One big gulp each!” Rebecca said, taking the first sip, then handed the beaker to Abyss. “Abyss, your turn!”

Abyss chuckled, taking a sip. The potion was spicy, tingling his taste buds. Its magic activated his mana, gradually converging on his skin.

Flora took the beaker from Abyss, swallowing a large gulp, then handed the remaining quarter to a nervous Leona.

Leona stared at the potion, her mind racing. This was the beaker Abyss had used! Drinking from it would be like indirectly kissing him! But Flora had seemed so casual. She must not have thought about it! So, to appear natural, she had to drink it…

With the determination of someone offering their first kiss, Leona drained the beaker.

“Alright! According to the instructions, we just need to touch each other’s skin, and it’ll glow. The brighter the light, the more compatible we are!” Rebecca said, rubbing her hands together excitedly. “Can I touch Abyss first?”

“Sure, go ahead,” Abyss said, extending his hand.

“Here I come!” Rebecca exclaimed, grabbing his hand eagerly.

The moment their hands touched, a bright light erupted from their palms, illuminating the dimly lit room. Their faces were bathed in a soft, white glow, its intensity surprising even Abyss.

“Wow! So bright!” Rebecca said, giggling. “We’re so compatible! Abyss, look! I’ll be a good wife for you!”

“We are quite compatible,” Abyss said, smiling. But he was referring to their teamwork and their shared understanding, based on their recent collaboration in the other world.

“Me! I want to try too!” Leona exclaimed, extending her hand. “Abyss, hold my hand! Just so you know, I’m just curious…”

“Sure,” Abyss said, releasing Rebecca’s hand and taking Leona’s small hand in his.

A bright light erupted again, illuminating Leona’s flushed cheeks. She had been nervous, but seeing the bright glow, she couldn’t help but smile, her teeth biting her lower lip.

“My light is as bright as Rebecca’s!” she said, releasing his hand, her voice filled with pride.

“Flora, let’s hold hands too,” Abyss said, extending his hand towards Flora.

Flora nodded silently, placing her hand in his.

“My god!” Rebecca gasped.

An almost blinding light flashed from their joined hands. If Rebecca and Leona’s light had been like moonlight, then Flora’s was like the sun itself, illuminating the entire room with a brilliant white light, obscuring everything else.

Then, the light vanished as Flora withdrew her hand.

“Eeeeek!” Rebecca exclaimed, her eyes wide with surprise. “Flora! How are you so strong?!”

Leona’s jaw dropped.

Flora, however, remained silent, a knowing smile on her lips.

“I might not be as bright as Flora, but I won’t give up! Abyss, I’ll become even more compatible with you! Just you wait!” Rebecca declared, puffing out her chest.

“Me too! ABC, treat me better, and I’ll be as bright as Flora!” Leona exclaimed, her face flushed, her voice filled with determination.

Abyss patted their heads. “Alright, I’ll do my best to make you both happy.”

Flora smiled, her usual gentle demeanor masking a mischievous glint in her eyes.

The potion was just a gimmick. It produced the same light intensity regardless of the users. But Flora had used a subtle, undetectable Divine Art to enhance the glow.

Who said the kind and gentle Flora couldn’t be a little cunning when it came to someone she cared about?

Chapter 36: The Rich Girl Spends Money

After bidding farewell to the student, Rebecca practically dragged Abyss up to the second floor. Leona, eager to see the auctioned potions, pulled Flora along.

As they reached the second floor, a wave of chatter and laughter washed over them. A small auction hall, bustling with activity, was located next to the staircase. It seemed a new auction was about to begin, and numerous guests were finding their seats.

Unlike the exclusive auctions frequented by the wealthy elite, this one was more casual, the guests representing a diverse mix of alchemists, academy students, commoners, and even out-of-town visitors. The items being auctioned weren’t expensive either. Most were potions with peculiar effects, accidentally created by alchemists during their experiments. The unpredictable nature of magic often resulted in amusing and bizarre effects. After undergoing toxicity tests conducted by the club, these potions were sold at low prices, usually starting at their production cost.

The uniqueness and limited availability of these potions made them highly sought-after. Even Rebecca, a genius alchemist herself, was intrigued by these random concoctions. She never let her talent make her arrogant. Observing other alchemists’ work often sparked new ideas.

“Sit, sit, sit! Let’s sit together!” Leona exclaimed, rushing to a row of empty seats and plopping down, waving excitedly at the others, her enthusiasm unrestrained.

“Leona is such a child at heart,” Rebecca said, chuckling.

Flora smiled, her eyes filled with fondness, like a mother watching her daughter enjoy herself.

As Abyss walked towards Leona, hand-in-hand with Rebecca, he couldn’t help but wonder about Leona’s behavior. If he remembered correctly, she had died at the age of eighteen, a princess of the Western Empire. Logically, she should be the most mature among them…

They finally settled into their seats. After a brief wait, the auction began. A small stage with a stone table in the center dominated the hall. An elderly auctioneer, yawning, walked onto the stage, holding a bell.

“Ahem… Welcome to the sixth auction of the day. We’ve received a new batch of potions. Without further ado, let’s begin.” The auctioneer signaled to someone backstage, and a young man carrying a beaker walked onto the stage, placing it on the table.

The guests chattered excitedly, anticipating the potion’s effects.

“Hmm… This potion allows the drinker to dream about… a two-headed ogre?” the auctioneer said, his voice laced with amusement. He was accustomed to auctioning off strange potions and remained unfazed. “Starting bid: twenty imperial coins. Any takers?”

Some guests chuckled.

“Yes! Thirty imperial coins!” Rebecca exclaimed, raising her hand.

Leona, having been frequently compared to a two-headed ogre by Abyss in his unique metaphors, felt a sense of unease. She instinctively tried to pull Rebecca’s hand down. But she quickly realized that stopping her now would be even more awkward. She blushed and remained silent.

Abyss smiled. This potion was interesting. He wondered if it would work within the dreamscapes created by the Lord of Nightmares.

“Any higher bids?” the auctioneer asked, pausing. “Thirty imperial coins once, thirty imperial coins twice, thirty imperial coins three times, sold!”

He rang the bell, signaling that Rebecca was now the owner of the potion. After the auction, she could claim it for thirty imperial coins. The beaker wasn’t included. Guests had to bring their own containers, which could also be purchased at the club. If they wanted to consume the potion on the spot, no one would stop them.

“If you see any potions you like, feel free to bid. We have plenty of money!” Rebecca said to Leona, who was swinging her legs, her feet not reaching the ground. “We’re family now, and that gold is our shared property. I can always earn more!”

“Really? We can bid on anything?” Leona asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

“Hmph, I’m not bragging, but we’re probably the wealthiest people in Lavoisier City right now,” Rebecca said, her voice filled with pride. “But hoarding all this wealth is meaningless. We should spend it, let it circulate. Money is only valuable when it’s being used!”

Leona grabbed Rebecca’s hand, her voice filled with admiration. “You’re truly wise!”

The auction continued, a parade of strange and wonderful potions being presented. One potion could temporarily grant the drinker (regardless of gender) a pair of beautifully shaped breasts. Leona desperately wanted it but was too embarrassed to ask. Rebecca, sensing her desire, purchased it for three times the starting price. Another potion turned the drinker’s vision green. Another made chocolate-flavored smoke erupt from the drinker’s ears… These bizarre potions amazed Leona. She regretted not visiting this place during her time as a princess.

Even Flora, usually reserved, purchased a potion. It could temporarily make the drinker’s skin rosy and healthy. She had always been concerned about Abyss’s pale complexion. She wasn’t worried about side effects. Her Divine Arts could neutralize any toxins.

“Next…” the auctioneer said, waiting for the next potion to be placed on the table. He consulted his list. “This potion can test the compatibility of a couple after marriage… Both individuals consume the potion, then touch each other’s bodies. The point of contact will emit light. The brighter the light, the more compatible they are. However, the seller claims the results are for entertainment purposes only. I believe this potion will be popular among our younger guests. Starting bid: one hundred imperial coins. Please place your bids.”

“One hundred and twenty imperial coins,” someone shouted immediately.

“One hundred and fifty imperial coins!”

“Three hundred imperial coins!” Rebecca exclaimed, raising her hand. “Please refrain from bidding any further. I really want this potion. If I win, everyone here will receive three hundred imperial coins from me!”

The auctioneer almost dropped his bell. The guests looked at each other, stunned. They had never seen such extravagance. This potion was clearly a novelty item, yet she was taking it so seriously. Those who had intended to bid immediately withdrew, lured by the promise of free money.

Leona stared at Rebecca with newfound admiration. This was a true business queen! Bold and generous!

Chapter 35: The Alchemy Club

Although Abyss and his companions weren’t dressed like alchemists, the young student they had met outside the perfume shop enthusiastically led them to a building twice the size of the shop. Even before she introduced it, Abyss knew this was the new location of the Alchemy Club.

A bright potion lamp sign above the entrance, its colorful tubes forming elegant cursive letters, proclaimed: “Lavoisier City Alchemy Club.”

“Ah! This is it!” Rebecca exclaimed, clapping her hands excitedly. “Wow, the Emperor is so generous! The club’s new location is twice as large as the old one!”

The student chuckled. “Since the club moved less than a year ago, many visitors from other cities still go to the old location. I’ve seen many people like you. Emperor Camper has been very supportive of the Mendeleev Academy since he took the throne. He’s allocated significant funds and established several research groups. You must have seen Baron Bottel Viper’s former residence. It’s now an institute run by the academy. This Alchemy Club is a popular gathering place for alchemists in the city. The Emperor invested in the club’s relocation last year, providing them with a larger space to facilitate their activities.”

“The Emperor values education?” Flora asked, intrigued.

“Emperor Camper is a capable ruler. He’s good at making money, and he’s not a miser. He invests his wealth wisely. He’s funded many projects in various fields. The alchemists of Lavoisier City are just one part of his grand plan,” the student said, her admiration for the Emperor evident. “I came to Lavoisier City from another city three years ago to study. The Emperor has governed the city well. Although the gang problem persists, he has issued strict orders forbidding them from harassing academy students, so our studies aren’t disrupted.”

Flora nodded, impressed. She had tried, and failed, to promote education in the Western Empire during her time as a Saint. Witnessing another ruler actively supporting students and researchers filled her with a sense of hope.

“Are you all alchemy enthusiasts, or just here for fun?” the student asked, observing their attire. Rebecca was dressed like a typical wealthy young lady. Abyss, in his cloth armor and cloak, resembled a novice mage apprentice. Leona, in her practical and form-fitting clothes, looked like an amateur Dou Warrior. Flora was the most elegant, but her aura was one of holiness, not alchemy.

“She and I are here for fun,” Leona said quickly, grabbing Flora’s hand. “Do you have any recommendations?”

The student thought for a moment. “Oh… In that case, I recommend the daily auction on the second floor. They sell all sorts of strange and wonderful potions created by alchemists. The prices are usually low, just covering the cost of production, and all potions have been tested for toxicity. They’re generally safe to consume and have interesting effects. It’s quite fun for non-alchemists.”

“I know a bit about alchemy. I’m quite interested,” Rebecca said.

“If you’re interested in alchemy, you can visit the club’s bar and chat with the alchemists. It’s not just for students. Many alchemists from Lavoisier City gather there to drink and exchange ideas,” the student said, then leaned closer to Rebecca, lowering her voice. “There’s also a secret room for core members only. The city’s most renowned alchemists gather there every day, discussing radical ideas beyond the comprehension of ordinary people. Few know about this place. If you’re interested, I can tell you how to find it.”

“Hmm? You’re a core member?” Rebecca asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “It would be wonderful if you could tell me. But wouldn’t that get you in trouble? I hear those top alchemists are quite eccentric.”

“Well… I used to run errands for them,” the student said with a smile. “Just don’t tell anyone I revealed this information to you.”

“We don’t even know your name,” Rebecca said, chuckling.

“Even better. My name is irrelevant. Just enjoy yourselves,” the student said, winking at Rebecca. “I don’t know why, but I felt a connection with you the moment I saw you.”

Abyss, who had been listening silently, retrieved a few imperial coins from his pouch. “We need to pay to enter the club, right?”

“Yes, everyone has to pay, but it’s not expensive. I can afford to visit three or four times a month,” the student said, nodding.

“Then allow me to cover your entrance fee today,” Abyss said, offering her the coins. He disliked accepting favors without reciprocation, and he was feeling generous after exchanging a portion of the gold for cash.

“Thank you,” the student said, her smile genuine. “Remember, the alchemists’ gathering usually starts at ten p.m. Go down to the second basement level, follow the corridor to the end, then turn right. There’s an iron door there. Enter that room, and you’ll find them. I won’t be joining you. I’m here to research for my graduation project. I’ll be spending the night in the library.”

“I wish you all the best with your studies. May you become a brilliant alchemist,” Flora said politely.

The student bowed, then led them towards the entrance. “Come on in. The club won’t disappoint you. Trust me, it’s always full of surprises.”

Abyss paid their entrance fees, and they stepped inside.

As they entered, two alchemists walked past them, chatting.

“I tell you, the items being auctioned today will fetch a high price.”

“Did you peek at the auction items?”

“Hehe, I’m one of the sellers. I’m selling a potion that can test the compatibility of a married couple. It’s mostly a gimmick, but it’ll be popular!”

“Hmm?” Rebecca’s ears perked up, her interest piqued.

Chapter 34: The Emperor’s Property

“This… was once my home.”

As dusk settled over Lavoisier City, Rebecca led Abyss and the girls to an unassuming building in the city center. She gestured towards the two-story house, her voice filled with nostalgia.

Rebecca had changed her clothes. Her old shoes were still in the other world, and the dress she had been wearing for forty years was no longer suitable. Before leaving Lannis’s house, they had visited a clothing store, purchasing a new outfit and boots for Rebecca, along with some essential accessories. Now, adorned in her new clothes, she looked radiant, her beauty rivaling even the stunning Flora.

Abyss was surprised. “I thought your house would be more luxurious, considering your wealth.”

“This house was passed down from my ancestor—Baron Bottel. He made significant contributions to the development of alchemy. I have great respect for such a remarkable individual,” Rebecca said, gazing at the house, its windows glowing with warm light. “So I continued to live in his former home. I never considered moving—it has a large basement for my laboratory, which was more than sufficient. After my death, it became my legacy. In my will, I instructed Lannis to donate this house to the Empire, making it the Emperor’s property. It seems he has preserved it well. It looks almost exactly as it did before my death, well-maintained.”

People occasionally entered and exited the house, young and old, all dressed as alchemists. A sign near the gate, illuminated by the streetlights, read: “Former Residence of Baron Bottel Viper, Mendeleev Academy of Alchemy’s Second Research Institute, Imperial Property, Trespassing Forbidden.” It seemed the Emperor hadn’t repurposed this historically significant building but had turned it into a research institute for the Mendeleev Academy of Alchemy, a fitting tribute to its legacy.

Rebecca’s expression softened. She was pleased with the Emperor’s decision. Not only had the house been preserved, but it was now contributing to the advancement of alchemy, under the protection of the Empire.

No one was more powerful than the Emperor, Camper the Great. Anyone foolish enough to trespass on his property would face severe consequences. No gangster dared touch the Emperor’s assets, not even venturing near them.

As a result, the area surrounding Rebecca’s former home was a prime commercial district. The absence of gang activity made it a safe and prosperous area. At night, the shops were bustling with activity. Besides the alchemists working at the research institute, Abyss also noticed many young people, enjoying the nightlife, dining at restaurants, some even entering the institute.

“Those must be students from the Mendeleev Academy of Alchemy,” Rebecca said, noticing Abyss’s gaze. “The academy isn’t far from here. Those students, from all over the continent, attend classes during the day, then come here at night for entertainment or food. It’s a unique aspect of Lavoisier City. They didn’t frequent this area before, but now that it’s an institute, their activities have expanded.”

“How many students are there in the academy?” Leona asked, curious. She had received private tutoring from renowned scholars within the palace walls, never attending an academy.

“Over a thousand when I was alive. I’m not sure how much it has expanded since then,” Rebecca replied. “Tonight, I’m taking you to the Alchemy Club, the most entertaining place in Lavoisier City. After that, we’ll grab some food and find a nice inn to rest. We can meet with Lannis tomorrow morning and continue our journey.”

Rebecca had inquired about their ability to consume food, and after receiving Abyss’s confirmation, she had planned their evening accordingly.

Leona was excited. She was always eager to experience new things. Even the usually composed Flora seemed eager to visit the Alchemy Club. It sounded intriguing.

“What can we do at the Alchemy Club?” Leona asked, grabbing Rebecca’s arm.

“You’ll see. There are many things to do there. It’s a wonderful place. Most groundbreaking alchemical discoveries are showcased and discussed there. And even those who know nothing about alchemy can enjoy themselves,” Rebecca said, her voice laced with a hint of mystery, as she led them towards their destination. “It’s this way. Just follow me.”

They walked for a few blocks, stopping before a building.

Leona, seeing Rebecca stop, was about to rush inside, but Flora stopped her.

“What’s wrong?” Leona asked, glancing back at Flora, assuming her attire wasn’t appropriate. She quickly checked her clothes.

“Uh… It seems the Alchemy Club is gone,” Rebecca said, her voice filled with disappointment. “Leona, what does the sign say?”

“Hmm?” Leona looked up and saw a sign hanging above the entrance, depicting a perfume bottle and a few words: “Harper Perfume Shop.”

“Hmm… Did the Alchemy Club become a perfume shop?” Abyss asked, not discouraged. “Perhaps we can buy some perfume. I’ve been researching how to imbue corpses with a calming and pleasant scent…”

“Don’t even think about it!” Leona shouted, rushing back and kicking him in the shin.

Rebecca was disappointed. Forty years had brought many changes, and Lavoisier City was a rapidly evolving city. If the Alchemy Club was gone, their evening entertainment would be significantly reduced.

“Excuse me, are you looking for the Alchemy Club?”

As Rebecca was about to enter the shop and inquire about the Alchemy Club’s fate, a voice addressed them.

“Ah… Yes, we are,” Rebecca replied, turning towards the speaker. It was a young girl, barely a teenager, her face still carrying a hint of childishness. She held a leather-bound book and a small bag for alchemical ingredients slung over her shoulder.

Likely a student from the academy. It wasn’t unusual to encounter students in this bustling commercial district.

“If you’re looking for the Alchemy Club, I can take you there,” the girl said with a smile. “It moved last year. The Emperor invested in relocating it to a new location. I’m heading there now.”

Chapter 33: Good Times Are Here

Leona had never felt this happy.

As a princess of the Western Empire, she had never experienced financial hardship. Her allowance had been generous, and she could purchase anything she desired, within reason, from her father’s treasury. But after being resurrected as Abyss’s follower, her standard of living had plummeted. Although battling formidable opponents was exhilarating, the constant lack of funds had been a source of frustration.

But now, everything had changed! Abyss’s newly resurrected follower, Rebecca, wasn’t just a genius alchemist, but a wealthy heiress! Her massive gold cube could fund Leona’s extravagant lifestyle, endless feasts of roasted meat and her favorite drinks, without ever running out! Gold was the universal currency in Hai-Teweru. Possessing so much gold meant a stable and secure future.

And Rebecca was a shrewd businesswoman. Entrusting her with this fortune wouldn’t just prevent it from dwindling, but would likely increase it.

This sense of security was second only to the feeling of Abyss stroking her head!

Wait, why did she think that? Leona shook her head, trying to banish the thought.

She had felt like she was dreaming when she helped Abyss store the heavy gold cube in his magical catfish’s belly. Rebecca had thoughtfully had Abyss break off a small piece for them to exchange for immediate expenses. Even that small piece was incredibly heavy, likely worth thousands of imperial coins.

“This gold is now our shared property,” Rebecca said, tossing the gold nugget Abyss had given her, the metal clinking pleasantly against her palm.

“You’re giving away your personal fortune just like that?” Abyss asked, amused. Rebecca was truly extraordinary. Handing over a hundred million imperial coins worth of gold was as effortless for her as donating a few coppers.

Rebecca skipped towards him, grabbing his arm. “How can one be stingy with money when it comes to love? Wealth is fleeting, but my destined prince charming is irreplaceable.”

“Thank you. I have some assets, but they’re mostly burial goods, difficult to sell, especially in large quantities,” Abyss said. Although he didn’t care about money, Rebecca’s contribution was a welcome relief. He wanted to purchase a large plot of land, build his grand graveyard, and construct a comfortable and peaceful underground palace. Having gold would make the process much easier. As a gesture of gratitude, he stroked Rebecca’s hair.

Her hair was incredibly soft. She giggled, leaning her head against his shoulder.

Leona, still basking in their newfound wealth, didn’t feel jealous this time. She was busy daydreaming about all the fun things she could do now.

Flora chuckled, her composure unwavering. Although Rebecca’s clingy behavior could charm most young men, Abyss seemed oblivious to her advances.

…

Lannis, despite her joy at Rebecca’s return, didn’t linger by her side. She had no reason to stay in Lavoisier City any longer. She immediately began packing her belongings, preparing to leave. Since Abyss and his companions needed to meet with Princess Givia, she bid them farewell, returning to her crumbling house—Abyss’s magic was still holding the structure together, despite its numerous holes.

They agreed on a meeting place and parted ways.

Abyss led the three girls back to the Black Hats’ secret base. Flora insisted he change out of the dress, which now had a hole in the chest from the necromancer’s attack. It wouldn’t be appropriate to return to the Black Hats dressed like that.

Rebecca approved of his return to his usual attire. She had only seen him in a dress, looking like a girl, since her resurrection. Now, back in his male form, he seemed more handsome, closer to her ideal image of a prince charming—after all, no prince in any fairy tale wore a dress.

They met with Givia in a guest room at the secret base. She had just finished giving instructions to her men.

Rebecca didn’t know this “Princess Givia,” but her eyes kept darting towards Givia’s chest, comparing their sizes, sometimes feeling confident, sometimes feeling inadequate.

“You’ve caused quite a stir in this city,” Givia said with a wry smile, gesturing for Abyss and the girls to sit down. “I’ve been hearing nothing but shocking news since this morning. First, you and Titus raided the Goat Eyes Gang’s factory, and their leader is furious, vowing revenge. Then, the two gangs started a war, the entire city filled with Black Hats and Goat Eyes. Even our soldiers didn’t dare venture outside.”

“You should ask Titus about that. I came here to find her,” Abyss said, placing his hand gently on Rebecca’s shoulder. “I simply accomplished my goal. Titus orchestrated everything else.”

“You haven’t introduced this lovely lady,” Givia said, smiling.

“This is Rebecca, a very important person to me,” Abyss replied.

“His fiancée,” Rebecca added, her voice serious.

“Ah, your fiancée,” Givia said, raising an eyebrow. She hadn’t expected someone like Abyss to have a fiancée, but her upbringing prevented her from prying. And Abyss didn’t seem to object.

“Where’s Titus? We didn’t see him when we arrived.”

“He captured the Goat Eyes Gang’s leader and hasn’t returned yet,” Givia said with a smile. “It seems things will finally calm down in this city. With their leader captured, the Goat Eyes won’t dare make any moves.”

“He actually did it,” Abyss said, nodding in approval. “He must be busy. I’ll visit him later. What are your plans now? Are you leaving Lavoisier City immediately?”

Givia shook her head. “The city is still in turmoil. We’ve decided to wait for two days. We’ll use our remaining funds to purchase some high-quality materials. Our men discovered that Lavoisier City has many resources suitable for crafting weapons and armor. Acquiring those materials would be beneficial for our army.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful. Rebecca has some plans for us, so we won’t be leaving immediately either. We can travel together when you’re ready. And I can arrange for Lannis to meet with you, so you can see if that fortune teller’s prediction was accurate,” Abyss said.

Leona, who had been sitting quietly, suddenly perked up. Rebecca’s “plans” involved exploring Lavoisier City as locals, her favorite activity.

Chapter 32: No More Hard Times

As Abyss and his companions, guided by Lannis, emerged from her house and stepped onto the street, the gang war in Lavoisier City seemed to have ended. The streets were no longer filled with armed thugs, only a few injured men groaning on the ground. People cautiously peeked out from their homes, and a few brave merchants opened their shops, ready to resume business. The city guard, arriving fashionably late, hadn’t done much to protect the city, but they were efficient in cleaning up the aftermath and carrying away the wounded.

“It seems Titus has accomplished his goal,” Abyss said, observing the scene, addressing the girls and Lannis. “He told me he had been planning to take down the Goat Eyes Gang for a while.”

“What kind of man is this Titus?” Rebecca asked, her interest piqued. She had a history of conflict with the gangs of Lavoisier City. She despised their ruthlessness, and they resented her interference. They were sworn enemies.

“If he doesn’t become corrupted by power, he might actually be a decent gang leader,” Lannis replied. “He’s ambitious, but he has principles. He doesn’t allow his men to harass ordinary citizens or extort legitimate businesses. The main difference between him and a regular merchant is probably his willingness to sell illegal potions. But even then, he thoroughly investigates his buyers, ensuring they won’t use his potions to harm innocents.”

“That’s… surprising. But why does he do that?” Rebecca asked, puzzled. In her experience, gangsters exploited their power for personal gain. Why would anyone willingly limit their profits?

“I don’t know. I only know that since he took over the Black Hats, eliminating their previous leader, Lavoisier City has become more peaceful,” Lannis said, nodding. “I did bomb his gang a few times, but that was because Eugene, the Goat Eyes Gang leader, was stingy with his payments. And I didn’t really dislike that carefree but disciplined boy. I always held back, and I never permanently injured any of his men. Just a few months of bed rest at most.”

“Hmm… A gang leader with a conscience? I’m intrigued,” Rebecca said, her curiosity piqued.

“If you want to meet him, I can arrange it,” Abyss offered. “He promised to tell me his story. He might satisfy your curiosity.”

Rebecca nodded. Her apprehension towards gangsters and her intrigue about this unconventional leader made her eager to learn more. Although Abyss hadn’t discussed their plans yet, she sensed they would be leaving Lavoisier City soon to embark on a grand adventure. Titus’s character would determine whether she could leave with a clear conscience.

This city was her home. She had grown up here. Despite its descent into chaos due to the gangs and its incompetent lord, she still cared about it. She couldn’t abandon it, leaving it to its fate.

Lannis led them out of the city. It seemed Rebecca’s hidden assets weren’t located within city limits. They walked for almost an hour, finally stopping before a small hill.

“We’re here,” Lannis said, gesturing towards the hill. “I exchanged Rebecca’s assets for gold and stored it here. It’s completely safe. No one can steal it.”

“I’m curious, how did you transport so much gold here? And how much is there?”

“One hundred million imperial coins worth of gold!” Lannis said, grinning proudly. “Transporting it wasn’t a problem. Exchanging all those assets for gold was the real challenge. I had to hustle to complete the task quickly.”

“Thank you for your hard work,” Rebecca said, smiling apologetically. “I earned too much money. Even a fraction of it was difficult to convert.”

“Who apologizes for making too much money?” Lannis said, waving her hand dismissively, as they approached the hill. “Besides, you shared a portion of your inheritance with me, allowing me to fund my experiments. Although I earned most of it back from those gangsters.”

Abyss could sense an empty space beneath the hill. As he waited for Lannis to activate some hidden mechanism, revealing a secret entrance, she retrieved a metal canister filled with liquid. He hadn’t noticed her carrying it.

She searched the ground for a moment, then moved a few rocks, revealing a small hole, like a rat’s burrow. She poured the liquid into the hole.

“If you don’t want to be buried in dirt, I suggest you step back,” she said, looking up and grinning. “This is going to be spectacular.”

The three girls quickly retreated. Flora even pulled Abyss back, who was completely unconcerned, seemingly eager to witness the explosion.

Lannis, after ensuring they were at a safe distance, retrieved a small bottle from her belt and poured its contents into the hole.

Rumble…

A faint tremor shook the ground beneath their feet.

Lannis didn’t hesitate. She turned and ran, her smile widening, anticipating the impending chaos.

Boom!

A massive explosion erupted from beneath the hill, sending the entire structure, over ten meters tall, flying into the air! A shockwave of hot gas and debris, including uprooted trees and plants, rose dozens of meters into the sky. The powerful tremor knocked Lannis off her feet, but she simply lay there, laughing hysterically.

“Wait, wait! There’s another explosion coming!” she shouted, pointing towards the crater where the hill once stood.

Clang!

A deafening metallic clang echoed through the air as a thick metal plate, at least twenty or thirty centimeters thick, flew from the crater! The heavy plate, propelled by the blast, soared through the air for dozens of meters, then crashed to the ground with a resounding boom, creating a cloud of dust as it embedded itself in the earth.

“The vault is here! No one, no petty thief, can dig through a vault this thick! Only my explosives can! Look! It’s made of pure gold!” Lannis exclaimed, clapping her hands, her excitement fueled by the recent explosions.

Dust and debris rained down from the sky, but Abyss casually conjured a wind barrier, shielding himself and the girls. They rushed towards the flattened hill, peering into the deep crater.

The crater revealed a box made of thick metal plates, a gold cube gleaming at its center, its surface shimmering in the sunlight.

The cube wasn’t large, but anyone familiar with gold could tell how heavy it was. Lannis’s claim of one hundred million imperial coins worth of gold might have been an understatement!

Leona, overwhelmed with excitement, buried her face in Flora’s chest. Their days of poverty were finally over!

Chapter 31: Lannis’s Explosive Life

Although Lannis was reluctant to divulge her past exploits, Rebecca eventually coaxed the story out of her.

After Rebecca’s death, Lannis had arranged her funeral according to her will. There was no ceremony. Once the World Conduit was stolen by the gangsters, Lannis had spiraled into grief, drowning her sorrows in alcohol and cigarettes, becoming a recluse.

But her self-destruction didn’t last long. She soon found a new outlet for her grief and anger—explosives.

Rebecca’s sworn enemies were the gangsters of Lavoisier City. They had taken advantage of her death to seize control, their rivalry reaching a boiling point. As Rebecca’s best friend, Lannis’s enemies were obvious.

The gangsters, emboldened by their noble patrons, had become the city’s rulers. They carved up Lavoisier City, their turf wars and their struggle for control of the potion market creating chaos and driving away legitimate businesses.

Lannis saw an opportunity for revenge. She returned to her roots, offering her services for a hefty fee, this time targeting gangsters instead of rats.

She accepted contracts from various gangs, bombing their rivals. Initially, they had scoffed at the eccentric halfling, but after her first successful mission, she caught everyone’s attention.

She was ruthless and efficient, her explosives far more advanced than anything they had seen before. Her first target, a rival gang’s potion factory, was reduced to rubble within minutes. The building, the machinery, the warehouse—everything was destroyed. The victims couldn’t salvage a single usable component.

Lannis became a legend, her reputation spreading to nearby cities. Even the Tami Kingdom blacklisted her, fearing her destructive capabilities. A small nation like theirs couldn’t withstand her explosive wrath.

She became a valuable asset in gang wars, a decisive factor in determining victory. Bombing factories, warehouses, cargo trucks, even people—Lannis accepted any job, but she adhered to her own rules: no harming civilians, no harming animals, no consecutive contracts for the same gang.

Gangs competed for her services, offering exorbitant fees to cripple their rivals, making her highly sought-after. Some tried to eliminate her, but they quickly learned the hard way—Lannis not only used explosives for defense but also for revenge.

Her relentless bombings weakened the gangs, draining their resources, leaving them vulnerable. By the time they realized the extent of the damage, it was too late.

Lannis, through this divide-and-conquer strategy, had single-handedly crippled Lavoisier City’s gangs. Gangs without profits were worthless. Their noble patrons, realizing this, withdrew their support. The gangs disbanded, their leaders fleeing in disgrace. Lannis was the sole victor.

With the gangs gone, legitimate businesses returned, and Lavoisier City’s economy began to recover. The new gangs that emerged learned from their predecessors’ mistakes, minimizing their conflicts and agreeing to limit the scale of their contracts with Lannis. This allowed them to survive.

Lannis had amassed a fortune, but no amount of money could replace her beloved friend and partner. She was exhausted. As she prepared to escape this chaotic city and live out her days in the Western Empire, she received news about the World Conduit. And the rest, as they say, was history.

“I finally found you, Rebecca. I… I have nothing else to wish for… Seeing you here, safe and sound, makes all those years of hardship worthwhile,” Lannis said, wiping away her tears. “I don’t care if you’re undead or alive. All that matters is that I see you again.”

“I can continue my research now,” Rebecca said, taking Lannis’s hand. “Just like before.”

“But you have a new partner now,” Lannis said, looking at Abyss, who was standing behind them. “He might be as compatible with you as I was. Perhaps it’s time for me to retire.”

“You don’t want to be an alchemist anymore?”

“Of course I love alchemy. But Abyss will surely take you on adventures. I prefer staying in my laboratory—and I’m done with those gangsters,” Lannis said, spreading her hands. “I’ve saved enough money. I have a manor in the Western Empire. I’m planning to settle there. Who says all halflings love to travel? I hate it!”

Rebecca laughed. “Your devotion to your laboratory is truly admirable.”

“Abyss, you’ve done something incredibly meaningful for me. I owe you a great debt,” Lannis said, turning to Abyss, who was smiling. “I’ll give you the address of my manor in the Western Empire. You and Rebecca are welcome to visit anytime. I’ll assist you in any way I can.”

“Thank you,” Abyss said, nodding.

“You’ll take care of Rebecca, right? Like you care for that Gray Elf?” Lannis asked.

Leona, listening intently, perked up.

“Of course. As long as I live… Or even after death, I won’t allow anyone to harm Rebecca.”

“He’ll not only take care of me, but he’ll also fall in love with me and marry me,” Rebecca said, stepping back and taking Abyss’s hand, who simply smiled obliviously.

“Ah… He’s immune to your poison?” Lannis asked, noticing Abyss’s unusual resistance. She raised an eyebrow. “Then you two truly are a match made in heaven.”

“Hehe, although we haven’t sparked any romantic flames yet, I’ll work hard to ignite them,” Rebecca said, giggling, hugging Abyss’s arm. Flora, observing them, exchanged a knowing glance with Abyss, while Leona felt a surge of jealousy. If she were a cat, her fur would be standing on end.

“How will you ignite them?” Abyss asked, his voice serious.

“Hey! Brat, don’t tease my friend in front of me!” Lannis warned.

“I wasn’t teasing…” Abyss said, scratching his head, confused.

“Setting aside your teasing, we have another task to complete,” Lannis said. “Rebecca, the assets I hid for you are still safe. I can take you to retrieve them now. You’ll need them on your journey.”