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.
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