Chapter 42: Whose Future Will It Be?
After resolving the issue of the Divine Grace-storing potion, the alchemists moved on to other topics. Their conversations, overheard by Abyss and Rebecca, revealed the dangerous nature of their research, the kind that could easily attract the Church’s attention. The Divine Grace-storing potion, although groundbreaking, was no different from other potions in its current state, unrealizable and potentially dangerous.
Within half an hour, these renowned alchemists had decided to shelve a transformation potion that could permanently turn someone into a goblin and a hallucinogenic potion that induced perpetual euphoria. Many of them were here seeking inspiration and sharing ideas. Rebecca, mingling among them, offered insightful suggestions, her casual remarks sparking breakthroughs.
Impressed by her alchemical expertise, the alchemists invited her to become a regular attendee. If she had been alone, she might have readily agreed. But considering her upcoming adventures with Abyss, she politely declined, promising to visit whenever she had the opportunity.
“It’s a shame you can’t come here more often. We often gather here to chat, but these large meetings, with everyone present, only happen once a month. If you decide to visit again, remember to come on this day of the month. You’re always welcome,” Horst said sincerely.
“I thought you met every day,” Rebecca said, surprised. The student who had brought them here had claimed the alchemists met daily.
“We wish we could. These meetings allow us to share our discoveries and gain new insights, but we’re all busy people. It’s not easy for everyone to find time to gather here once a month,” the elf alchemist said. “But I have a question, Ray. Who invited you here? You don’t seem to know anyone in this room.”
The student had specifically asked them not to reveal her involvement. Rebecca shook her head, smiling. “I can’t say, but you can trust me. I’m just an ordinary alchemist who loves this field. I won’t interfere with your work or cause any trouble—I guarantee it. If you need reassurance, I can swear an oath to the Nine Gods.”
“Well… An oath isn’t necessary. We shouldn’t be so formal,” the old elf said, waving his hand dismissively. “Most of us are teachers at the academy, so we’re under the Emperor’s protection. Ordinary people can’t harm us. If you were truly malicious, you would be a spy seeking to steal our research. But clearly, your skills are on par with ours. You have no need for such underhanded tactics.”
Rebecca smiled and nodded. “Thank you for your trust.”
Her skills weren’t merely “on par” with theirs. She had simply chosen not to show off.
“Don’t mention it. Your mind is far more agile than ours. I’m sure many here have gained valuable insights from our discussion tonight. I’m curious about your background, but you clearly won’t tell me, so I won’t ask,” the old elf said, standing up. It seemed he was the most respected among them. “This concludes our meeting for tonight. It was a fruitful discussion, and I’m sure everyone is eager to return to their laboratories and test their new ideas. Let’s adjourn.”
The alchemists rose from their seats and headed towards the exit.
“Wow! That was incredibly insightful!” Rebecca said as they left the room, the other alchemists bidding them farewell with friendly smiles. “Honestly, if these gatherings had existed before, I might have invented countless fascinating potions!”
“I thought your inspiration was limitless,” Abyss said, chuckling.
“I do have a lot of ideas. My mind is far more active than most people’s. I even conduct alchemy experiments in my dreams. But not all ideas are good, so I need to discern between them. Working in isolation is foolish. It’s only by venturing out, exchanging ideas with others, and observing the world that true innovation can occur,” Rebecca said, her voice serious. “My approach is different from yours, isn’t it? You mages don’t need these brainstorming sessions.”
She was right. Mages didn’t engage in such collaborative efforts. Abyss wasn’t part of any mage circles, but his master had told him about their arrogance. High-ranking mages usually developed their spells in isolation, then proudly presented them to their peers, arguing with anyone who dared to criticize their work. They were obsessed with proving their superiority, their egos fragile. Mages were mostly solitary and proud individuals. Their gatherings were far less harmonious than those of alchemists, who genuinely enjoyed exploring the world of knowledge.
“I think your approach is admirable. Mages might be the dominant force in the world right now, but in the future, alchemy might achieve equal prominence,” Abyss said sincerely. “You alchemists possess a vibrancy that mages lack.”
“You’re the first mage to compliment me like that,” Rebecca said, leaning closer to him, her breath carrying a faint, pleasant scent. “Most mages look down on us alchemists, considering alchemy a mere footnote to magic.”
“I’m not like most mages,” Abyss replied, his voice firm.
“Heehee, that’s true,” Rebecca said, stepping back. “Alright, let’s check on Leona and Flora. They must be having fun. The Alchemy Club’s bar has many interesting drinks. Leona will love it.”
“Yes, let’s go,” Abyss said, nodding. “But where is the library? I’ve been on several floors, but I haven’t seen it yet. I’m actually quite interested in reading some books.”
“The books here are all about alchemy. What’s so interesting about that? I know everything. I can teach you,” Rebecca said, taking his hand. “Let’s go upstairs. I’m in the mood for a drink.”
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