A glimmer of gratitude and anticipation flashed in the tree spirit’s eyes.
Seeing the expectant emerald gaze of his companion, he felt a bit guilty, sensing that his promise was like a carrot dangling in front of a mule.
.........
A week later, Ron stood in front of the elegant conference hall known as "Cedar Hall," holding an invitation, feeling slightly nervous.
This was his first time attending such a formal gathering of alchemists, with attendees including potion masters with certain prestige within the school, and even a few mentor-level figures.
Taking a deep breath, he adjusted his coat, making sure the badges of a Professional Alchemist and an Intermediate Apprentice were clearly visible, and pushed open the intricately carved oak door.
The interior was elegantly decorated, with modest green wallpaper adorned with delicate plant motifs, and a few magic crystal lamps suspended from the ceiling, casting a gentle glow.
In the center of the venue were several long tables displaying various bottles and jars, samples, and formulas brought by the attendees.
The surroundings featured several comfortable chairs and small coffee tables for the convenience of the participants to exchange and discuss.
There were already over a dozen alchemists in lively conversation, the atmosphere relaxed yet highly academic.
Just as Ron stepped into the venue, Magnus noticed him and approached with a broad smile.
"Ah, Ron! You made it." The elder alchemist greeted warmly: "Come, let me introduce you to some colleagues."
He led Ron towards several distinguished alchemists and made brief yet appropriate introductions.
"This is Adrian, specializing in healing potions;
This is Sofia, with unique research in spiritual enhancement potions;
And this is William, a master of alchemy and potion integration..."
Ron greeted each alchemist politely, mentally noting their specialties and characteristics.
These were potential sources of knowledge and collaboration partners.
"Ladies and gentlemen, this is Ron, the young genius I’ve mentioned."
Magnus said with a smile: "Having just become a Professional Alchemist not long ago, he has already shown extraordinary talent, especially in potion modifications."
The senior alchemists’ gazes immediately turned more attentive, with admiration as well as a hint of scrutiny.
"Young man, I’ve heard you have a special talent called ’Medicinal Body Resonance’?" Adrian asked, eyes filled with academic curiosity, as the news seemed to have already spread.
Ron displayed modesty appropriately: "Yes, my perception of potion ingredients seems to be keener than most, giving me some advantages in potion modifications."
He chose his words carefully, neither exaggerating his abilities nor undermining his confidence.
Sofia nodded, her expression thoughtful:
"This talent is indeed rare. I once read in ancient texts that alchemists with the ’Medicinal Body Resonance’ ability often achieve remarkable accomplishments in a short time."
Ron smiled slightly: "You flatter me. I have a long way to go, and I hope to learn a lot from all of you."
"Speaking of which, what works did you bring to share with us?" William asked curiously.
Ron took out several crystal bottles from a delicate wooden box he carried and carefully placed them on the display table:
"These are some recently modified formulas, including the Gray Scale Protection Ointment and the revised version of the ’Amber Thought Liquid’ potion."
He briefly introduced the features and innovations of each potion, his tone calm yet confident.
The senior alchemists gathered around, showing keen interest in these potions.
Especially the ’Amber Thought Liquid,’ its unique formula design and effect sparked widespread discussion.
"This formula structure is very creative," Sofia praised while carefully inspecting the formula blueprints Ron provided:
"How did you think of combining Moonlight Grass with Silver Star Vine, two seemingly conflicting materials?"
Ron explained his thought process, how he used a special treatment method to neutralize their antagonism while retaining their beneficial components.
"Interesting, very interesting!" William exclaimed excitedly: "This way of thinking is quite similar to some principles in alchemy. Young man, have you studied alchemy?"
"Recently, I’ve indeed been learning some basic knowledge." Ron admitted: "I believe there are many areas where Magic Potion Making and Alchemy can learn from each other."
"Absolutely correct!" William enthusiastically patted his shoulder:
"I am one of the practitioners of this approach. If you are interested, you’re welcome to exchange ideas at my workshop. Cross-disciplinary research often leads to unexpected breakthroughs."
This was exactly what Ron hoped to hear, and he earnestly expressed his gratitude and anticipation.
As the conversation deepened, Ron not only shared his experiences but also gained many valuable suggestions and insights.
The senior alchemists were quite satisfied with this young newcomer’s performance, each expressing the desire for further exchange in the future.
Halfway through the gathering, Magnus found an opportunity to speak privately.
"Ron, you’ve performed outstandingly," the elder alchemist praised: "Especially your humble attitude and eagerness to learn has left a great impression on everyone."
"Thank you for your guidance and introduction, Master Magnus," Ron sincerely replied: "I’ve gained a lot from this gathering."
Magnus nodded, then lowered his voice: "I have some good news for you, Corina recently mentioned you, she’s very interested in your progress."
Ron’s heart skipped a beat; Corina was the powerful Wizard who had brought him from the Kingdom to the Black Mist Jungle and Trish’s mentor.
"What did she say?" Ron asked cautiously.
"She seems particularly interested in your special talent and rapid progress."
Magnus said meaningfully:
"At the upcoming Candidate Wizard sequence quarterly meeting, she might take a closer look at you. This is a rare opportunity, having the attention of an Official Wizard."
Ron felt a bit nervous, knowing Corina’s attention was a double-edged sword—both an opportunity and a potential danger.
"Thank you for the reminder, I will be prepared for it."
Magnus patted his shoulder, eyes filled with encouragement:
"Don’t be too nervous, just be yourself and showcase your abilities and potential. Wizards appreciate genuine talent rather than contrived performances."
By the end of the gathering, Ron exchanged formulas and insights with several alchemists, gaining a lot.
On the way back to the workshop, his mind had already drifted to the upcoming Candidate Wizard sequence quarterly meeting.
.........
The first ray of morning sunlight had just penetrated the eternal mists of the Black Mist Jungle, and Ron was already seated cross-legged in the Meditation Room, immersed in deep meditation with the "Star Eater’s Ravings."
Since successfully activating his bloodline, the improvement in his constitution had facilitated smoother spiritual power flows, thus enhancing the depth of his meditation.
The starry sky in his Spiritual World had become increasingly distinct, the starlight flickering as if within reach.
Although the accumulation rate of spiritual contamination had not decreased compared to before, the improvement in his constitution had increased his bearing capacity.
As Ron was wandering within the star map, a faint fluctuation entered his perception.
It wasn’t ordinary interference but rather the special frequency of a vine lightly touching the ground—Ailan’s warning.
Ron gently exhaled, slowly withdrawing his scattered consciousness, and opened his eyes.
"Master, there is a visitor," Ailan’s vine waved gently outside the door, with neat words appearing on the leaf writing board.
"Who?" Ron asked with slight curiosity, as it was rare for visitors to come at this hour.
"A beautiful lady with brown hair, accompanied by a leopardess..."
Ailan’s leaves trembled slightly, seemingly quite interested in the visitor too.
Ron raised his eyebrows slightly, a subtle smile appearing at the corner of his lips.
The only brown-haired girl he knew was Trish.
Since establishing his workshop, although rumors had spread, she hadn’t come to visit, and now she finally made her appearance a month later.
"Please have her wait in the reception room. I’ll be there shortly." Ron stood up, straightening his robe, brushing off nonexistent dust from his sleeves.
Ailan nodded and left, her vine drawing an elegant arc through the air.
Ron stood in front of the mirror, carefully examining himself.
Although the changes after the bloodline activation were subtle, they were noticeable in ways that ordinary people would miss, but for an Intermediate Apprentice, they would probably be apparent at a glance.
He wondered to himself, "What could be her purpose for this visit? And why did she choose this particular time to come?"