The old witch's voice suddenly dropped, carrying a note of warning. "That part of the technique is far beyond your current level of understanding. You're not even qualified to glimpse it."
"Why?" Robb couldn't help but ask—his curiosity got the better of him.
"Because that part is dangerously prone to driving people insane."
Madam Elena spoke calmly, but a flicker of barely visible fear passed through her eyes.
"By the time you master the first two stages, your mental strength and control over your own consciousness must be sufficiently strong. Otherwise, what awaits you isn't power—it's endless darkness and madness."
Her raspy voice carried something rare—genuine concern.
"I've seen too many talented ones destroy themselves by rushing forward too fast. You've got real potential, there's no need to take that risk."
"I will keep your warning in mind," Robb replied solemnly.
He could sense the care hidden in her words.
Even though their relationship was built on mutual interest, Robb was certain that Madam Elena, in her own way, genuinely didn't want to see a promising apprentice fall into madness prematurely.
Much like a cultivator wouldn't want their carefully nurtured plant to bloom too early and ruin the final harvest.
"Good."
Madam Elena retrieved an ancient leather scroll from the bookshelf behind her. Its surface was worn and spotted with age.
"This morning, continue with your usual duties. This afternoon, I'll begin teaching you the first stage of Whispers of the Star-Eater."
Robb nodded in agreement and began his morning routine.
Organizing herbs, brewing simple potions, and documenting the properties of new stock...
These mundane tasks now felt full of purpose. Each movement helped him deepen his understanding of alchemy.
He worked with quiet focus and efficiency. What seemed like tedious chores were, in fact, laying the foundation for greater achievements to come.
[Potion Crafting EXP +1]
[Basic Alchemy EXP +1]
Near noon, the shop door opened. The bell rang with a crisp chime, and a soft breeze carried in a strange floral fragrance.
Robb looked up and immediately recognized the newcomer—Talisa, dressed in a deep gray robe, stood in the doorway. Sunlight streamed from behind her, outlining her silhouette with a radiant glow.
Since their last brief encounter, Talisa had clearly transformed.
Her once-thin, hunger-worn face now held elegant lines, her eyes shone with confidence and resolve, and the pale blue gemstone brooch on her chest sparkled in the light.
"Madam Elena, I've come to pick up the potions my mentor requested," Talisa said gently but clearly.
Madam Elena looked up at the clock and nodded slightly.
"Not a second late—just how I like it. Punctual kids are always the best."
She pulled out an ornate wooden box from under the counter, covered in intricate runes forming a protective enchantment.
"Tell Mage Corinna that this batch is 30% stronger than the last one, but the usage instructions remain the same. Also, the rare ingredients cost more than expected—next time the price will have to go up."
Talisa took the box and checked the seal with practiced ease, then tucked it carefully into her robe's inner pocket.
"My mentor anticipated the cost increase. This is the extra compensation."
She took out a small pouch from another pocket. The soft clink of coins could be heard from within.
Madam Elena accepted the pouch and pinched it gently, seeming to weigh its contents before nodding in satisfaction.
With the transaction complete, Talisa turned her gaze toward Robb, who was still organizing herbs at the side.
Compared to last time, her expression now carried more scrutiny—and curiosity.
"Hello Robb. Long time no see," she said with a slight nod. Her tone hinted at cautious probing.
"I heard you've already advanced to an apprentice? Congratulations."
"Thanks." Robb replied politely, putting down his work and wiping the herb residue from his hands.
"You look like you've been doing quite well too. I imagine Lady Corinna's teachings have been very effective."
"Each path has its value." Talisa replied casually, though the pride in her eyes couldn't be hidden.
"Since you two know each other," Madam Elena interjected suddenly with a mischievous tone,
"Why not go sit and have some tea in the back? I have some rare ingredients to handle alone anyway."
The two exchanged a look and smiled wryly, accepting the suggestion.
Robb led Talisa into the small rest area at the back of the shop—a simple but cozy room. Just outside the window was a small courtyard full of medicinal herbs.
He poured two cups of fragrant herbal tea. The tea had a warm amber hue and gave off an invigorating aroma.
"You've changed a lot," Talisa said directly once they sat down, her bright eyes fixed on Robb.
"From a struggling sixth-class candidate to a full apprentice—I heard you're talented in alchemy?"
Robb smiled. Her directness didn't bother him.
"Just working hard. Unlike you—born with third-tier mental aptitude. You're destined for greatness."
Talisa took a sip of tea, a complex look briefly flashing in her eyes.
She set the cup down and tapped the rim lightly with her finger.
"Everyone has their own path. I was lucky to be chosen by Lady Corinna—but that 'luck' comes with its own price."
Robb gave a small nod, understanding. In the world of the extraordinary, every ounce of power came at a cost. There were no free lunches. That was a fundamental rule.
"By the way, how's Andrey doing lately?" Talisa asked suddenly, a trace of concern hidden in her otherwise cool, composed expression.
Robb paused for a second, then remembered that Andrey had once tried to pursue Talisa—only to be rejected outright.
"He's doing fine. His mental training isn't progressing very smoothly, but his talent as a knight is excellent."
He answered truthfully. It wasn't a sensitive topic.
"Lately he's been focused on his breathing techniques, and he's making good progress."
Talisa nodded slightly, a hint of worry flickering in her eyes.
"Listen, Robb. I know you've gotten close to Andrey lately. I'm not here to meddle in your friendships, but I do want to warn you: be careful around royal-blooded people. They're all skilled manipulators—especially someone like Andrey. He may seem gentle, but those types are often the most calculating."
"I understand," Robb said with a slight smile, locking eyes with her. "In the Black Fog Forest, everyone has their own agenda. Instead of worrying about being used, it's better to increase your own value—so that being used becomes mutual cooperation."
Talisa nodded in agreement.
"Well said. That mindset is the only reason I've made it this far."
She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.
"Robb, it seems you're even smarter than I gave you credit for."
Then the brown-haired girl hesitated slightly, as if choosing her words carefully.
"Actually, besides picking up potions, I came here today with a personal request."
"What kind of request?"