He repeated the entire procedure nine additional tis, carefully preparing one batch of [Flesh-refinent compound] after another. Each batch required close attention to detail and precise control of ingredients, making the process both ntally and physically demanding. After completing the tenth batch, he allowed himself to take a well-deserved break, feeling the strain of his efforts.
The [Flesh-refinent compound] differed significantly from the [Flesh-refinent pill]. Unlike the pill, which had a fixed recipe passed down through tradition, the compound was his own unique creation, devised after extensive experintation and countless simulated trials.
Through this process, he realized just how long and arduous the path of cultivation could be. For example, it would take soone like Son nearly an entire year to fully absorb a single [Flesh-refinent pill], and even then, so of the potential benefits would remain locked away, never fully realized.
This limitation applied to every known pill. The true skill of an alchemist, he discovered, was asured largely by how much they could reduce the ti needed for a cultivator to absorb and benefit from these concoctions.
While there were certainly other factors, such as the quality, purity, and effects of the dicine, that influenced an alchemist’s ranking, the ability to shorten this absorption period was the most significant criterion he had identified so far.
However, he realized that he lacked any concrete knowledge about the specific ranks within the alchemist profession or the requirents needed for advancent. The ’endless library’ contained no references or guides about the official system for evaluating alchemists.
If he were to assess himself honestly, he would place himself at the very start of the ranking system, with much to learn and accomplish before reaching higher levels.
Still, he wondered if he might be a bit exceptional. After all, he had managed to invent the [Flesh-refinent compound] on his own, an achievent he suspected was rare among beginners lacking extensive background knowledge. This accomplishnt set him apart, at least in his own eyes, as soone with potential to innovate rather than simply follow established recipes.
The [Flesh-refinent compound] was intended to be applied directly to the skin, serving as a gentle yet effective cream for the flesh-refinent stage of cultivation. When used in this manner, it provided steady nourishnt and support to the body’s tissues, accelerating the tempering process.
Remarkably, he found that this compound worked about twice as quickly as the traditional [Flesh-refinent pill], making it a valuable alternative for those seeking faster progress.
’Let’s take a break.’ He stepped out of the alchemy room and ca across Hundao, who had been waiting. During the refinent process, there were tis he ca out to ask for more resources and deliver already refined [Flesh-refinent compounds], which were delivered to Eva to effectively run the organization; the remaining ones were sold to the rchant house for resources.
At this point, Alaric had ample resources and needed to take a break.
Alaric greeted Hundao with a warm smile, observing the young man’s progress. "How are you doing? I can tell you have beco physically stronger, and I also notice your skin looks much healthier and smoother than it used to." He spoke these words with genuine admiration, causing Hundao to blush in response to the praise. Over the past few weeks, Alaric felt that the two of them had developed a aningful bond, growing more comfortable and familiar with each other through their shared experiences.
"I need a break." He stretched his stiff body, releasing pop sounds. "We should go test our martial skills against each other." Besides, he was curious about the city’s current state.
"I would like that as well. I refuse to believe your martial talent is as absurd as your alchemical talent." Hundao said with conviction. He was very confident in his martial talent; in fact, He even went so far as to invent a unique martial technique of his own, which set him apart from his peers and gave him additional confidence in his abilities.
"Haha. You are in for a treat then." Alaric replied in delight.
They stepped out into the bustling streets of the thriving city. Closing his eyes, Alaric took a deep breath, taking in every facet of the city. ’I missed this.’
"Let’s get moving," Hundao said, taking the lead as they navigated through the busy streets. He continued, "Just last week, Eva managed to purchase a plot of land from the city. Our new headquarters is set up on that property, and it even includes a training ground where we can practice without interruption."
"That’s interesting. So, they actually permitted her to make the purchase?" Alaric comnted, recalling that Eva had discussed this idea with him in the past, after he gave her the mission of finding out who rules this city. He was not surprised that she had followed through with her plans. "Do you know who authorized the transaction? Was it soone from the city administration?" he asked, curious about the city’s internal workings.
"The city guard handled the approval," Hundao responded. It seed unusual that the security force, rather than a traditional city official, was in charge of such decisions.
"So, there were no city officials involved in the process at all?" Alaric asked, wanting to confirm his suspicions about the absence of a formal governnt presence in the city.
"No, there were not," Hundao replied, confirming that only the city guard was present during the transaction.
"That is quite revealing," Alaric mused quietly. He realized this conversation had given him valuable insight into the city’s current situation. Having gone over a month without any word from the city lord or other officials, it was only natural that cultivators would begin to question who truly held authority. Based on this information, Alaric now strongly suspected there was no formal ruler overseeing the city. Instead, the captain of the city guard appeared to have assud control, acting as the highest authority in the absence of established leadership.
"We are heading outside the city for our spar, Hundao."
As they made their way toward the city’s outskirts, Alaric and Hundao encountered a diverse crowd. Among the pedestrians were beast people, elves, and various other demi-humans, all moving about their purpose. The city had evidently beco a gathering place for people of many races and cultures, fostering a diverse atmosphere.
"Demi-humans only began arriving in the city about a week ago," Hundao explained. "A few of them attempted to cause trouble at first, but our group was able to intervene and restore order right away. Honestly, I never expected to see so many of them here."
Alaric regarded the newcors with a thoughtful expression, analyzing the social dynamics at play. He reflected that, compared to other regions, human territories were generally more open to the presence of different races.
However, this openness was not rooted in compassion or a sense of justice. Instead, it often stemd from a fascination with relationships between different races, especially among those in privileged positions or noble families. After all, who doesn’t like exotic beauties?
Ordinary citizens did not enjoy the sa freedoms as the elite; the ability to form connections with other races was reserved for those with influence, wealth, or powerful backgrounds. As a result, every demi-human visible in the city likely ca from a notable lineage or influential family.
Despite their backgrounds, these individuals would probably hold lower status within their own societies, making them more likely to be sent abroad or to less desirable locations like this city.
Hundao’s eyes narrowed as he observed the demi-humans. "They should have settled in one of the other cities instead of coming here," he remarked, his tone betraying a clear sense of disdain. It was apparent from his expression and words that he harbored little goodwill toward these newcors and perhaps viewed their presence as an unwelco change in the city.
Alaric considered Hundao’s reaction but focused on the facts. It was unusual for demi-humans from influential families to appear in this particular city, as there were five major cities in the region surrounding the Archive Mountain: Frigid Northern City, Scotching Southside City, Western Wind City, Eastern Earth City, and Archive City.
Archive City was unique in that it served as a haven for those lacking powerful connections or noble heritage. Typically, individuals from important backgrounds would avoid associating with people of lesser status, so their presence here was puzzling. Alaric’s mind began to work through various scenarios, weighing and eliminating different explanations before identifying the most likely motivations.
After careful consideration, Alaric concluded, ’I see, their goal could be to observe and recruit promising individuals to serve as subordinates, or perhaps to identify and keep an eye on potential rivals who might pose a threat in the future. In essence, their presence in the city suggested they were gathering intelligence, possibly because they possessed inside information about an upcoming selection or event that we had not yet learned about.’
With that, they walked out of the city.
"Forget about those things for now, you should focus on how you are going to defeat instead," Alaric said, pulling his thoughts towards their fight instead.
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