Professor Alexis, a distinguished alchemist with a sharp gaze and a passion for the subject, stood at the front of the classroom.
"Good morning, class…"
He said as he looked at the third-year students, his voice resonating with authority.
"In your previous year, you've learned basic concoctions of potions, pills, and even proper preparation of ingredients in various methods. With that skill, you can probably start working on a small apothecary or some Arcane Shop. However, if you want to improve and perhaps become an owner of your own shop someday, you have to listen to our class carefully… Today, we shall delve deeper into the world of Alchemical Potions."
Vale leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the Professor.
He was well aware that the alchemy subjects of second and third-year classes would only teach the basics of Alchemy. Things like Dark Body Manipulation, Artificial Element Transmutation, Dark Golem Contructs, and Reconfigurations could only be taught once you've entered the Dark Alchemy Branch.
Nevertheless, the Professor was right. Even if their only knowledge was related to the most basic potions, they could probably earn a living by working as an assistant or even making their own shop if they had the money to purchase supplies.
Professor Alexis continued. "Alchemy is the art of transmutation, of harnessing the fundamental forces of nature to create something greater. Today, we shall create a potion that enhances an Arcanist's physical strength and endurance. This potion only works with Arcanists. Pay close attention, for this potion requires precision and understanding."
"Ahh! Professor, is that similar to the Earth Eclipse Potion?" Warren asked as he recalled the famous potion that was rumored to be the potion that Vale used to fight against a Slender Zombie.
The question attracted everyone's attention, so they looked at Professor Alexis to wait for an answer.
"Earth Eclipse Potion? No… This is called Night Rage Potion. It may not be as strong as that potion, but it's cheaper by more than 80% and has an effect that is about half of the Earth Eclipse Potion. Additionally, this potion is greatly compatible with Dark Arcanists, unlike the Earth Eclipse Potion. Alright… I'll show you how it's done."
Soon, the class buzzed with anticipation as the Professor moved gracefully to the front of the room, where a table laden with ingredients awaited. He began to explain the process step by step, detailing the properties of each ingredient and the precise measurements required.
Midway through his explanation, Professor Alexis paused and turned to the class. "Now, can anyone tell me if the ingredient called 'Glowroot' can be replaced with something else while retaining the desired effects?"
The class was a bit surprised by the unexpected question. Nevertheless, their minds started to race as they searched through their memories about the ingredient that was mentioned.
They all know that Glowroot could enhance blood flow circulations, but aside from it, they couldn't think of any raw ingredient that could replace it in this concoction.
Vale hesitated for a moment, not wanting to appear presumptuous. He waited for someone else to speak up, but when no one did, he raised his hand.
Professor Alexis noticed Vale's raised hand and nodded in his direction. "Yes, Vale, what do you think?"
Vale took a deep breath before speaking. "Professor, the Glowroot can indeed be replaced with an alternative herb called 'Lumina Fern.' It possesses similar properties and could enhance the potion's effects even further."
Professor Alexis' eyes gently nodded and replied. "There are three ingredients I could think of, and the best replacement is indeed the Lumina Fern... Very well, could you elaborate on the preparation and properties of this herb?"
While Vale's classmates were still surprised that he got the correct answer, Vale remained unfazed by the question as he gathered his thoughts.
Drawing upon the memories he had extracted, Vale described the Lumina Fern in detail, explaining its unique properties and the proper method of harvesting and preparing it. He offered insights from the alchemists whose memories he had absorbed, providing a comprehensive understanding of the herb's potential.
Of course, Vale wasn't just showing off for answering the Professor's question.
What he wanted to happen was to gain trust with the memories he had extracted.
Apparently, he had extracted so many memories from the corpses before, and there was some contradicting knowledge from them, so a part of him was telling not to trust it fully.
After all, the memories he got may appear genuine from their perspective but might differ from reality.
Professor Alexis listened attentively. He first doubted that Vale could adequately explain his answer, but his skepticism gradually gave way to fascination.
"Vale, your knowledge of the Lumina Fern is impressive. However, that ingredient is indeed quite rare in the western region, so we'll have to use the Glowroot for now."
The Professor then paused momentarily as he suddenly had an idea. "Do you want to take the lead and continue with the concoction? I will guide you on what to do."
Vale didn't hesitate and accepted the challenge. In any case, they will be doing this later in their practical activities, so he might as well go first to test his skills.
A sense of excitement and responsibility welled within him as he gathered the necessary ingredients and followed the Professor's instructions in the precise measurements and techniques.
With each step, he drew upon the memories of the Alchemist's past, making his movement fluid, and he could even recall what to do without the instructions guiding him.
As the potion took shape, the classroom was filled with a fragrant aroma. It was a testament to the successful fusion of ingredients and Vale's perfect continuation of the potion making...
The potion shimmered with a vibrant energy, hinting at its remarkable potency.
Professor Alexis surveyed the class, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Well done."
Vale's classmates exchanged astonished glances. They didn't expect that Vale had talent in Alchemy!
"V-vale… Are you going to the Alchemy Branch too?" Jody Lumbarde, the member of the Academy Publication Committee, asked in exasperation.
If Vale was in the same Dark Arts Branch as her, she felt that there was no way she could show off her skills! Although she also had talent in alchemy, she didn't believe she could equal Vale.
Her question had also alarmed the other students as most of them didn't want to be overshadowed by Vale's talent!
