After a short break from class, Li Na and Han Wei went back to their seat in class. I looked down at my workstation—neatly arranged bamboo mats, a basic mortar and pestle, and a set of steel knives designed for precise herb-cutting.

 

As the class delved into the meticulous process of herb-grinding and equipment cleaning, my hands worked almost on autopilot. I sliced the roots and leaves with practiced ease, all the while stewing in my thoughts.

 

If I get through this class quickly, maybe I can sneak in a quick nap before physical training. God knows I'll need all the energy I can muster for the martial drills later. Balancing the physical and the alchemical—now there's the challenge.

 

"Kai, please stay after class," Instructor Xiao-Hu's voice snapped me out of my reverie. I looked up to find his eyes on me, serious and unreadable.

 

The pit of my stomach tightened. Why would he want me to stay behind? My eyes darted toward my classmates, each engrossed in their own tasks, oblivious to my small crisis.

 

As the lesson wound down, I followed the protocols for cleaning and storing each tool. I wiped down the table, ensuring not a speck of residue remained. My classmates started to pack up, leaving the classroom one by one, their chatter receding like a fading storm.

 

Li Na and Han Wei lingered, glancing in my direction as they passed. "Hope everything's okay," Li Na said softly, concern flickering in her eyes. Han Wei patted my shoulder, a look of sympathy on his face, and then they were gone, leaving me alone with Instructor Xiao-Hu.

 

The room fell silent except for the subtle creaking of bamboo and the distant chatter from outside. I waited, my heartbeat drumming a rapid rhythm in my ears.

 

"Your basic skills are solid, Kai," Instructor Xiao-Hu began, "but remember, even the simplest techniques can be elevated to an art form. It's the subtleties, the nuances that set the true alchemists apart."

 

Is he leading up to something? Some advanced lesson or secret tip, perhaps? I waited for him to continue, a jumble of hope and apprehension swirling within me.

 

"Instructor Xiao-Hu, does this mean there are still areas I need to improve on?" I asked cautiously, careful not to sound too eager or defensive.

 

"Actually," he looked me squarely in the eye, "your fundamentals are already up to par. You're ready to take the exam to accelerate your curriculum."

 

A rush of pride swelled within me. Finally, recognition!

 

"When can I take this exam?" I managed to ask, pushing my concerns to the back of my mind.

 

"We can have it prepared by tomorrow," Instructor Xiao-Hu said. "In the meantime, visit Elder Zhu's office to discuss how we will proceed with your advanced classes."

 

I nodded, a mixture of elation and anticipation filling me. "Thank you, Instructor Xiao-Hu. I'll prepare myself accordingly."

 

"Very well. Remember, the path of an alchemist is ever-changing and challenging. Do not become complacent."

 

"Understood," I replied, as I took my leave.

 

Walking through the tranquil halls of the Verdant Lotus sect, my thoughts bounced between pride in my newfound accomplishment and the emotional tug of having left Tianyi alone. I had left her in my room, with the window ajar for her to leave if needed. Was she alright? I felt a surge of anxiety but quickly suppressed it. The Verdant Lotus sect was a safe space, filled with disciplined disciples and powerful barriers. Still, the parent in me worried.

 

Before I knew it, I found myself standing before the elegantly carved doors of Elder Zhu's office. Taking a deep breath, I knocked softly, my knuckles barely grazing the ornate woodwork. I winced, my hands still sensitive, but no longer painful. Making the hydrosol was going to be a top priority of mine.

 

"Come in," Elder Zhu's voice beckoned from within.

 

As I stepped into the room, I felt a sense of anticipation knotting my stomach. Advanced classes. Accelerated curriculum. The thought tantalized me like a rare elixir, but there was also a gravity to it.

 

Elder Zhu looked up from the scrolls sprawled across his desk, his eyes sharp yet comforting. "Ah, Kai. I've heard about Instructor Xiao-Hu's recommendation to have you go into advanced classes. Quite the achievement, I must say."

 

I scratched my nose. Instructor Xiao-Hu was so nice! I'd have to get him something as thanks!

 

"Thank you, Elder Zhu. I've been told to discuss the accelerated curriculum with you?"

 

"Yes, you have," he said, smiling warmly. "But before we delve into that, tell me, how are you finding life here at the Verdant Lotus sect? Especially with your unique companion?"

 

Ah, Tianyi. Even here, away from her, she's still with me. "It's been fulfilling, Elder. As for Tianyi, she's adjusting. I was actually a bit worried leaving her alone today."

 

Elder Zhu chuckled. "Ah, the responsibilities of a guardian. But you're right to keep her in mind. Spirit beasts are not just pets, they are companions in our journey."

 

"Indeed, they are."

 

"Well then," Elder Zhu continued, unrolling a fresh scroll from his desk, "let's discuss your future here, shall we?"

 

Taking classes, learning about new topics and concepts...It was incredibly refreshing for me. The way they taught things here was so structured compared to what we had in Gentle Wind Village, where several of the elders were rounded up to teach us how to do basic things. I suppose if I had the opportunity, I could've gone into the school system in Crescent Bay City, taken the exam to get into the Imperial College, and become an official. I would've gone into classes like this, although catered towards philosophy, calligraphy, and whatnot. It would've been a trivial thing for me, a genius of the ages, to get into something like the Imperial College!

 

But alas, I took the more daring opportunity as a country bumpkin, learning the art of herbalism and martial arts to forge my own path in the world!

 

We ran through the selected courses that the alchemy pavilion offered. They were taught by several first-class disciples. I could see that Instructor Xiao-Hu taught many of the more advanced branches of alchemy himself.

 

Advanced Herbology seemed like a logical step for me to take in my progression through alchemy. I could hardly say I knew a lot about the rarer and esoteric plants found in the province. I also confirmed with Elder Zhu that this class was very hands-on, which made me even more excited. I would be able to harvest rare ingredients on my own! I couldn't wait!

 

Elixir Synthesis, Qi Infusion in Alchemy, Pill Concoction, Toxicology and Antidotes, were all fascinating topics that would bolster my foundation in alchemy. If I wanted to get to an acceptable level before the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, I'd need to work my tailbone off! There, I'd learn how to use more tools like the alchemical still, and even how to create purified water. I'd be able to shore up my weaknesses and fortify my strengths over the coming months while completing portions of my quest.

 

But the most interesting one I learned about was Alchemy Array Crafting. In this class, students would learn how to create alchemical arrays that can automate some aspects of the alchemical process, increase the efficacy of the ingredients, or even produce new, unique effects. Elder Zhu emphasized its importance, declaring how knowing the basics would be enough to take me far into the Grand Alchemy Gauntlet, so I enrolled in the class as well. My schedule was going to be packed!

 

As we delved into the complexities of the advanced courses and what the accelerated path entailed, I felt as if a new chapter was opening in my life. But amidst all this talk of progress and growth, my thoughts still drifted back to Tianyi. Our paths were entwined, after all. If I were to ascend, she would be right there with me, soaring on delicate wings into our uncertain, but promising future.

 

I wanted to create a pill, just for her. It wouldn't be fair for her to receive nothing after all the help she's given me. And considering her affinity towards the Moonlit Grace Lily, I would make it using its essence. Once I'm confident in my skills, I'll make one for Tianyi!

 

But she can't consume one like I could, so I'd likely have to make it in the form of a liquid. Or even an alcohol! Who said cultivation pills couldn't taste good?

 

Elder Zhu paused, his quill suspended over the parchment, and looked up at me with a twinkle in his eye. "Ah, yes, I almost forgot. I wanted to talk about your skill, Essence Extraction?"

 

I blinked at the change in topic. "Yes, Elder. I acquired that skill after maxing out my Herbalism skill. It allows me to extract the essence from plants, concentrating their properties. It differs from Master Li Tao's ability, in the sense that mine only allows me to extract the essence of plants only."

 

"And what else?" Elder Zhu leaned in, an unspoken excitement in his eyes. "There was mention of a skill evolution, yes?"

 

"Ah, yes. The skill evolved into something called Spiritual Herbalism. Not only can I extract essences, but it also grants me the ability to infuse plants with qi, enhancing their qualities," I elaborated, keenly aware of my words. After all, I didn't know the full extent of the Heavenly Interface, and the extent of the 'Interface Manipulator' perk. I hadn't recalled anybody else mentioning any perks in all my conversations either.

 

As much as I trusted the Verdant Lotus sect, there were some things I felt should be better kept as secrets.

 

Elder Zhu's eyes widened as he eagerly reached for a new scroll, unrolled it, and started jotting down notes. "Infusing plants with qi, you say? That's remarkable, Kai. Since the Day of Awakening, the sect has been trying to compile all the skills and their branching paths. It’s all to understand how this new system, this Heavenly Interface, is affecting our traditional methods and practices. And yet, I’ve never come across a skill named Spiritual Herbalism."

 

I found myself leaning in, captivated. "So, you're saying my skill branch is unique?"

 

"Seemingly so," Elder Zhu continued, capping his ink bottle. "This leads me to believe that the path one's skills take is influenced by individual factors. You've practiced herbalism for most of your life, yes?"

 

I nodded, the realization dawning on me. "Are you suggesting that my background could have affected the direction of my skill evolution?"

 

"Precisely. It appears that the system is more dynamic and personalized than we initially thought. Your unique path could be invaluable knowledge for the sect, and I would appreciate your contribution to our archives."

 

An odd sense of pride filled me. My skills, honed over a lifetime of trial and error, had finally led me somewhere unexpected and crucial. My contribution could actually matter. And unlike my previous worries, my ability couldn't be replicated so easily!

 

Elder Zhu broke the silence. "You mentioned being able to infuse plants with qi. Could you perhaps give a demonstration at some point? It would be educational not only for our records but also for you to understand the limits and potentials of your skill."

 

"Of course, Elder Zhu. I'd be honored to share what I've learned," I replied, feeling an uplifting sense of responsibility and excitement flood through me.

 

As I prepared to rise from my seat, Elder Zhu spoke again, this time with a more solemn tone. "There's another matter we need to discuss, Kai."

 

I settled back down, my curiosity piqued. "Yes, Elder Zhu?"

 

"First, I want to thank you for contributing to the archives with your unique skill," Elder Zhu began, locking eyes with me. "It may seem trivial to you, but this is part of a larger discourse among the elders of the Verdant Lotus Sect. Not everyone is comfortable embracing the Heavenly Interface."

 

"Why is that?" I asked, unable to suppress my astonishment.

 

"Some among the elders feel that traditional teaching methods should be preserved. They worry that the Heavenly Interface might dilute the centuries-old wisdom passed down through the generations," he explained, a hint of melancholy in his voice. "I, however, see it differently. As a scholar on the path of learning, I believe the Heavenly Interface has the potential to accelerate our understanding and capabilities."

 

"What makes you so certain, Elder?"

 

He sighed, his face creasing with concern. "Do you recall the Silent Moon Sect and the Whispering Wind Sect?"

 

I nodded. Those two sects, after all, were the most powerful in Crescent Bay City, where the Verdant Lotus Sect also resided. The politics among the sects were complicated, to say the least.

 

"Recently, the Silent Moon Sect has been making aggressive moves to expand their territory. Their ambitions seem to know no bounds, and it's only a matter of time before this turns into skirmishes or even all-out fights between sects," Elder Zhu confided, the weight of his words settling around us like a dense fog.

 

"So you're saying the Heavenly Interface could be a game-changer in defending yourselves?"

 

"Exactly. We need to amass our own power. We can't afford to fall behind, especially not when the stakes are so high. It's crucial for the Verdant Lotus Sect to utilize every advantage we have, including the Heavenly Interface," he stressed, his eyes locked onto mine, filled with an intensity I had not seen before.

 

I felt the gravity of his words pull me back to reality. Beyond the walls of the Verdant Lotus Sect lay a world teeming with unpredictable dangers. It made me worry for those who couldn't protect themselves. What would happen to villages like Qingmu during such skirmishes?

 

"The path you're treading, Kai, might very well be critical to our sect's continued prosperity and survival. It is essential that we embrace innovation while honoring tradition. That's how we grow. That's how we survive," Elder Zhu concluded, his eyes burning with a fire that could only be fueled by a lifetime of wisdom and a dash of newfound hope.

 

For a moment, I was speechless. The responsibility, the possibilities, and the urgent need for action all descended upon me, heavy but not crushing. I felt a renewed sense of purpose, fortified by Elder Zhu's words.

 

"I understand, Elder Zhu," I finally said, my voice steady. "I'll do my best to contribute in any way I can, not just for my sake, but for the Verdant Lotus sect as well."

 

Elder Zhu nodded, a smile spreading across his wise face. "I had no doubt you would, Kai."

 

I left Elder Zhu's office with my head swirling with new thoughts and a syllabus containing all my advanced classes. With classes done for the day, it was time for me to continue training of my own.