Chapter 122: Ceaseless Motion
Chapter 122: Ceaseless Motion
The dim, signature light of the Black Mist Jungle filtered through gaps in the canopy overhead as Luo En walked toward the Workshop, casting shifting patches of shadow and pale light across the forest floor.
He absentmindedly traced the Intermediate Apprentice Badge on his chest, feeling the faint, pulsing mana within.
He strongly suspected the badge was more than just an ornament—it was probably a tracking device. Whether it recorded his movements explicitly or actively monitored him, though, remained unclear.
"Now that I've entered the Backup Mage Sequence, I need to give it everything I've got."
Mentally calculating his next steps, he resolved: "The third-phase spiritual energy control and spell construction courses are absolute priorities. Alchemy and Elemental Affinity can't be neglected either."
According to Soren’s hints, the Backup Mage Sequence had strict progression requirements and evaluation standards. To secure a favorable position within the Sequence and access greater resources, one had to demonstrate continuous, measurable growth.
"I'll climb to the top within a year", Luo En vowed silently, determination flashing in his eyes.
Returning to the Workshop, Ai Lan was busy organizing vials on the medicine shelves. When she noticed his arrival, she immediately set down her work and turned to greet him.
"Congratulations on ascending to Intermediate Apprentice", her vines swayed gently, forming clear characters on their leaves:
"I noticed your new badge."
Luo En smiled faintly. "Thanks. Your perception is getting sharper."
"Actually, I could feel the mana fluctuations from the badge—it's completely different from the Elementary Apprentice version."
Ai Lan replied, her emerald eyes gleaming with intelligence.
Since absorbing the residual mana from the Yang Flame Essence, Ai Lan's development had exceeded Luo En's expectations. Her appearance had grown increasingly human-like, while her thoughts and emotional expressions had become more complex and nuanced.
Nodding, Luo En shifted focus to another pressing matter—the upcoming Potion Master gathering next Wednesday.
Magnus had suggested preparing some of his improved recipes for exchange. Clearly, this wasn't just a social event but a critical opportunity to showcase his abilities and build connections.
Seated at his workbench, he opened his recipe notebook, carefully selecting potion formulas suitable for presentation.
"The Yang Flame Essence is too valuable—it was Master Magnus' gift, so I shouldn't share it. My improved Stimulant Potion has decent effects, but nothing spectacular..."
He flipped through pages, weighing options: "Perhaps Ambra Mind Elixir would work? It enhances mental clarity and memory retention for short periods, ideal for absorbing large amounts of information quickly. Compared to commercial versions, mine has fewer side effects and no dependency risk—our Workshop’s flagship product currently."
"Gray Scale Protection Ointment could be another good choice", he murmured.
This topical potion formed an almost imperceptible protective layer on the skin, resisting acid corrosion, toxins, and minor physical damage—widely useful for both laboratory work and field expeditions. His version extended the duration while eliminating the common side effects of skin irritation and discoloration.
After careful consideration, Luo En decided to bring both formulas and sample vials as his "welcome gifts" to the gathering.
Yet participation wasn't just about showcasing—he needed to acquire valuable formulas and knowledge from other Potion Masters.
"Accumulating alchemy knowledge and formulas is crucial for advancing to Potion Professor", he realized. His long-term plan required constant absorption and integration of supernatural knowledge. Alchemy, as one of the core pillars, demanded relentless progress.
Carefully packing his materials, his thoughts turned to his study schedule.
As an Intermediate Apprentice, he faced intensified challenges—particularly the third-phase spiritual energy control and spell construction courses, which would be exponentially more difficult than before.
Opening a fresh notebook, he outlined his monthly plan:
- Two weekly third-phase classes were top priority, requiring maximum effort
- Alchemy and Elemental Affinity courses, though less frequent, remained critical—especially their experimental components
- Spare time would focus on advanced theory in the School Library: mana circuit construction, Inspiration flow control, and spell model optimization
- Bloodline development required one dedicated hour daily
- Potion brewing and Order fulfillment would be scheduled for evenings and early mornings
His schedule left minimal sleep time—but after two physique enhancements as a Bloodline Knight, reduced sleep had become manageable. Maybe eventually he'd transcend sleep entirely, studying 24 hours a day...
Shaking off the daydream, he opened recommended study guides from Ai Li Ke and Li Ya, beginning pre-work for the upcoming courses.
As he read deeper, the fundamental differences between phases became clear: the first two phases focused on constructing and stabilizing single spell models, while phase three introduced rapid, coordinated construction of multiple models.
"This is the first step toward advanced combination spells for Full Mages", Luo En reflected. "And the key dividing line between Intermediate and High Apprentices."
He recalled hearing that apprentices capable of mastering three or more rapid spell constructions earned special recognition upon ascending to High Apprentice.
"I've mastered Sound Wave Oscillation and Slime Splash. Next, I need a defensive spell—fire or light elements would suit me best."
His gaze fell on Elemental Guidance: Foundational. Laila Mentor's earlier evaluation echoed in his mind: "Resistance Rings or Shield techniques might be ideal starting points."
His plan was to first master a third foundational spell, then attempt simultaneous, stable construction of all three—laying the groundwork for future combination spells. The Timekeeper Pocket Watch's Reset Ability would be crucial, enabling intense practice within limited time frames.
"If I reset ten times daily, it's like ten people studying simultaneously..."
Calculating mentally: "Mastering all phases within one month to qualify for advancement is completely feasible."
Night deepened, but he remained engrossed, unaware of fatigue until Ai Lan gently tapped his arm, reminding him dinner time had passed.
"Thanks for the reminder", he closed his book with a smile. "Guess I need better time management."
Rising to prepare dinner, he suddenly remembered: "Ai Lan, next Wednesday's Potion Master gathering might keep me late. You'll manage the Workshop—tell visitors I'm away on business."
Her vines swayed in agreement: "Don't worry, Master."
Watching her growing initiative and responsibility, Luo En felt a warm satisfaction. His eyes drifted to the calendar—five days until the gathering. Before then, he needed to complete initial phase-three studies and finalize his potion samples.
He felt like a spinning top, constantly driven forward—no moment for rest. Yet all apprentices, all mages, lived this way—chased by some invisible monster, where even a moment's pause meant being devoured.
(End of Chapter)
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