Chapter 180: Settling Dust

Chapter 180: Settling Dust

Liliya adjusted her Apprentice Robe, smoothing out every crease with meticulous care.

"The master’s commission must be completed perfectly…" the girl whispered to her reflection.

Luo En had entrusted her the day before to fulfill his important appointment with Madame Ellen in his stead. He himself was occupied attending the quarterly meeting of the Backup Mage Sequence, leaving him no time to attend personally.

Liliya slipped the specially crafted box containing the precious materials into her Storage Bag, double-checking the inventory list before departing the Workshop.

The early morning light pierced through the ever-present mist of the Black Mist Jungle, casting a hazy silver glow on the path ahead. She straightened her collar, inhaled deeply, and strode toward Madame Ellen’s potion shop.

This was her first solo assignment since becoming Luo En’s apprentice. Though she knew the route well, a flicker of nervousness stirred within her. The journey to Madame Ellen’s Herbal Medicine Shop wasn’t far, but it required passing through the Candidate Apprentice District.

This was the place Liliya had once called home, the very spot where she’d fled from the clutches of that Intermediate Apprentice who had coveted her. As she hurried along the main road, familiar faces caught her attention.

A group of former fellow candidate apprentices huddled together, murmuring. Upon spotting Liliya, their eyes locked onto the gleaming Elementary Apprentice badge pinned to her chest.

“Is that… Liliya?” a lanky boy murmured, astonished. “She’s already an Elementary Apprentice?”

“Rumors say she’s working at the Workshop of that prodigious High Apprentice, Luo En, as his personal assistant.”

A girl bit her lip, envy flashing in her eyes.

Their whispers, barely concealed, reached Liliya’s ears. How different this was from months ago, when she’d first arrived in the Candidate District, met with scorn and suspicion. Now, as she approached, the apprentices suddenly grew deferential, instinctively parting to clear a path.

“G-good morning, Liliya… senior.”

A noble lady, who once barely acknowledged her, now greeted her cautiously, her voice stiff with formality.

Liliya nodded briefly, a swirl of complex emotions rising within her. She’d never been one to gloat over rising status, yet she couldn’t deny the satisfaction in the stark contrast this elevation brought.

"Is this the benefit of clinging to a power?" she wondered, then shook her head. "No—I earned this through my own efforts. Master said he merely gave me an opportunity, not charity."

Passing the Candidate Dormitory Area, she soon arrived at Madame Ellen’s Herbal Medicine Shop. The familiar storefront still exuded that unique medicinal herb fragrance, the wind chimes at the door tinkling softly.

As she pushed open the door, a flutter of apprehension stirred in her chest. To Liliya, Madame Ellen was both a mentor and the first person to offer her refuge.

“Come in, don’t just stand there at the door.”

The familiar raspy voice drifted from inside. Madame Ellen sat behind the counter, grinding herbs, her emerald green eyes as sharp as ever.

“Good morning, madam,” Liliya greeted softly, stepping forward.

“So the brat couldn’t be bothered to see me himself, sending a little girl instead.” Madame Ellen set down her pestle, scrutinizing the girl. “Still, you’ve changed quite a bit under his tutelage.”

Liliya felt those piercing eyes strip her soul bare, forcing her to glance down.

“Your scent carries Luo En’s mana residue.” The old woman sniffed. “Seems he’s taught you well. An Elementary Apprentice badge already—how long? Three months? Four?”

“Four months and seven days, madam,” Liliya replied.

“Enough with the formalities.” Madame Ellen waved a hand impatiently, though a flicker of warmth lingered in her eyes. “Sit. Tea’s where it always is.”

Liliya efficiently moved to the corner table, pouring steaming tea for both. This was a habit from her time here—whenever Madame Ellen tired from studying or brewing, she’d always prepare a warm cup.

“The master sent all your requested materials.” Liliya placed the carefully wrapped box on the table opposite Madame Ellen. “And his regards and thanks.”

Madame Ellen ignored the latter half, arching a brow. “All of them? He’s gathered everything?”

Liliya nodded, gingerly opening the box. Inside lay the final three rare materials, sealed in specialized containers to preserve their potency.

“Night Talk Pollen”—a pale silver powder harvested from flowers blooming only under a full moon, rumored to let the dead briefly speak their final memories.

“The Eye Liquid of the Dream-Devouring Spider”—a translucent milky liquid from a spider species dwelling in the second layer of the Abyss, allowing users to glimpse others’ dreams.

And the rarest of all: “Whispering Songbird’s Larynx.”

This near-extinct bird’s throat bone could mimic any sound, converting vibrations into unique spirit waves.

Madame Ellen’s eyes widened at the last item. “A Whispering Songbird’s Larynx? They’re practically extinct in the Black Mist Jungle. Where did he find this?”

“Probably through Master Magnus and the Potion Master Association’s connections,” Liliya answered. “The master’s been gathering materials through every channel.”

Madame Ellen snorted but a trace of satisfaction flickered in her emerald eyes. “That brat never fails to impress,” she muttered, barely audible. Then louder: “How are you faring under him? Did you achieve what you wanted?”

Liliya hesitated, unsure what “goal” Madame Ellen referred to. Had she escaped Cain S.? Or did this hint at her relationship with Luo En? She’d never confessed her true motives to Madame Ellen.

“I think… I’ve mostly succeeded.” She lowered her head. “The master treats me kindly, granting me learning opportunities and a safe, comfortable Environment.”

Madame Ellen studied her, sensing deeper layers in her words but saying nothing.

Looking around, Liliya noticed a change. “Madam, where’s Feina? I haven’t seen her.”

“Oh, that girl?” Madame Ellen waved dismissively. “Sent her packing to the Potion Master Association branch at the School. She’s brewing foundational potions there now.”

“You mean… she was dismissed?” Liliya cautiously chose a neutral term.

“Hmph. Weeded out is more accurate. Not everyone’s cut out to stay here.” Madame Ellen rose, leaning on her cane, her voice cooling. “Her innate talent in alchemy was decent, skills adequate, but she lacked the resolve and adaptability required.”

Liliya recalled Feina’s cautious nature. Madame Ellen’s assessment wasn’t wrong.

Eliminated… she mused. Feina’s talent should’ve propelled her to become a Professional Potion Master, the very reason Liliya had once fawned over her. If even she was eliminated, how impossibly high must Madame Ellen’s standards be?

Suddenly, a thought struck her.

“Madame Ellen?” She gathered courage. “Is the master your only recognized student?”

Madame Ellen shot her a hawk-like glance, making Liliya tense.

“That brat does have his peculiar strengths,” the old woman said slowly, lips curling. “But nothing’s absolute. Maybe someday I’ll find a student even better. Who knows?”

Her tone sounded dismissive, but Liliya noticed the pride in her eyes.

“Enough of this,” Madame Ellen cut through her thoughts. “The world’s never equal. Some are born to reach the summit, others to do the groundwork. Feina’s better off in the Association—less scolding, at least.”

She pulled out two items from a drawer: a delicate black containment box and a faintly glowing silver letter.

The box bore intricate Protective Runes, each groove meticulously etched into a perfect containment array. The letter shimmered with a mana barrier, runes shifting across its surface—a self-destruct mechanism that would reduce its contents to ashes if forced open.

“Materials accepted. Deliver these to him.” She handed them over. “Tell him the final stage of The Murmuring of the Star Devourer is exceptionally dangerous. Don’t attempt it without full preparation.”

Liliya cradled the precious items, feeling the weight of responsibility. “I’ll deliver them intact.”

“And…” Madame Ellen hesitated, an uncharacteristic flicker of uncertainty crossing her face. “Tell him… the path I once failed to finish—may he walk it to the end.”

Liliya nodded, though the words’ depth eluded her, their weight heavy with regret.

Suddenly, Madame Ellen’s calloused hand brushed Liliya’s cheek, a rare tenderness.

“You’re not bad yourself. Compared to Feina, who had decent innate talent to begin with, your growth… it’s been more satisfying to watch.”

Caught off guard by the unexpected warmth, Liliya froze, unsure how to respond.

Madame Ellen handed her a scroll, its seal far less elaborate than the box’s.

“You probably don’t have anything beyond the Basic Meditation Manual, right? This is a Gem-tier Meditation Technique I used during my apprenticeship. Not as potent as the one I gave him, but it’s steady and reliable.”

Gem-tier Meditation Technique?

Liliya had indeed been troubled by this matter before. She and Luo En had agreed to look for an opportunity to purchase one from other Mentors—something suitable for the apprentice stage.

At present, Liliya was still accumulating funds. Luo En had been giving her a salary as his assistant all along.

She already had a small private fund of over two hundred Mana Shard Fragments. Yet this amount was still far from enough to buy even the most basic advanced meditation technique.

She never expected Madame Ellen would solve this problem for her directly?

"Enough, stop standing there like a fool."

The old woman resumed her usual sharp tone.

"Quickly take these items back to that brat. Remember—don't let anyone see that box, and especially don't let anyone touch it."

"Yes, madam."

Liliya bowed deeply, carefully tucking several items into her pouch. "Thank you for all your help."

As she left the Herbal Medicine Shop, the girl's mood felt complex and heavy.

Dark clouds gathered overhead—rain seemed imminent again.

Liliya quickened her pace. The rain here in Black Mist Jungle always carried a strange odor, and prolonged contact would make one's skin itch.

Passing through the Market District, she instinctively scanned her surroundings. Carrying such important items now demanded extra caution.

Just as she was about to leave the Market District, a figure suddenly caught her eye.

It was Ogcain S.—that Intermediate Apprentice who'd once harbored ill intentions toward her—standing by the roadside laughing with his companions.

Liliya instinctively tensed, wanting to avoid confrontation, but quickly calmed herself. She strode past them with an impassive expression.

She was no longer that helpless candidate apprentice without support.

Cain S. noticed her too, eyes flickering with surprise. But he soon resumed his usual demeanor, even offering a slight nod of greeting. His gaze held something else now...reverence?

Of course, he didn't fear her personally. Rather, it was the authority behind her—Luo En.

A rising High Apprentice who had quickly drawn widespread attention from the School's upper echelons. A genius who shone brightly in multiple disciplines.

The thunder rumbled in the distance as dark clouds thickened overhead.

"The teacher will be very pleased to receive these", she murmured softly, fingers brushing the wooden box secured against her chest. A smile tugged at her lips.

She quickened her pace again, thoughts focused on only one goal—reaching the Workshop as soon as possible. That place had become her true home.

...

Black Mist School's Central Tower. The meeting hall today felt unusually solemn and austere.

Beneath the towering dome, a circular long table was arranged by ranking. Each seat bore a numbered plaque.

At the chamber's center, a massive three-dimensional projection slowly rotated—a complex pyramid-shaped structure representing the Bloodline Altar's physical form.

Luo En sat quietly in his assigned seat, wearing his tidy apprentice robes. The dual badges of High Apprentice and Potion Master gleamed on his chest.

Fourteenth seat. This was his position after the last ranking evaluation.

While already quite respectable, the distance between this seat and the higher-ranking ones near the front remained starkly visible.

Attendees arrived gradually. Chief Holt entered calm and composed as always, nodding briefly toward Luo En upon arrival.

Other Sequence members followed, each bearing varying degrees of anticipation or tension on their faces.

When the appointed time arrived, Fuyuanzhang Hayaek's voice echoed through the chamber:

"Now that everyone's here, let's begin the evaluation meeting."

He wore a deep purple robe adorned with intricate official insignias. His expression was stern, unapproachable.

"First, we'll confirm this meeting's two main topics: the allocation of entry spots for the Bloodline Altar opening one month from now, and filling the vacancies left by Aolifu and Xin Xi Ya's defection."

Whispers in the hall fell silent immediately.

Bloodline Altar and ranking shifts—these topics alone could make any Sequence member hold their breath.

"Regarding the Bloodline Altar", Hayaek continued, "according to formal notification from the Crystal Spire, our Black Mist School maintains five entry spots as usual. Given the Altar's nature and inherent risks, participants must demonstrate sufficient strength and compatibility."

His gaze swept across every Sequence member present, lingering slightly longer on certain individuals.

"Before that, let's address some procedural matters. Regarding Aolifu West and Xin Xi Ya Novik's defection incident, the School has established an investigation team. They are now formally removed from the Backup Mage Sequence."

Murmurs rippled through the hall before settling again.

Hayaek continued, "The vacant positions will be filled according to the latest evaluations. Now, let's proceed to the main event—adjustments to the Sequence rankings."

With a wave of his hand, the central crystal orb glowed softly, projecting a transparent ranking list into the air. Each member's name, current rank, and evaluation metrics appeared clearly.

"Based on this quarter's comprehensive performance, the top five rankings remain unchanged: Holt Elwin maintains first place. Herbert Levin and Caitlin Gardner retain second and third respectively."

This result came as no surprise. Holt's dominance within the Sequence was undisputed.

However, the following announcements drew everyone's rapt attention.

"Due to recent achievements, Lalf apprentice will rise from fourteenth to sixth place, directly replacing the former position held by defector Aolifu."

This decision struck like a stone dropped into still water, sending waves of shock through the chamber.

Murmurs of astonishment broke out. Many eyes turned toward Luo En.

An eight-rank leap! Something nearly unheard of in the School's history.

Anticipating the reaction, Hayaek added, "This decision rests on multiple objective indicators, including but not limited to: outstanding performance in the Bloody Arena, official certification as a Bloodline Modifier, and successfully passing the High Apprentice Certification. Additionally, strong recommendations were received from Mentors Soren and Youni."

Luo En's expression remained calm, though inwardly he felt a flicker of satisfaction. This ranking leap wasn't just recognition of his efforts—it was also a crucial step toward entering the Bloodline Altar.

"Additionally", Hayaek announced, "Cui Xi Linde will rise from tenth to seventh place, following closely behind Lalf apprentice."

While Cui Xi's advancement wasn't as dramatic as Luo En's, it was still substantial.

Luo En looked toward the brown-haired girl just as she turned her complex gaze toward him. He saw joy, admiration, and just a hint of competitive spirit in her eyes.

Hayaek announced several more minor ranking adjustments, which generated little reaction.

"These are the main changes to this quarter's Sequence rankings", Hayaek concluded. "Please adjust your seating according to the new rankings."

Luo En stood, moving toward the sixth seat—the former position of Aolifu. As he settled, he felt eyes from all directions on him.

But he'd long grown accustomed to such scrutiny.

Since becoming an Elementary Apprentice, every advancement he'd made had been accompanied by speculation and gossip.

Those external voices had long since lost the power to affect him.

Once everyone had taken their new seats, Hayaek proceeded to the second agenda item—the allocation of Bloodline Altar spots.

"One month from now, the Bloodline Altar will open again. This rare opportunity allows participants to deeply explore and enhance their bloodline potential."

His voice turned more solemn.

"According to our agreement with the Crystal Spire, we've obtained five entry spots this time. After careful consideration of various factors, the School has decided to allocate these five spots as follows: one each to the top three ranked Holt Elwin, Herbert Levin, and Caitlin Gardner. The remaining two spots go to Lalf apprentice and Cui Xi Linde."

This allocation immediately stirred some discontent.

Particularly among the High Apprentices ranked fourth and fifth, whose expressions darkened visibly.

However, given this decision came from multiple Mentors and Fuyuanzhang himself, no apprentice dared voice complaints.

The gap between apprentices and Full Mages was an absolute chasm. No one present would dare challenge that hierarchy.

"Alright, the allocation is settled", Hayaek said, surveying the chamber. "Five apprentices who received spots—please remain after the meeting. We'll provide important information and guidance regarding the Bloodline Altar."

The meeting continued discussing internal school affairs and external threats, primarily concerning the latest intelligence and defense measures against the Abyssal Eye organization.

Once the quarterly meeting officially concluded, other apprentices gradually departed, leaving only the five Bloodline Altar participants and several Mentors.

"Congratulations on this rare opportunity", Hayaek said, his tone uncharacteristically warm. "The Bloodline Altar represents not just a chance for personal advancement, but also a significant investment from the School in your potential."

Soren stepped forward. "While the Altar holds great opportunity, it also contains grave risks. History records many apprentices who met misfortune, even death, within. Therefore, thorough preparation and cautious attitude are essential."

His gaze lingered on Luo En, revealing a complex emotion. "Especially for Lalf apprentice—as a bloodline modifier, your expertise will be a crucial pillar for the team."

Luo En nodded. "I'll do my utmost to ensure the team's safety and success."

After the meeting, as others dispersed, Hayaek suddenly called out, "Lalf apprentice, come with me."

Puzzled but compliant, Luo En followed Hayaek's steps.

Leading him to a quiet side room, Hayaek ensured their privacy before speaking.

"I've been watching your progress, Lalf apprentice. Your advancement speed is remarkable, and your development across multiple disciplines is exceptionally rare."

Luo En responded cautiously, "This all owes to the School's excellent environment and the Mentors' guidance."

A faint smile touched Hayaek's lips. "Empty humility won't impress me. We both know your achievements stem primarily from your own talent and effort."

He retrieved a Record crystal orb from within his robe, its surface displaying a complex spell matrix.

"I have a spell matrix here—perhaps suitable for your current stage."

Luo En accepted the orb, sensing the intricate spell structure recorded within.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end