Chapter 238: Learning Time (Part 2)
Chapter 238: Learning Time (Part 2) (Seeking subscriptions, favorites, and votes)
After thinking through the problem, Liam stood up and went to look for Rogen. After rounding a tall cabinet, he saw Rogen standing by a stone Alchemy Table, working on something.
About seven or eight minutes later, a silver light flashed, and a shiny stone appeared in Rogen's hand. He examined it for a moment before placing it in a box on the table. Then, he turned around and said, "Have you figured it out? What did you come up with this time?"
"After some thought, I realized that all the skills I've learned are methods that our ancestors derived from observing and practicing in the world. These methods allow us to harness certain forces, regardless of their origin, but they all follow the same fundamental principles", Liam said, a bit nervously, as he shared his conclusion.
"Very good. For your age, I think you've done quite well", Rogen nodded. "You know, I've said these words to more than one person, but apart from my daughter, everyone else just spouts that the world was created by the gods, and all power comes from them. Some have even accused me of desecrating the gods' domain by conducting these studies."
At this, Rogen shook his head in resignation. Then he continued, "At least you're better than most of the people I know."
"It's not necessarily that I'm better. I just grew up in a more open-minded environment. The education I received from a young age has made me less constrained by rigid beliefs in this area", Liam said humbly.
"Very good. Recognizing your own strengths and weaknesses is a positive trait. The path of knowledge is fraught with the dangers of pride and arrogance", Rogen nodded, then said solemnly, "Actually, the only way to resolve your concerns is to study Alchemy. I'm not suggesting this just because I'm an Alchemist, but because, to my knowledge, this is the only path that can integrate all the powers you possess."
"Alchemy treats the human body as a microcosm of the universe", Rogen began his lesson. "On one hand, it allows you to alter the external world, and on the other, it can strengthen and transform your internal state."
"In Alchemy, the most sacred object is known as the Philosopher's Stone, or the Golden Core in the East. In some places, it's also called the Philosopher's Stone. Some may have created a Philosopher's Stone that can extend life or produce gold, which is indeed a great achievement, but it's far from the limits of Alchemy. At least, I believe the true Philosopher's Stone should be capable of creating life from non-living matter and resonating with itself, continuously strengthening until the ultimate truth is achieved."
Hearing this, Liam suddenly thought of the Golden Core mentioned in the Taoist Techniques he had mastered. No wonder Rogen had said that the seemingly conflicting powers within him were actually quite similar.
During this first lesson, Liam finally understood how to integrate all the powers he had mastered. While Alchemy might not be the best solution, it was the best method he could access at the moment.
The key to everything was to see himself as the central subject and treat all the powers he possessed as parts of that subject. All the powers must revolve around him, rather than him adapting to the powers.
In the days that followed, Rogen shared all his insights and knowledge of Alchemy with Liam. Liam found a path that suited him from this wealth of knowledge. A week after the first lesson, Liam successfully crafted a crude Enchanted Dagger.
This Enchanted Dagger was only slightly sharper and more resistant to rust than a regular dagger. In terms of performance, it was quite ordinary. In fact, considering the precious metal used in its creation, one could say it was a failure.
However, when Rogen took the dagger and examined it carefully, he smiled and nodded. "It seems you truly understand what Alchemy is about."
Rogen said this because he noticed that although the dagger contained a mix of Taoist Technique talismans and runic enchantments, Liam had seamlessly integrated the two, forming a self-sustaining whole.
"Since you've already laid the most difficult foundation, the rest is just a matter of delving deeper into your studies", Rogen said, putting down the dagger and pulling out a thick parchment book reinforced with bronze corners from a drawer behind him. "However, what you've done so far is still quite rough, due to a lack of experience. You can look through this book I've compiled; it contains a wealth of knowledge. However, remember that this is just my summary. While you absorb the experience within, you should also apply it to your own circumstances and forge your own path."
Liam took the thick book with both hands and bowed deeply. "Thank you, teacher."
Rogen waved his hand. "Go ahead and look through it. I have some work to do."
"Teacher, what are you going to be working on?" Liam asked eagerly, feeling a sense of gratitude for all the guidance he had received and wanting to offer some help in return.
"Even a seasoned alchemist like me can't help, so a novice like you certainly can't. Go back to your studies", Rogen said, turning to leave. But Liam, undeterred, said, "Although I'm a complete novice in alchemy, I've traveled through many worlds. I might be able to offer a different perspective and help you solve your problem."
"You have a point", Rogen conceded, turning back. "You know that my daughter, Alice, is an ordinary person without any supernatural powers, right?" Seeing Liam nod, Rogen continued.
"However, she has always dreamed of becoming an alchemist. Honestly, as a top-tier alchemist, if my daughter had even a hint of supernatural talent, I could guide her in the right direction, no matter what kind of power it was. I have countless methods to enhance one's potential, regardless of how poor it might be. The problem is that my daughter lacks that initial spark of supernatural power."
"Are there any ways in your world to turn an ordinary person into a Wizard?"
"No", Liam shook his head honestly. "In our world, becoming a Wizard is a matter of chance. While the children of Wizards are more likely to become Wizards, it's not a guarantee. Even a great Wizard can have a child with no magical abilities."
"Ah", Rogen sighed in disappointment. But then he heard Liam continue, "However, during my travels to a very strange world, I once obtained a crystal that grants telekinesis to ordinary people."
"What, where is it?" Rogen lunged forward, his eyes wide with excitement. Fortunately, he maintained his composure and didn't grab Liam by the collar.
"Please wait a moment, I'll get it", Liam said, opening a small dimensional door and reaching inside. When he pulled his arm back, he held a golden box.
"This crystal emits radiation that can stimulate telekinesis in people. To avoid accidental activation, I always keep it in this golden box", Liam explained, handing the box to Rogen.
"Thank you", Rogen said, taking the box without a moment's hesitation. As he ushered Liam out of his alchemy lab, he added, "I may need to go into seclusion for a while. During this time, you can study on your own. If you need materials for experiments, you can take them from the large warehouse out back. Also, please look after Alice and tell her that I've found a way to help her achieve her dream of becoming an alchemist, so she needs to study carefully."
With that, Liam found himself at the door, which slammed shut behind him. It was clear that Rogen was deeply invested in this matter and had immediately set to work upon seeing a glimmer of hope.
"Teacher Rogen, you really trust me", Liam said with a wry smile, shaking his head. He clutched the thick notebook and made his way to the guest room where he was staying.
(End of Chapter)
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