Chapter 307: The Spirit Realm's Messenger

Chapter 307: The Spirit Realm's Messenger

"Liliya Devinter, please stand."

Weila's gaze settled on a figure seated in the middle of the assembly hall.

She was a tall girl with long, dark violet hair, appearing about eighteen years old, with delicate features.

She rose slowly, her movements graceful and effortless, her expression revealing no trace of surprise or excitement, as though she had already foreseen this moment.

Liliya wore a deep green Apprentice Robe with a silver sash at her waist, marking her status as an Intermediate Apprentice.

Those eyes, once always timidly downcast, now resembled icy mountain springs atop a high peak, radiating an unapproachable chill.

"Congratulations, Liliya."

Weila nodded with a smile, her amber eyes brimming with evident approval.

"Your innate talent and progress rate in alchemy are rare even in the history of the Emerald Tower. Even more impressive is your excellence in both bloodline studies and biological formulation techniques—this cross-disciplinary ability combination is extremely precious."

She paused, her tone growing more solemn.

"Especially your unique understanding of plant bloodlines and the innovative thinking you displayed in potion formulation—these have revealed immense potential to us."

The other apprentices in the hall watched Liliya with complex expressions.

There was envy, jealousy, and frustration.

Yet no one dared to voice public doubt. The Emerald Tower's evaluation system was known for its rigor, and Liliya's strength was undeniable.

Everyone knew her mentor was the mysterious Madame Ellen—a figure even the Emerald Tower's upper echelons treated with respect.

Against this backdrop, any reckless provocation could invite disaster.

A brown-haired apprentice sitting in the back row whispered through telepathic communication to his companion.

"How ironic. The Black Mist School has practically ceased to exist, and the destruction of their Bloodline Altar is common knowledge throughout the mage world. Yet someone from a shattered school has secured such a high position here."

"Don't say that", another apprentice countered cautiously. "Her strength is real—I've seen her performance in advanced potion formulation classes with my own eyes. The way she controls herbal traits and precisely manipulates mana flow cannot be explained by luck alone. Besides..."

His voice grew even more careful.

"I've heard her mentor, Madame Ellen, has a background far from ordinary—someone even the Dean personally receives. We'd be wise not to provoke her recklessly."

Though Liliya couldn't hear the specific content of these telepathic conversations, she could sense the fluctuating emotions around her.

But she chose to ignore them.

During her time at the Emerald Tower, she'd learned how to protect herself.

She used coldness to hide inner vulnerability and pride to mask insecurity and loneliness.

This wasn't her true nature, but in this fiercely competitive environment, such behavior had become a necessity for survival.

"The Emerald Tower has always valued strength above all—anyone can earn their rightful place through effort."

Weila's voice drew everyone's attention again.

"Liliya's ascension is entirely based on her actual achievements, including her outstanding performance in high-difficulty potion formulation tests and the innovative potential demonstrated by her original bloodline extraction techniques."

Her gaze swept the hall, her tone sharpening.

"I remind you all—the Reserve Sequence rankings are updated monthly. Maintaining your position requires continuous progress. Pride and complacency will only lead to downfall, while true innate talent will always receive due recognition."

Liliya maintained her icy expression as though the surrounding attention and undercurrents had nothing to do with her.

She simply stood quietly, waiting for the ritual to end, her eyes betraying no emotion.

This calm, composed attitude actually made those apprentices harboring resentment feel pressure.

"Next, we'll announce this month's resource distribution formulas..."

After the assembly, apprentices dispersed in small groups.

The girl walked alone at the end, showing no desire for social interaction. Loneliness had become her armor.

"Liliya, please wait a moment."

Weila's voice came from behind.

Liliya turned, her face expressionless as she faced the academic director.

During her time at the Emerald Tower, Weila had been one of the few senior staff members to show her genuine kindness.

"Weila Mentor, may I ask what you require?"

Her voice remained as calm as still water, showing no emotional fluctuation.

"I want to discuss your future development plans."

Weila approached, her amber eyes gleaming with thoughtfulness.

"At your current progress rate, you'll ascend to High Apprentice in just a majority year. And your expertise in alchemy is already very close to professional Potion Master standards."

She paused, her tone growing more serious.

"The Emerald Tower is considering assigning you a dedicated mentor for more in-depth personal guidance. Considering your special innate talent in combining bloodline research with potion-making, we have several highly authoritative mentors to choose from in this field."

Expectation flickered in Weila's eyes.

"This opportunity is usually reserved for the top ten Reserve Sequence apprentices, but given your unique circumstances and remarkable potential, the school is willing to make an exception for you."

Hearing this proposal, an almost imperceptible flicker passed through Liliya's eyes.

But soon, that flicker was replaced by deep determination.

"Thank you for your kindness, Weila Mentor."

Her voice remained calm, but the resolve within made Weila slightly taken aback.

"But I already have a mentor—I don't need guidance from anyone else."

"You mean Ai Lun?"

Weila nodded understandingly.

"I know she's an outstanding Potion Master, but a professional mentor could provide more systematic and deeper..."

"No."

Liliya interrupted her, her voice carrying its first noticeable emotional tremor.

"Madame Ellen is indeed my mentor, but my most important mentor is someone else. He taught me the core philosophy of alchemy, taught me how to truly understand the essence of medicinal ingredients and the flow of mana."

A wistful expression appeared in her eyes before quickly returning to icy coldness.

"I will never accept anyone replacing his position—even the most authoritative mentor in the Emerald Tower cannot change that."

Weila keenly noticed the transformation in Liliya's words.

This girl, usually cold as ice, had revealed an almost devout reverence and deep attachment when mentioning that mysterious mentor—something no pretense could hide.

"I understand your feelings."

Weila finally nodded.

"The bond between teacher and student is indeed precious. Since you've already found a suitable mentor, we naturally respect your choice."

She paused.

"However, if you ever need academic support or resource assistance in the future, the Emerald Tower's doors will always remain open to you. After all, you are now one of us—we hope to see you achieve even greater accomplishments."

Liliya bowed her head slightly, a rare moment of courtesy in the Emerald Tower.

"Thank you for your understanding, Weila Mentor. I will strive not to betray the school's expectations."

"Then go rest first."

Weila said softly.

"I'm looking forward to seeing your performance in tomorrow's advanced potion experiment class."

...

The warm glow of the Herbal Medicine Shop soon appeared in her field of vision, stirring a wave of warmth in Liliya's heart.

Pushing open the shop door, the familiar aroma of medicinal herbs enveloped her.

Tonight's atmosphere inside the store felt somewhat different.

Madame Ellen sat in her old armchair.

But unlike her usual dozing, she was now engrossed in reading a newspaper.

A rare satisfied smile graced her wrinkled face.

Liliya hadn't seen this expression in a long time.

Since arriving at the Emerald Forest, Madame Ellen had always seemed burdened with personal matters, rarely showing such genuine pleasure.

"Madam, I'm back."

Liliya said softly, instinctively beginning to tidy various medicinal ingredients and tools on the counter.

After such a long time together, she had long since mastered the shop's workflow, handling every task independently.

"Oh, Liliya's back."

Madame Ellen lifted her head, setting the newspaper aside.

“How did today’s gathering go? I heard you moved up to twentieth place? That news spreads fast.”

“Yes, madam.”

Liliya nodded, her tone as flat as ever, as though discussing something trivial.

“Mentor Weila also offered to assign me a personal mentor, but I declined.”

“Declined?!”

Madame Ellen raised an eyebrow.

“Why on earth would you refuse?”

Liliya paused mid-motion, then resumed sorting the medicinal herbs before her.

Her voice softened, almost like she was speaking to herself:

“Because I already have the best mentor. Even though he’s not here now, what he taught me is irreplaceable.”

Madame Ellen froze.

She could clearly sense the deep longing in Liliya’s words.

“A very wise choice,” Madame Ellen chuckled lightly, her voice tinged with pride. “Those mentors at Emerald Tower may be knowledgeable, but their teaching styles are shackled by tradition. For someone like you, who already has a solid foundation, their methods might actually hinder your growth.”

She paused, her tone turning more serious.

“Besides, true mentorship isn’t just about passing down knowledge. It’s about spiritual resonance and shared philosophies. Once that connection forms, it shouldn’t be broken lightly.”

“Oh, I have some good news to share with you.”

Madame Ellen picked up the newspaper again, her smile brightening.

“It’s about that boy Luo En. I know you’ll find it interesting.”

At the mention of the name, Liliya’s body stiffened almost imperceptibly. Her hands faltered briefly in their task.

This was the first time in over a year that Madame Ellen had openly brought up Luo En in front of her.

Though she’d secretly kept tabs on her mentor through various channels, Madame Ellen had always avoided the topic.

Perhaps she feared stirring up painful memories, or maybe she worried it would distract from Liliya’s studies.

“Mentor… what happened to him?” Liliya tried to keep her voice steady, but a tremor slipped through.

“Take a look.”

Madame Ellen handed her the paper, her finger pointing at the prominent headline.

“The Central Lands Academic Weekly’s front page article about Crystal Spire’s rising young mages. Guess who’s near the top?”

Trembling slightly, Liliya accepted the paper. Her eyes were immediately drawn to a photograph along the side.

It was a familiar yet strangely unfamiliar figure.

Luo En in the picture wore a full-length mage robe of Crystal Spire, his expression calm. But beneath that serene exterior radiated a powerful confidence.

The caption beneath the photo declared in bold letters:

“Treasure-Grade Genius Luo En Lalf: One of the Most Promising New Stars in the Central Lands”

Liliya’s heart pounded. Her blood felt like it was boiling in her veins.

The term “Treasure Grade” wasn’t new to her. During her studies at Emerald Tower, she’d learned about the mage world’s innate talent rating system. To be classified as Treasure Grade meant ranking among the top five hundred mages in history!

Forcing herself to remain calm, she began reading the article’s details:

“Report: Recently, Crystal Spire released a list of new rising stars. Among them, mage Luo En Lalf from the Black Mist School has been rated as ‘Treasure Grade,’ becoming the first mage in nearly a century to receive this prestigious ranking.

During this year’s Lance Memorial Day Celebration, Lalf Mage excelled in the Rainbow Ring Bloodline Formulation Competition, securing victory with near-perfect craftsmanship…

Additionally, his academic achievements are equally remarkable. His paper on ‘Mobile Simulation Combat Devices’ was recognized as an Outstanding Achievement by the academic review committee, earning over 1200 academic contribution points. The innovative concepts proposed in this paper are believed to revolutionize training methods for Transcendents…

According to insider sources at Crystal Spire, Lalf Mage currently holds the position of assistant professor. His alchemy and bloodline formulation courses are immensely popular among students, even drawing seasoned lecturers as spectators. Students unanimously praise his unique teaching style that makes even the most complex theories easy to understand…

Furthermore, reliable sources confirm that Lalf Mage has established a mentorship relationship with Crown Clan’s Eveprince. The academic standing and personal charisma of a mage recognized by the Crown Clan princess speaks volumes…”

The more Liliya read, the more stunned she became. Each achievement filled her with pride and joy, as though she shared in his glory.

When she reached the part about him becoming Eveprince’s mentor, a complicated mixture of emotions surged within her.

Proud as she was that Luo En had earned the recognition of such a noble student, a vague sense of loss stirred in her heart.

“Treasure Grade…”

She whispered the words, her voice barely audible.

“A genius ranked among the top five hundred mages in history… Mentor Luo En…”

“He certainly proved himself,” Madame Ellen said with satisfaction. “I knew he’d never disappoint. With his innate talent and relentless effort, reaching this height was only a matter of time.”

“You know, Liliya?” Her voice softened further. “Though you both are in different places now, I can feel you’re both becoming more outstanding in your own ways.”

Liliya clutched the newspaper, her eyes misting slightly.

Proud as she was of her mentor’s remarkable achievements in the distant Central Lands, a deep sense of inadequacy and longing gnawed at her.

Their gap was widening.

She’d struggled to reach the twentieth position in Emerald Tower’s reserve rankings, while he’d become a genius admired across the mage world.

She was still wrestling with foundational academic problems here, while he was already teaching the Crown Clan princess.

The contrast left her feeling helpless.

She began to question whether she still deserved to stand by his side.

Whether she’d ever have the chance to become his true disciple again.

“Don’t think too much, silly girl.” Madame Ellen seemed to read her thoughts. “Everyone walks their own path at their own pace. While Luo En’s achievements are extraordinary, your progress is equally admirable. Establishing yourself at a place like Emerald Tower is no small feat.”

“Alright, stop daydreaming.”

Madame Ellen coughed lightly, snapping Liliya from her thoughts.

“Go sort the Moonlight Grass in the back yard. We’ve got an order today. Remember to classify them by mana content – price varies greatly by rank.”

“Yes, madam.”

Carefully setting the paper aside, Liliya rose and headed for the backyard.

But the warm, genuine smile on her face was completely different from the icy mask she wore at Emerald Tower.

Watching her departure, Madame Ellen nodded in satisfaction.

The stubborn girl had finally shown her true expression again, no longer that heartbreaking mask of coldness.

Once Liliya vanished into the backyard, Madame Ellen slowly rose and moved toward an ancient wooden chest in the shop’s corner.

Inside were personal items she’d never shown anyone – remnants of a painful past.

Each object carried heavy history, and wounds that would never fully heal.

She cautiously opened the chest and withdrew a broken staff.

Only half remained, the fractured end twisted in a sinister spiral, edges scorched with blackened residue.

Most of the runes along the staff’s surface had dimmed, except for a deep violet crystal at the tip that emitted a faint, sorrowful glow.

Madame Ellen gently traced the staff’s surface, emotions flickering across her eyes – nostalgia, pain, and a deep sense of guilt.

“If only I’d discovered it sooner back then…”

She whispered to herself, her voice barely audible.

“Perhaps the outcome would’ve been different. Perhaps she might still…”

At this thought, Madame Ellen forcibly interrupted the dangerous memory.

These recollections were like buried stingers – the slightest touch brought searing pain.

Thud Thud Thud

Replacing the staff carefully into the chest, a sinister presence emerged.

A humanoid figure wrapped in semi-transparent gray mist.

Deep within the mist, a skeletal outline was barely visible, its hollow eye sockets burning with ghostly blue flames.

It was… a Spirit Realm Messenger.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end