Chapter 236: End of the Watch, the Elders' Pavilion
Upon returning to the refuge, Xiao Ze volunteered to take over the watch of the elixir region.
Partly, he felt indebted to Elder Liu for having replaced him earlier. Additionally, he wanted to look for more rare ingredients and take Qing Lin to find magical snake beasts that might have escaped.
Time passed quickly while they were busy, and soon the end of their watch came.
That day, Xiao Ze returned to the refuge with Qing Lin and noticed the presence of two more people.
They were two elders, both with white hair and beards. One was Elder Sheng, one of the eight great elders. The other had a scar on his face, giving him a fierce look, more like a veteran warrior than an alchemist. However, anyone who could watch over the elixir region should not be taken lightly.
"Xiao Ze greets Elder Sheng, and this is…"
"My name is Lei. You can call me Elder Lei. Your name has been ringing through the Alchemist Tower since I returned."
The elder with the scar smiled, softening his intimidating appearance.
"Nice to meet you, Elder Lei."
"Haha, don't worry, Xiao Ze. Lei has fought many battles, and his aura isn't directed at you," explained Elder Liu, concerned that Xiao Ze might have a bad impression of Elder Lei.
"Many battles?"
"Yes, although the Alchemist Tower is one of the most powerful forces on the continent, it isn't without enemies. Like this time, Lei went out to deal with an attack by the Hall of Souls against our disciples," Elder Lei explained.
"The Hall of Souls? Do they dare to attack the disciples of the Alchemist Tower openly?"
"Yes, those guys from the Hall of Souls are known for collecting souls. And alchemists, with their strong souls, are their favorite prey," Elder Sheng said with a grim expression.
"By the way, Xiao Ze, your fame has spread throughout the continent. If you need to leave the Alchemist Tower, make sure to take some of our strong guardians with you," Elder Liu advised.
"I understand. In fact, I have means to deal with Dou Zun-level warriors. At least the low-level ones."
The three elders were surprised, showing that Xiao Ze had many resources at his disposal.
After talking for a while, Elder Liu said, "Well, it's time for us to leave and hand this place over to you."
"Elder Sheng and Elder Lei, Xiao Ze bids you farewell," Xiao Ze said, bowing, followed by Qing Lin.
Elders Sheng and Lei watched them go. Once the spatial distortion calmed down, Elder Lei turned to Sheng.
"Sheng, tell me about Xiao Ze. It seems a genius has arrived at the Alchemist Tower during my absence."
"Haha, his talent far exceeds what you imagine. Since you're interested, I'll tell you."
Xiao Ze didn't know that he had caught the attention of Elder Lei.
Upon returning to the Alchemist Tower, Xiao Ze had a brief conversation with Elder Liu and then headed with Qing Lin to the Elders' Pavilion.
The Elders' Pavilion is where all matters related to the elders of the Tower are handled, such as promotions, merit exchanges, and stipends.
Near the great black tower stood an ancient building with green tiles and red bricks, showing the passage of time.
Due to the frequent presence of people with powerful souls, the building exuded an impressive atmosphere, as if it were a beast made of spiritual energy.
Above the building, there was a plaque with three characters that said "Elders' Pavilion" written with intense spiritual energy.
Xiao Ze squinted at the plaque, feeling a strong spiritual shock. Only those with powerful souls could perceive its true nature.
"The Elders' Pavilion has a strong spiritual presence. The author of these characters must have a celestial level soul."
The Elders' Pavilion didn't have many people, as it was exclusive to the elders. Xiao Ze and Qing Lin entered and were greeted by a delicate-looking young woman.
"Greetings, Elder Xiao Ze. How can I help you?"
By this time, Xiao Ze had become a prominent figure in the Tower, known by all the disciples.
"I've come to exchange merits. Where should I go?"
"Please, follow me." The young woman respectfully guided him to a door on the second floor.
"Thank you," Xiao Ze said with a smile, entering with Qing Lin.
To his surprise, he found the Grand Elder inside.
"Greetings, Grand Elder," Xiao Ze said, bowing.
"No need to be so formal, Xiao Ze. What brings you here today?" the Grand Elder asked.
Xiao Ze explained his need, which made the Grand Elder frown.
"Since this involves the president, I don't have the authority to handle it. You must wait a moment while I contact an available president."
"Does it really need to trouble a president?"
"Yes, the spiritual technique you want is one of the most advanced. It's better that a president handles it."