The next morning, the sun shone brightly.
As the first rays of sunlight hit the ancient imperial capital of Sacred City, the quiet streets began to fill with alchemists dressed in robes, moving in small groups.
On ordinary days, these alchemists, who normally held themselves in high regard, were rarely seen. To commoners, they were mysterious and revered figures.
But today, the once-every-four-years Alchemist Conference was set to take place. Every alchemist was aiming for the championship, not only for the mysterious champion reward of at least a sixth-tier prescription but also for the chance to gain fame and prestige, to make themselves known.
On this special day, Xiao Se was also feeling a bit excited. He got up early to start his daily battle energy training on the Green Lotus platform, adjusting his body to its peak state. Once he was ready, he stepped out of his room.
As he left the hallway and entered the inner hall, he saw Hai Bodong, whom he hadn't seen for days, standing by the window.
"Oh, you're up? It seems like this event has really attracted a lot of alchemists," Hai Bodong remarked in amazement, looking at the various alchemists gathering below.
"Alchemists are still human. Although they usually show indifference, people can't escape the desire for fame and fortune. They need vanity and recognition. In the face of such a grand event, which can make them famous in the alchemist world, it's hard not to be tempted," Xiao Se replied as he walked to the table, poured a cup of tea, rinsed his mouth, and then swallowed a self-made dental pill.
"Maybe you're right. But with your skills, you probably don't even need to participate in such a competition, do you?" Hai Bodong chuckled as he turned around.
"I'm still human. While I don't care about fame, I do value profit. The Alchemist Guild has a sixth-tier prescription that I need. Plus, the president of the Black Rock City Alchemist Guild, Fu Lan Ke, helped me when I needed it most. It's only right that I participate."
Hai Bodong shook his head with a wry smile. "It seems the group down there is destined to be your backdrop. I almost feel sorry for them."
"Perhaps something unpredictable might happen," Xiao Se said, a mysterious smile on his face. He didn't believe the Alchemist Guild of the Izumo Empire would miss this opportunity. It would be the perfect time to gather information about Little Fairy Doctor.
Soon after, Xiao Se and Hai Bodong arrived at the Alchemist Guild.
Led by Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke, they reached the royal plaza in the southern part of the city.
"It's really crowded," Xiao Se said as his eyes swept across the vast plaza, taking in the visually overwhelming crowd.
Seeing Xiao Se show some rare emotion, Au Tuo smiled lightly and whispered, "Let's go. There's still some time before the competition starts. I'll introduce you to a few important figures. It might be useful."
"Alright." Xiao Se nodded slightly, already guessing that these important figures would likely include Jia Xingtian and Fa Ma.
As Xiao Se agreed, Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke led Xiao Se and Hai Bodong toward the VIP section.
As they approached, Xiao Se finally saw the so-called "important figures" in the VIP area.
Scanning the platform subtly, he saw five seats at the front. Four were empty, as the hosts hadn't arrived yet, but in the second seat on the left sat an old man in a purple alchemist robe. The man's dry skin and a huge cauldron symbol on his head made it easy for Xiao Se to recognize him as Fa Ma, the president of the Alchemist Guild.
Sensing Xiao Se's gaze, Fa Ma turned and smiled kindly at him.
When Fa Ma's gaze fell on Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke, they were visibly flattered. They cautiously approached Fa Ma and bowed. "Master Fa Ma, you're looking as vigorous as ever."
"Heh, it's Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke. I didn't expect you two to become fourth-tier alchemists. You've improved quickly," Fa Ma said with a gentle smile as he glanced at them.
"It's all thanks to your guidance, Master Fa Ma," they replied respectfully.
"All I did was share a little experience. The key is your own efforts," Fa Ma smiled, then turned his gaze to Xiao Se and Hai Bodong, saying warmly, "This young man must be Xiao Huohuo, who scored full marks in the guild's internal test. Impressive, impressive. Even Gu He back in the day was quite talented, but he only refined the solution seven times. It seems I can rest easy for this year's alchemist competition."
"Thank you for your praise, President Fa Ma," Xiao Se said respectfully, showing his admiration for the elder who had dedicated most of his life to the alchemist profession.
"No need to be humble. Refining the Ironwood Spirit Liquid ten times is no small feat. Even in the entire Jia Ma Empire, there are only a handful of people who can do it," Fa Ma chuckled, then looked at Hai Bodong and said, "I didn't expect to see you here, Ice Old Man."
"Well, if you can come, why can't I?" Hai Bodong retorted, sitting in the far-left seat.
"I'm glad you're here. Otherwise, I'd be lonely up here," Fa Ma laughed heartily, his dry skin trembling.
Hai Bodong and Fa Ma's familiarity surprised Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke. It took them a moment to realize that Hai Bodong must be the long-absent Ice Emperor.
"This kid sure knows how to make friends with some real monsters," they thought, exchanging bitter smiles and casting Xiao Se a peculiar glance.
Xiao Se shrugged helplessly, leaning against a pillar to rest as he waited for the competition to begin. Au Tuo and Fu Lan Ke returned to their seats in the Black Rock City section.
"Hey, Ice Old Man, Fa Ma, you're here early," a raspy voice suddenly called out from the passage.
Hearing the voice, Xiao Se opened his eyes and saw an elderly man in a simple robe walking over. Following behind him was the little princess.
Today, the princess was unusually dressed in an alchemist robe, but it only bore the emblem of a first-tier alchemist, rather than the third-tier badge she would earn in four years. The robe had been modified, with wide sleeves cut into a lotus pattern, giving her a refined look. But Xiao Se knew very well that beneath her calm and elegant appearance, this girl was a spoiled princess.
Next to the princess stood a tall, cold woman in armor, carrying a long spear. She appeared to be about the same age as Ya Fei and bore a striking resemblance to the princess, with a regal demeanor typical of royalty.
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