The next morning, I returned to the Apothecaries' Guild, my supplies ready for the tincture-making test. Alara was waiting, her expression guarded as she led me to a workroom filled with jars of herbs. I was given several common plants—ones I'd identified as useful but that the guild had dismissed as ineffective.
Working quickly, I combined these herbs, carefully extracting and heating them to release their active compounds. As I worked, Frost lay quietly beside me, watching as I focused on balancing each ingredient precisely.
After hours of meticulous preparation, I finally produced a tincture. Presenting it to Alara, I explained, "This tincture can help with fevers, joint pain, and boost energy for the sick. The combination brings out properties that don't exist alone in each herb."
She studied the liquid, then took a small sip, nodding as the effects settled in. For the first time, her guarded expression shifted to one of genuine respect.
"It appears you may have insights we have overlooked," she admitted. "We could use such knowledge in our ranks. Welcome to the Apothecaries' Guild."
I felt a rush of satisfaction, though I knew this was only the beginning. Joining the guild would grant access to more rare herbs and resources, which I could use to further my goals. But it also meant stepping into their world of secrets and political rivalries, something I would have to navigate carefully.