Chapter 21: The Test

In the sanctum of alchemy, a gathering of distinguished alchemists observed the young man attentively. These seasoned alchemists were all well-aged, with most being over forty years old and the youngest in their thirties. Witnessing a boy of merely fifteen or sixteen claiming proficiency in alchemy, their astonishment was palpable, and skepticism loomed in their eyes. Some even subtly shook their heads, bearing a trace of mockery. Nonetheless, these discerning individuals possessed sharp minds...