Chapter 35: "The Quest for Knowledge"
Ron found solace in his relentless pursuit of research and potion-making. Having already refined the Bloodline, he was now focused on brewing the Serenity Potion. He continued to experiment, awaiting the A.I. Chip's completion of its analysis on the Knight's path.
As Ron headed to the Academy Restaurant for a meal, a white letter fell to the ground. It bore a simple message: "So, the time has finally come."
Ron couldn't help but smirk. Using his pale finger, he replied in red characters. A simple spell allowed communication in the Academy area.
He soon met Jayden in a room at the restaurant. Jayden seemed gloomy, though Ron noticed that his severed limb had regrown into a slim, tiny arm.
"I haven't thanked you for the Flourishing Flower," Jayden acknowledged.
Ron's thoughts raced as he contemplated his ulterior motives. "Regarding the information Professor Dorotte gave me, I should be the one expressing my thanks."
Jayden, however, reminded Ron that the information was incomplete and unreliable for advancing as an Official Magus. Ron was after something more—knowledge and resources that could lead to immortality.
Their conversation continued, and Jayden explained his need to become an Official Magus for protection. Ron agreed, and the two struck a deal. Jayden couldn't reveal the location of the remnants, but he mentioned they were near Zither Moon Mountain Plains.
Ron put on an act, pretending to hesitate. He finally agreed to help, although he knew what he truly desired from this mission.
Five days later, Ron and Jayden, accompanied by three other acolytes, left the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy for their perilous journey.
The newcomers were Bosain, a member of the powerful Lilytell family; Shaya, a fire-haired female acolyte; and Roth, a tall and simple-looking male acolyte. They were all Level 3 acolytes, and the A.I. Chip detected magical artifacts on Bosain and Shaya.
Ron introduced himself as a Potioneering acolyte, and Bosain praised his reputation, comparing him to the legendary Potioneer Merlin. Deep down, Ron had darker thoughts about Bosain's family and the potential gains he could secure.
The group set off on their journey to the Zither Moon Mountain Plains, a perilous region at the boundary of the Abyssal Bone Forest Academy and Sage Gotham Hut. Their disguises as young nobles concealed their true identities, and their shared intelligence and courage made them a formidable team.
As they continued their journey, Ron contemplated the power and influence of nobility in this world, where knowledge and strength often rested in the hands of the privileged few.