Chapter 264: An Attempt

Various rumors were passed in low voices among the apprentices. Princess Yi Fu seemed to have long been accustomed to such gazes and discussions, walking into the classroom with a calm face and sitting in a special seat in the front row.

Franka stood aside, ready to serve at any time, while the two nanny golems floated in mid-air, maintaining vigilance at all times.

Time passed second by second, and the tension in the air grew thicker.

When the mana cursor pointing to nine o'clock lit up completely, the classroom door closed silently.

On the podium in front, a crystal light curtain slowly rose, projecting a huge magic array pattern.

That was a complex knowledge transmission array, which could accurately transmit the lecturer's voice and demonstrations to every corner of the classroom.

The air suddenly became even heavier, and a pure and powerful mana fluctuation swept through the entire classroom, making everyone present involuntarily straighten their backs.

Luo En appeared on the podium; he was wearing a simple yet formal black wizard robe, with the Crystal Spire teaching assistant badge pinned to his chest.

Unlike most formal wizards, he did not choose gorgeous decorations or dazzling ways of appearing.

Although the way he appeared was almost plain, he attracted everyone's attention by virtue of that special radiation field.

"Today's course is 'Advanced Potion Theory and Practice,' lecture one."

Luo En's voice was not loud, but it clearly reached every corner of the classroom.

That sense of power contained in the plainness made people unconsciously focus their attention:

"I am Luo En Ralph, the lecturer of this course."

After a brief self-introduction, his gaze swept over the apprentices below, paused slightly on Princess Yi Fu, and then continued:

"Potionology is regarded by many as the most basic and simple field of wizarding arts, suitable for apprentices with insufficient mental power qualifications—this view is a foolish and dangerous misunderstanding."

The sharpness of his words made many apprentices look stunned, but Luo En did not slow down his tone:

"True potionology is by no means a simple stacking of formulas, not a mechanical mixing of materials, nor a step-by-step repetition of operations."

His voice gradually became infectious:

"True potionology is a study of the essence of life, an analysis and reorganization of the deep structure of matter, and the most precise and flexible manipulation of energy forms."

Luo En waved his hand, and a row of transparent crystal bottles appeared out of thin air on the podium.

Each bottle contained liquid of different colors, shining under the magic crystal lamp.

"Today, I don't intend to lecture on those formulas and steps that you can find in basic textbooks; you can see those things in any introductory book you find."

He took out a bottle of dark blue potion and shook it gently; the liquid flowed in the bottle, forming a peculiar vortex:

"On the contrary, what I want to showcase is the true charm and depth of potionology—how to create unprecedented possibilities through the understanding of life energy."

Luo En poured the potion into a special crystal container, and the potion immediately began to boil, releasing wisps of blue steam.

"This is a 'Sobriety Potion' I improved. The difference from the standard formula is not simply adding some rare material or changing the ratio, but rethinking its mechanism of action from the root."

He explained while manipulating the energy flow in the potion with mana.

Those visible energy paths became clearer under his guidance, just like a live teaching diagram:

"The core principle of the standard formula is to stimulate specific areas of the brain through the energy of 'Light Flame Powder,' causing contraction after pressure to achieve the purpose of clearing fatigue.

But this method is inefficient, and the side effects are obvious—many people experience mild headaches, dry mouth, and other symptoms after use."

Luo En's fingers gently brushed over the potion, guiding the energy to change its flow:

"And the real problem lies in the disharmony of energy paths. If we adjust the flow of energy to form a closed loop instead of one-way stimulation, we can significantly improve the potion's effect and reduce side effects without increasing materials."

Every movement of his was elegant and precise, as if he were performing a precise artistic performance, yet it contained a profound practical foundation.

"The true value of a potion master is not in material collection or mechanical repetition, but in the understanding and innovation of formulas.

An excellent potion master can create excellent potions that exceed conventions through a profound grasp of energy principles under limited resources."

For the next two hours, Luo En not only explained the mechanism of action of conventional potions but also deeply analyzed the core principles of energy conversion and how to innovate and improve based on these principles.

He completely abandoned the idea of "preparing medicine according to the formula" in traditional teaching, instead emphasizing the importance of understanding and innovation.

In the practical demonstration session, he chose "Mental Stabilizer" as an example.

This potion was often only encountered by senior potion apprentices in regular courses and was recognized as one of the more difficult potions.

"The core concept of a Mental Stabilizer is to reduce the influence of external interference on the spirit without interfering with the user's thinking ability."

Luo En spoke eloquently, his voice steady and magnetic:

"However, there is an essential energy repulsion between 'Moon Shadow Dandelion' and 'Ice Crystal Heart Powder' in the standard formula, which leads to poor stability of the potion and limited duration."

He took out a series of materials, some common, some relatively rare, but none of them exceeded the range that higher-level apprentices could obtain.

"Observing the energy veins of medicinal materials, feeling the interaction between components, and adjusting the ratio and procedures according to needs—this is the true art of potions."

Luo En's fingers gently brushed over the mortar, signaling apprentices to pay attention to the matching order of materials.

Every step was carefully designed, not simply following established procedures, but adapting to the real-time reaction of materials and making the best choice.

When processing Ice Crystal Heart Powder, he did not crush it directly according to traditional methods, but first softened it with a special solution, then crystallized it at low temperature, and finally ground it into powder.

This innovative processing method significantly reduced its repulsion with Moon Shadow Dandelion, allowing the two components to blend better.

When the last drop of potion dripped into the container, the entire potion suddenly emitted a soft silver light and then quickly stabilized into a clear light purple liquid.

"This is the improved 'Mental Stabilizer'." Luo En stated the result faintly:

"The potency is 1.6 times that of the standard formula, the duration is increased by 35%, and the side effects are reduced by nearly 60%."

He emphasized specifically:

"In addition, the whole process did not use any rare materials, but was achieved by optimizing the ratio and improving the steps."

The classroom was silent, and all the apprentices frowned tightly, looking at this scene on the podium in disbelief.

It felt like their eyes had learned it, but their brains and fingers were in a state of dementia.

"This... this is incredible." Jack exclaimed in a low voice, his voice trembling slightly with excitement:

"He didn't use standard steps just now, but adjusted the ratio and order according to the real-time reaction of materials. Many senior potionology lecturers can't compare to the level of this Teaching Assistant Luo En..."

Beside him, Li Si ignored her companion entirely.

The young girl was inputting mana into the automatic recording quill while trying her best to digest everything she had just seen in her brain.

Princess Yi Fu in the front row also revealed a rare focused expression.

Her purple crystal-like eyes were staring unblinkingly at every movement of Luo En at this moment.

"Next, I would like to invite a volunteer to come up and complete a simple experiment together."

Luo En scanned the classroom, and his gaze finally fell on Li Si.

The thirst for knowledge flickering in those brown eyes made him notice this serious female apprentice at a glance:

"That female apprentice wearing a silver hairpin, would you like to come up and assist me?"

Li Si opened her eyes in surprise and pointed at herself.

After receiving confirmation, her heart rate accelerated instantly, and she walked onto the podium under everyone's gaze.

"Don't be nervous, this is just a simple demonstration."

Luo En said gently; his voice carried a natural soothing power, making people relax unconsciously.

He took a small bottle of the "Mental Stabilizer" just prepared from the container:

"Tell me, what is the biggest difficulty you encounter during meditation?"

Li Si swallowed her saliva, her voice trembling slightly from nervousness:

"I... my mental power is not concentrated enough, it is easy to be interfered with by external distracting thoughts, and the duration is very short, only able to maintain deep meditation for at most ten minutes."

Luo En nodded, a trace of understanding flashing in his eyes:

"Typical concentration problem for beginners, which is very common among apprentices, mainly because the mental power path has not been fully opened, leading to poor energy flow."

He took a small crystal cup from the podium, poured three drops of the potion just prepared, and then added some clear water to dilute it:

"This is a diluted solution of the improved 'Mental Stabilizer,' the effect is gentle but enough to demonstrate the principle. Would you like to try it?"

Li Si hesitated for a moment, but quickly nodded in agreement.

She knew that a Treasure Grade genius would not do dangerous things on such a public occasion.

Moreover, being able to personally experience the effect of such an efficient potion was a rare opportunity for an ordinary apprentice like her.

Taking the crystal cup, Li Si drank the light purple liquid carefully.

As soon as the potion entered her mouth, a cool energy immediately spread from her throat to her whole body.

It was as if a tiny electric current flowed through her meridians, activating the sleeping energy at every node.

That feeling was both strange and wonderful—not stimulation, nor numbness, but an indescribable sense of clarity.

It was as if someone had gently wiped the dust-covered mirror in her mind, making everything clearer and visible.

Her eyes instantly became bright and focused, and her thinking became unprecedentedly clear.

The surrounding mana flow seemed to become visible, like ribbons of light flowing, dancing lightly in the air.

"Now, please try to perform a short meditation and feel the difference from usual." Luo En instructed.

Li Si nodded, closed her eyes, and began to run her mental power in her usual way.

To her shock, all the distracting thoughts and interferences from the past disappeared.

The flow of mental power became unusually smooth, like a clear stream, without any obstacles or eddies.

Thirty seconds of meditation brought her a sense of mental cohesion stronger than ten minutes usually, a realm she had never experienced before.

"This is amazing!"

Li Si opened her eyes, her face full of surprise and gratitude, her hands trembling slightly with excitement:

"I have never had this feeling, it's as if... as if I suddenly possessed a higher level of mental power qualification!"

Luo En smiled slightly, a trace of satisfaction flashing in his eyes:

"This is the charm of potionology—it can compensate for the lack of talent to some extent, allowing everyone the opportunity to experience a higher level of mental state."

As the course neared its end, Luo En briefly summarized the core content of today.

And assigned a small research task—try to understand and analyze the energy structure of a common potion, and think about possible improvement directions.

"Remember, true potionology is not about reciting formulas, but about understanding principles."

Luo En's last sentence, like a seed, was deeply planted in the hearts of every apprentice:

"Only when you truly understand the flow and conversion of energy can you transcend existing limitations and create your own miracles."

When the mana cursor pointed to eleven o'clock, the first lesson officially ended.

However, the apprentices did not leave immediately, but discussed the content just now enthusiastically.

The classroom was filled with excited whispers.

"Too brilliant! This completely overturned my understanding of potionology!"

"That improved 'Mental Stabilizer' is simply incredible; it actually achieved this effect using only common materials!"

"This is true potionology! Not mechanically following formulas, but truly understanding the principles behind them!"

"I must register for the formal course; 100 mana stone fragments are worth it!"

Princess Yi Fu gently stroked the mana-isolation bracelet on her wrist, her thoughts surging.

Although Luo En's lecture was so brilliant that the apprentices in the classroom were still reluctant to leave, she couldn't help but feel a trace of disappointment.

"An impressive lecture, but not enough to solve my problem."

She evaluated silently in her heart, complex light flickering in her purple crystal-like eyes.

Franka leaned close to her softly: "Your Highness, how do you feel?"

"A bit disappointed, but also within expectations." Princess Yi Fu shook her head and answered softly:

"Potionology is indeed his strength, but it is still far from the level I need."

She looked at those apprentices discussing excitedly, a trace of envy flashing in her eyes.

For them, this class was an opportunity to broaden their horizons;

But for her, it was just another ordinary attempt—yet another among countless failed attempts.

"However, I still have to finish his 'Bloodline Modulation Basics'; his lecture just now gave me some inspiration, which is rare."

Princess Yi Fu decided, slowly stood up, and adjusted the intensity of the mana-isolation bracelet slightly:

"And since I'm here, I shouldn't give up halfway."

Also, the inspiration she gained from listening to the lecture might be able to bring a trace of favor to the other party...

By the way, favor...

Wait...

The black-haired princess seemed to have been triggered by some inspiration, and her purple crystal eyes lit up entirely.

At the same time, Li Si was still standing on the podium, and that sense of mental clarity was slowly fading, but it did not disappear completely.

The fading of the potion's effect was not a sudden collapse like conventional potions, but slowly receded like the tide, without bringing discomfort to the user.

"Thank you, Teaching Assistant Luo En."

Li Si bowed deeply, full of gratitude: "This is the first time I have experienced such a clear meditation state."

Luo En nodded slightly, a gentle smile on his lips:

"Anyone has the possibility of improvement; the key lies in finding the right method. If you are interested in continuing to study in depth, my courses are always welcome to you."

Li Si hesitated for a moment, thinking of the high tuition, but finally gathered the courage to ask:

"Teaching Assistant, does your course provide any apprentice assistant spots?"

"I... I don't have enough mana stones, but I am willing to pay extra time and labor in exchange for learning opportunities."

Luo En was about to answer, but noticed Princess Yi Fu standing under the podium.

Those purple crystal-like eyes were looking directly at him.

And he also felt a faint but pure "favor" coming from her side.

"Interesting, the purity of this favor is much stronger than that of Lilliya, who possesses a second-tier talent."

Luo En was slightly surprised in his heart.

He turned back to look at Li Si and smiled gently:

"This idea is good; you can come to the teacher's lounge after class tomorrow, and we can discuss the assistant matter in detail."

A surprised smile bloomed on Li Si's face, and she thanked him repeatedly before leaving for the next classroom.

As the apprentices gradually dispersed, Luo En noticed that the black-haired princess had not left, but walked slowly toward the podium.

"Teaching Assistant Ralph, I am Princess Yifushengmanzhi."

She introduced herself directly, her voice soft:

"Your course is very brilliant, especially the insights on energy path optimization, which are refreshing."

Luo En nodded slightly, returning with the same direct attitude:

"Thank you for your evaluation, Princess Manzhi. It is my honor to see you attend the class in person."

"I am even more looking forward to your upcoming 'Bloodline Modulation Basics' course."

Princess Yi Fu continued, a trace of exploration flashing in her eyes: "Especially the part about energy conversion between different biological systems."

Luo En keenly sensed the hint in her tone:

"Bloodline studies is indeed a field full of possibilities, especially when dealing with some... special situations."

The conversation between the two was polite and courteous on the surface, but in reality, both were carefully testing each other's intentions.

"In addition, I heard that your 'favor' has a very unique quality, and its purity is rare even among all formal wizards."

Princess Yi Fu suddenly changed the subject and cut directly to the core:

"May I ask, would you be willing to do a small attempt with me?"

(End of chapter) ===== CHAPTER 265 =====