Chapter 6 True Energy Flame

Sebastian's Azure Dragon Technique was a wood-element skill, and its abundant Azure Energy, rich with life force, was perfect for boosting the growth of spiritual herbs. Even better, the technique included a specialized cultivation method called the Ambergris Technique, which allowed him to use his Azure Energy to produce a unique liquid that accelerated herb growth. On top of that, his Vermillion Bird Technique enabled him to produce flames, and these flames—borne from his sacred technique—were ideal for alchemy work. However, Sebastian's progress in the Sacred Four Forces was still limited by his current skill level; many advanced methods within it remained out of reach for now. With 3,000 GSD in hand (equivalent to 300,000 SD), Sebastian still couldn't afford even a single Mid-earthly Rank marrow-cleansing pill. The high price of elixirs meant they were beyond the reach of most warriors; even the most basic ones cost a small fortune. In all of Tiberia, only one place specialized in elixirs: the Elixir Emporium. This four-story building, though modest in size, sold exceptionally valuable items. Behind it lay a sprawling estate used exclusively for cultivating spiritual herbs. The Elixir Emporium wasn't a family-run organization, yet it wielded significant influence, with many powerful warriors stationed there, and it offered excellent treatment to its alchemists. Given the scarcity and effectiveness of elixirs in boosting warriors' strength and enhancing their physical resilience, the Emporium was highly regarded. As Sebastian entered, he was greeted by the soothing aroma of herbs that filled the air, making the shopping experience pleasantly relaxing. The Emporium was organized with multiple counters, each selling different items. Some counters sold only elixirs and pills, while others focused on spiritual herbs. Before coming, Melissa had advised him to start with basic elixirs, so he planned to begin with Low-earthly Rank Body-forging Pills. These pills were inexpensive and sold well, costing around 700 GSD each. They were beneficial for warriors below the Earthly Fourth Realm. "Sir, the elixirs and pills are over there. This counter is just for spiritual herbs," a sweet-faced young woman informed him with a smile. Although the Emporium wasn't crowded, Sebastian's simple attire made him stand out. Yet, the staff maintained a respectful demeanor—they'd seen many unassuming customers who turned out to be masters in disguise. "I'd like to buy some spiritual herb seedlings for refining Body-forging Pills. Do you carry those here?" Sebastian asked the woman. Few people purchased seedlings since few were skilled in cultivating spiritual herbs. Those who could usually work under powerful factions, managing their medicinal gardens and performing alchemy. Such individuals were often regarded as treasures and rarely ventured out. Surprised, the woman smiled and replied, "Certainly. Body-forging Pills require four ingredients, and seedlings for each are available for 100 GSD each." The herbs needed for Body-forging Pills were Essence Grass, Bloodvine Flower, Eclipse Flower, and Spirit Grass. Sebastian thought it over. "I'll take five sets, please." One set cost 400 GSD, so five sets would be 2,000 GSD. Just like that, the majority of 3,000 GSD Ronan had given him was spent. Indeed, elixirs were a luxury few could afford. The woman was again taken aback—she couldn't recall anyone so young in Tiberia with knowledge of both alchemy and herb cultivation. "One moment, I'll go get that for you!" the young woman replied confidently, unfazed by the possibility of Sebastian joking around. At the Elixir Emporium, joking with the staff came with serious consequences. Just then, a haughty voice echoed from the stairs. "Well, who's this?" A handsome young man in an elegant white robe, fan in hand, looked down at Sebastian with disdain. The higher floors of the Elixir Emporium were reserved for guests seeking more exclusive elixirs, accessible only to VIPs. "If you're not blind, why bother asking stupid questions?" Sebastian shot back with a smirk. The young man was Haddon, someone Sebastian's age with a reputation for talent. Already in the Earthly Fourth Realm and close to breaking into the Fifth, Haddon was widely recognized as a superior prodigy. Haddon's face darkened instantly. "Sebastian, I'll admit you were something when we were kids, but without a Soul Vein, you're nothing to me now. I could take you down in a heartbeat." Sebastian was in the Earthly Fifth Realm, where Earthly Fourth Realm talents, regardless of their skill, didn't stand a chance against him. He dismissed Haddon's comment as a joke. "So this is Sebastian? The Stones patriarch's grandson?" sneered a stunning girl by Haddon's side. "Word is, he reached the Earthly Third Realm even without a Soul Vein. Must've relied on a mountain of elixirs to get there." Sebastian recognized her instantly—the city lord's daughter from Tiberia. "Birds of a feather, huh?" He chuckled, feigning a smile. "Didn't expect the city lord's daughter to be so shallow, hanging around with a guy like him." Ignoring their reactions, he turned away. After years of ridicule and relentless effort to gain power, he had matured far beyond these status-driven adolescents. Watching Sebastian turn his back on them stirred anger in both Haddon and the girl. Eager to impress her, Haddon strode up to Sebastian. "Sir, here are your spiritual herb seedlings," the young woman from the Elixir Emporium returned, presenting several neatly wrapped bundles from her storage bag. Haddon's eyes widened, then he scoffed. "So you're buying spiritual herb seedlings, Sebastian? Without a Soul Vein, don't bother trying to cultivate them. And don't tell me you're aspiring to be an alchemist—now that's laughable." The Elixir Emporium wasn't crowded, but his remark still drew curious glances from those nearby. A young man without a Soul Vein hoping to become an alchemist was indeed a curiosity. In town, Sebastian was well-known, thanks to his grandfather's position as patriarch and his father's status. But with no Soul Vein, he was often viewed as a disappointment within the esteemed Stones family. Sebastian said nothing, ignoring the looks around him as he paid for the seedlings and packed them up. Just as he turned to leave, Haddon sneered, "You're nothing but a waste. No amount of spiritual herbs can change that." Sebastian's expression tightened. Teasing him about lacking a Soul Vein was one thing, but calling him worthless crossed the line. The other patrons, sensing a confrontation between two Stones family members, perked up, anticipating some entertainment.