Chapter 642 141.1 - Finding the Dungeon

Chapter 642 141.1 - Finding the Dungeon

".....A deal...."

After saying that, Astron reached into his spatial storage and retrieved a sleek, reinforced vial, its surface engraved with faintly glowing runes designed to maintain the concoction's potency over time.

The bottle was crafted with alchemical enhancements specifically meant for volatile or high-powered mixtures, a detail Maya recognized immediately. For concoctions of this caliber, quality storage was essential; without it, the effects would inevitably fade, weakening the potion's intended purpose.

He poured the finished mixture carefully, allowing the dark, shimmering liquid to flow into the bottle. The runes activated immediately upon contact, casting a soft light over the potion as they worked to stabilize and preserve it. When he was finished, he sealed the bottle tightly, observing it for a brief moment to ensure the preservation enchantments had taken effect.

Satisfied, Astron finally stood, his gaze flicking from the vial to Maya. "That should keep it secure," he said, tucking the vial into a hidden compartment within his storage.

Maya watched him, an appreciative glint in her eyes. "It's amazing how much preparation goes into just storing it. I see now that the process doesn't end with the brewing," she observed thoughtfully.

Even though that was the basic knowledge in theory, seeing it firsthand was indeed interesting all the time. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Astron nodded, his expression calm. "Preservation is just as essential as the brewing itself. With the right storage, the effects remain intact. Without it, the potency would diminish before it could ever be used."

With the potion securely stored, Astron gave the alchemy station one last glance, ensuring everything was in place. Satisfied, he straightened and stood up, the purpose that had brought him here now complete.

Maya, sensing his movement, looked up at him with a hint of curiosity. "Have you finished?"

He gave a slight nod. "Yes. That's everything I needed."

"I see."

Hearing his reply, Maya's gaze drifted downward, a quiet ache settling in her chest. She had known this moment would come—had prepared herself, even. But knowing didn't make it easier.

The completion of the potion signaled the end of his purpose here, and she understood what that meant: Astron would be leaving the city, continuing on his path, and she, in turn, would resume hers. She had resolved not to cling to these moments, to let him go with grace, but now, standing here, the reality was far more tangible than the calm acceptance she'd envisioned.

'So... it's really time,' she thought, a slight pang of regret rippling through her as she looked at him, his expression calm, collected, with the same steady composure he carried into everything he did.

Maya took a steadying breath, lifting her gaze back to him, her expression composed despite the quiet sadness lingering in her eyes. Though she wanted to prolong it a little more.

"Then....Let's leave."

Astron gave a small nod, acknowledging her unspoken desire to accompany him a little further. "All right," he replied, his voice steady as always. He moved toward the door, and Maya followed suit, a small flicker of relief settling within her. This walk to the station would give her a few more moments, a quiet farewell of sorts.

As they moved along, she occasionally glanced his way, catching the subtle attentiveness in his expression. Though he didn't say much, his presence alone felt reassuring.

However, after a while, the scenery shifted, the streets opening into a bustling square filled with vendors, street musicians, and the steady hum of morning life.

They had reached the Ardmont City Center. The plaza sprawled before them, with its old, cobbled pathways and vibrant energy capturing the heart of the city in every sight and sound.

Maya's voice trailed off as they stepped into the square, her gaze drifting to the lively scene around them. She let out a soft breath, her expression calm but carrying a hint of wistfulness as she took it all in. For a moment, she simply stood beside him, savoring the vibrancy of the city and the quiet certainty of his presence.

Maya's gaze lingered on the bustling city center for a moment before she turned to him, a faint smile crossing her lips. "Will you be using the Teleportation Center?" she asked, her voice steady though she felt a hint of reluctance in asking.

"Yes," Astron replied, confirming her suspicions. He had indeed chosen the Teleportation Center for his next destination, a practical decision but one that signaled the end of their time together here.

Maya's fingers tightened around the hem of her coat as she nodded, her gaze dropping momentarily. "So... you're leaving, then?"

"Yes," he replied, his tone calm and certain. He paused for a moment before adding, with a trace of dry humor, "But, Senior, don't be so dramatic. The academy starts in two weeks."

Maya's smile returned, small but genuine, as his words settled in. She knew he was right—this parting wasn't permanent. In just a short time, they would see each other again, training, studying, and perhaps sharing more quiet moments just like this.

"I know," she said, the lightness returning to her voice. "It's just... a pity, that's all. These moments pass so quickly."

Astron inclined his head, a quiet acknowledgment in his gaze. "Time moves fast. That is why, it is this valuable, isn't it?"

"Heh....That is right."

Maya nodded with a soft smile, her gaze lingering on him for a moment before she lifted her hand to his collar, gently straightening it with practiced ease. Her fingers moved down, smoothing the front of his coat, a small, almost imperceptible gesture of care as she quietly fussed over his appearance.

"There," she murmured, stepping back slightly. "Farewell, Junior. Take care of yourself."

Astron offered her a faint smile, a rare expression that softened his otherwise composed features. "I will," he replied, his voice steady but carrying a hint of warmth.

'Ah, really....' His smile lingered just a fraction longer, and for an instant, her heart fluttered, the simplicity of it catching her off guard.

But she kept her composure, reminding herself of the roles they played—she was his senior, after all. She steadied herself with a quiet breath, the fondness slipping into her smile.

"Good," she said, her tone light but resolute. "I'll see you soon."

With a final nod, Astron turned and made his way toward the Teleportation Center, leaving her standing amidst the vibrant crowd.