Chapter 341 341 Effect
In the midst of his celebration, Nexus's jubilation took an unexpected turn. His keen eye discerned small black spots on some of the Vitality elixirs. Intrigued and slightly disappointed, he leaned in for a closer look, pondering the significance of these imperfections. As he furrowed his brow in contemplation, a distant memory surfaced — a passage from an alchemical book he had perused a few days earlier.
Nexus's mental monologues unraveled the mystery. "Ah, those black spots indicate impurities. I remember reading about this in that alchemy book," he thought, a tinge of disappointment coloring his excitement. The laboratory, once brimming with unbridled joy, now bore witness to Nexus's thoughtful scrutiny.
With a hint of chagrin, Nexus reflected on the revelation. "Impurities mean it's not a perfect elixir. I was hoping for flawless results, but it seems perfection comes with experience," he mused, his expectation tempered by the acknowledgment of the learning curve. The laboratory, bathed in the soft glow of the special fire, became a space for both celebration and reflection.
Just as Nexus grappled with the implications, the system's familiar prompt appeared. It offered an enlightening explanation, unveiling the nuances of alchemical craftsmanship. "Output rate of high-quality products hardly surpasses 80%. For a first attempt, this is exceptional," the system praised, showering Nexus with commendations.
Nexus, despite the imperfections, welcomed the system's words with a sense of achievement. The system continue "So, even with those black spots, You've done well for a beginner. It's a step toward mastering the art of alchemy," it praised him, a resilient smile could be seen playing on Nexus lips.
The laboratory, witness to the ebb and flow of emotions, it became a space for Nexus to reconcile with the intricacies of his newfound skill. As Nexus continued to absorb the lessons embedded in his alchemical journey, the laboratory stood as a testament to the fusion of triumph and humility.
In the aftermath of his alchemical success, Nexus carefully selected a handful of the best-quality Vitality elixirs. With a sense of pride, he ventured into the castle's garden, eager to share the fruits of his research with Nora. As he walked through the lakeside paths, Nexus radiated politeness, exchanging greetings with everyone he encountered, from nobles to servants.
Amidst the tranquil beauty of the garden, Nexus spotted Nora in the midst of her magical practice. A smile played on his lips as he admired her dedication, sweat glistening on her forehead and dampening her juniors. Nexus's thought wove a tapestry of affectionate observations. "She's always putting in so much effort," he thought, his gaze lingering on her every graceful step and movement "She looks so beautiful" he murmured silently.
As Nora finished her practice session, Nexus approached her with a smile. "You've been working so hard, Nora. Your dedication is truly admirable," he complimented, genuine warmth in his voice. Nora, surprised by his presence, expressed her gratitude, unaware that Nexus had been silently watching her practice "How long have you been waiting here" she asked with warmth and concern in her eyes.
"Not quite long, I just came out of the lab and I was passing by when I saw yu practicing so I waited for you to finish" he lied, but her gaze saw through him, she knows that it is not a coincident.
"Here, have this to wipe your sweat" he coughed and handed her towel, Nexus's affectionate gaze remained unnoticed as he handed her the towel. "Thanks" Nora giggled as she collected the towels wiping the sweat on her head.
In this moment of subtle connection, Nexus's thought reflected on the joy of witnessing Nora's determination. "I bet she didn't know I was watching, but seeing her practice brings me genuine happiness, she looks so elegant. I think I have to find time to watch her more often" he mused, the soft glow of the garden casting a serene backdrop to their exchange.
Nora, genuinely touched by Nexus's presence, dropped the towel with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Nexus. I appreciate your kind words," she responded, unaware of the depth of Nexus's admiration. Nexus, ever the considerate companion, simply nodded, content to share in the quiet moments of mutual appreciation.
As Nexus and Nora exchanged pleasantries, the soft rustle of leaves and the distant sounds of the castle created a harmonious backdrop to their unfolding interaction, Nora looked deep into his eyes and Nexus couldn't help but wonder, "why is she starring at me like that".
"Thank you for waiting, Nexus," Nora expressed her gratitude with a natural gesture, she did something unexpected, planting a soft kiss on his cheek. Nexus wasn't expecting this and although he felt embarrased he couldn't help but smile sheepishly, acknowledging her playfulness with a thought, "Caught me there."n-.o-/V)-e./l(-b))I.-n
The surrounding servants and Nora's juniors couldn't contain their amusement, their laughter echoing through the garden. It was an open secret within the Russell family that Nexus and Nora shared a romantic connection, rumors had even circulated that Nexus was being groomed as Nora's future husband within the Russell family.
"Come let me show you my progress" Nora was eager to showcase her progress and bragged in front of Nexus, she summoned mana and unleashed a series of magic techniques. While they appeared deceptively simple, their underlying potency spoke volumes. Nexus could see through the facade of simplicity and was thoroughly amused, he applauded her efforts. "That's truly powerful," he complimented, he couldn't help but wondered the last attack from Fitch and his gang, "She's come a long way." he thought emphasizing his recognition of Nora's growth.
In a secluded corner of the garden, away from prying eyes and curious ears, Nexus shared a moment of his alchemical triumph with Nora. With a twinkle in his eye, Nexus unveiled the elixir, the product of three days of dedicated work.
Nora's eyes widened in surprise, her joy bubbling to the surface. "I thought you came out to take a rest before continuing. I didn't know you were already done," she remarked, reaching out to collect the elixirs from Nexus's hands. Nexus, a proud smile gracing his features, responded, "Well, sometimes inspiration strikes and things just fall into place."
As Nora inspected the elixirs with genuine interest, Nexus couldn't help but tease, "So, what's the effect?" Nexus's playful tone hinted at a sense of excitement, and Nora mirrored his enthusiasm.
"Well, when someone uses it, we'll figure out the effect," Nexus replied, a mischievous glint in his eye. Nora, curious and intrigued, couldn't suppress a playful roll of her eyes. "Always keeping the mystery alive, aren't you?" she teased, appreciating Nexus's lighthearted approach to the situation.
As they bantered, Nexus felt a warmth in his chest. The garden, with its fragrant blooms and quiet serenity, became the backdrop for their exchange. A few servants and Nora's juniors, observing from a respectful distance, couldn't help but chuckle at the duo's playful interaction.
With a sense of anticipation, Nora decided to put Nexus's creation to the test. "Alright, let's see what this elixir can do. Bottoms up!" she declared, raising one of the elixir balls in a mock toast.
Nora, though excited, harbored a slight worry. She hadn't consumed a solid elixir ball before, and there lingered a fear that Nexus's finished product might be a failure.