Chapter 35

Chapter 35: Earth Fire Vein

"Father, I've finished reading all the books you gave me. Can I start learning alchemy now?" Muchen asked as he entered.

Muyuanfeng glanced at Muchen and smiled wryly, saying, "Muchen, alchemy isn't something you can rush. If you truly finished those books, remember, even a tiny misstep in alchemy can lead to great errors. You mustn't be careless."

"Father, I really have read them all. If you don't believe me, you can test me," Muchen replied nonchalantly.

On Earth, Muchen was a top student with a photographic memory. Since arriving in this world, his learning capability hasn't diminished. He finished the few books Muyuanfeng gave him in just one day and night.

Seeing Muchen's confidence, Muyuanfeng lightly said, "Zi Lingzhi!"

Standing with his hands behind his back, Muchen elaborated, "Zi Lingzhi, a fungus that ranges from biennial to perennial, has a purplish-black to nearly brown-black cap. Consumed raw, it boosts one's vitality; used in alchemy, it can be refined into Zi Ling Pill. Zi Lingzhi shouldn't be used in combination with Zi Che Grass..."

Muyuanfeng paused momentarily before continuing, "Su He Xiang."

Muchen responded calmly, "Su He Xiang, a purplish-red substance similar in appearance to Zi Zhen Tan, is dense and fragrant. It can be refined into Han Xiang Pill, which, when consumed by women, makes their skin exude a pleasant scent and enhances their beauty..."

Muyuanfeng posed over a dozen questions, and Muchen answered all without hesitation.

In awe, Muyuanfeng exclaimed, "Muchen, have you truly read everything?"

Muchen nodded, "Yes, Father. Is there an issue?"

Muyuanfeng shook his head, managing a smile, "No, no issue at all. Just remember, becoming a proficient alchemist requires a strong spirit, heightened senses, and a steady temperament. A good memory alone won't suffice."

Muchen nodded, "Thank you for your guidance, Father. I understand."

Seeing Muchen's humility, Muyuanfeng nodded approvingly, thinking that humility is indeed a prerequisite for a great alchemist.

Muyuanfeng never told Muchen that it took him over half a month to familiarize himself with those alchemical herb manuals, and yet, his own mentor had praised his memory back then.

Muyuanfeng felt a pang of guilt as he watched Muchen, silently wishing he had shown more concern for his son earlier.

"Come with me," Muyuanfeng said.

Following Muyuanfeng, Muchen entered an alchemy room. The temperature inside was so high that Muchen felt faint.

Observing Muchen, Muyuanfeng tapped his forehead, immediately cooling him.

"Alchemy requires a fire source. After becoming a Martial Spirit, you'll manifest an inner flame for alchemy. Until then, you're not ready," Muyuanfeng explained.

Muchen acknowledged, "I know. The books say that before an alchemist advances to Martial Spirit, they can rely on earth fire for alchemy or collect peculiar flames from the world to integrate within themselves."

"You've certainly done your homework," Muyuanfeng noted.

Muchen gave a shy smile.

"Every alchemist dreams of harnessing unique flames, but it's immensely challenging. I once spent over eight years chasing a particular flame but found nothing. However, by chance, I discovered an Earth Fire Vein," Muyuanfeng stated with a touch of pride.

"You're amazing, Father," Muchen praised.

An Earth Fire Vein is invaluable. With it, Muyuanfeng could practice alchemy at home; otherwise, he'd have to rent alchemy chambers, and the fees are exorbitant.

"Given your current strength, you can't withstand the intense heat here for long. The Ice Spirit energy I channeled into you will last just two hours. You can't stay in this room for more than that. Understand?" Muyuanfeng cautioned.

Muchen nodded, "I understand."

Muyuanfeng smiled, "As you grow stronger, you'll be able to endure longer in this room."

Muchen, driven by curiosity, asked, "Father, how did you manage your fire source when you started learning alchemy?"

Muyuanfeng ruffled Muchen's hair, "I wasn't as fortunate as you. I had to rent alchemy chambers. The rental wasn't cheap, and my early attempts at alchemy often resulted in losses. I had to borrow money to get by and nearly gave up several times."

Muchen looked at Muyuanfeng with a complex expression. Muyuanfeng playfully tapped his forehead, "What are you staring at?"

"I was just thinking about how tough it must've been for you," Muchen mused.

Muyuanfeng chuckled, "So, with all the facilities I've provided, you better value them."

Muchen nodded, "I understand."