"Master Merlin, would you prefer a higher-level or a lower-level floor?" inquired one of the Apothecary Center staff as Emery arrived to select his workshop space.
"High floor," Emery responded.
"Good choice."
Amid the towering edifice of the Apothecary Center, Emery chose a coveted spot on the 29th level, sharing this elevated floor with two other master apothecaries.
"Let me show you to your new workshop."
As they stepped into the conveyor box, the hum of ascending machinery enveloped them. The box swiftly propelled upward, transporting Emery to the pinnacle of the master building. The workshop, nestled on the 29th floor, bore semblance to the one previously used by his esteemed master, Grom.
As the doors opened, revealing the expansive workspace, Emery was greeted by an impressive sight. The workshop, though a fraction of the grandmaster's floor, still offered a substantial 500 square meters of open space. Emery's chosen space boasted a seamless blend of functionality and elegance. A strategically placed balcony graced the workshop, providing a panoramic view of the Golden City below.
The staff remained by Emery's side, offering their expertise in filling out the interior of his new workspace, aligning every detail with Emery's preferences. Per his request, a selection of customizable standard furniture was brought in, ensuring a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Among the tailored additions were customized standard furnishings, including a 4-season indoor garden that brought a touch of nature into the space. An advanced laboratory was set up, featuring cutting-edge equipment for precise experimentation. Additionally, a dedicated concocting room, fortified to withstand high levels of heat, was established for Emery's alchemical endeavors.
As the staff diligently worked to transform the space into a haven for alchemical pursuits, Emery embarked on the task of selecting his assistants. These artisans were contracted on a full-time basis with the Golden City Apothecary Center, ready to execute any tasks assigned to them by Emery. While the institute covered their salaries, Emery bore the responsibility for any mistakes they might make. This arrangement emphasized the need for Emery to impart his knowledge and skills effectively, ensuring the competence of his chosen assistants.
Emery meticulously reviewed the extensive data showcasing more than 500 available junior artisans and around 100 senior artisans. The sheer numbers surprised the staff accompanying him.
"Master Emery, this is truly remarkable! I've rarely witnessed so many senior artisans expressing their willingness to assist a new master," the staff remarked with a tone of astonishment.
Typically, junior artisans were eager to be selected, hoping for the opportunity to work under a new master. Senior artisans, on the other hand, who were just a step away from reaching master level, would often choose to follow a grandmaster or, at the very least, an honorary master – a prestigious title reserved for the top 10 masters at the Golden City Apothecary Center.
Despite the intriguing prospect of having skilled assistants, Emery hesitated. The idea of others handling his precious ingredients, crucial to his meticulous craft, weighed on his mind. He would rather take his time than blindly choose the artisan who would work for him.
"I'll need some time to think, maybe later."
"Certainly,"
As the renovation work progressed swiftly, the hours seemed to stretch while Emery patiently awaited the completion of his workshop. During this time, he received a message notifying him of visitors eager to extend their congratulations. Knowing who they were, he agreed to let them into the new workshop.
"Brother Emery, congratulations!" greeted the cheerful Karin, accompanied by Cedric, Aeon, and the enchanting Tessa Karat.
They had come to share in his joy over attaining one of the most coveted titles in the magus universe and to celebrate the establishment of his new workshop. As the festivities continued, the apothecary staff conveyed another piece of news – representatives from various prominent families were also eager to meet him.
Tessa, ever graceful, remarked, "Oh my... you're quite the celebrity now."
Despite the buzz surrounding him, Emery had little interest in entertaining visitors at the moment and politely declined the opportunity to meet with them.
The decision to refuse meetings with prominent figures of the Golden City elicited different reactions from Emery's close associates. Cedric, expressing concern, asked, "Are you sure about this? Is it wise?" In stark contrast, Aeon, adopting a more carefree attitude, chimed in, "Just let those people wait."
Emery turned to Tessa, seeking her perspective on the matter. With a knowing smile, she said, "You probably won't be able to hold them all off."
As if her words summoned them, two unexpected guests arrived on Emery's floor, seemingly without notifying the staff. It was one of the ten honorary apothecary masters, Master Bailin, accompanied by a strikingly beautiful woman with light green hair.
Master Bailin, with a courteous demeanor, introduced himself and presented the woman beside him. With an alluring smile, she spoke, "Master Merlin, I am Victoria Qin. I've come to extend my heartfelt congratulations on your remarkable achievement."
Emery instantly recognized the woman from the auction – Victoria Qin, the heiress to the Qin family, the wealthiest in the Golden City. Despite her stature, she seemed genuinely surprised to find Tessa among the visitors, and with a smile, she remarked, "I didn't realize Sister Tessa would arrive so quickly."
Tessa maintained her composure and responded, "Don't worry about me; I'm just here visiting a friend."
"Oh, a friend of the Karat family," Victoria observed, turning her attention to Emery. "I suppose a genius like you attracts a lot of friends." She casually accessed her storage ring and produced the [Heaven and Earth Cauldron], declaring, "I come bearing gifts, hoping to be your friend as well."
Emery was aware that she had purchased the cauldron at the auction for a substantial sum of 7,000,000 spirit stones. The fact that she offered such a precious item for free showcased the considerable wealth of the Qin family. If Emery hadn't already received the [Starforge Furnace], he might have considered accepting the gift shamelessly.
Emery, astutely reading the situation and recognizing the rarity of a genuinely free gift, politely declined Victoria's offer. "This is very generous indeed. Unfortunately, I already have a reliable cauldron, and I hate to see such an amazing piece not being used."
Victoria, though seemingly unaffected by the rejection, took the cauldron back with a smile. She calmly stated, "Master Emery, if you have no commitments to other families, I, representing the Qin family, would like to extend an offer for a genius like you to join our ranks. Similar to Master Bailin here, I assure you we can provide the best facilities and the most lucrative deals for your exceptional products."
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