Chapter 272: Celestial Elixir of Elemental Harmony

Ever since she chose the path of strength, Flavia constantly found herself surrounded by individuals with hidden motives. It felt as if an unending tide of ulterior intentions wanted to drown her, making it hard to distinguish the genuine from the deceitful. Every look, every gesture, and every word from her peers seemed to bear a hidden agenda, burdening her under a constant weight of distrust and caution. This toxic environment made her erect walls around herself, shielding her from those seeking to exploit her.

Accustomed to this tense atmosphere, Flavia remained reserved. That night, however, while exchanging brief friendly words, she found herself smiling more times than she could remember. She wasn't used to the genuineness of that interaction.

At that bountiful table, she realized how different this group was. When they posed a question, it was born out of pure curiosity, devoid of the scheming she knew all too well. And, albeit subtly, Flavia felt welcomed amidst a rare moment of pure camaraderie.

Bianca looked at Flavia, her eyes betraying restrained curiosity. "Flavia, you're advancing to Star Rank, correct?"

With a calm nod, Flavia confirmed, "Yes."

Bianca, appearing to connect the dots, remarked, "Ahh, now I understand why you desire the Luminous Jade so much."

For many, using the precious Luminous Jade for rank ascension would be considered a luxury. However, in the context of advancing to Star Rank, such a choice made complete sense.

Flavia then unveiled a fragment of her plans: "Soon, I'll be going to an immortal cave."

Bianca's eyes widened in surprise. "Amazing! I always knew of your potential, but this..."

Before Bianca could finish, Flavia, with a humble smile, replied, "I'm fortunate to have an exceptional master."

Bianca nodded in understanding, while Amon and the others seemed unfamiliar with the topic.

Barbara, with eyes shining with curiosity, inquired, "Mother, what exactly is an immortal cave?"

Seeking the most illustrative way to explain, Bianca elucidated, "Imagine a meditation room, but not just any. It's like comparing a common lamp to the sun. The immortal cave is something formed by nature itself, and unlike the lamp, which has a limited lifespan, the cave is like the sun, self-sustaining and almost eternal. Can you grasp the preciousness and rarity of such a place?"

Barbara's expression morphed into a mix of astonishment and admiration. "Wow! It must be an amazing place," she murmured.

Amon, always measured in his reactions, raised an eyebrow in surprise. "This is the first I've heard of it," he commented, curiosity tinting his usually calm voice.

Upon hearing this, Ariel made a sound of surprise and said, "That sounds like a legend! I never imagined it could be real."

Mabel shook her head in awe, clearly impressed, while Maisa added, "It's amazing what the world can hide. What a privilege to access such a place!"

Lastly, Julia, with bright eyes, whispered, "To think of meditating in a place like that... It must be an unimaginable experience."

With a serene smile, Flavia remained silent, choosing not to extend the invitation to the immortal cave to those present. It was a place she had the rare opportunity to access thanks to her master. It wasn't a space that could be shared lightly, no matter how close the person was - even her own parents would need her master's permission to enter.

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Later, after Flavia's warm farewell and her thanks to Bianca for the hospitality, Amon was engrossed in his preparations for another medicinal bath.

While the girls continued their journey to solidify and amplify their foundations at level 2, Amon had grander ambitions, aiming for level 3. The wealth and resources that unexpectedly came his way were substantial enough to provide the needed boost for this ascent.

However, Amon was well aware that success didn't lie solely in resources. Much would depend on his own aptitude and effort. If he wasn't competent enough, even with the best ingredients, the most he would achieve would be marginal improvement.

Among the resources he possessed, the Radiant Herb stood out as something exclusive to him. Included among the delivered items was a note detailing the best way to use it: it should be boiled into tea. The preparation method was clearly specified, warning that, to reap its maximum benefits, he should consume the entire infusion by himself.

Maisa looked seriously at Amon, her eyes brimming with sincerity. "Amon, you need to be more selfish once in a while."

Julia and the others nodded in agreement, casting sympathetic glances in Maisa's direction. They deeply understood Amon's generous heart. It was touching to see how he always thought of them first, always sharing the best resources he had at hand. However, this continuous generosity also made them feel as though they were, in a way, hindering his full progress. After much deliberation among themselves, they decided to confront this situation head-on.

Bianca, with her soft yet firm voice, added, "The stronger you become, Amon, the more protection and benefits we all receive. You have to think about that too."

Upon hearing such a statement, Amon felt it would be inappropriate to refuse. He reflected for a moment, considering his stance and how he had been handling things. Deep down, his most profound wish was for everyone to grow together, but this time, he recognized the value of their advice and decided to accept it.

For the medicinal bath Amon was preparing, there was a variety of herbs and ingredients, each with unique properties, ideal for enhancing both common genetics and elemental capabilities:

Lunaria Leaf: Improves blood circulation and enhances the fire elemental capability. Estelarina Root: Amplifies physical resistance and aids in the absorption of earth's energy. Twilight Dew Flower: Refreshes the body and mind, enhancing water abilities. Golden Wind Seed: Speeds up reflexes and enhances air abilities. Lunar Tree Bark: Strengthens bones and improves connection with lunar energies.

Solar Fruit: Warms the body and amplifies abilities linked to the sun. Ascension Ginger: Stimulates regenerative capacity and enhances electric abilities. Ethereal Rose Petals: Harmonizes the spirit and strengthens the connection with the astral plane. Depths Moss: Stabilizes the inner core and enhances deeper aquatic abilities. Firm Earth Grain: Anchors the being and strengthens abilities linked to the earth. Phoenix Wing Powder: Regenerates damaged tissues and enhances the internal sacred fire.

Each ingredient was carefully chosen, ensuring synergy that would offer maximum results when combined. Amon knew that by immersing himself in this bath, not only would his genetics be enhanced, but his elemental attributes would also be elevated to new heights. Soon, he mentally named the recipe for this medicinal bath: Celestial Elixir of Elemental Harmony.