Chapter 38: First Alchemy Lesson

The time for the Argentum Academy's newest laboratory finally came a week after Saligo's arrival. Lit by the bright luminescence of the white ceiling lights, the room stretched out, lined with shelves of rare herbs, minerals, and vials filled with substances that shimmered, pulsed, or lay dormant. Advanced equipment occupied every available surface. Alembics with coiled tubes, crucibles that seemed to absorb the room's bright light, and retorts with delicate curves—all crafted from materials known to withstand the fiercest alchemical reactions.

The scent of lemony detergents welcomed Salazar as he entered the room and took a long, satisfied whiff. His hands brushed against the crystal alembics on his way to his desk, where he sat, patiently waiting for his first class.