Philosopher's Stone.

『Velvana territory — Pantoran』

Rachel cleared her throat, ensuring all of their eyes were glued to her before launching into the details of the commission.

"Earlier this month, an alchemy research lab facility on the Island of Zephyr discovered a labyrinth in Aalakhor Archipelago. And their researchers picked up traces of a Philosopher's stone in the heart of the labyrinth." (Rachel)

The group's eyes widened in unison.

Lamperogue was the first to speak.

"Do you really mean the stone that can be used to make the elixir of life? The Philosopher's stone that can confer immortality?" (Lamperogue)

Rachel nodded, a small smile creeping onto her lips as she took their shocked expressions in. "Yes, that's exactly what I mean."

Vesta leaned forward in his seat, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

"This is incredible news! I can't believe we found a Philosopher's stone in our own continent!" (Myne)

"Indeed, it's reassuring the amount of minerals our continent has." (Rumia)

"(Holy crap, I can't believe it! The Philosopher's stone actually exists in this world. Back in my old life, I spent countless hours playing MMORPGs just to get my hands on this grand prize. I even went as far as adding one to my <<Ring of Suffering>> after I reached rank S+ blacksmithing. Man, I miss video games, but at least I get to experience it in this world. It's definitely a win for me!)" (Archibald)

Archibald was excited.

Lirien, on the other hand, looked skeptical.

"But how did the labyrinth come to be? And why did the Philosopher's stone only show itself now after so many years?" (Lirien)

Rachel shifted in her seat, her brows furrowed in thought.

"According to Senior Researcher Galder Ruckner, the labyrinth had been hidden for centuries, but recent shifts in the earth's crust uncovered it. As for the Philosopher's stone, we're not sure. We suspect that it's been protected by some sort of alchemical magic that has kept it hidden until now." (Rachel)

When she finished speaking, the group fell into a thoughtful silence.

The potential of the Philosopher's stone weighed heavy on each of their minds, and they could feel the weight of this commission settling firmly upon their shoulders.

Rachel hesitated before speaking, "I must admit, it's not an easy request to fulfill. But because it is a mandatory request, I cannot turn it down."

Her eyes swept over the group.

"However, I don't want to turn it down either. The fact that such a dangerous and powerful stone is hidden away in the heart of the labyrinth is concerning." (Rachel)

"It could attract some attention.." (Lamperogue)

Myne leaned forward in her seat, her eyes bright with curiosity. "What kind of attention are we talking about?"

Rachel's expression turned grave.

"I'm afraid it could attract the attention of dark alchemists, Myne. Those who seek to gain power at any cost." (Rachel)

The group fell silent, taking in the weight of Rachel's words.

Lutessa finally broke the silence.

"It makes sense why it's a commission then. If such a powerful stone were to fall into the wrong hands, it would cause a lot of problems." (Lutessa)

Vesta nodded vigorously.

"And not just problems for the Archipelago and the Empire. It could affect the entire continent." (Vesta)

Rachel gave a small smile, seeing the seriousness in her team.

"That's why I trust you all to help me retrieve it. Together we can make sure that the stone remains safe and out of reach of those who would use it for evil."

Myne smiled, feeling a sense of purpose. "We won't let you down, Rachel."

"...Still though, why would Aalakhor Archipelago be so comfortable with giving the Zenoa Empire possession over the stone. I know the Empire is the dominant power on the continent, but the Archipelago has just as much influence....." (Lirien)

Archibald leaned back in his seat, his fingers steepled under his chin, as he gave a low chuckle.

"My dear Lirien, you underestimate the complexity of politics in the world of alchemy," he said, his voice taking on a serious tone.

"Here we go again." (Rumia)

"It is true, the Archipelago and the Empire have been rivals for years, but in the realm of alchemy, alliances shift with the winds. The research facility is not afraid to release the stone to the Empire, for they have entered a tacit agreement with Zenoa's alchemy guild, one that has been brewing for years." (Archibald)

Rumia raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "What kind of agreement is that?"

Archibaldʼs lips twitched upward in a wry smile.

"One that hinges on sharing knowledge, resources, and intelligence. The research facility's discovery of the Philosopher's stone is one of the fruits of that partnership. The Emperor knows that in the ever-evolving world of alchemy, power lies in knowledge and resources. And the Archipelago knows that by partnering with Zenoa, they can gain access to knowledge that would otherwise remain undiscovered." (Archibald)

Lamperogue nodded, his keen intellect making leaps ahead.

"So the commission is not just about retrieving the Philosopher's stone. It's also about strengthening the alliance between the Archipelago and the Empire." (Lamperogue)

"Exactly," Archibald confirmed.

"The Emperor wants to treat this commission as a show of good faith, a gesture of gratitude for the Archipelago's willingness to share knowledge and resources with the Empire. And who knows, this commission may lead to other partnerships and collaborations in the future." (Archibald)

Vesta let out a soft whistle.

"I had heard that alchemy was more than just mixing potions and elixirs, but I had no idea the political game was this complex." (Vesta)

Lirien nodded, a certain respect for Archibald and his knowledge taking root in her mind.

"I see. Thank you for enlightening me, Archibald. It adds a whole new layer of importance to this commission." (Lirien)

"Huh?" Rachel uttered, lost.

Despite Rachel's age, the young woman in question possessed limited knowledge regarding political matters.

Conversely, her acquaintance, Archibald, a year her junior, had spent the past three years studying the history of the continent.

Archibald discovered a lack of available literature during his time in the Berkyl Region.

This hindered his ability to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the continent.

However, now that the opportunity presented itself, he took full advantage of it.

"Wow, I didn't know Sir Knight was so smart!" (Lutessa)

"Well, I'm a rare gem... heh..." (Archibald)

"Ugh.." (Rumia)

Vesta leaned forward, his eyes bright with curiosity.

"When do we set sail for Aalakhor Archipelago, Rachel?" he asked.

Rachel looked up from her plate of beef stew.

"If possible, we'll depart tomorrow. The mission could take up to three weeks, so make sure you're all packed and ready to go." (Rachel)

Rumia grinned. "No problem. I'll tell Mary to watch over the cabin for me."

Archibald rubbed the non-existent stubble on his jawline. "And could Mary watch over Lobo for me too?"

"Of course!" Rumia exclaimed. "She loves Lobo."

Archibald chuckled. "Who doesn't love Lobo?"

Lutessa spoke up, "I need to write to Mother Superior and tell her I'll be leaving the Empire."

Lamperogue turned to Archibald with his sleepy-looking eyes.

"Aren't you sending a letter to your parents too, Archibald?" (Lamperogue)

Archibald's eyes widened. "I completely forgot! I need to go buy some paper to write to them."

Rachel slammed her hand on the table. "It's settled then. We'll all meet here tomorrow morning for departure."

They all nodded in agreement.

Excitement washed over them as they prepared for their journey to Aalakhor Archipelago.