Merit Points

The crowd gasped, shocked that the boy, weak and untalented as he was, had managed to form a core at all under such extreme circumstances.

Ryder raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Even the weakest candidate formed a core using Asher's method. It's not perfect, but it works."

Arnold, standing tall, crossed his arms. "Asher's method, though brutal, has merit. It has the potential to elevate even those who would normally fail. However," he paused, his voice carrying authority, "this method may not be for everyone. The pain is intense, and the results vary depending on the individual's natural strength."

The elders exchanged looks, realizing the significance of what had just happened. Asher had demonstrated not just his talent, but a new approach to core formation that could potentially reshape the Magnus family's training methods. The hall was filled with murmurs as they debated the implications, but one thing was clear—Asher's method was a breakthrough.

"How do you come up with this method?" James asked what was everyone's mind to Asher.

Asher, naturally was ready for such question.

Asher stood calmly, explaining the logic behind his decision. "I learned about the origin of the Foundation Creation material, the natural mist found near the core geysers of our world."

He continued, addressing James and the rest of the elders. "The natural Creation Mist emerges directly from the core of the world, reaching the surface through tunnels that connect deep beneath us. It's raw and untouched, a perfect substance for core formation."

James, intrigued but cautious, asked, "And what of it? How does that justify your choice?"

Asher nodded and explained, "The original foundation materials, taken in specific quantities, were prescribed to create a core without harming humans or other species capable of awakening. But because of their natural instability, they had less than a 50% success rate in forming a core. So, alchemists found a way to condense large amounts into a more usable form, increasing the chances of core formation at the cost of pain and little to none side effects."

He paused for a moment before continuing, "However, the condensation process destroys the essence of the mist at different stages. In mist form, it remains pure, but when condensed into water or beads, the essence deteriorates. Alchemists focused on improving the success rate but didn't realize they were lowering the potency and quality of the core."

The elders exchanged glances as Asher laid out his reasoning. It was clear that his understanding went deeper than expected.

"I chose the pure form of foundation material because the future of my cultivation depends on the quality of my core. I couldn't afford to gamble on a diminished substance," Asher concluded, his voice calm yet confident.

Many of the gathered elders nodded, impressed by his clarity of thought. James, however, wasn't fully convinced and pressed further, "So, you gambled on your own theory? You could have chosen the safer route like the others."

"You can call it intuition," Asher replied, his expression unreadable. "I have the ability to sense what is beneficial and what is harmful to me. I trusted that intuition and it paid off."

James stood silent, considering his words. Arnold Magnus, the family patriarch, watched closely from behind the curtain, his mind racing. 'Could this be a pre-awakening of a rare ability?' he thought, recalling passages from the Founder's Diary.

'The Founder had a natural talent for sensing treasures. Is it possible Asher inherited that gift?' Arnold wondered, already forming his own conclusions.

James finally broke the silence, his expression shifting. "I have orders to verify this 'intuition' of yours," he said, his tone more respectful now. "The Patriarch wants to see if you truly possess this rare gift."

Asher remained unshaken, ready for the next test, while the others looked on with growing curiosity. If Asher indeed had the Founder's Gift, it would change everything for the Magnus family.

James, now focused on Asher, walked to the side of the stage and returned with ten identical boxes. Each box was meticulously sealed, showing no indication of what was inside—no scent, no aura, no visual hints. He placed the boxes neatly on the table, ensuring they all looked the same to anyone observing.

"You claim to have an intuition," James said, his voice simple no provocation, no challenge. "Then prove it. In these ten boxes, three contain items that would benefit anyone on the path of foundation Realm. If your intuition is as strong as you say, identify the correct three."

Asher observed the boxes closely, not intimidated by the task. The room fell silent, with many curious eyes watching him. Some were skeptical, while others had a growing sense of anticipation, especially after his earlier success.

"You can choose only three," James added, crossing his arms. "No second chances. But if you're right, those items will be yours to keep."

Asher nodded as he simply used his 'Absolute Appraisal' which no one here knows to find what is right and what is not.

The stakes were clear, and everyone waited to see how Asher would handle this test. Many still doubted that a boy his age could truly possess such an ability. Whispers rose among the onlookers.

"He's pushing his luck."

"This is different from forming a core."

"Even if he's the Crimson Terror's son, there's no way he can do this."

Box 1: "Crimson Drake Bone Essence"

A deep-red liquid containing the essence of a Crimson Dragon's bones. This substance aids in the hardening of bones, enhancing durability and resilience.

Box 5: "Silver Lotus Elixir"

A shimmering silver liquid that promotes body cleansing by expelling impurities from the body, allowing for improved energy circulation and a stronger foundation.

Box 6: "Storm Wolf Fang Extract"

A cloudy, silver-hued extract derived from the fangs of a Storm Wolf. This elixir grants the user permanent speed enhancements, sharpening reflexes and improving agility.

...

This were the three beneficial substances provided by the elder however there was one more among them.

But it was so hidden, that Elder might not even know about it.