How Many Times

Alex shook his head in answer to his master's surprised question. "I've never needed formations when making pills. I've always made it on my own, probably because I managed to learn Dao of Heat when I was still only a True realm cultivator, which tremendously helped when it came to making pills."

Silvermist found it difficult to hide his shock still. "Never after that?" he asked.

"When I say never, I don't mean that I don't use it, but rather I never rely on it. If I am making pills, I do not make sure if the formations are working. I just make a pill," Alex said. "I just rely on myself."

"Dear lord," Silvermist couldn't help but say. "I have never met an alchemist who doesn't rely on any formations."

"I do use formations that keep out distractions, or keep the ingredients fresh before I start making the pills if there are many pills to use at once, but I don't believe those are the types of formations you are talking about," Alex said.