Chapter 93: The Golden Pursuit

The sun streamed into the academy as another day began, its rays catching the golden hints of the buildings. Li Yang approached Zephyr with determination in his eyes, seeking insights into the legendary grandmaster Yuan's examination process.

Before he could ask, Feng Xuan and Lisa, seeing the two converse, joined in, their curiosity evident. "Are you thinking of becoming an alchemist?" Feng Xuan inquired, a playful tone in his voice.

Li Yang nodded, "Indeed."

Zephyr, leaning against a pillar, relayed the story of the examination's evolution. "Initially, there were only two tests," he began, "The second was directly overseen by Edward. Only grandmaster Yuan successfully navigated it, earning his place as Edward's pupil. Since then, an additional round, designed by grandmaster Yuan himself, was added to the trials."

"Edward's test remains an enigma, its details known to none," Zephyr continued, "But rumors circulate about grandmaster Yuan's challenge. Years ago, a candidate surpassed the initial replication task, only for grandmaster Yuan to appear and administer a test of elemental alchemy. The task? Harnessing the symbiotic relationships of the Five Elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. For example, transforming the metal element into water. A single misstep can spell disaster."

Gratitude shining in his eyes, Li Yang thanked Zephyr for the invaluable insight and proceeded towards the Alchemy Lab. Zephyr, along with Lisa and Feng Xuan, decided to accompany him, partly out of friendship, partly out of sheer intrigue.

The familiar scene of failure greeted them as they arrived at the lab. The contestants, one by one, faltered at the very first hurdle. But when it was Li Yang's turn, he exuded a rare blend of tranquility and focus. With rapt attention, he studied the holographic projection of grandmaster Yuan crafting the golden ring. The process, rich in detail, involved an intricate blend of ingredients: yellow sand, a concoction of metals like copper, tin, lead, and iron, and gold essence. With a furnace reminiscent of alchemical pill crafting, precise timing, accurate measurements, and controlled temperature were paramount.

As Li Yang watched, something extraordinary happened. His innate gift activated, meticulously capturing every nuance of the process. With a fluidity that astounded the onlookers, he replicated the golden ring, finishing in the exact time frame as grandmaster Yuan's recorded demonstration. The result was uncanny, and yet, the subtleties of his unique talent went unnoticed by most.

Feng Xuan, unable to contain his astonishment, exclaimed, "Oh my! When did you become this proficient?" A murmur of amazement spread throughout the room.

The atmosphere in the lab changed palpably when grandmaster Yuan himself appeared, his presence both commanding and enigmatic. The next phase was about to begin, and everyone present sensed that they were on the cusp of witnessing history.