Chapter 12: Alchemy and Materials
The receptionist balked at the question coming from the little boy for a split second before composing herself and re-donning her facade.
“Little friend, the Alchemist Guild’s role is to certify qualified alchemists. We do not take apprentices ourselves. Your best chance is to find a teacher by joining a sect.”
“Do you not have your own alchemists, who serve the guild that can accept disciples?”
“We do, but it is up to each individual alchemist to decide how they accept disciples. It isn’t the guild’s business to meddle in that. Their requirements are usually pretty high in both aptitude and other qualities important to an alchemist, so it may be easier for you to join a sect.”
Li Lang tried not to grimace at the mention of aptitude. He felt like he was being impeded by it every step of the way.
“Do you sell books on pill refining, then?”
The receptionist flashed a strained smile at the child before her.
“Silly boy, an alchemist’s techniques are their treasure. They would never spread them around. Each alchemist’s techniques are only passed on to their disciples.”
“...How about books on herbs and other materials itself?”
“Go to the Gatherer’s Guild for that.” The woman replied, with an edge to her voice that slipped out.
“Can you give me the directions to there? And I should be able to buy some pills here, right?”
“...Of course.”