Chapter 0004: Life is not limited to a single path

Aero raised a finger and pointed it at the noses of the two, smiling with a malicious intent: "No one has commissioned us, so the guild won't work. We have slain the Slime King and cleared the Slime's lair, but we can't exchange that for a few gold coins. You must understand that keeping this lair will actually provide us with more work! Given the breeding speed of the slimes, they should be able to grow strong enough to attack the village by harvest season. At that time, we can make it and earn another profit."

Ah... yes.

Napa appeared very dejected; feeling down, it flew off from Airo's head and landed back on the cushion at the bar, lying down and wagging its tail

I am very clear about this. Generally speaking, alchemy is a branch of magical doctrine. Only those with a strong affinity for magical power can learn alchemy. The stronger the affinity for magical power, the more powerful the alchemy one can wield

Napa: "Is the library still open to students like you from the economics department? Allowing you unrestricted access to alchemy books?"

For an ordinary person like you, who possesses no affinity for magic, alchemy should inherently be out of your reach. However... helping you is also helping myself, so I will teach you another form of alchemy. This type of alchemy requires no magical affinity; it only demands sufficient patience and perseverance. Of course, it may also require a considerable amount of time for trial and error.

On August 5, 1301, task reward: +6 copper. Task preparation: -3 copper, 5 iron. Balance: 84 gold, 3 silver, 1 copper, 5 iron

As the sky gradually brightens, the flames within the camp also slowly extinguish

Alright, alright! Since you say so, this magical crystal must be very important to you, right? Take it, take it! Just consider it as me doing a good deed this time

Aero had a smile at the corner of his mouth, and with a flick of the knife in his hand, the chunks of meat were sliced and placed into the pot: "Napa, if I was born slower than others, and now you tell me that as long as I practice hard, I will one day be able to run faster than others. Do you really think I should keep practicing?"

Although it is just a small piece, it should still be able to fetch a good price. If it is carved a bit more and paired with a beautiful box, it could sell for a gold coin in the capital

Brad and Buffy looked at each other, seemingly unclear about what Aero wanted to say

A smile adorned Airo's face as he spoke in a nonchalant manner

Aero took a deep breath, walked to the bar, and sat down, exhaling a long sigh

Give you

Upon hearing that Napa was going to sell the magical crystal, Napa appeared somewhat regretful. Its gaze remained fixed on the crystal, but unexpectedly, Airo reached out and placed the crystal back into his pocket.

I have long been curious; the Shimmering Forest does not appear to be lacking in food, so why do so many slimes attack human villages at night

It was approximately half a person's height, with an opening about knee-high, and it was pitch black inside, leaving one uncertain about what exactly was there

Aero still maintained that most basic expression of a smile; he seemed to be smiling happily, but upon closer inspection, it appeared to be a mechanical reaction. This left Napa somewhat unable to discern what the girl was truly thinking.

This point is indeed not much different from what Airo knows

Nothing much

Aero looked at Napa, then at the magic crystal in his palm. After much deliberation, he finally furrowed his brows and walked back to the counter with a troubled expression, placing the magic crystal in front of Napa.

Aero yawned again, displaying a look of deep regret. He went upstairs, briefly reminding Brad and Buffy, who were still cleaning the room, before returning to his own room

At this moment, he spread his hands in helplessness and said, "Did you not already know this?"

Napa should be quite aware of the issues with its alchemy, yet it seems reluctant to give up. It raised its head once more and said: "Don't you want to give it a try? As long as you work hard enough, even someone like you, who has no magical power, could become a 'quasi-mage'! Moreover, the prices of alchemical products are not cheap!"

Hello, Ariel

After witnessing that slimes can actually give birth to magical crystals this time, I began to wonder whether this is not merely a coincidence, but rather an indication that there are more powerful magical creatures nearby, compelling those slimes to expand their territory

After taking care of her hair, Airo finally went to bed to catch up on some sleep

It seems that, upon comprehensive consideration, the current lineup of our guild is not yet strong enough to undertake a task such as the extermination of the Slime King. Indeed, on one hand, we still need to continue gathering personnel, and on the other hand, we must also equip this warrior properly.

So... are we just going to ignore it? Brad and Buffy looked bewildered, as if they still hadn't figured out what was going on here

Entering the kitchen, Airo puts on an apron, prepares the vegetables and meat purchased earlier, and begins to process the ingredients for dinner

Aero took a deep breath, stood up from the bar stool, placed one hand on his hip, and said: "It truly sounds like an impressive alchemy. So, if someone with an affinity for magic were to learn, would they be able to grasp your type of alchemy better?"

Rather than keeping it in one's own hands where it cannot be exchanged, it is better to use it to exchange for something more useful

Furthermore, if students in the Economics Department truly possess the talent to become warriors or mages, they can simply switch majors! Why must they remain in the Economics Department? Similarly, if they feel more suited to one of the other two departments, then they should transfer. Old Tengshu will not insist that once you enter a certain department, you must remain there for life. If you believe you are capable, then transfer. If you genuinely feel that you are not suited for the other two departments and cannot keep up with their courses and studies, then it is perfectly acceptable to stay within your own faction.

Hmm?

... ...

Napa was also a bit anxious; it raised its paw and scratched the air, seemingly trying to think of a sufficiently convincing reason. After a long while, it finally managed to utter a sentence: "It can restore a small portion of my power! You have witnessed my strength, haven't you? If I regain my power, your guild will also benefit, won't it?"

The value of a commodity lies in its ability to be exchanged; if it cannot be exchanged, its value will continuously depreciate. If, in the end, it is lost or damaged due to unforeseen circumstances such as fire, then this magical crystallization will bring about a completely negative value.

Turning over the ashes, one can see one after another the lifeless, shriveled slime skins, resembling sheets of paper.

Aero was well aware that the cat was not curious; such an inquiry was likely merely an attempt to make conversation.

Therefore, I can read some superficial books on magic. I can also manage basic alchemy, such as the saline solution potion. However, I have attempted to peruse more advanced magic books, but I completely cannot comprehend them. Furthermore, since I lack magical affinity, I suppose I am destined to be insulated from magic for the rest of my life

His eyes lit up as he reached into the mound of earth. Before long, a white crystal, approximately the size of a thumb, appeared in the palm of his hand

But in this remote town of Pelican, who would spend a gold coin to buy this item

These emotional investments may not seem to yield immediate economic benefits, but in the long run, they may generate even greater economic value

For example ... the affection of that cat, as well as the guilt towards oneself

Blaid merely displayed a foolish demeanor towards the magical crystal, while Barfi appeared extremely excited, even flying down from Blaid's shoulder to carefully examine the crystal in Airo's palm: "(Fairy language) Really? What is this useful for? It looks quite impressive!"

Blaid quickly nodded: "Understood! President, Vice President! I will work hard to clean up!"

If I find it difficult to surpass the average magician at this point, why should I not invest my time, energy, and perseverance in other pursuits

Seeing that Brad and Buffy had always looked like they were holding back and afraid to speak, Airo chuckled and began to explain

Napa Dong looked around and saw that there was no place to land. After hesitating for a moment, it simply settled on Airo's hat and lay down comfortably: "Why not? Strive, struggle, isn't that right?"

Ah! Ariel!

The moment the sunlight streamed back into the guild, Napa immediately floated up from the counter to greet Airo

Alright, then how about I learn it later when I have time

If I must say something... I can only say that I am a businessman, not merely a technician

Good things need someone to bid for them in order to become good things

It is akin to my not becoming a magician, yet I can provide inns and food to supply the lodging and meals for the magicians. Even if some magicians can create their own accommodations through magic, what about the physiological needs of their servants? What about the houses they need to reside in? Magic books need to be bound, right? Pens and ink need to be produced, don't they? I can certainly excel in another aspect.

"President, what happened?"

However, Airo's doubts were dispelled in a very short time by the words of the cat

Blaid nodded and extended his hand.

After Airo gave a brief introduction to both parties, he said: "From today onwards, this will be your home. Are you tired? The only room upstairs that is by the window is mine; the other rooms you can choose for yourselves. However, before you rest, you need to clean your rooms yourself"

Napa immediately nodded at Airo, while quickly opening her mouth to hold the magic crystal in her mouth, closing her eyes and lying on the cushion, entering into meditation

Napa fell onto the cushion, her tail swaying slightly, and in a lazy tone said: "It sounds like you are still quite far from your goal of 1,000 gold coins."

A priceless treasure may appear to be very noble, but from another perspective, it is not much different from garbage

Let me see the back of your hand

Napa poured a cup of water from the nearby water tank, slid it across the bar, and delivered it into Airo's hand

Aero nodded, replaced his expression with a smile as he looked at Blade, reached out to pat his arm, and said: "Alright! Now that neither of us is seriously hurt, that's already quite good. I also want to thank you for saving me just now. Come on, let's take a look at our spoils."

Napa nodded as if she had made up her mind and said, "Please give me the magic crystal. Although I cannot offer you gold... I truly need this crystal right now. If you are willing to give it to me, I will definitely find another way to repay you. What do you think?"

While thinking and walking, Airo approached the door after arriving at the farm. Maiyi appeared very happy upon seeing the slime skins in Airo's hand and readily paid the remaining six copper coins. Airo then chatted briefly with Maiyi and his wife and child, and before leaving, he left them three slime skins. With their gratitude, he headed towards Pelican Town.

After a beautiful morning of rest, Airo regained her energy, tidied her hair, and put on her hat before heading downstairs

However, Airo took out the magic crystal from his pocket and placed it in front of Napa, saying: "What do you think? The magic crystal, surprising, isn't it! I never expected that I would find a magic crystal on my first mission!"

So, would you like to systematically study alchemy

Napa was hearing such remarks for the first time and seemed momentarily unsure of how to respond

Aero sat down on the bar stool and said with a smile, "Not just alchemical books, but also those on combat and magic; as long as you want to read them, you can. The library is open to all students, and there are no restricted sections or anything like that."

Aero displayed a look of questioning.

Looking at himself in the mirror, Airo shook off the frown he had just moments ago, and a faint smile unconsciously appeared on his face

As Airo fearlessly examined the appearance of the slime skin, Blade rubbed the back of his hand and finally walked in, helping to sift through the ashes. However, he still picked up a thick and long branch to hold in his hand, as if this was the only way to make him feel a bit safer

Aero took out eight copper coins from his pocket and placed them on the table, saying: "Before accepting the task, I had 84 gold, 2 silver, and 7 copper. I spent 2 copper to buy salt, 1 copper for a bottle, and 5 iron for food on the way. Now, having earned 8 copper coins from the task, my total savings are 84 gold, 3 silver, 1 copper, and 5 iron."

Proceeding along the slightly corroded trees, after walking approximately 5 kilometers, Airo knew that he had now completely entered the depths of the Shining Forest

Blaid was scolded by Airo to wash his hands, while Barfi found Napa's mood strange and asked, "(Fairy language) What happened?"

I would prefer not to repeat myself; you should be aware that I do not possess magical affinity

Napa appeared quite hesitant, adjusting her position on the cushion several times. Finally, as if having made up her mind, she spoke up: "Can you give me this crystal?"

Napa tilted her head and looked at Airo, and after a moment, she continued, "I saw you prepare the saline solution by yourself yesterday. Where did you learn this kind of alchemy?"

I believe that such people may indeed exist in this world

Napa slightly wagged its tail and adjusted its position on the cushion

Aero observed the expression of the cat, watching it transform from one of complete confidence to one of dejection and listlessness. He knew that he had guessed correctly

Hahaha, that's not right

As a fairy of flowers, Parfait is well aware of how troublesome slimes can be. After listening to Airo's explanation, she quickly exclaimed: "(Fairy language) The Slime King? Such a terrifying creature is so close by?! Let's hurry and set fire to them!"

You lack magical affinity, and considering your physical condition, you are not cut out to become a warrior

In the midst of conversation, four dishes and a soup were already prepared. Airo brought the food to the counter, started another pot of noodles, and served it on the outdoor dining table.

Indeed, it is as expected

Aero turned around and saw Napa sitting on the cushion, looking at him. Its appearance seemed unchanged; could it be that the magical crystal had not changed at all

However, Airo did not intend to hastily correct the topic with this cat, after all, if it was able to say such a thing, it probably had its reasons

The cat pondered for a while and eventually nodded in agreement, saying: "If one possesses affinity for magic, that would be the best. The higher the affinity for magic in any alchemy, the stronger the ability."

Blaide, buffet, dinner time

Comforting Brad, Airo turned and walked into the salt land, checking the ashes in the light of the rising sun

Ailuo: "The library of Laoteng Tree School"

However, since such individuals are able to practice their shortcomings to the point where they are on par with others' strengths, why do those with such perseverance not focus their efforts on enhancing their own strengths?

Alchemy is the process of perceiving the abundance of magical elements in all things in the world through one's own affinity for magic. Based on their needs, practitioners combine these elements to create the desired outcomes envisioned by the mage. This is also why alchemists are predominantly renowned magicians.

To put it plainly, magic is a kind of talent, an innate ability possessed by certain individuals to communicate with various elements in nature, thereby harnessing their power for personal use. The ability to communicate with natural elements is referred to as magical affinity

Aero immediately shook his head, displaying a very resolute attitude: "Isn't this joke a bit too much? I worked hard all night to finally obtain the magic crystal, and you want to take it away with just one sentence? You know very well that I am in dire need of money right now"

After seeing Napa, she appeared to be even more reserved

Along the way back, Airo finally left the Shining Forest with his two new members. Bathed once again in sunlight, he couldn't help but stretch. After experiencing the fierce battle last night, even now, basking in the scorching summer sun, he did not feel as uncomfortable; instead, it brought a sense of warmth after the cold.

Aero believed that his face must have been filled with surprise. If possible, he really wanted to take out a mirror to have a good look at his expression

This item is valuable, so a look of happiness appeared on Airo's face

What exactly is your identity? You are so skilled at cooking that you hardly seem like a young lady from a wealthy family qualified to attend the Old Teng Tree Academy

I cannot argue with you

He lay beside a somewhat decayed tree root, raised his head, and stealthily looked at a rock cave that protruded from the ground ahead.

At this point, Napa's voice suddenly became softer. Airo knew that the cat had finally understood the problem in its words

I strive to practice your alchemy, and perhaps one day I can become like those wizards, capable of wielding many impressive spells. But... am I merely chasing after them? Is it possible for me to surpass the magical power of those wizards?

Aero shouted upstairs, and Blade immediately ran out of the room happily. He was covered in quite a bit of dust, making him look rather dirty. Buffy, on the other hand, flew directly down from the second floor, drooling at the plate of honey accompanied by green silk fruit on the table

Aero glanced at the ashes inside, finally letting out a sigh of relief, and then turned to walk towards Brad, who was covering his hand.

Aero knew that his investments had begun to yield results

Aero was also unconcerned. After returning to his room and planning the upcoming arrangements, he counted his savings and turned off the lights to sleep

After entering the guild, Blade and Buffy were immediately struck by the spacious and tidy guild hall. They continuously looked around, astonished by everything before them

Aero said with a smile, "The first red door opened and I successfully secured a deal, which is already quite good. Moreover, I have additional gains."

The originally languid Napa instantly became alert the moment it saw the magical crystal, its previously indifferent eyes now filled with energy. Its body also slightly lifted, fixating its gaze intently on the crystal.

Close the door, take off the hat, and relax your hair

In response, Airo shook his head and chuckled, saying: "There is no need for that. Have you all forgotten? You are now members of the guild, and everything you do must be guided by the interests of the guild. Is there someone who has commissioned us to exterminate the slime's lair and slay the Slime King?"

After meticulously searching, a total of twenty-three complete Slime skins were found. ... Airo was very satisfied with this result, but just as he was about to turn over a final piece of ash and leave ...

However, Airo does not blame these two; they have just become his members and are still unclear about how to work.

It is unclear whether this fellow has too much hair on the back of his hand or if the power of the slime is ultimately somewhat weak; aside from some redness and swelling, there are no visible wounds on the back of his hand

Magic crystal, this is indeed a good thing

A slight smile appeared at the corners of Airo's mouth as he presented the crystal in his palm to the two individuals, saying: "This is a crystal from a magical beast. Any magical creature has a certain probability of nurturing such a crystal within its body; the stronger the creature, the higher the probability, and the larger the condensed crystal. In simple terms, this is a crystallization of magical power"

Napa: "No distinction? Open to all students? What if the warrior students spend all day reading books on magic? If your economics students keep reading these alchemy, magic, and combat books, then why does your school have such detailed divisions?"

On August 5, 1301, meal expenses: -1 copper and 5 iron. Balance: 84 gold and 3 silver

Buffy's face flushed slightly as she shook her head. However, after shaking her head, she looked at Brad, her eyes filled with concern and shame, and said: "(Fairy language) Don't tell him that my natural magic is not very proficient."

First, I arrived at the entrance and took a look ... . ... There are still no commission requests on the task board.

Aero picked up the shriveled slime skins, examined them, and then rolled them up. It seemed that Blade behind him was still hesitant to look, so he did not push him and continued to pick them up on his own

Hmm? What is it?

After finishing the meal, Airo instructed Blade and Buffy to clean up the dishes and wash them, while Napa continued to lie silently on the counter

"Hoo... After going back, apply some cold water. (Fairy language) Barfi, do you know any healing magic?"

Finally, we discovered that. According to my experience... if I am not mistaken, there should be a Slime King inside. That creature should be the master of this forest

Hmph, this idiot from the library really knows nothing at all... President, what is this?

That is the lair of the slime

Aero stood up from the bar stool and walked towards the kitchen. Napa also floated up to follow.

Aero placed a bowl of milk next to Napa's cushion and said with a smile

His movements were quick and skillful. Although Napa had always known that this girl was very efficient in her actions, it was still the first time she had seen Airo cook, witnessing a large pile of ingredients swiftly transformed into exquisite dishes.

It is just a pity that the economics department of Old Tengshu Academy does not teach how to make a fortune. Now, whether these theories can truly bring economic value to oneself can only be determined step by step.

As he picked up a pot of vegetables, Airo began to thicken the soup while smiling and said: "I practice running diligently, so why do I think that those who are naturally faster than me do not also practice running just as hard? Since I cannot outrun others, why can’t I ride a horse, take a carriage, or take a shortcut to reach my destination before those who run faster than I do? Or to put it another way, why must I reach this destination? Since I cannot outrun others, why can’t I ride a horse, take a carriage, or take a shortcut to reach my destination before those who run faster than I do? Or to put it another way, why must I reach this destination? Can’t I run in the opposite direction? Who has stipulated that there is only one destination in life, and that no other goals are allowed to exist?"

Magic crystals are certainly good things

Additional gains

Aero slowly combed his hair in front of the mirror, having spent a stuffy night in the damp and dark forest, making his hair feel quite uncomfortable.

As he spoke, he reached out and wrapped his arm around Bafei, quickly heading upstairs. Before long, sounds of clattering could be heard from above, leaving one to wonder whether this fellow was cleaning or dismantling his own house

If in the capital of the Blue Bay Empire, Tide Sea City, then of course one can sell one or two gold coins

Aero raised his finger and drew a circle in the air, saying: "First of all, I am speaking the truth. The library of the Old Tengrui Academy imposes no restrictions on the factions of students. Not only the library, but even if students from the Economics Department wish to audit courses in the Magic Department, or if students from the Magic Department want to learn tactics as melee mages, there will be no obstacles whatsoever. All it takes is to apply for auditing, and the application is merely for record-keeping; no one will obstruct it."

Shh, don't speak. I want to verify something

Airo pretended not to notice Napa's gaze and continued to "show off": "Impressive, right? Let me tell you! Such a magical crystal can sell for at least 1 gold coin in the capital. If I carve it a bit and pair it with a nicer box, I can sell it for over 5 gold coins! Hehe, so this time, I really made a big profit from this task!"

The guild's main gate opened, and Airo yawned, stretched lazily, and stepped inside

On the other hand, raising slimes and then taking a task to collect a few copper coins only once every quarter is not a good method. It may be acceptable a time or two, but doing it repeatedly will raise suspicion. Moreover, killing slimes does not earn much money; it is better to find a way to make the people of Pelican Town aware of the dangers posed by the Slime King, and to receive a few silver coins at once for effectively eliminating it.

Similarly, like many ordinary people, I was not born with an affinity for magic. Given this, why should I strive so hard in areas where I am inherently lacking, in pursuit of achieving what wizards can accomplish with ease? Well, the idea of reaching the same level of power as a wizard through personal effort sounds quite inspirational. However, I would need to invest far more time in studying alchemy than a wizard does, and expend far more energy than a wizard to reach this point

The two, Blade and Buffy, did not dare to speak; they held their silence until Airo finished observing and retreated, and only then did they stealthily follow behind and leave together

However, he did not express another layer of emotion. After a brief pause, he placed the crystal into his pocket, carefully surveyed the surrounding woods, and then walked in the direction where the slimes had come in large numbers the previous night

Napa silently waited for Airo to finish speaking, and after a moment of silence, finally spoke up.

What is this? Is it a gem?

Blaid approached, carrying those slime skins, and asked with a curious expression

What tasks have you completed? Moreover, you have also added two members