The moment the old man spoke, the alchemists present erupted into an uproar.
"Are you kidding? Although Earth Core Soul Marrow is the main ingredient, preparing it requires two precious medicinal ingredients. Not to mention that preparing Earth Core Soul Marrow is extremely difficult; only a peak Seventh-grade Alchemist or even an Eighth-grade Alchemist can succeed, and even then success is not guaranteed. Yet you want half of it, and before that, you also want an Eighth-grade pill. No matter how you look at it, whoever makes this trade would suffer a huge loss."
"We're alchemists. Don't try using those unscrupulous merchant tricks on us."
"Those conditions are simply too difficult to accept."
The alchemists' anger did not affect the stall owner. He still wore an indifferent expression, clearly taking an accept-it-or-leave-it stance.
The old man's attitude gradually quieted the clamor. Finally, Chen Huo stepped forward and asked, "I don't have any pills with Three-colored Pill Lightning. Can I exchange an Eighth-grade formula instead?"
Seeing the top-tier Seventh-grade Alchemist badge on Chen Huo's chest, then his rather youthful face, the old man's expression softened. "In theory, that is possible. However, I first need to know what formula you intend to offer in exchange."
A hint of joy appeared on Chen Huo's face. He took out a slightly translucent scroll and said, "The Spirit-Combining Pill. An Eighth-grade pill with Two-colored Pill Lightning. It can temporarily borrow the soul power of another soul, allowing one to experience a higher level of soul realm. If that soul is strong enough and willing to cooperate, even a Seventh-grade Alchemist can refine an Eighth-grade pill."
"A pill like that must have side effects. You haven't been entirely honest." The old man's expression shifted, then his face turned slightly cold.
Any temporary increase in strength came