The Banquet

"Master Bennett, it's been a long time!" The much-younger Master Mara gave Abel a light laugh and bowed in greeting.

"Master Mara, it's been a long time for you as well!" Abel returned the bow.

"Master Bennett, have you created anything new lately?" Master Mara asked, looking at Abel with some anticipation.

"I've been busy with other matters lately, so I haven't created anything new. However, I'm about to break through to the Intermediate Alchemy Rune level, and there are some questions I'd like to ask you about!" Abel replied with a smile.

He had read through a great many records, all of which mentioned how troublesome and difficult it was to break through from Intermediate Alchemy Runes to Advanced Alchemy Patterns. Master Mara was highly experienced, making her the best person to provide him with answers.

"Congratulations! Feel free to ask me anything you'd like!" Master Mara said, unable to hide her envy.

Only then did she remember that Abel was an Intermediate Alchemist who had been certified as an Honorary Alchemist Master. She had almost forgotten Abel's identity as an Intermediate Alchemist, because the level he had consistently displayed made her feel that she was inferior to him.

Now that Abel was about to break through from Intermediate Alchemist to Senior Alchemist, his skill would rise another level.

Abel and Master Mara began chatting softly. Although many Elf nobles and druids nearby wanted to speak with the two Alchemy Masters, neither side wanted to disturb them when they saw how happily they were conversing.

As time passed, more and more elves arrived at the banquet venue, and the sky gradually darkened. The elves present were all led to their seats by the servants.

Abel's seat had been arranged on the right side, not far from the hosts. Among