"This is an ancient pill formula I paid a considerable price to acquire," Workshop Master Wu said. "As its name suggests, the Bone-Strengthening Pill strengthens the bones and can transform one's constitution."
"This pill is best taken by children under twelve. After eighteen, however, its effects are minimal."
"I have a grandson who is eight this year. His mother suffered an injury before his birth, so he was born frail and is unlikely to live past twenty.
"His parents have both passed away, and he is my only grandson. All I wish for in this life is for him to grow up healthy and live out his days in peace."
"And this Bone-Strengthening Pill is where that hope lies."
"However, one of the main ingredients in the formula, withered bone flower, is exceedingly rare. I commissioned people to search far and wide, yet they found only three flowers—enough for three sets of ingredients."
"I also approached Elder Zhou Sen of your Zhou Alchemy Shop, but he had barely a five-percent chance of success, so I could only shelve the matter for the time being."
Workshop Master Wu looked Xu Chuan straight in the eyes. "Fellow Daoist San Shu, if you can refine this pill, each one will count as forty spirit stones, with no upper limit."
"Ancient pill formulas are mostly difficult to refine. I can only do my best and try."
"Thank you, fellow Daoist."
As though he had glimpsed hope, Workshop Master Wu stood and solemnly cupped his hands.
"But I have a condition as well. Please refine my magical artifact first, Workshop Master. As for the Bone-Strengthening Pill, I still need some time to study it. I will attempt the refinement once I have confidence."
"Half a year at most, or three to four months if things