Not every shop encountered an odd customer like that shriveled old wizard.
Most of the time, transactions in the market were conducted in an atmosphere of quiet and silence. In stark contrast to that atmosphere were the market's dazzling array of goods, leaving the young wizards overwhelmed and unable to take it all in.
Of course, as outstanding students of Jiuyou Academy, they had not come to the market merely to look around. As they browsed, the three quizzed one another, answered questions, and reviewed their lessons:
"What are the requirements for grinding Pearl Powder?"
"'For ordinary use, take fresh, intact pearls that have not been drilled or set, and grind them into powder before they may be consumed. If they are not fine enough, they will harm the internal organs.'" Zheng Qing recited the text first, then explained, "It means Pearl Powder must be ground extremely fine before it can be used in medicine."
"What are the effects of Pearl Powder?"
This time, Jiang Yu rushed to answer. "When used as a main ingredient and taken internally, it calms the soul and steadies the spirit. Applied externally, it beautifies the skin and preserves youth. As a supplementary ingredient, it nourishes the liver, improves eyesight, detoxifies, promotes tissue growth, strengthens the bones, and lowers blood pressure. Related formulas include Pearl pills, for treating spiritual fright; Pearl Yellow Powder, for dispelling Fire Toxin and treating infantile convulsions; and Oil Wax Ointment, for treating all manner of poisonous sores and ulcers."
"And Pearl Jade White Jade Soup," Zheng Qing added solemnly.
"Pearl Jade White Jade Soup?" Jiang Yu's face clearly showed a trace of confusion. "Those three have similar properties and are all mineral medicines. Can they really be combined into a soup?"
The young wizard fought back a laugh and pointed