Ba Dashan laughed heartily. "Such filial devotion is rare. As your master, I can't let your kind intentions go to waste."
With that, he swept his large hand and collected all the pills in Chen Shi'an's hands.
Then he turned his gaze toward Chu Tianshu. "Tianshu, learning is like rowing against the current: if you don't advance, you fall behind.
"As you've seen, although your junior brother has only just become a First-Level Alchemist, he's clearly a cut above you when it comes to refining Origin-Strength Pills. You need to work harder."
Chu Tianshu's face burned bright red. He hurriedly cupped his hands and bowed to Ba Dashan. "Your teaching is right, Master. I will redouble my efforts."
Ba Dashan nodded slightly, then looked toward Dong Xiaochai. "Xiao Chai, there are still quite a few problems with how you refine Origin-Strength Pills.
"Your senior brother Jing Yuan handles those problems very well. You should learn more from him in the future."
Dong Xiaochai answered in a clear, crisp voice, "Yes, Master. I'll be sure to seek Senior Brother Jing Yuan's guidance more often."
With that, she looked toward Chen Shi'an, her eyes sparkling.
Chen Shi'an, however, did not look at her. His gaze remained on Ba Dashan.
Ba Dashan cleared his throat. "That concludes this assessment. You've all worked hard for so long. Go back and rest."
With that, he prepared to leave.
Chen Shi'an cupped his hands and bowed deeply to Ba Dashan. "Master, aside from your lessons, may I visit your residence to seek guidance in the future?"
After a brief hesitation, Ba Dashan nodded. "It's rare for you to have a sudden awakening and become so eager to learn. Of course you may."
Delight spread across Chen Shi'an's face. "Thank you, Master!"
Chu Tianshu's expression immediately darkened.