Skill: Pharmaceuticals
Cost: 1 mana
Introduction: You can make herbs into powder, granules, etc., to improve the effect of herbs (improved according to the level of "Pharmacist").
Skill: Alchemy
Cost: 1 mana
Introduction: Depending on the materials, you can create alchemical solutions and alchemical materials with different effects (improved according to the level of "Alchemist").
Minori gazed at his Professional Skills in the Ability Table, noting the newly acquired skills. He had gained both Pharmaceuticals and Alchemy, reflecting his growing versatility in this strange new world.
The mechanics of skill progression here were slightly different from what Minori had been used to in YGGDRASIL, but the underlying principle remained the same—mastering a craft required hands-on practice. With that in mind, he allocated the three additional levels he'd earned to his Sword Master profession. Combat was his main focus for now, and Sword Master was the key to unlocking his true potential in battle.
However, Minori couldn't help but feel the pull of his other skills. Unlike in the game, where he could simply allocate points to whichever profession he desired, here, he had to actively hone his skills through experience. No shortcuts.
It was a thought that made him reflect on his time in YGGDRASIL, where things like intelligence, level, and resources were the ultimate determinants of success. In this world, though, those same principles seemed to apply. Level and equipment were essential, but resources, like recovery potions and alchemical concoctions, could make all the difference. Nfirea's potion-making skills were a perfect example of the kind of resource Minori could rely on.
"What do you think of the alchemical solution?" Nfirea asked, catching Minori off-guard. His enthusiasm was evident, though Minori could see that the young alchemist still had a long way to go in refining his craft.
"It's an impressive method," Minori responded, keeping his tone casual despite his curiosity. "I've never seen such a technique before. It's quite different from what I'm familiar with."
Nfirea beamed, clearly thrilled by the conversation. "Oh, it's nothing really. I haven't perfected it yet," he said humbly. "But, you know, healing magic is far more powerful than potions."
Minori's interest piqued. "Healing magic?" He leaned in slightly. "In what way?"
Nfirea smiled, clearly eager to explain. "Recovery potions only speed up healing, but healing magic is instantaneous. Potions are just a temporary solution."
Minori nodded thoughtfully, contemplating the implications. He'd already seen the value in potions and alchemical solutions, but hearing Nfirea explain it from a more technical perspective only reinforced his desire to learn more. "I see. I'll need to look into it further."
The conversation continued, with Minori absorbing Nfirea's insights into potions, healing magic, and the nuances of alchemical practice. It was clear that Nfirea's knowledge, though still developing, surpassed that of many seasoned professionals. And while Minori couldn't yet match Nfirea's expertise in the field of potion-making, he knew that mastering these skills could be invaluable in the long run.
As the group traveled, Minori observed Nfirea carefully. The alchemist continued to work with herbs and various materials, preparing a variety of alchemical solutions to help the Rock team recover from their injuries. The skill with which Nfirea worked was impressive, and Minori had to admit that it was something he would need to master himself in the future.
But even as he watched Nfirea work, Minori was aware of the growing distance between himself and the world he once knew. This world was far different from YGGDRASIL, and its rules were more complicated, more grounded in reality. In YGGDRASIL, victory came through intelligence and preparation. Here, it seemed that mastery of the basics was just as important.
As the days passed, the Rock team began to recover. Archer Basque, who had been carrying Captain Dosari, now walked with his back straight, though still favoring his injured leg. The Rand brothers had regained enough strength to move on their own, thanks in part to the potions and alchemical solutions Nfirea had made.
Minori, now fully recovered, focused on keeping the group moving forward. He wasn't the one carrying the injured, but he was still the one whose decisions mattered most. Nfirea's potions were essential to their survival, but Minori knew that their future success depended on more than just physical recovery—it would require them to stay sharp, keep learning, and adapt to the world around them.
Two Days Later
The outline of E-Rantel appeared in the distance, a sprawling city protected by thick walls that made it look more like a fortress than a trading hub.
Minori's sharp gaze swept over the city's towering walls, and for the first time in a long while, he felt a spark of excitement. This city, unlike the royal capital, seemed alive with potential. It was a place where adventurers could thrive, where resources were abundant, and where opportunities awaited around every corner.
The road grew busier as they approached, with adventurers, traders, and mercenaries making their way toward the city gates. The sound of clattering carriage wheels and the hum of conversation filled the air. Minori, ever observant, took it all in. It was strange, this world. There were echoes of familiarity—trading cities, bustling streets—but the tension of the royal capital still lingered in his mind.
Crunch, crunch! The carriage wheels rolled over the cobblestones as they approached the gates. The guards immediately stepped forward to stop them, but when they saw Grandmother Lizzie at the reins, they quickly stepped aside.
"Lord Barreare! Let them pass!" the soldier called loudly to the others.
Minori watched as Lizzie gave a slight nod to the soldiers, then cracked her whip. The carriage moved forward smoothly, passing through the gates of E-Rantel.
The group's entrance was unimpeded, save for the standard fee of two copper coins per person, which was the norm for entering the city. Unlike other cities, E-Rantel was a thriving border city, where trade flourished due to its strategic location.
As they entered, Minori couldn't help but notice the difference between the royal capital and E-Rantel. This city was alive with energy—a stark contrast to the slow, heavy atmosphere he had felt back at the capital. The streets were packed with horse-drawn carriages, adventurers, and merchants—all bustling with purpose. It was a far cry from the somber mood of the capital.