“It’s done,” Arkemis said, looking exhausted. Her eyes seemed hollow, yet they sparkled more brightly than ever.0

“Ooh!” Ketal exclaimed in delight. “You’ve worked hard.”0

“I gained a lot from this myself,” Arkemis replied.0

The iridescent particles were nearly on par with a Philosopher’s Stone. Even just studying their unique traits and limitations had significantly advanced her alchemical understanding, giving her the clue she needed to reach higher levels.0

“These are what’s left,” she said, taking out the pouch. The once-brimming particles had visibly decreased.0

“That’s quite a bit less than I expected,” Ketal noted.0

Originally, there had been enough iridescent particles to fill two human torsos, and Arkemis had mentioned she only needed about one torso’s worth. Now there was only about a quarter of that remaining. 0

As if offering an excuse, she explained, “Well, that was my plan at first, but the more I researched, the more new properties kept showing up. I had no choice but to use more for the sake of stability. I swear I didn’t pocket any for myself. Really!”0

“I never suspected you,” Ketal said. “I trust you.”0

“Y-you do?” Arkemis asked him, scratching her cheek awkwardly.0

Ketal’s face lit up with anticipation. “So, what’s nex...0