Arkemis’s house had always been a quiet place shared only by her and Ketal for their alchemy studies. Occasionally, Milayna dropped by to deliver catalysts or materials, but she was far too busy to linger, and it was rare for her to step inside the house itself. Most of the time, it was just the two of them there—until now.0

At the moment, a third individual was present. Around the table sat Ketal, Arkemis, and the male elf who had just appeared in the yard. Ketal broke the tense silence first. 0

“So, let’s talk.” Ketal flashed an easy smile in the elf’s direction. “If we’re going to have a proper conversation, we should at least know each other’s names. I’m Ketal. What about you?”0

“I see no reason to give my name to a mere human.” The male elf’s response was cold. He narrowed his eyes at Ketal with clear disdain. “Filthy barbarian. If Lady Arkemis hadn’t stepped in, I would have crushed you on sight. Know your place.”0

His hostility radiated across the table. The casual insults and contempt would have enraged any ordinary person—barbarian or not. However, Ketal merely looked intrigued.0

“I see you consider yourself superior to humans. Are all elves like this?” Ketal asked ...0