"Is this a Blood Rush Pill?" Elder Tenfires asked, raising one eyebrow as he picked up the small glass vial between his fingers.
His voice was flat, but the flicker of curiosity in his eyes was unmistakable.
John gulped down a mouthful of saliva and nodded, keeping his posture respectful. "Yes, Elder."
The moment the words left his mouth, the entire hall seemed to freeze.
All movement stopped.
Conversations died mid-sentence.
Even the clinking of glassware and faint bubbling of cauldrons came to a standstill as if the air itself were holding its breath.
And then...
Murmurs erupted.
"A one-ringed Blood Rush Pill?!"
"Wait, did I hear that right? A ringed Blood Rush Pill?"
"Who the hell is this guy?"
"Is he really just an outer sect disciple?"
A group of junior alchemists near the side counter turned toward one another, whispering in shock.
"So what?" one sneered, trying to sound unimpressed. "What's so special about it?"
