Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Another two days passed in the blink of an eye. I mainly attended classes and courses, spending the rest of my time studying or practicing the Silent Edge. My arm is almost healed thanks to my body's high recovery ability and the treatments at the infirmary.

My relationship with a few characters improved, especially with Irithel. She somehow got rid of those insecurities of hers thanks to our recent conversation. But, she still needs time to fully realize it.

The good thing is she has been helping me how to take care of the egg. She also often talks to me in class as well but since I am slowly revealing my true self, I interact with her as an acquaintance at those times.

However, one thing that has been bugging me these days is... Aria. Her actions, more precisely.

I don't know why, but I think she is avoiding me. She doesn't even talk to me when we practice as a team. I wonder why...

Did I do something to upset her? Or is she angry?

What's more, she is throwing secret glances at me from time to time, her expression unreadable.

I wanted to ask but couldn't do it. I just didn't know what to say.

"So, in order to concoct a basic healing potion, we will need the following ingredients," Professor Lucius announced, his voice resonating through the potion laboratory. "Aetherleaf, Moondew petals, and a vial of purified spring water."

Right, now was the second class for today - the Potioncraft Class. Though its name was like this, we have been learning about magic plants till the last week. And today is the first time we are gonna learn how to concoct a basic healing potion.

The professor held up each ingredient as he named them, showing their unique properties.

"Aetherleaf," he said, holding up a vibrant green leaf that seemed to shimmer faintly in the light. "This plant is known for its natural ability to enhance the body's regenerative processes. It is a key component in many healing concoctions."

Next, he displayed a handful of delicate, pale blue petals. "Moondew petals," he continued. "These are harvested under the light of a full moon, and they possess potent soothing properties. They help to reduce inflammation and pain."

Finally, he lifted a small, clear vial filled with sparkling water. "And purified spring water, which serves as the base for our potion. It must be pure to ensure the effectiveness of the potion."

After ensuring everyone had their ingredients ready, Professor Lucius moved on to the process. "Now, pay close attention. The order and method of combining these ingredients are crucial."

While listening to him, I sorted out the required ingredients.

He walked over to a large cauldron in the center of the room, lighting a small flame beneath it. "First, pour the purified spring water into your cauldron and bring it to a gentle simmer."

I followed his instructions, watching as the water began to steam slightly. The professor then added the Aetherleaf, demonstrating the precise way to crush it before sprinkling it into the simmering water. "Crushing the leaf releases its aetheric properties, making it more potent."

We all mimicked his actions, the scent of the Aetherleaf filling the room as it blended with the steaming water. Next, he added the Moondew petals, stirring the mixture with a wooden spoon.

"Stir slowly and evenly," he instructed. "This ensures the petals' essence is fully infused into the potion."

As we stirred, the water took on a faint bluish hue, indicating the petals were blending correctly. The professor's calm and measured instructions made the process seem almost meditative.

"Now, let it simmer for a few more minutes," he said, watching the mixture closely. "You'll know it's ready when the potion turns a clear, pale blue."

After some time, my potion turned the desired color. Professor Lucius nodded approvingly. "Good. Now, carefully pour your potion into a vial. Make sure not to spill any; even a small amount can be quite effective."

I carefully transferred my potion into a vial, feeling a sense of accomplishment. It was a simple potion, but knowing how to create it was an important skill and knowledge.

"I see there are some who already succeeded while there are some who failed," Professor Lucius said, observing the class. "You have five sets of ingredients to try until the lesson ends. You can ask questions as well. Those who succeeded should also try a few more times. Who knows if you were just lucky or really learned it."

Determined to find out whether my success was a fluke or not, I prepared another set of ingredients and started again. The process was meticulous, but I followed the professor's instructions carefully, paying close attention to every detail.

On my second attempt, the potion turned out well. It was a clear, pale blue, just like before. I quickly poured it into a vial. My third attempt, however, didn't go as smoothly. The potion ended up a murky green, clearly indicating a mistake. I sighed and discarded it, ready to try again.

By the end of the session, I had managed to successfully create three more potions out of five attempts. Not perfect, but it was a solid improvement, and I felt more confident in my skills.

Glancing around the room, I noticed Irithel and Aria were both already finished. Irithel, with her calm demeanor, had only failed once, her other four potions turning out perfectly. Aria, surprisingly matched Irithel's success with only one failed potion.

Even then, they weren't the center of attention.

"Well done, everyone," Professor Lucius said as the class drew to a close. "Those of you who succeeded, make sure to practice this skill regularly. Potioncraft is as much about consistency as it is about knowledge."

"And I'm proud that there are some people this talented in potion crafting." He said, his gaze scanning over two students. "Student Aurelia and Student Nora have managed to succeed in their all attempts. Let's encourage them with a round of applause." The class clapped politely, and I glanced at the two students who had managed to achieve perfect results.

They both looked pleased, and I couldn't help but think that the future Genius Duo Alchemists were sitting not far away from me. Not to mention one of them was my sister.

"Now, for your homework," Professor Lucius continued. "I want each of you to write a detailed report on the properties and uses of Aetherleaf and Moondew petals. Be sure to include any additional research you find. This will be due at the beginning of our next class."

"Now, you are dismissed."

Just like this, the class came to an end.