The Alchemist_Dark Horizon by L. A. Wasielewski

Author:L. A. Wasielewski [Wasielewski, L. A.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2019-04-19T22:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

“When handling flashdaze, the most important lesson to be learned is: do not drop it. Ever. To say you’d instantly regret it would be an understatement.”

--Quote by Ryris Bren, overheard in war alchemy class, Zaiterra

Jaric stood against the far wall of the makeshift alchemy classroom. Watching. Whatever they were making this morning stunk like moldy boots. Ryris flitted between students at the front of the room, Mercer taking the rear. The two alchemists taught and guided, ensuring their new students—some novice alchemists, some with no experience at all—were getting the best possible education their limited, war-time instruction would allow. Jaric usually made it his mission to steer as clear as possible from the workshop. The aromas of ingredients and potions really did a number on his sinuses. But today, he was sacrificing.

That girl.

She dropped a pipette filled with some sort of sludgy black liquid and Ryris picked it up. Handed it back with a smile and a pat on the shoulder. Her eyes flashed in flirty thanks. She reciprocated the physical contact with a coy wink and a cheerful, forced laugh. Jaric wanted to scream.

She was no alchemist.

He just needed to prove it.

Mercer sidled up beside him, punching him in the shoulder. “You’re hanging around here an awful lot these past few days. Care to enlighten me?”

“Maybe I’m just interested in that noxious concoction you’ve been making.”

Mercer snorted. “Flashdaze. And no, you’re not. What gives?”

“Just observing.”

“You may be able to convince Ryris of that, but I’m not buying it.”

Jaric pointed to Sarra. “Is she any good?”

Mercer scanned the room, settling his eyes on the Keld transplant. “Ehhh. She’s a novice—and that’s being generous. Whoever taught her sure didn’t do a very good job.”

“How so?”

“She doesn’t really know introductory stuff. Base fluid ratios, dangerous ingredient handling protocols. Grabbed for some goblin barbs with no gloves.”

“And that’s important?”

“Not necessarily, but…” Mercer eyed him suspiciously. “What’s the sudden interest in her? Looking to expand your harem?”

“Shut up, Nox. Get back to your students…” Jaric smirked and nudged him back to the class.

The alchemist made a covert rude gesture and walked away.

Jaric focused his attention back on the mystery girl. She shyly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear as she watched Ryris mixing some dust with some other dust. All the students were interested in the task at hand. All but her. Jaric saw how she always seemed to be not quite paying attention. She had no interest in what Ryris was teaching. Her purpose was something else. This time in the classroom was just an opportunity to get closer to the alchemist. To get to know him. Know how he thinks. Operates.

Ryris said something that made the students laugh and they broke ranks, each moving to their workstations once again. They all started to measure, mix, and cook. Ryris walked around, observing. When he came to the girl, she stopped him. Seems she had a question. Jaric couldn’t hear what they were saying over the din of the students and clatter of equipment.

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