Roy said, "I've gathered everything for you. Please accept it."
Arya nodded. "Alright. If I need any tools later, I'll find you."
"No problem," Roy replied.
True to his word, in just over half an hour, Roy delivered all the materials Arya required: a Mineralogy book, a caliper for precise measurements, a bullet sample, and a collection of minerals—copper ore, iron ore, saltpeter, sulfur, and even charcoal. These were clearly meant for gunpowder production. Without saying a word, Arya picked up the Mineralogy book and Gang Emima and returned to her room, ready to read and rest.
Late though it was, Arya knew that rushing into experiments without proper study would be reckless. First, she needed to accumulate knowledge about this world. Although copper and iron existed here as on Blue Star, there were significant differences. One crucial distinction was that the minerals in this world contained inherent magical properties, unlike the mundane ores on Blue Star.
Early the next morning, after enjoying the breakfast Rogers had prepared, Arya let Gang Emima go play on her own and prepared for a day of crafting. Even though Roy seemed impatient for bullets, Arya remained calm. She had only received the books yesterday, and the knowledge contained within still needed time to be digested. Experimental work required preparation.
This bullet project was mutually beneficial: Roy urgently needed bullets, and Arya urgently needed knowledge. It was a perfect collaboration. Roy immediately became Arya's investor, understanding the risks. If the experiment succeeded, it would be ideal. If not, the investment was lost—a reality any professional businessman would accept.
Arya did not outright refuse the task. Making bullets was indeed an experiment in alchemy for her. The silver lining: she obtained sulfur for free, which was necessary for both explosive and flame potions. Of course, she would also need an E-grade fire-attribute demon core. With that in mind, Arya donned a protective mask before beginning her work. Sulfur fumes were likely toxic, and she wasn't about to take unnecessary risks.
Eight hours later, Arya finally finished her work. She had produced three potions:
Crude Explosive Potion (E-)
Effect: Creates an explosion in a 3×3 area, dealing 30 HP damage instantly and 1 HP burn damage per second for 10 seconds.
Description: Mediocre explosion range and power; not recommended for combat.
Crude Flame Potion (E-)
Effect: Causes burning in a 3×3 area, dealing 2 HP damage per second for 30 seconds.
Description: Modest burning effect; useful mainly for warming purposes.
Apprentice Fire Resistance Potion (E)
Effect: Increases fire resistance by 10 points for 10 minutes.
Description: A standard apprentice potion. Helpful, but not omnipotent; the user must act within limits.
After bottling them, Arya examined the potions through her glasses and decided it was time to test them. Fortunately, there was a nearby swamp monster spawn point, secluded enough for experimentation. Being past five in the afternoon, she could experiment without being noticed.
The results were underwhelming. The explosions, while visible, barely harmed the Sludge Monsters, whose regenerative abilities made them tough opponents. Flame and explosive potions were clearly not ideal for this type of enemy. Yet, Arya's goal wasn't maximum damage—it was the thrill of being a "bomber." With a flick of her hand, dozens of explosive potions rained down in a line, producing a chain of explosions across the swamp. The sight brought Arya immense satisfaction, reminiscent of the prosperity the Fusang people once enjoyed.
"Fight! Awesome!" Arya exclaimed.
Though her efforts caused little practical damage due to the monsters' self-healing, Arya had fun. If she had more than 200 bottles, she would have bombed until nightfall. Exhausted but elated, she returned home, ready for a shower. Flying and handling explosives had made her sweat, proving that happiness did indeed boost metabolism.
"Chirp, chirp, chirp—" Gang Emima rushed over, protesting that Arya had gone out without her again. Arya, understanding but slightly amused, rolled her eyes, placed Gang Emima on a towel, and went to clean up.
After showering, Arya sat at her Magic Desk, with Gang Emima on her lap, and opened her friends list.
Arya typed: "Fire Resistance Potion—want some?"
Natasha replied, "Yes. Name your price."
Arya responded, "20 bottles for 1 Fire Elemental Essence, 2 bottles for 1 jin of flame bell, 1 bottle for 1 jin of sulfur."
"How did you know I had Fire Elemental Essence?" Natasha asked.
Arya smirked. "Guess."
Ever since acquiring the Water Elemental Essence, Arya had suspected that Natasha, located on a volcano, might possess Fire Elemental Essence, and probably sulfur as well. Roy's sulfur supply likely came from her, too.
Natasha answered: "1 Fire Elemental Essence for 100 bottles."
After some consideration, she sent a follow-up message. Arya quickly agreed—100 bottles for a Fire Elemental Essence was an excellent deal. Natasha was taken aback; she hadn't expected Arya to accept so easily.
Ultimately, with 200 Fire Resistance Potions, Arya secured:
1 Fire Elemental Essence
25 jin of flame bell
25 jin of sulfur (available tomorrow as a pre-order)
Fire Elemental Essence (D)
Effect: Can be used for alchemy, enchanting, or burning to keep warm. Effectively boosts the growth of nearby fire-attribute plants.
Description: Pure fire elemental energy, born from long-term interaction with fire magic.
Arya stared at the essence, impressed. "What a good item," she said.
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