"Oh? With your discerning eye, Madam, you're entrusting a mere apprentice candidate as your assistant?"
Hugo's interest was piqued by Madam Elena's response. He scrutinized Robb with curiosity:
"Seems you've found another promising talent."
He retrieved a small vial from his pocket:
"This is some artificial star dew—a welcome gift for the newcomer. While it's far less potent than genuine natural star dew, it still aids in enhancing mental strength."
As Robb was about to express his gratitude, Madam Elena took the vial:
"I'll thank Apprentice Hugo on his behalf. However, this child needs to progress gradually; it's too early for him to use this."
Hugo merely smiled and said no more. He placed the purchased herbs into a special narrow-mouthed pouch at his waist and departed.
His gray-blue robe vanished at the doorway, as if he had never been there.
Only after the unique magical aura completely dissipated did Madam Elena turn to Robb:
"You're quite fortunate. Hugo is on the verge of becoming a quasi-wizard; his possessions are anything but ordinary."
She carefully stored the crystal vial:
"This 'artificial star dew' is refined from the essence of fallen stars. Though it doesn't match naturally condensed star dew, it's the best potion available for an apprentice."
"I'll keep it safe for now. Once you pass the apprentice assessment, it will be returned to you."
She glanced at Robb:
"With your current strength, possessing such a high-grade potion isn't wise."
Robb nodded, understanding the principle that possessing valuable items without the means to protect them invites trouble.
"By the way," Madam Elena wasn't ready to let him off yet:
"How did you activate the medicinal properties of that star herb earlier?"
Robb paused his work and explained based on his understanding:
"While organizing, I noticed its emitted waves resembled the mental energy during meditation. So, I tried to arrange it using a similar rhythm."
"I see." The old witch's deeply wrinkled face showed a rare smile:
"It appears you have a natural sensitivity to mental energy, no wonder Hugo took an interest in you."
"Help me sort these evening primroses."
The casual conversation ended as Madam Elena pointed to the herbs in the corner, assigning him another task:
"Remember to arrange them by harvest time."
Robb nodded in agreement. While organizing, he casually mentioned seeing a dark-cloaked figure hastily leaving the dormitory area that morning.
"Oh, that's the courier responsible for delivering letters and miscellaneous items to apprentices. It's said he has ties to your royal family."
Madam Elena replied without looking up:
"He frequently travels between the mortal kingdom and here."
Robb silently noted this information. Interestingly, the number of magic stone fragments delivered at the beginning of each month varied.
Last month, there were seven pieces; this month, only six.
This inconsistency was puzzling. His father was known for his meticulousness.
Since succeeding his grandfather as count, the estate's accounts had never been off by even a silver coin.
If he arranged for the delivery of magic stone fragments, discrepancies in quantity shouldn't occur.
...
In the study of Count Reyne of the Farwynd Kingdom, the fireplace cast his shadow prominently on the wall.
"Here are this month's ten magic stone fragments."
He handed a carefully sealed leather pouch to the butler:
"As usual, have Mr. Hawkins deliver them to the Black Mist Forest."
The butler accepted the pouch, feeling its substantial weight:
"Sir, did you mortgage the vineyard east of the estate?"
Count Reyne didn't deny it. Last year's plague led to poor harvests, and combined with the expenses of his other children, the estate was financially strained.
But he had to ensure Robb received sufficient resources monthly; in the Black Mist Forest, one couldn't survive without magic stone fragments.
"I was negligent in guiding that child earlier," the count stood by the window, gazing at the withered wheat fields:
"Now, I can only do my best to help him through these challenges."
The butler acknowledged and stored the pouch in the estate's most secure storage room.
A few days later, when Mr. Hawkins, the courier, arrived as usual and tucked the pouch into his cloak, a fleeting glint of greed flashed in his eyes.
...
Madam Elena approached a shelf in the corner and retrieved a cloth bag:
"That's all for today. These are some common invigorating herbs—consider them extra pay for your work."
"Thank you, Madam Elena."
"By the way..." As Robb was about to leave, she added:
"Come a bit earlier tomorrow; I plan to teach you some basic potion-making techniques."
By the time Robb exited the herb shop, the morning mist had been dispelled by sunlight.
Reflecting on the day's events, he felt both excited and slightly anxious.
This job offered opportunities beyond his expectations but also meant increased scrutiny.
Upon returning to his dormitory, Robb found Andrey waiting outside his room.
"How was your first day?" Andrey asked with a smile, though his eyes showed concern.
Robb didn't answer immediately. After ensuring no one was around, he briefly recounted the day's events.
"Star dew?!" Andre gasped, "That senior apprentice wouldn't be..."
He lowered his voice:
"Lord Hugo?"
Seeing Robb's puzzled look, Andrey explained:
"He's one of the few in our school with exceptional talent in potion-making. He's also made significant contributions to the study and application of stellar orbits."
"However..." He hesitated.
"What is it?"
"Nothing," Andrey shook his head, "Just a reminder to be cautious. Gaining attention is good, but it also means..."
Robb understood. In this wizard-dominated world, any uniqueness could be dangerous.
"By the way," Andre changed the subject, "The second physical training session starts this afternoon. Are you ready?"
Robb nodded and took out the herbs given by the shop owner:
"These should be helpful."
As he organized the herbs, he reflected on the day's gains and the increase in his skill experience.
His sensitivity to the "rhythm" of herbs and the conversations with Hugo and Madam Elena deepened his understanding of this world.