“Watch what you say. If Mr. Chance hadn’t saved me, I would still be suffering at the hands of the Demonic Cultivators. Hurry up and apologize to Mr. Chance right now!” Gregory roared at Pearl.
Pearl wore an aggrieved expression. However, Jared said magnanimously, “Mr. Stark, don’t be angry. My cultivation level is indeed lower than your disciple.”
Gregory immediately responded awkwardly, “Mr. Chance, please stop being modest. Even I’m not your match. I’m afraid my disciple can’t even withstand a palm strike from you!” Pearl, standing at one side, was displeased to hear Gregory belittling her. Still, she didn’t dare to say anything.
“Mr. Stark, you flatter me.” Jared smiled faintly. “Mr. Chance, please have a seat.” Gregory motioned for Jared and Yuven to sit, then said to Pearl, “Pearl, go and prepare a pot of coffee.”
She left reluctantly. In fact, Gregory had deliberately sent her away because he knew Jared must have something to discuss with him.
Following Pearl’s departure, Gregory asked Jared, “Mr. Chance, is there something you need from me? Please feel free to let me know if there’s anything I can help. As long as it’s within my capabilities, I will not refuse. However, if it’s a matter related to the competition, I’m afraid I can’t help. Although I’m the judge, the rules in Jipsdale are very strict, and I dare not cheat.”
Gregory thought Jared had come to him to cheat in the Alchemist Fair. After all, Emerald Cauldron Sect was also there to participate in the contest, and the winner would be rewarded very handsomely.
“Mr. Stark, you’ve misunderstood me. I’m not here to talk about matters related to the Alchemist Fair. My friend here has been poisoned by a strange poison that hinders his ability to exert his strength. I’ve examined his condition but couldn’t find a solution. I came to ask if you could help treat him,” Jared said.
Upon listening to that, Gregory turned to look at Yuven. He scrutinized the latter for a few seconds, then released a strand of aura to envelope Yuven’s body..
Moments later, Gregory frowned, and his expression turned somber. “This is very strange. He’s poisoned and can’t exert his powers, but why can’t I detect anything in his body?” Gregory uttered in bafflement.
“Mr. Stark, this poison affecting my friend targets and damages his consciousness field, so it’s not detectable in his physical body,” Jared said. Upon learning that, Gregory released a strand of spiritual sense into Yuven’s consciousness field.
This time, Gregory made a discovery. He retracted his spiritual sense and said, “I see. This is the first time I’ve encountered this type of poison. I can’t make a firm judgment! How about this? You can stay here for a while longer. When my seniors return, we can all examine your friend’s case and see if we can get rid of the poison.”
“In that case, you have my gratitude, Mr. Stark,” Jared said. At that moment, Pearl had finished brewing the coffee. She poured everyone a cup and then continued to study Jared.
“Mr. Chance, have you completed the alchemist level assessment?” Gregory asked. “Assessment? I haven’t taken it yet.” Jared hadn’t undergone any evaluation.
“Mr. Chance, only alchemists who have passed the assessment can participate in the Alchemist Fair this time. The Alchemist Fair is about to begin, yet you haven’t even been assessed yet,” Gregory said anxiously.
“What?” Jared was slightly bewildered. Ghaylen had never mentioned that to him. “What should I do now?”
“Don’t worry, Mr. Chance. There’s an assessment center here in Jipsdale. I’ll have Pearl take you there now. With Pearl accompanying you, the assessment staff will likely do you a favor. If all goes well, you may be able to get your certificate today,” Gregory said.
Pearl was displeased when she heard that. “Master, I have other things to do. I’m busy!”
