Chapter 102
Mark was a man of his word and immediately ordered someone to fetch the Seventh–Heaven Quince for Andrew.
Puzzled, Cedric could not help but ask, “Dr. Lloyd, Seventh–Heaven Quince is known to be highly toxic. What do you plan to do with it?”
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Andrew replied casually, “Alchemy.”
Cedric’s eyes widened in shock. “Dr. Lloyd, you practice alchemy?”
Andrew smiled modestly. “I know a thing or two.”
“What’s so special about this alchemy you’re discussing?” Mark asked, his curiosity piqued.
Cedric explained with reverence, “Mr. Thatcher, alchemy is an ancient sacred art passed down through generations of master healers. In certain traditions, it’s known as the art of creating elixirs. By combining various rare ingredients and following secret formulas, one can create. miraculous medicine. Take the medicinal pills from Mistveil Peak, for instance. They’re legendary throughout Etharia for their powerful effects and are worth a fortune!”
Mark stared at Andrew in amazement. “Mr. Lloyd, I had no idea you possessed such remarkable skills. I’m truly impressed.”
Lauren chimed in, “The Mistyeil Peak pills are always in short supply. My grandpa tried multiple times to obtain some but always returned empty–handed. Also, only a handful of people in all of Etharia know the secrets of alchemy.”
Lauren continued, “And they’re all backed by top–tier powers with legacies stretching back over a thousand years.
Her sparkling eyes were fixed on Andrew, marveling at this mysterious man before her. She had already convinced herself that finding this man was due to her extraordinary luck, but now he seemed to be nothing short of a miracle.
Mark broke the silence with a chuckle. “For someone as skilled as Mr. Lloyd, a single Seventh- Heaven Quince feels like an inadequate reward. I think I should add something more to show my sincerity.”
Cedric and Lauren exchanged knowing glances, understanding Mark’s intentions. Clearly, he wanted to strengthen his connection with Andrew, and neither could blame him. After all, Andrew’s abilities made him impossible to ignore.
Mark suggested casually, “Mr. Lloyd, since you aren’t interested in mere money, let’s chat about other matters. It’ll just be some idle conversation, of course!”
He explained, “You know, there’s an undeveloped area on the west side of the city. The paperwork should be approved soon. It’s nothing major, just a billion–dollar project or so…”
After a moment’s pause, he continued, “Anyway, Jayrodale’s pharmaceutical industry has
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some significant gaps. I recently held a meeting where we unanimously decided to provide strong support for its development. The Weller family’s influence has been declining sharply In recent years. Their position in Jayrodale isn’t quite as stable as it used to be.”
After this stream of information, Mark took a sip from his teacup before turning to Andrew with a smile. “Mr. Lloyd, I haven’t revealed anything too important, have 1? This is all just casual conversation–nothing to take too seriously!”
Andrew chuckled, playing along. “Don’t worry, Mr. Thatcher. We haven’t heard a thing.” Cedric’s face lit up with amusement. “Mr. Thatcher only has Jayrodale’s development at heart. He wouldn’t carelessly reveal important information. We’re just having a friendly chat!” Lauren added with a playful smile, “Did Mr. Thatcher say something? I didn’t hear anything. We were just discussing the weather, weren’t we, Dr. Lloyd?”
Andrew smirked and nodded. “That’s right, Ms. Rhodes. We were just discussing the weather.” Mark burst out laughing. “Exactly! And what lovely weather we’re having today!”
Lauren’s playful quip had everyone laughing, her charm effortlessly lightened the mood in the
room.
