Hunter Academy: Revenge of the Weakest novel Chapter 642

Chapter 642 141.1 - Finding the Dungeon

"…..A deal…."

After saying that, Astron reached into his spatial storage and retrieved a sleek, reinforced vial, its surface engraved with faintly glowing runes designed to maintain the concoction's potency over time.

The bottle was crafted with alchemical enhancements specifically meant for volatile or high-powered mixtures, a detail Maya recognized immediately. For concoctions of this caliber, quality storage was essential; without it, the effects would inevitably fade, weakening the potion's intended purpose.

He poured the finished mixture carefully, allowing the dark, shimmering liquid to flow into the bottle. The runes activated immediately upon contact, casting a soft light over the potion as they worked to stabilize and preserve it. When he was finished, he sealed the bottle tightly, observing it for a brief moment to ensure the preservation enchantments had taken effect.

Satisfied, Astron finally stood, his gaze flicking from the vial to Maya. "That should keep it secure," he said, tucking the vial into a hidden compartment within his storage.

Maya watched him, an appreciative glint in her eyes. "It's amazing how much preparation goes into just storing it. I see now that the process doesn't end with the brewing," she observed thoughtfully.

Even though that was the basic knowledge in theory, seeing it firsthand was indeed interesting all the time.

Astron nodded, his expression calm. "Preservation is just as essential as the brewing itself. With the right storage, the effects remain intact. Without it, the potency would diminish before it could ever be used."

With the potion securely stored, Astron gave the alchemy station one last glance, ensuring everything was in place. Satisfied, he straightened and stood up, the purpose that had brought him here now complete.

Maya, sensing his movement, looked up at him with a hint of curiosity. "Have you finished?"

He gave a slight nod. "Yes. That's everything I needed."

"I see."

Hearing his reply, Maya's gaze drifted downward, a quiet ache settling in her chest. She had known this moment would come—had prepared herself, even. But knowing didn't make it easier. freёwebnovel.com

The completion of the potion signaled the end of his purpose here, and she understood what that meant: Astron would be leaving the city, continuing on his path, and she, in turn, would resume hers. She had resolved not to cling to these moments, to let him go with grace, but now, standing here, the reality was far more tangible than the calm acceptance she'd envisioned.

'So… it's really time,' she thought, a slight pang of regret rippling through her as she looked at him, his expression calm, collected, with the same steady composure he carried into everything he did.

Maya took a steadying breath, lifting her gaze back to him, her expression composed despite the quiet sadness lingering in her eyes. Though she wanted to prolong it a little more.

"Then….Let's leave."

Astron gave a small nod, acknowledging her unspoken desire to accompany him a little further. "All right," he replied, his voice steady as always. He moved toward the door, and Maya followed suit, a small flicker of relief settling within her. This walk to the station would give her a few more moments, a quiet farewell of sorts.

As they exited the alchemical lab, the attendant was waiting outside, her posture attentive and polite. Her gaze shifted to Astron, and a faint blush rose to her cheeks, lingering a second longer than necessary as she took in his strikingly sharp features.

Maya noticed the attendant's reaction and fought back a smirk. Astron's new look, combined with his intense, composed aura, certainly seemed to draw attention.

The attendant inclined her head respectfully, directing her attention back to Maya. "Lady Evergreen, thank you for your visit. Please feel free to return at any time."

Maya nodded with quiet assurance, her expression calm but friendly. With her family's connection to the establishment, no transaction was required; the shop's relationship with the Evergreen family ensured that Maya and her guests were always taken care of.

Without further words, the attendant stepped aside, offering a final respectful bow as she escorted them toward the exit. Maya could feel her lingering gaze on Astron as they moved out of sight, but she resisted the urge to comment. As they stepped into the open air, the cool breeze of the city greeted them, carrying with it the sounds of distant chatter and footsteps.

They started toward the train station, the city streets alive with people going about their daily routines.

Maya walked beside him, savoring these quiet, final moments, the unspoken understanding between them a comfort as they made their way through the bustling heart of the city.

As they walked together toward the train station, Maya felt an inexplicable tension rising within her. It was a quiet, persistent sense of foreboding, as though her instincts were whispering a warning she couldn't ignore. Somehow, she knew Astron would face danger again—greater than anything he'd encountered before. The thought unsettled her, and before she could stop herself, she glanced at him and spoke.

"You're going to put yourself in danger again, aren't you?" Her voice was soft, but there was a note of worry underlying her words.

Astron looked at her, his expression composed but carrying a certain unyielding certainty. "One's life is always at risk as long as they are weak," he replied calmly. "I believe you know that as well, Senior."