Chapter 58 Proactive Reconciliation

Chapter 58 Proactive Reconciliation

Zach was clearly taken aback when he saw me. He noticed me staring at the book in his hand and said with a hint of arrogance, "You want to read this book too? Too bad you're late. This is the library's only copy—there isn't another one in the entire building."

He paused briefly, then added, "But considering we competed against each other last time, I don't mind studying it together with you."

I smiled. "Sure, thanks a lot."

We found an empty spot and sat down side by side, spreading the book open between us.

Zach started the conversation. "Ever since our last competition ended, I've found potion fusion difficult but fascinating."

I nodded. "Exactly. That's probably what makes alchemy so uniquely fascinating."

The conversation paused there, leaving only the soft sound of turning pages around us.

A moment later, Zach's voice came with a hint of awkwardness. "I heard about what happened to you guys in the classroom today. Those troublemakers are my friends. I had no idea they would do something so terrible. I'm ashamed of their behavior."

There was obvious hesitation in Zach's words. I could tell he wanted to apologize on behalf of his companions, but his pride was holding him back.

I took the initiative and said, "They've already been punished by the academy. We can move past this."

Seeing Zach about to speak again, I continued, "I know you weren't involved in this. I won't hold you responsible. I've always judged things for what they are, without dragging others into it."

Zach visibly relaxed and steered the conversation back to potion fusion research.

As our discussion deepened, I became increasingly aware that my tie with Zach last time was purely due to luck. Zach was a recognized genius apprentice at Aethergate College of Magic. His understanding of alchemy and academic achievements far exceeded mine at this stage.

"I've completely mastered that fusion potion from our competition. The key to mixing it is controlling the sequence and rhythm of magical fusion. For some ingredient extracts, the concentration process isn't best done slowly—it actually needs to be sped up..."

Zach carefully shared his research experience and successful techniques with me. I listened attentively, jotting down key points. I learned a lot.

"I see. Your approach makes complete sense," I said.

After sharing, Zach pulled three vials of finished fusion potion from his storage pouch and handed them to me. "These are ones I made. They're for you. I hope they help you master this technique faster."

Surprised and delighted, I took them and carefully stored them away. "Thank you so much."

"It's nothing."

We hit it off. I never expected Zach to be so knowledgeable. Talking with him exposed me to many new research approaches and directions.

Zach turned a page of the book and mused quietly, "I've been thinking—since different alchemical potions can fuse with each other, could alchemy itself combine and coexist with other magical systems?"

The image of Tristan's alchemical mechanical arm fused with dark magic instantly flashed through my mind. Did he know the secret? Or was he deliberately testing me?

To be safe, I shook my head. "I'm just a first-year student. I haven't started systematic alchemy courses yet. I know nothing about this kind of advanced research."

Zach made a soft sound of acknowledgement and didn't seem suspicious at all. I relaxed and continued reading.

The entire afternoon of study flew by.

As dinner time approached, Zach extended an invitation. "Want to go to the dining hall together?"

After an afternoon of discussion, I found our philosophies on potion research aligned perfectly, and Zach's attitude toward me had become especially friendly.

Before I could respond, a cold voice cut in.

"No, we already made plans to eat together."

I turned to see Darius approaching me with a cold expression, naturally taking my hand.

Zach looked at Darius, then at me, and nodded slightly. "Alright then, I'll head over first." Before leaving, he looked at me. "Let's study together again next time."

I nodded in agreement, gathered my things, and left the library with Darius.

On the way back, Darius remained silent the whole time. I glanced at him and, after thinking for a moment, took the initiative to explain, "I came to the library to read today and happened to run into Zach, so we spent the afternoon studying alchemy together."

Darius nodded slightly. "I know you were just discussing academics, nothing else. Zach's talent is undeniable, and exploring studies with him is really helpful for your growth..." His hand holding mine tightened slightly. After a few seconds of silence, he admitted with a hint of grievance, "Okay, I'll admit it—I still feel a bit uncomfortable."

Seeing his awkward yet sincere expression, my heart melted. I smiled and gently reassured him. "Zach's talent is really strong, but in my heart, you're the most special and most amazing person."

"But I use dark magic."

"Dark magic has never been a sin. You've never used it to do anything bad."

I knew Darius always felt inferior because of his dark magic attribute. I squeezed his hand and said seriously, "You've used dark magic to save me multiple times and protected everyone. In my heart, no one can replace you."

Darius's eyes instantly softened. Just as he was about to respond, a figure came rushing toward us.