The Rise of a Master: It Starts With Rejection

"Why are you still standing there? Get lost!" Felix said.

Not daring to stay any longer, Jared bowed respectfully and retreated. He knew that staying would only lead to more humiliation.

"That slap made me like you even more," said Delilah, a smile spreading across her face. The more she looked at Felix, the more satisfied she felt. That decisive slap earlier had truly earned her favor.

To her, his actions were akin to alchemy. He knew exactly what to do at every step, acting with precision instead of hesitation. Without such quick thinking and composure, one could never hope to master the art of alchemy at its highest level.

Since she had already intervened, the initial two slaps clearly signaled that neither Jared nor his family were worth her time. With that assurance, Felix had no reason to fear or worry anymore.

"Thank you for coming, Madam Goddard. Please, come inside. I have something I'd like to discuss with you."

Felix was well aware that Jared wouldn't let this go easily, but he was absolutely safe within the city. As for outside the city? He almost hoped Jared would try something there. Who'd live or die in that scenario was anyone's guess.

Once indoors, Felix spoke earnestly, "I'm willing to become your apprentice, ma'am. But I do have one condition. I know it might seem like I'm overstepping, but I have my reasons. I hope you'll understand."

Delilah was already in a good mood. "Go ahead. Speak your mind."

"I hope that for now, only the two of us will know about me becoming your apprentice. No announcements, and no grand ceremony."

Felix's modesty was almost too much. Delilah had originally planned to host a grand apprentice induction ceremony, inviting all the prominent figures in Martial City. But instead, he made this unexpected request.

"Alright. I agree. After all, it's only a matter of time before this becomes known."

Felix was overjoyed. Just as Nala had said, Delilah was genuinely a good person.

In the simplicity of his little home, Felix officially became Delilah's apprentice, and Delilah became his second mentor.

"My dear apprentice," Delilah said warmly, "when you're ready to share your story, tell me anything, no matter how difficult. I'll always be on your side."

Felix was deeply moved. Delilah truly respected him.

"Thank you for your understanding, Madam Goddard."

Although Delilah held a lofty status, the Maximus family and the Grand Elder were not to be

underestimated. He would have to understand his situation better to decide whether or when to disclose his situation.

"Now that you're my apprentice," she continued, "there's no need for you to visit Harmony Clinic every day to read alchemy books.

"Take this. It's the culmination of my life's work in alchemy. I even had a master craftsman turn it into a semi-artifact. While it doesn't have any other functions, you can bond with t through blood and store it within your body." noveldrama

As Felix held the artifact, he felt its significant weight.

"I promise not to disappoint you, Madam Goddard. I'll do everything I can to live

up to your expectations."

One of life's major milestones had been achieved. Delilah hadn't laughed this much in decades, and why wouldn't she? She had gained

an apprentice with exceptionale

character, intelligence, and emotional sensitivity.

"Child, the path of alchemy is tedious and lonely. Once you embark on it, you

must stay committed. I've seen too many people give up halfway."

But Felix just smiled.

"I actually find it pretty fun, ma'am. Oh, by the way, let me tell you a little secret."

"A secret?" Delilah's curiosity was piqued.

"That basic pill for the assessment? I can make it in ten minutes."