I Just Wanted To Live but I Somehow Became Better Than the Protagonist

Combination Attack

“Young Master Ye, why not try refining some simple pills?” Ye Yong had not asked a single question throughout, and Xie Ming increasingly felt that he had a talent for alchemy.

—

“Junior has only just begun to dabble for a few hours… it’s better not to waste resources.” To Ye Yong, alchemy was a blend of chemistry and traditional medicine, but the actual process was far more intricate, enhanced by spiritual energy, resulting in all sorts of bizarre effects.

This was Ye Yong’s first encounter with a mystical knowledge without relying on external aids, so it felt quite refreshing. Unlike formations, which he had learned through external means, instantly acquiring both foundational and advanced knowledge, this time he lacked that gradual, step-by-step mastery of knowledge. Everything was suddenly poured into his mind, stripping away the mystery of exploration, as well as the sense of achievement and satisfaction that came with mastery.

“How could it be a waste? Every alchemist has gone through this.” Xie Ming chuckled, “Some people lack talent, so they burn through resources. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect; in the end, they still become alchemists, though their future achievements may not reach great heights. I observed that when Young Master Ye reads, he doesn’t show any confusion, so I assume he understands everything… Regardless, one must try everything to know if it suits them.”

“Indeed, Young Master Yong, since we’re here, let’s give it a shot.” Ye Gou also wanted to silently read several books, but he couldn’t manage it. He could understand every word, but when combined, the meaning eluded him, like reading a celestial script. His head throbbed, and he felt dizzy.

After all, Ye Gou didn’t have the foundational knowledge in physics and chemistry like Ye Yong; it was no different from a child who had just learned to read trying to grasp high school material—understanding was a stretch.

“Alright then, whatever herbs I use, I’ll make up for it with spirit stones later.” Ye Yong had a clear understanding of his own capabilities and didn’t think he was particularly impressive for grasping alchemy all at once. He treated it like a small scientific experiment; it was quite enjoyable as a pastime.

Ye Yong was polite in his demeanor, not at all overbearing, and didn’t take everything for granted. He was willing to cover the material costs, which Xie Ming greatly appreciated. As someone of his age, he had seen many so-called geniuses and prodigies, most of whom carried an attitude. But someone like Ye Yong, with a good attitude and high talent, was a first for him.

Perhaps this young man before him was truly favored by the heavens—capable and without flaws in character.

Xie Ming silently imagined a lot as he led Ye Yong and Ye Gou to the alchemy area.

Compared to the quiet, rarely visited library, there was no doubt that the alchemy area was much busier and noisier.

The first stop was the public alchemy zone, where disciples exchanged techniques and mentors openly taught. Further in were the independent alchemy rooms, categorized by the level of fire sources and alchemy furnaces.

The disciples in the public alchemy zone seemed somewhat distracted, gazing at a particular independent alchemy room, whispering and discussing among themselves. Ye Yong and the others’ arrival went unnoticed.

Xie Ming felt a bit puzzled, but Ye Yong had already guessed the reason. It was undoubtedly due to the protagonist, Long Tian.

“What’s going on? Not practicing alchemy, just slacking off here?” The elder’s question carried an underlying meaning. Xie Ming wouldn’t casually ask a disciple what was happening. By reprimanding them, he maintained his authority, instilling respect while also getting the information he wanted.

Sure enough, a few nearby disciples reacted quickly and hurriedly explained to Xie Ming, “Manager Xie, it’s like this. Manager Liu brought in a little ghost and even let him use the beginner-level alchemy room. We don’t know what that little ghost is doing in there… Oh? This junior brother looks familiar, but his appearance and aura… could it be Ye Yong from the Sound and Painting Hall?”

“That’s me. I’ve met you all.”

“Is it really Junior Brother Ye? Tsk tsk, others say so much about Junior Brother Ye, I didn’t believe it, but seeing you today, it’s truly well-deserved.”

“Why has Junior Brother Ye come to the Dan Fire Hall? Are you looking to join us?”

Alchemists were like scientists, deeply engrossed in their research on the path of alchemy, rarely paying attention to external matters. They had no idea what was happening outside the hall, only knowing that the manager brought in someone they hadn’t seen before, claiming he was a second-grade alchemist, and arranged for a decent alchemist to assist him.

Soon, everyone’s attention shifted entirely, discussing why Ye Yong appeared there, while Ye Gou was habitually ignored.

The villain’s aura clearly overshadowed the protagonist’s, and Ye Yong, who had just been discussing Long Tian, now found the reactions around him to be quite ordinary: “I’ve recently taken an interest in alchemy, so I came to take a look. If I’ve disturbed any of you seniors, I hope you’ll forgive me.”

“How could that be?” The male disciples need not speak, as the few female disciples in the Dan Fire Hall welcomed Ye Yong with open arms. Just as they were about to ask if he needed a tour, the stone door of a secluded alchemy room slowly opened, revealing an unremarkable young man, accompanied by a rich, fragrant aroma of pills wafting out.

“This scent… it can’t be wrong, it’s the Nourishing Spirit Pill!”

“So potent, it must be at least intermediate grade, right?”

“Did Manager Liu not say this kid was a second-tier alchemist? How did he produce a third-tier pill? And a difficult one at that, the Spirit Nourishing Pill?”

The protagonist had finished showing off, his aura soaring, while Ye Yong’s villainous presence was naturally suppressed, and everyone’s attention shifted back to Long Tian.

“I can’t believe this kid could make a Nourishing Spirit Pill; he must have bought it at a high price from outside, making a fuss inside, then tossed the purchased pill into the furnace to let the fragrance waft out, putting on a show.” A well-known detective voiced his reasoning.

“Exactly, I think so too.”

Many disciples switched to a mode of suspicion.

“How can you make such baseless claims?” Xie Ming frowned, clearly the type to appreciate the protagonist and willing to speak up for him, not just a bystander: “Three hours ago, he defeated Dian Hua in a pill contest.”

“Is that true!?” “No way?” “Manager Xie, are you joking?”

“Hmph!” Xie Ming snorted coldly: “Many people outside saw it; if you don’t believe me, you can go ask them.”

“We certainly believe Manager Xie, it’s just so unexpected…” The disciples’ gazes toward Long Tian shifted slightly.

From initial disdain to a hint of battle intent.

Indeed, there was no respect or admiration; even a first-tier alchemist felt that the guy before them was merely lucky, and in terms of strength, they could defeat him.

With a combination of intelligence-debuffing and taunting auras, how could a bystander withstand it? Ye Yong silently shook his head, but he dared not speak up for the protagonist, especially with Long Tian’s gaze still fixed on him.

Why is he staring at me? Trying to remember my face for future revenge?

Ye Yong’s body tensed up, and he couldn’t help but feel anxious.