Chapter 191

Aria Bennett got straight to the point.

"I have several ancient medicinal recipes that can produce vitality-boosting elixirs, but they require high-quality, aged herbs."

"I'd like to make an exchange with the Apothecary Hall."

Dean Laurent's eyes lit up. "What kind of elixirs?"

Aria took out a porcelain vial and handed it to him. "Vitality Elixir. It regulates the body and prolongs life."

The dean's hand trembled slightly.

He carefully poured out a pill onto a white porcelain dish, examining it closely.

"May I study this? If it proves effective, the Apothecary Hall would be willing to negotiate."

Aria nodded readily. "You can keep these two as samples."

She knew firsthand experience was necessary to believe in its potency.

After leaving the Apothecary Hall, the production crew moved to the Tea Hall.

Aria and Damian Cross's tea ceremony performance dazzled the audience, effortlessly earning them entry qualifications.

Back at the inn, Silas Kane sent her an invitation.

At the bookstore café, Silas was sipping coffee while reading—a scene that momentarily transported Aria back to their youth.

"What did you want to talk about?" she asked, taking a seat.

Silas slid a cup of coffee toward her. "Can't old friends catch up?"

Aria took a sip. It still tasted the same as she remembered.

After reminiscing, Silas suddenly asked, "Do you have a grudge against Serena Blake?"

Aria arched a brow. "Did she ask you to target me?"

"She wants me to pursue you, then publicly humiliate you," Silas admitted bluntly.

Aria smirked. "Sounds like her style. Did you agree?"

"Only on the surface," Silas said seriously. "Be careful with her—she's dangerous."

Aria met his gaze directly. "What's your relationship with her?"

Silas averted his eyes. "Some things... I can't explain."

"But I would never help her hurt you," he vowed solemnly.

Aria changed the subject. "How much do you know about your own condition?"

Silas countered, "What have you noticed?"

"That curse you're under—are you aware of it?"

His pupils contracted slightly. "You can even see that?"

Aria lifted her chin proudly. "I'm a top-tier metaphysician."

Silas chuckled. "Still as confident as ever."

Aria studied him meaningfully. "But you've changed so much."

Silas smiled bitterly. "Some changes... weren't by choice."

The melancholy in his eyes made Aria's chest tighten.