An Unfulfilled Promise - I

A deafening explosion reverberated through the alchemy workshop. 

Ansel couldn't help but laugh as he gazed at Ravenna through the thick fog, "The thirteenth failure. As I've mentioned, you're too hasty, Venna." 

With a flick of his fingers, he conjured a crystal-clear orb of water beside Ravenna.

"... At least, it eliminates another incorrect option." 

Her pretty face, smeared with soot, emerged from the smoke, and she expertly dove into the water orb.

"Sigh..." 

Ravenna gently shook her head, emerging from the water orb, her hands wiping her damp cheeks. Droplets of water, some clinging to her long eyelashes and others sliding down her delicate, fair face, made her appear like a fawn that had just quenched its thirst, albeit her expression was far from endearing.

"An in-depth study of the Universal Ether Furnace should only commence after you've reached the fourth stage."