The sound of grinding mortar and pestles, crackling flames, and bubbling cauldrons filled the massive coliseum.
A storm of motion overtook the stage as pill refiners and potion brewers sprang into action, hands moving swiftly and precisely as they were the most talented to be chosen as Personal Disciples.
Lassim's storm-filled eyes flicked across the competitors, watching them settle into their process. From his position in the VIP box, he could already tell—this was a high-pressure battle, just like any martial tournament. It was his first time watching a competition like this for alchemy, so he was eagerly observing all of the different disciples working at their stations.
Niko, from his vantage point above the contestants, spoke loudly as his voice carried effortlessly over the roaring crowd, "And they're off! The competitors have begun their refinement processes, and already we can see some vastly different approaches! Let's take a look!"