Chapter 17: Lia

"It's fine, you're from the Whale Hunters Guild?"

Ian's expression grew serious, forcing himself to shift his focus from her figure and the scar on her face. It would have been disrespectful to linger on those details.

"Yes," Lia replied, a small smile playing at the corner of her lips, her voice steady and confident despite her slightly accented Common. "I'm Lia, a councilor of the Whale Hunters at Heaven's Port, and I also manage operations here at Ocean's Breath."

Lia's voice was pleasant to the ear, and Ian found himself liking it. She carried herself with an air of grace and composure, which only added to her charm.

"Greetings, Ms. Lia. My name is Tryst, from Storm's Edge. I heard news of a new continent discovered to the south, and I'm planning to investigate it."

Ian smiled warmly, making up the story on the spot. After all, he intended to go there eventually, so the lie wasn't a stretch.

"There is indeed a new land to the south," Lia confirmed, her tone turning more serious. "But the latest news is that the God's Blessing Empire from the West has sent a new fleet of steam warships to claim the new continent. It's best to avoid the seas south of Devil's Island for now, as the war might affect the region."

The information made Ian feel much better, and his smile widened involuntarily.

No wonder the Second Prince was in such a hurry to head south after receiving Storm's Edge—it wasn't just for exploration. He probably feared others would get there first and claim everything before he even had a chance.

"Thank you, Ms. Lia, for this valuable information. It's very helpful," Ian said, determined to return the favor.

"I'm an alchemist. I've just crafted a batch of weapon enhancement oil. Perhaps we could collaborate?"

Weapon enhancement oil was a consumable, one that even regular adventurers could use—provided they were wealthy enough. Ian was confident there was a strong market for it, especially since not everyone could afford magic-infused weapons. He figured it was worth a shot, especially after their pleasant exchange.

With a flick of his hand, Ian used his magic to gently float the jar of enchanted oil toward Lia.

Lia's eyes widened in surprise. Weapon enhancement oil was one of the newest products developed by the Alchemists' Guild and had become all the rage across the Miracles Sea over the past couple of years. It required a considerable amount of spiritual energy to craft, and even low-tier alchemists would struggle to create more than five pounds of the stuff—usually of middling quality. And when it came to recharging their spiritual energy, alchemists often had to meditate for an entire day.

As a result, only a few alchemists specialized in its production, making the product relatively rare. It was a fast-moving consumable, often in high demand, and if the quality was as good as Ian's, she'd be thrilled.

Lia carefully took the jar, popped the lid, and immediately froze in awe. Her eyes widened, her mouth slightly agape, and she handled the jar with utmost care, as if afraid it might shatter.

Behind her, Damir, who had been silent until now, also stared in astonishment. He quickly stepped closer to Lia and squinted, sensing the magic emanating from the jar.

Ian couldn't help but smile to himself. His instincts had been right—his skills were top-tier!

Alchemy was a complex science, and even highly skilled alchemists often struggled to produce superior-quality low-tier potions. The secret lay in spiritual energy. Spiritual energy was innate, and while extraordinary individuals could enhance its quality and quantity, its fundamental traits were difficult to alter significantly.

Only by controlling and guiding the alchemical process on a microscopic level—optimizing the properties of the materials—could the highest-grade potions be crafted. Some rare sorcery could even replace certain unique traits of spiritual energy, but Ian's growing control over his own spiritual energy meant he could now create some truly exceptional results.

"I can tell this is Formula II. May I try it?" Lia asked, her voice soft but eager.

Formula II? Ian was a bit surprised—she'd already used it before. He nodded and gestured for her to proceed.

"Feel free."

Lia subtly signaled Damir, who quickly drew his sword. With a flick of his hand, he picked up a small amount of the oil and applied it to the edge of his blade, then gently swung it through the air, closing his eyes to focus and channel his combat energy into the weapon.

A few minutes later, the sword still glowed faintly where the oil had been applied, its sheen undiminished.

"Please don't mind me, Mr. Tryst. This is the first time we've come across such high-quality weapon enhancement oil," Lia chuckled, her lips curving in a smile as she carefully replaced the lid.

Ian couldn't help but feel pleased. It seemed his work had exceeded even her expectations.

"I'm glad you like it. I've heard there's a strong demand for this type of product," he said, pleased with the outcome.

Lia's smile faded slightly, but she quickly recovered, her demeanor warm. "The Whale Hunters Guild has the resources and a strong desire to collaborate with you, Mr. Tryst. We have a meeting room upstairs. Would you be willing to join me for a conversation?"

"Of course, I'd be happy to," Ian replied, his tone sincere.

The two made their way upstairs to the sixth floor, which was an exclusive space for the Whale Hunters. Inside a cozy lounge area with a small bar, a handful of superhumans chatted casually, sipping drinks and relaxing. The atmosphere seemed warm and lively.

Lia led Ian through the room toward a hallway at the far end, and as they passed, a few of the patrons whistled.

"Whoa, Lia's finally got herself a lover, huh?" one of them teased.

"Not bad, not bad. I approve of this one," another chimed in.

Ian didn't mind. The teasing was lighthearted, and the people didn't seem to mean anything malicious by it. It was clear the Whale Hunters Guild had a good, easygoing vibe.

"Shut up, all of you. This is a distinguished guest," Lia called over her shoulder, her tone playful but firm. "If you keep it up, I'll have you thrown out!"

Ian chuckled to himself at the exchange. Lia shot him an apologetic glance, but he merely smiled and waved it off, indicating he didn't mind.

At the end of the hallway, they entered a small meeting room. Lia and Ian sat across from each other at a long table, with the jar of weapon enhancement oil placed in the center. Damir stayed behind in the lounge, not following them.

"So, Mr. Tryst, how do you envision our collaboration?" Lia asked, her tone professional but warm.

"No need for formalities," Ian replied with a smile. "Just call me Tryst. And call me a friend, no matter how our collaboration turns out."

Lia smiled softly. There was something interesting about the way he spoke. Ian was a unique individual, and her sharp spiritual sense told her that while there was desire in his gaze, he still treated her with respect and equality—a rare thing even within the Whale Hunters Guild. Most people couldn't manage that balance.