Intermediate apprentices, due to their broadened horizons and deepened knowledge, can quickly grasp low-level spells and nearly harmless magical tricks without expending too much time or effort. Heeding his mentor Mosido's advice, Saine had consciously chosen only a few practical low-level spells over the past three years. Mastering multiple spells had finally earned him the rightful title of "mage." Alongside his studies in magic and alchemy, Saine even found time to learn the improved version of nutritional potions and some introductory pharmacology from Meili.
The cluttered laboratory was tidied up in less than half an hour with the combined efforts of Saine and his senior sister, Faye. As a full-fledged mage, Mosido's experiments were far more complex and large-scale than Saine's. Over the years, Saine had assisted Mosido in crafting numerous alchemical items—most of which weren't standalone equipment but specialized magical devices. Though Saine didn't know their exact purpose, his intuition as an alchemy apprentice told him these devices likely functioned as a set, meant to be used in combination.
After cleaning up, Faye wiped the sweat from her forehead with her fair wrist, panting slightly. Her physical stamina paled in comparison to Saine's. Just one night of experiments and half an hour of tidying had exhausted her, while Saine remained unfazed. Given his current state, he could easily work another full day without issue.
What a sturdy little guy, Faye mused, eyeing Saine as he finished the last touches on the workbench.
"Have you thought about what I mentioned last week?" Faye suddenly asked, resting her chin on her hands.
The question made Saine visibly uncomfortable. Over the years, Faye had indeed taken good care of him, but the request she'd brought up a week ago…
His hesitation drew a light scoff from Faye. "What, do you think I'm not good enough for you?" she teased. "Or are you just worried your little girlfriend will find out? We can always keep it quiet."
Saine's forehead beaded with sweat. A week ago, Faye had abruptly proposed spending a night with him to "experience the vigor of youth." The suddenness of her request had left him utterly dumbfounded. Perhaps sensing her own abruptness, she had quickly changed the subject and told him to think it over. Now, after a week of silence, Saine had assumed it was just a joke—only for her to bring it up again today.
Faye maintained herself well, appearing no older than her twenties, with fair skin that carried a milky fragrance when one got close. But her true age was certainly far from what she projected. Mages had their ways of preserving youth and even extending lifespans. Mosido and their senior brother Zorro were prime examples of male mages who cared little for appearances—a common trait among their kind, who were either obsessed with knowledge and power or wholly absorbed in experiments and meditation. Female mages, however, paid meticulous attention to their skin, teeth, hair, and even nails. Faye was no exception. Saine knew she had studied pharmacology solely to concoct potions for maintaining her skin and figure—nutritional potions were merely a byproduct of that pursuit, judging by their bizarre taste and questionable recipes. Even the usually aloof Lina occasionally dabbed in the skincare potions Meili gifted her. Beauty seemed an innate obsession for most female mages.
As for Faye's real age, Saine suspected she was well past forty. He'd learned his lesson the hard way when he once dared to ask—her scolding had been fierce.
His silence and hesitation only made Faye grit her teeth in frustration. Though not inexperienced—having been with Lina—Saine was utterly clueless when it came to navigating such situations. This dilemma fell far outside the scope of his magical studies. Should he let things unfold naturally, as they had with Lina? Or should he coldly reject her, as he had with the novice apprentice Tandy years ago? Given their close relationship, he couldn't possibly treat Faye the same way. Yet the idea of crossing that line with her felt too abrupt—their bond didn't seem to warrant it.
While Saine agonized over his indecision, Faye had no patience for hesitation.
"Hmph. You're getting the better end of the deal, you know," she said, rising to her feet and crossing her arms. "I've never been with anyone before. If it weren't for your looks and the fact that you've grown on me these past few years, I wouldn't have picked you."
Before Saine could respond, she delivered an ultimatum. "Come to my dorm in three days. You know where it is. If you don't show up, fine—but don't bother seeking me out afterward." With a final scoff, she turned and strode out of the lab, leaving Saine behind with a throbbing headache and utter bewilderment.
Honestly, is he really that dense? Or have I lost my charm? Faye fumed as she stepped out of Mosido's lab, pulling out a small enchanted mirror—a gift she'd wheedled out of Zorro. Unlike Saine, who was wholly absorbed in the mysteries of magic and elements, Faye occasionally indulged in more mundane concerns.
The reflection staring back at her was still youthful and radiant, with no obvious signs of aging. But Faye knew better. A faint crease had formed at the corner of her eye a month ago, stubbornly resisting every skincare potion and magical tonic she'd tried. Life and youth couldn't be bought with gold or magic—unless she ascended to the rank of a full mage, undergoing a fundamental life transformation. Until then, no amount of effort could reverse time; it could only slow the inevitable.
Might as well enjoy it while I'm still young. What's the point if I wait until I'm completely withered? she thought bitterly. But will I ever break through to full mage? I'm still so far from even becoming an advanced apprentice. Even if I do, the rejuvenation effects diminish with age…
Might as well give myself away sooner rather than later. Honestly, twenty years ago, the line of suitors in the Black Magic Academy could've filled an entire lecture hall. Poor Airon… Why did you have to die so soon? Out of all those fools, you were the only one I actually liked. But maybe it's for the best—otherwise, I wouldn't have met this handsome, steady junior of mine.
A sly smile curled her lips. Let's hope the little guy doesn't stand me up in three days. Hmph, at my age… is it so wrong to want to experience that at least once?
Her expression darkened as another thought crossed her mind. With a stomp of her heel, she muttered under her breath, "If he doesn't come, I'll just take him by force. That girlfriend of his is stronger than him anyway—maybe that's how they got together in the first place."