Louis sighed softly, as if in regret, yet seemingly unsurprised: "Then there's no rush. You focus on other things first. When the conditions are ripe next year, we'll discuss sampling again. Red Tide City has plenty of alchemy materials and manpower."
His tone softened, becoming gentle: "I will prepare a laboratory, assistants, and resources for you. Here, you can continue your research without constraints. Red Tide respects knowledge and those who allow knowledge to blossom."
Merian listened, but hardly absorbed a word.
At this moment, his mind was filled with only one thought—to survive. As long as he wasn't thrown into the sea, he would nod and agree to anything.
He repeatedly agreed, bending slightly, as if afraid his voice might provoke the other.
Louis looked at him, smiled slightly: "Go rest, Master Merian. There's no rush with the experiments."
Once the door closed, Merian's shoulders finally relaxed, as if all his energy had been drained.
