The possibility that the 'fantastical' ingredients might actually exist sent a jolt through Liam. He
stared at Anya's message, then at Fae Willow, a new hypothesis forming in his mind, one that
utterly shattered his carefully constructed scientific worldview. Could it be… that the 'Conclave
of Arcane Lore' wasn't entirely made up? Could these people actually be… cultivators?
He quickly typed a reply to Anya: "Anya, I don't have samples. But if I happen to stumble upon
any, I'll let you know. Is this Dr. Vance seriously interested?"
Anya Reed: "Absolutely! She practically squealed when I mentioned the names. She thinks it
might be a new botanical discovery. She's even offered to cover any costs associated with
acquiring samples, within reason, of course. For science!"
Liam's mind reeled. His cousin, a sensible medical student, and her professor, a renowned
botanist, were taking these 'fantasy' ingredients seriously. This meant the line between his
mundane reality and the Conclave's mystical world was far blurrier than he'd imagined.
He turned to Fae Willow. "Fae Willow, those plants from Apothecary's elixir recipe, like the
Mystical Morning Dew Herb and Solar Blaze Bamboo… do you know where I might find them?"
Fae Willow looked up, surprised. "Those are quite rare, Liam. They grow only in places with
abundant spiritual energy. The Spirit Isles, for instance, are teeming with them. Why do you
ask?"
Liam hesitated, then decided to be as direct as possible. "My cousin's professor, a botanist, is
very interested in them for research. She believes they might be undiscovered species."
Fae Willow: "Oh? A mortal scholar interested in our mystical flora? That is most unusual," she
mused, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. "Well, if your cousin's professor wishes to study them, I
could perhaps procure some for her when I return to the Spirit Isles."
Liam's eyes widened. "You mean… you can actually go to the Spirit Isles? It's a real place?"
Fae Willow: "Of course it's real! It's my home!" she replied, a gentle smile playing on her lips, as
if he'd just asked the most obvious question in the world. "I live there with my father."
Liam felt a dizzying sensation. His rational world was crumbling around him. He had been so
convinced these were just elaborate role-players.
Just then, his phone chimed again. It was a private message from Lord Obsidian.
Lord Obsidian: "Elder Liam, your appearance has stirred a ripple in fate. I have just concluded
another divination, and it confirms your deep connection to the Conclave. A significant destiny
awaits you. I shall share a piece of ancient lore with you: 'When the veiled pathways align, and
the spirit resonates with the ancient call, the gate to the Hidden Realms shall open.'"
Liam stared at the message, utterly bewildered. Was Lord Obsidian still going on about his
divinations? But after hearing Fae Willow, and Anya's professor, suddenly these 'prophecies'
didn't seem quite so ridiculous.
A few more messages popped up in the group chat.
River North Wanderer: "Elder Liam, I have heard from Fae Willow that you are a recluse. It is
truly an honor to have you among us. Your wisdom is much anticipated!"
Blade of the Madman: "Elder Liam, are you truly skilled in charming maidens? The Lord of the
Spirit Isles is relentless! He has compiled a list of 'proper maiden interaction guidelines' for me!
It is torture! Save me!"Liam decided to address the Madman's plea, hoping to divert attention from himself. "Madman,
perhaps the Lord of the Spirit Isles is merely trying to help you refine your approach. Patience is
a virtue, even in the pursuit of affection." He winced as he typed it. He was now fully immersed,
playing along with their 'game.'
Blade of the Madman: "Elder Liam, your wisdom truly shines! But his 'refinement' is a cruel
torment! He makes me practice polite conversation with a scarecrow for hours!"
Liam nearly laughed out loud. This was too much.
Meanwhile, Fae Willow continued to search for information about Whispering Lantern Abbey on
Liam's computer, still with no success. As the night deepened, Liam's roommates eventually
retired for the night, leaving Liam and Fae Willow alone in the dorm.
"Fae Willow," Liam finally said, "it's getting late. Why don't you get some rest? You can use the
guest bed, or if you prefer, one of my roommates' beds; they won't be back until tomorrow
evening."
Fae Willow: "Thank you, Liam. I am truly grateful for your hospitality." She looked around the
dorm room. "I will rest for a while, then I must find a way to Port City. I cannot impose on you
indefinitely."
Liam nodded. "We'll figure it out tomorrow. Just get some rest for now." He provided her with a
spare blanket and pillow. Fae Willow, though still anxious about her mission, was relieved to
finally have a comfortable place to rest.
As Fae Willow settled down, Liam sent a final message to the Conclave of Arcane Lore.
Liam Stone (Scholar's Burden): "Goodnight, fellow cultivators."
He received a flurry of surprised and welcoming replies from the online members. He was truly
'in' now.