Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2538

"But what is it, Mr. Orben? Please speak freely," Melvin said.

Theon pretended to hesitate. Then, he explained, "It's just that Sovereign's Apothecary is now under the authority of Mr. Titus Sterling from the Divine Alchemists. While I'm the chief alchemist and hold considerable influence, Mr. Sterling's opinion carries greater weight. Whatever happens, I'll still need his approval first."

Melvin frowned. "Titus Sterling? I've heard of him. He's the one managing Sovereign's Apothecary on behalf of the Divine Alchemists, right? I've also heard he's quite the stubborn man, unyielding once he's made a decision."

Theon nodded. "Exactly. If the Webster family decides not to renew the contract with Sovereign's Apothecary, then Ms. Webster might face some… complications in joining us. That's just the reality."

Melvin's brows furrowed slightly, while Helda spoke calmly, "Melvin, maybe we should just continue working with Sovereign's Apothecary this year for Maddie's sake."

Melvin shook his head. "Mom, I originally agreed to renew the partnership too. But Maddie insisted she could handle the family's potion supply through her own channels and at a much lower cost. That's why I listened to her."

Theon immediately seized the moment. "Oh no, Mr. Webster, that's not quite right. You yourself said Ms. Webster hasn't been involved in worldly affairs for years. How could she possibly know the current market?

"Right now, Sovereign's Apothecary dominates the entire Chetvine region. Many of the noble houses and even royal families work exclusively with us. So really, there's no need for the Webster family to exhaust itself. Our prices and quality will absolutely satisfy you."

Melvin hesitated, clearly torn.

Helda finally said, "Someone, go call Maddie. I want to hear her opinion."

But now things were different. He was famous, respected, and a master of his craft, while she had long faded into obscurity within her family residence.

The thought filled Theon with a strange excitement, his old admiration sparking back to life. Seeing his youthful crush again when he finally had power and prestige stirred something deep inside him, like a second spring waiting to bloom.

Helda smiled warmly. "Maddie, meet Mr. Theon Orben. You two share the same craft, after all."

Melvin added with a grin, "Yes, Maddie. Mr. Orben is an eighth-grade divine alchemist and currently the chief alchemist of Sovereign's Apothecary. The Divine Alchemists hold him in high regard."

Before Madeline could even bow, Theon waved his hand and chuckled modestly. "Oh, please, you flatter me too much. When Ms. Webster first made her name in the field, I was still a nobody with nothing to show for myself."