Chapter 2246
Half an hour later, Andrew arrived at a very special place: Chetvineโs Sovereignโs Apothecary. This was the most prestigious, largest, and most elite pharmaceutical institution in all of Holtrien.
On paper, its shareholders looked complicated, with ties to the three royal families of Chetvine, several major clans, and even top brass from the military pulling strings from behind the curtain.
However, Andrew knew far more than most people did. The true power behind Sovereignโs Apothecary was controlled by the massive ancient sect known as the Divine Alchemists.
This Divine Alchemists organization was absolutely extraordinary. The arrogant Advanced Medical Institute was flashy enough, claiming to possess every medicine under heaven. Yet compared to the Divine Alchemists, that institute was nothing more than children playing with mud pies.
The current head of the Divine Alchemists ranked fourth on the Titan List, a figure with a fearsome reputation.
In short, Sovereignโs Apothecary was a towering giant that stood above all other forces in Chetvine. Every major power wanted to curry favor with them and get involved somehow. Pills and medicines were as essential to martial artists as money was to greedy misery. They were absolutely indispensable.
Some people joked that whoever controlled the Divine Alchemists could sweep through Holtrienโs entire martial world. Furthermore, they could claim dominance over all of Holtrien and become an uncrowned king ruling by martial might.
Though it was said in jest, anyone with insight knew this was actually true. Therefore, the Divine Alchemists held an unparalleled position domestically, earning respect and courtship from all sides. Just looking at the luxury cars packed outside the entrance gave a glimpse of their influence.
Andrew walked straight through the main door and stated his purpose. โPlease notify Madam Brielle Baxter that Iโd like to see her.โ
The receptionist, Whitney Knight, politely declined. โIโm sorry, sir, but Madam Baxter only meets with certified alchemists.โ
Andrew replied simply, โI am one.โ
Whitney looked surprised. โYouโre an alchemist, sir? What grade are you? If youโre below fifth grade, youโll need to make an appointment. Fifth-grade and above can see her without an appointment.โ
Andrew smiled. โWhat grade I am isnโt important. As long as itโs enough to meet Madam Baxter, thatโs all that matters.โ
Whitney shook her head. โSir, we need more than just your word. According to regulations, I need to verify your alchemist grade badge.โ
Andrew pulled out a sandalwood plaque. โGo ahead and check it, but please keep it confidential.โ
Whitney had initially thought Andrew was just another troublemaker trying to cause a scene. After all, countless people lined up every day hoping to meet the Sovereignโs Apothecaryโs director, and they would say anything to get in.
However, this man had actually produced a legitimate badge. Not daring to take any chances, she immediately examined it.
What she saw made her gasp in shock and nearly drop the badge.
โYouโre an eighth-grade divine alchemist? This isโฆ Iโm so sorry, sir. I truly apologize for earlier. If I offended you in any way, please accept my sincere apologies.โ
Andrew sighed helplessly. โI already asked you not to make a big deal about it. Now, please arrange for me to see Madam Baxter. Iโd prefer to keep things low-key.โ
Whitneyโs hands trembled as she returned the badge. โOf course, sir. It was my mistake. Please, this way.โ
Without stopping, she led him past the second-floor VIP area and continued all the way to the fourth floor. This spectacle amazed several people who witnessed it on the second and third floors.
Everyone knew the second floor was for receiving distinguished guests. The third floor was reserved for meetings with certified alchemists, and ordinary people were not allowed entry. The fourth floor was even more exclusive; only fifth-grade alchemists and above could set foot there.
Seeing Andrewโs unfamiliar and youthful face, some were in disbelief.
Could he already be a fourth-grade master? Some believed it, while others scoffed, convinced he was just another spoiled heir flaunting his family name.
โPlease wait here for a moment, sir. Iโll go notify Madam Baxter immediately.โ Whitneyโs respectful attitude was a complete turnaround from her initial reception.
After she left, Andrew looked around the fourth floor. Rows of window-side sofas were arranged throughout the space, with expensive tea, fruit, and cigars laid out. Everything was complimentary, but only a select few people were privileged enough to enjoy these amenities.
As Andrew found an empty seat and was about to sit down, a surprised voice suddenly called out.
โAndrew?โ