Concocting

Emery entered the second exam room with a determined intent to secure a perfect mark. As he stepped inside, the sight of the 15 judges, a mix of masters and grandmasters, awaited him in a line. Alongside Grandmaster Hazard, another familiar face caught his attention—her friend, Karin, the prodigious apothecary who had earned her master title just the previous year. Her silent cheer conveyed hope for Emery's success in the upcoming trial.

Unlike the written exam, Emery felt a surge of confidence rather than anxiety.

As he observed the other participants embarking on the intricate process of concocting the tier 6 [Soul Strengthening Pill], his spirit reading ability allowed him to perceive the nuances of their actions. It was as if he could peer through the cauldron and witness the delicate dance of ingredients within, discerning each participant's technique and spotting any potential mistakes.