Amari could no longer hold back his frustration. “Mikayla, do you have any shame at all? I taught you everything you know about alchemy in the first place. How dare you claim that Theon was the one who taught you?”

Mikayla remained perfectly calm and smiled sweetly. “Mr. Goodman, I’m not sure what you’re referring to. As I recall, I was actually expelled from your instruction. After I began studying under Mr. Orbem, my alchemy skills progressed remarkably fast. If you’re trying to take credit for my growth, I’m afraid I can’t agree with that.”

Amari’s chest heaved with renewed anger. This version of Mikayla disgusted him more than ever. How had he not seen through her manipulative nature earlier? Here he was, at his age, being played like a fool by her games. The burning frustration in his chest felt nearly unbearable.

Andrew, however, had already returned his full attention to his meal. “Amari, finish eating, and let’s head back. This afternoon, we still need to refine three more ninth-grade supreme elixirs to finish the job.” He waved dismissively. “Don’t waste time on other people. If they want a mentor, that’s their business. Everyone should mind their own business, and some people just aren’t worth arguing with.”

Amari nodded repeatedly. “You’re right, Andrew.” He moved quickly, and within minutes, he finished eating. After that, they cleaned up and left.

Theon’s expression churned with unease; he had just heard that those two were going to refine ninth-grade supreme elixirs. He wanted those too.

Mikayla ground her teeth silently. If she could attach herself to Andrew, then maybe, with a little charm or scheming, she could secure a ninth-grade supreme elixir to boost her standing or use as the Owens family’s secret trump card.

The more she thought about it, the more she hated Andrew. If she could not have what he had, she vowed to try to ruin him.

At that moment, Luna stood and walked after Andrew.

Theon was startled. “General Phelan, what are you doing?”

Mikayla also rushed up. “General Phelan, please wait.”

Luna didn’t even glance back. “I appreciate both of your kindness, truly. However, I’ve already made my decision regarding who will teach me.” She did not specify who had earned her choice, but it was obvious to everyone what her actions implied. By following Andrew, she was making her intention unmistakably clear.

Theon’s face flushed with rage as he shot to his feet abruptly. “It seems I’ll have to make arrangements. Those two can’t be allowed to stay at Sovereign’s Apothecary any longer, especially that brat Andrew.”

Mikayla’s eyes lit up with interest as she picked up on his meaning. “Mr. Orben, what are you planning?”

Theon smiled coldly. “Direct confrontation won’t work. That brat is fearless and far too strong. We’ll need to apply external pressure instead through outside forces.”

Mikayla’s eyes brightened as she understood his implication. “I see… You’re talking about the Divine Alchemists.”

Theon remained silent, but his cold smirk spoke volumes.

Back at the courtyard, Amari had just turned to close the gate behind them when he noticed Luna and Leslie following closely behind. They appeared ready to step inside.

Leslie smiled apologetically as she approached. “Mr. Goodman, if you could wait just a moment. General Phelan would like to come in.”