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262 Words
13. The CEO's Pharmaceutical Trials
Yulia's 'care' had been dramatically upgraded since she 'rescued' Lu Chen from the 'electronic demon' attack. She was utterly convinced that Lu Chen's constitution was compromised by modern pollution and urgently needed restoration via ancient noble therapies.
"Servant, I have prepared the 'Elixir of Eternal Fire' for you. It will expel all mortal frailty from your body," Yulia proclaimed, pushing a bowl of deep green potion toward Lu Chen. It emitted a heavy, ancient herbal scent. Lu Chen’s lip twitched imperceptibly. He knew this was likely some kind of "alchemical residue" Yulia had brought from the ancient castle.
"Thank you, Mistress. The aroma... is truly ancient and powerful," Lu Chen managed to sound moved, even as his body instinctively recoiled.
Yulia nodded, satisfied. "Of course. It was brewed for forty-nine days using Night Thistle and Morning Dew, purified by ancient incantations. You must drink all of it."
While Yulia turned to check the "safety of the dwelling" (i.e., making sure the kerosene lamp was still flickering), Lu Chen, with his CEO-level reflexes, discreetly poured the potion into a potted plant he kept nearby for camouflage.
However, three days later, the once-thriving pothos plant was completely withered and shriveled, as if attacked by some terrifying corrosive liquid.
Yulia, instead of being alarmed, grew more resolute: "See, Servant? Your mortal weakness has been drawn out by the elixir and absorbed by the plant. Henceforth, you shall possess fleeting health." Lu Chen looked at the 'sacrificed' pothos and, for the first time, felt a slight concern for his own well-being.
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