Ian tensed. 'This woman is no simpleton. Her intuition is sharp.'
He dropped the pretense and said directly, "Lady Mira, I do indeed need some rarer materials. I intend to try refining a higher-level potion and improve my skills.
I heard you have special connections and might be able to help."
"Oh? Tell me, what materials are you looking for?" Mira seemed to have taken an interest.
Ian took a deep breath and slowly listed off the names. "Starlight Vine Marrow Crystal, Moon Soul Essence, Silver Soul Grass Pollen, Extract of the Bark of the Ancient Tree of Life, and Calm Heart Spring Water."
With every name Ian spoke, Mira's deep purple eyes flickered. Once he had finished, a faint, unreadable smile played on her lips.
"The Concentration Potion... I'm surprised you know the recipe, let alone that you're trying to gather the ingredients."
Her tone was unreadable. "You're quite ambitious, young man."
