It wasn't difficult to learn how the system worked here within our group.
Much like the food or popularity chain back on earth, one had to be familiar with where they stood to act accordingly. This meant I couldn't just suddenly take charge like how I was used to ordering my party members back in the guild.
That didn't mean I was going to let myself be flat-out bossed around, either.
Everyone kept up a steady stream of chat every time we chose to stop and set up camp to rest for a while. Seriousness was displayed during the exploring and fighting itself, but the atmosphere was amicable for the most part.
Still, though, it was quite apparent that the Magic Guild had taken a liking to Jung Hayan, while the people from the Red Mercenary Guild had warmed up to me.
This meant that I could also utilize the Magic Guild members to stand by our side should conflict ever arise within the group thanks to Jung Hayan.
"It seems like your potion could be as efficient as divine magic, Mr. Kiyoung."
"That's an overstatement. Please, lower your voice. I don't want to offend any of the priests."
"Honestly speaking, your magic power doesn't seem to be that big. So then, how...?"
"Ah, that kind of feels a little insulting."
"I'm sorry for the rude greeting. I'm just your typical wizard who got a little too curious."
"Haha, it's fine. To answer your question, there are drawbacks to memorizing or uttering spells, for it takes some time to activate them. However, if you have a good catalyst, you can use magic with good efficiency."
"Efficiency means..."
"With less magic power, you can complete skills or spells with just as much impact."
"Ah!"
"Of course, it doesn't mean that this doesn't come with its own drawbacks. The catalyst cost to memorize spells is quite expensive."
"Do you have any idea about how much it will cost?"
"It's about 30 gold. It mainly uses the essence of magic power."
"Ah! The essence of magic."
"Yeah. The cost of the essence of using lesser magic is 30 gold."
I could see the surprise in the man's expression. At the same time, I could also see him steadily losing his interest in his inquiry.
It was a natural reaction. To make up for the lack of magic power, one had to spend 30 gold every time they intended to cast a magic spell with a good amount of impact.
Of course, this wasn't a problem for me. The Blue Guild supported me, and I still had many of the things that Cha Hee-ra had gifted me.
"I can't say it's definitely efficient. So, by any chance, will the Essence of Magic Power of Rare Grade or higher disappear once you use it?"
"Yes."
"That's a little disappointing."
"If there is an essence that can extract magical power indefinitely, that'll be the Sage's Stone."
"Sage's Stone. Ah, yes, the Sage's Stone..."
Wizards and sorcerers thrived on these types of topics.
"Can you make it?"
"The book I'm currently studying only briefly mentions it. Even research hasn't been done properly yet. I don't have enough to go on as it is, but one day, I shall definitely craft one."
