Birk, well aware of Meldrick’s sentiments, observed thetter’s displeased countenance and knew


    that Meldrick was deeply unsettled. However, he paid little mind to Meldrick’s frustration because


    his talents were still rather ordinary. Furthermore, Severin’s alchemical prowess was remarkable,


    even surpassing that of the two grand elders, while Meldrick had no aptitude for alchemy


    whatsoever.


    Meldrick sat down beside Birk. He had been promoted to protector a few days ago, and it was


    supposed to be a cause for joy. However, his mood has plummeted since then.


    After a moment of contemtion, he began, “T’d like to express some of my concerns about Sofia


    marrying an unaffiliated practitioner. Wouldn’t it be more appropriate for her to marry a sect


    leader’s son or a gifted member of our sect? Aren’t you worried that her reputation might be in


    jeopardy after you allowed him to marry someone like that?”


    Birk’s silence prompted Meldrick to continue, “Worse still, that man already has two wives. Shell


    N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    just be another addition to his harem. Given her character and status, there’s no telling whether


    she would face hardships in the future.”


    Birk, however, wore a smile as he replied, “I’ve met him. His talent and character are indisputably good,


    while his attainment is alsomendably high. As a bonus, he is also a very aplished alchemist.”


    After pausing briefly, Birk added, “They have a rather harmonious rtionship as


    well, and I don’t foresee any discord among them. This, to me, is good enough.”


    After confirming the man’s identity, Meldrick inquired. “This young man is Severin, correct?”


    Birk nodded. “Yes. He’s a third–grade alchemist with astounding talent.”


    “Third–grade alchemist!” Meldrick’s expression soured upon learning that Severin was a third- grade


    alchemist. Severin’s attainment would probably be at least a level five or level six warrior emperor, so it


    was no wonder that Birk held him in such high regard.


    At that moment, Meldrick realized that he could not hope to keep pace with Severin’s aplishments


    despite his persistent efforts. Severin and Birk might be a third–grade low–rank or medium–rank


    alchemist, but Meldrick was at most a third–grade low–rank alchemist. Birk’s glee could be exined


    by the sheer number of third–grade low–rank pills that were given to him


    Meldrick could only smile wryly and make a respectful gesture toward Birk. “I understand I am in no


    position to say anything else if you are satisfied with him. He excels in almost every aspect


    fine.”


    He then turned around and left. Birk could only shake his head in resignation. Deep down, he


    knew that Sofia held no affection for Meldrick, and several members of neighboring sects were


    miles ahead of Meldrick in terms of talent and various other aspects. Meldrick’s affection for Sofia


    would remain unrequited forever, regardless of how much effort he put in to win her over.