I watch Jasper Finch's trembling hands as he stares at me with something approaching reverence. The old herbalist looks like he's seen a ghost.
"Do you know alchemy?" he whispers again.
"Answer my question first. Where can I find an alchemic stove?"
Jasper swallows hard. His Adam's apple bobs visibly in his throat.
"True alchemic stoves are... they're legendary artifacts, sir. Most people don't even believe they exist anymore."
"But you do."
"My family has been in the traditional medicine business for six generations. My grandfather used to tell stories about the old masters. The ones who could refine miraculous pills."
He moves closer, lowering his voice as if sharing a sacred secret.
"There's an auction in five days. The Celestial Pavilion Auction House. They're rumoring that someone will be selling a genuine Fire Phoenix Stove from the Ming Dynasty."
"Fire Phoenix Stove?"
