Chapter 138: Professor Jezebyra’s ’Assistant’ (3)
"Grind this further."
"You need to mix this thoroughly, to the point that the mixture is completely smooth, even with this powder."
"No no no, the liquid is boiled first and then you pour that into it, not the other way around. If you pour that in first and then boil it the whole thing will explode."
One after another Professor Jezebyra pointed out my mistakes or missteps, breaking down my confidence and causing me to question everything; she never accused me of anything, nor did she berate me, but it was embarrassing to make so many mistakes in front of her after being the one to ask to be here.
"Hey Natalie, snap out of it. I’m not telling you that you’re doing bad, I’m just pointing out where you need to improve. Only one of those things was actually dangerous..."
Her tone never became heavy or pointed when she spoke to me, and if anything she was making the effort now to soften it as she awkwardly pat my shoulders in an attempt to cheer me up, which was somewhat helpful.
"The more into your own head you get the more mistakes you’re liable to make. So just... breathe. Take a moment, calm yourself. We have a minute before the potion is boiling, and after that we get to the steps that need to be done quickly."
I nodded and took a few deep breaths, trying to calm myself yet only finding myself wondering if I would mess something up in this rapid fire portion of the recipe, though after a few moments more I just tried to steel myself.
Professor Jezebyra continued to awkwardly rub my shoulders as she stood behind me, watching the potion atop the flame and keeping track of the time while also hoping that I would come out of this mood of mine quicker than the potion’s boiling point.
"We have everything ready, right..? Portioned out and within reach?"
The Eclipse Elf hummed softly in my ears and nodded, still right behind me as she murmured "Everything is done and ready, Natalie. We both made sure of that.
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