Chapter 1357
Of course, Aspen was not about to share any of this with Lauren. If word got out, she would never be able to face anyone again.
The short break passed in a flash, and the host’s energetic voice boomed through the stadium once more. “Ladies and gentlemen, prepare yourselves! The final two rounds of the Grand Medical Summit are about to begin!” Thunderous applause and roaring cheers filled the arena. Tens of thousands of spectators leaned forward, eager to witness the final showdown.
Even Derek, a seasoned veteran who had seen countless high–stakes competitions, found himself clenching his fists in anticipation. After all, the next two rounds would decide the ultimate victor of the Grand Medical Summit.
The fame, honor, and tangible rewards awaiting the champion were immeasurable. Every past champion had gone on to become a legend in the medical world–none had ever faded into obscurity.
For example, the head of the Advanced Medical Institute has won the Grand Medical Summit three times in a row.
For the ninth round, the challenge was to prepare “The Golden Cure.” According to legend, this ancient formula was first conceived by the legendary physician, who is said to have received the recipe in a divine dream.
It was rumored to have the power to heal the gravely injured, even to regenerate flesh and bone. While the real thing might not be quite that miraculous, it was still considered one of the most potent restorative elixirs ever conceived.
Before Andrew, a massive assortment of herbs was laid out, enough to make any ordinary person’s head spin. Over a thousand different ingredients, each varying in color, texture, and aroma, created a chaotic, almost overwhelming scene.
The mix of potent herbal scents was so intense that even the front–row spectators felt a sudden wave of dizziness, their heads buzzing from the sheer sensory overload.
Preston and Clifford spoke up, their voices cold and solemn.
“The Golden Cure is one of the pinnacles of Holtrien medicine,” one of them announced.
“Let’s see what you can do. Remember, there is no ‘perfect’ Golden Cure, only a ‘better’ one. Throughout history, only a handful have ever managed to create a truly complete version of this elixir.”
“I’ll be generous–you don’t need to achieve perfection. If you can even reach half or two–thirds of that level, you’ll pass this round with flying colors.”
None of the three contestants moved.
Mosby and Thomas closed their eyes for a moment, focusing their breaths, centering their minds. Even for these seasoned masters, this round was a minefield–a single mistake could crush their hopes of advancing. They could not afford to be careless.
Andrew, on the other hand, seemed almost bored. If this Grand Medical Summit had thrown him a truly complex medical conundrum, he might have felt some pressure.
To his surprise, they were tasked with creating The Golden Cure. This was something he had practically grown up drinking during his time with the Lloyds. When he occasionally got tired of drinking it, he would even use it as bathwater.
For Thomas and Mosby, this was a life–or–death challenge. For Andrew, however, it was as routine as a daily meal. While Andrew felt completely relaxed inside, the audience did not share his confidence. They all believed Andrew had reached his limit.
Suddenly, Andrew moved. His action immediately drew everyone’s attention, and they wondered what he would do in this seemingly hopeless situation. A second later, everyone groaned in exasperation and burst into mocking laughter–Andrew had simply raised his arms and stretched lazily.
Someone remarked, “Using unnecessary movements to hide his anxiety and helplessness. This Andrew is panicking–no, he’s finished!”
“Both Dr. Lake and Dr. Bozzelli have already started working, but he’s just standing there stupidly. Looks like his journey as a prodigy ends here!” another spectator commented.
“Golden Cure is difficult by nature! If I were Andrew, I’d just forfeit now. After all, even third place would make him an exceptional medical talent. He could date any girl he wanted afterward and live comfortably off others‘ success..."