The Hunt:

Answer: LXXX

Explanation:
The image presents a clear pattern: chemical elements with their atomic numbers shown in Roman numerals. Gold (Au) is 79 → LXXIX, Silver (Ag) is 47 → XLVII, and the final spot is hinted at by the spilled liquid metallic substance — a strong clue for mercury (Hg), the only metal that’s liquid at room temperature.

Adding to the clue is the faint statuette in the background, which appears to be Mercury, the Roman god known for speed, travel, and communication — and whose name was given to the element. He’s recognizable by his winged helmet and caduceus staff, common in classical imagery. This reinforces that the missing element is mercury, whose atomic number is 80, or LXXX in Roman numerals.