Earth's Greatest Magus

Emery viewed the new academy system as a positive evolution in talent assessment.

He appreciated how it allowed more acolytes from the lower realm to participate and offered a direct one-year opportunity in the outer realm, a significant departure from the previous short timelines.

Emery especially admired the Perseverance Mountain as a method of sorting talent.

Reflecting on his own journey, Emery recognized that while he had entered the elite class through the Magus Games, many acolytes relied heavily on external factors.

Without the assistance of his senior Izta, he would not be able to compete against acolytes trained by factions from the middle and higher realms.

Emery believed that the Perseverance Mountain offered a fairer means of talent assessment.

Hearing Magus Urix mention that about 20% of higher realm acolytes were unable to pass the test further validated its effectiveness. The ability to control one's spirit core to conquer the challenge was a skill that couldn't be acquired through an accumulation of wealth.

The anticipation grew palpable as Emery, Klea, and Ashaka awaited the return of the four youngsters. Each passing moment seemed to amplify their anxiety.

When the four finally returned, their expressions bore traces of disappointment, but also a glimmer of optimism not present in their previous attempt.

"I managed to pass 5000 steps!" Titus proclaimed proudly, his voice tinged with excitement. Arminius echoed his sentiment, describing how he had begun to grasp the intricacies of the trial. Ha Ron's unexpected progress was met with astonishment as he revealed he had nearly reached the 6000-step milestone. Even Kingrig, though still finding his footing, exuded newfound enthusiasm.

Despite their fatigue, the four expressed their desire to make another attempt. Emery, recognizing the significance of their initial breakthroughs, offered them words of encouragement. "Don't dwell on completing the test," he advised. "Instead, focus on forging a deep connection between your spirit core and the steps."

"Yes, master," echoed the four youngsters in unison, their determination evident in their voices as they prepared to embark on another attempt at the test.

Seeing their resolve, Emery nodded in approval before turning to Magus Urix, indicating his readiness to continue the tour.

Together, they ventured deeper into the spring town, where Emery was introduced to various magus staff and instructors responsible for overseeing the region. Amidst the bustling activity of acolytes settling into their new surroundings for the year, Emery observed the sense of camaraderie and purpose that permeated the atmosphere.

The town's amenities were modest, with only a handful of stalls offering daily necessities. However, for more specialized needs, acolytes could access neighboring cities via portals, provided they had the proper authorization.

Aware of Emery's interest in the apothecary, Magus Urix led him to the region's special building—the academy's apothecary center. It's a distinguished building that stood out with its three-story structure.

Inside, aromas of rare herbs and brewing potions wafted through the air. Magus Urix guided Emery through the center's various sections, showcasing the apothecary shops, classrooms for teaching, and workshops where acolytes conducted experiments.

He explained how two esteemed apothecary masters oversaw operations, supported by a team of skilled artisans who facilitated the daily activities.

Approaching one of the masters, a seasoned woman named Gathel, Magus Urix exchanged pleasantries before introducing Emery.

"Ah, another instructor interested in the apothecary"

Gathel's gaze fell upon Emery, her expression betraying a hint of skepticism.

"Yes, Master Gathel, perhaps he could lend a hand or even teach a class or two," Magus Urix suggested optimistically.

However, upon scrutinizing Emery, a frown creased Gathel's wrinkled visage.

Her tone was tinged with doubt. "With your age, I doubt there's much you can contribute here..." Her gaze sharpened as she posed the question, "Have you got your license? what rank do you hold?"

Emery humbly presented his emblem, revealing his rank 7 master apothecary badge. Gathel's initial skepticism quickly melted away, replaced by astonishment. "A fellow master... and so young! Remarkable," she exclaimed, her demeanor shifting dramatically.

With newfound respect, Gathel extended an invitation for Emery to assist in teaching the class. However, mindful of his need to acclimate to the academy, Emery politely declined for the time being. "Thank you, Master Gathel. I will certainly consider it in the future," he replied respectfully.

"Of course, of course. Do drop by sometime and visit this old woman," Gathel insisted warmly as they prepared to depart.

As they left the apothecary center, Klea couldn't help but chuckle at Emery's knack for making friends with females but often clashing with males.

Magus Urix, however, adopted a more serious tone as he broached the subject of Emery's involvement in apothecary classes. He emphasized how showcasing Emery's mastery of the craft could significantly elevate his reputation among the other instructors.

Halting their steps, Magus Urix leveled with Emery about the competitive atmosphere among the academy's faculty. "You do realize that the competition between instructors is as fierce as among the acolytes, don't you?" he warned.

Emery acknowledged his partial understanding of the competitive dynamics but expressed a desire to hear directly from the senior staff of the academy.

As the sun began its descent, Magus Urix led them to a temporary housing arrangement—a wooden cabin outfitted with eight rooms, ample space for Emery and the group to reside. The cabin exuded a cozy ambiance, reminiscent of the accommodations they had during their second year at the academy.

Gathering in the spacious living room, Magus Urix proceeded to enlighten them on various aspects they needed to be aware of. He delved into the intricacies of the competition among hundreds of magus and grand magus instructors vying for the coveted 100 academy halls. It was a landscape where not only strength but also faction interests came into play.

As Magus Urix concluded his explanation, he turned to Emery with a cheeky smile. "You have a meeting with the deputy tomorrow, right?" he remarked. "Hopefully, if all goes well, you'll be moving right away from this cabin to one of the halls in the mountain!"