Earth's Greatest Magus

"What do you think Emery?"

The question was poised, and the entire group waited with bated breath for his response.  With Klea leaning towards the safer option, Julian was quite certain that Emery would align with his proposal. But Emery's decision took everyone by surprise.

Emery's gaze landed on Thrax, acknowledging the warrior's perspective. "I agree with you Thrax," he began, nodding in agreement, "We won't get stronger unless we keep challenging ourselves in battle."

The unexpected turn of events sent a surge of excitement through Thrax. He was visibly thrilled that Emery shared his viewpoint. However, before Thrax could fully bask in his victory, Emery interjected with a twist that left everyone stunned.

"However, Thrax," Emery calmly continued, "I need you to stay in the B team instead."

Thrax's enthusiastic outburst was quickly met with frustration. "What! No! I want to go where the big fights are!"

Emery, still unwavering, explained his reasoning. "No, you are the strongest among us. I need you to look after the others." His gaze then shifted to Klea, conveying a similar request. "I feel much safer if you all do not enter the deep layers."

This unexpected turn of events left the group grappling with a mixture of emotions—surprise, disappointment, and the realization that their roles within the expedition were about to be redefined. 

Emery's request had made both Klea and Thrax feel uneasy, and he understood their concerns. To address their worries, he explained his perspective.

"Honestly, I don't think either of you is currently strong enough for the inner layers. Joining us there would only increase my concerns and put us in greater danger," 

Klea could find solace in Emery's words. In contrast, Thrax, who seemed indifferent to the prospect of danger, responded differently. Emery recognized the need to persuade Thrax and offered him a different perspective.

"Thrax, you're undeniably one of the most formidable crescent magus out there, and you're merely 2% away from entering the Halfmoon realm. I'd like you to concentrate on that first before engaging in any hazardous battles," Emery urged, addressing the same concern to Senior Fjolnier, who was also 2% away from reaching the Halfmoon realm.

Emery reiterated his request for them to consider his plan. The group found themselves in a somewhat awkward situation, as they weren't accustomed to Emery taking such a dominant role in decision-making. It was evident that the eight years apart had brought about changes in him. At that moment, Julian stepped in, providing additional reasons to support Emery's proposal.

"I believe it's essential to maintain good relations with the Amarhiks," Julian pointed out, echoing his agreement with Emery's plan. "Emery should stay with the special team, and the rest of us should be able to manage on our own."

The Roman, in a somewhat optimistic tone, then revealed that he had been offered the position of vice-commander for Team B. He believed that this choice would allow them to maximize their efforts on the outer layers, focusing on resource acquisition and engaging in battles that were well within their capabilities.

Thrax, though still harboring some annoyance, eventually agreed to this decision. He laid out one clear condition to Emery, his eyes gleaming with determination as he spoke. "If I manage to break through to the Halfmoon realm, don't you dare stop me again," he asserted.

Emery wore a knowing smile, fully aware of the significance of the task Thrax had set for himself. The 2% gap required to comprehend the law and advance to the Halfmoon realm was a substantial challenge. Yet, he wholeheartedly supported Thrax's condition, recognizing it as a potential source of motivation for the breakthrough.

With the decision now made, Emery sensed that Klea was still concerned about his safety. To reassure her further, he approached her and said, "Don't worry, I'll be all right." He hinted at having another backup strategy in place to provide her with even more assurance.

Emery had a well-thought-out backup strategy that could be his ticket to escape danger or provide crucial assistance to his friends when they needed it the most.

As the discussion came to a close, Emery approached his Asian friend.

"Chumo, I need to show you something,"

"What is it?!"

Chumo was taken aback by the enigmatic request but agreed nonetheless. Moments later, both of them vanished without a trace. The next morning, both reappeared with a newfound and significantly enhanced aura of darkness.

With this plan, Emery felt more confident in his ability to keep himself and his friends safe during their expedition into the Celestial Ruins.

####

The following day, both Thrax and Klea made a surprising decision to retract themselves from Team A and instead join Team B. While this choice initially puzzled their teammates, Jinkan comprehended their reasoning and gave her consent to their move.

Turning her gaze toward Emery, Jinkan said, "As long as you help me, I won't simply allow your friends to choose any team. I'll ensure their safety."

"Good to know," 

With only three days remaining until the expedition, the Nephilim began distributing the promised artifacts and life-saving items. Given the constraints of their realms, these artifacts played a crucial role in the success of any expedition. As a member of the special team, Emery had access to the finest-quality artifacts the Nephilim had to offer.

"You may request any weapon," Jinkan informed Emery, "and we will provide you with a tier 6 one." 

Emery's request for a new Nature staff instead of a tier 6 sword left Jinkan perplexed, and she couldn't help but ask, "Don't you need a tier 6 sword? I could lend you a few if you want."

The idea of possessing swords comparable to Excalibur did sound tempting, but Emery had different plans in mind. He responded, "Would it be possible to upgrade my tier 5 swords instead?"

Emery had a deep attachment to his two special swords, [Savage Sword] and [Gentle Sword], and he was reluctant to part with them. However, he realized that tier 5 weapons were no longer suitable for his current strength, so he rarely used them anymore.

"Is it possible then?" Emery inquired.

Jinkan, proud but realistic, responded, "I'm not sure; three days might be a bit hard..."

Emery pondered this for a moment. "I see... I guess it's too much even for the Nephilim?"

Jinkan understood Emery's intention. Although it seemed to annoy her, she relented and extended her hand to collect the swords. "Fine! I will make sure they can be finished in time."

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