Earth's Greatest Magus

Took Emery a few days to collect a large number of [Cassiterite stones], rare gems with a strong affinity for darkness energy. With these stones, he meticulously crafted a new formation array at the sacred ground, capitalizing on the area's highest concentration of darkness energy. The result was a portal that promised greater stability for travel between the subterranean realm and Emery's home.

As the final touches were put into place, Emery faced the crucial decision of determining which Khaos guardian to leave at the sacred ground. The response from the guardians varied. Killgragah, expressing his frustration, poured out his anger with a resounding declaration.

<Not me!! Not me again!! You have been leaving me out for so many years!! Not again!>

In contrast, Chututlu responded with a mocking chuckle, <This is the inevitable fate of those who have little use>

To their surprise, Emery made an unexpected choice, deciding to leave Cthulhu instead.

<What…. How can this be…?>

<Hahaha, of course, he chose me; I am the mighty Killgragah!> boasted the triumphant guardian.

Emery's choice to leave Cthulhu behind was a calculated decision, not made on a whim. It was motivated by the possession of a valuable item obtained during his sixth expedition—a lantern containing the elusive [Sea Heart Flame].

This particular treasure was not easily acquired; it demanded the combined power of both Killgaragh and Chututlu to tame.

The [Sea Heart Flame] held a distinctive energy, a fusion of two conflicting elements: water and fire. Over the preceding months, Emery had developed a strong belief that this item could not only amplify his mastery of the water element but also deepen his understanding of Dao. However, effectively harnessing the power of the [Sea Heart Flame] necessitated the cooperation of Killgaragh.

Emery's decision to leave Cthulhu behind was part of a strategic plan to dedicate more time to cultivating the [Sea Heart Flame] with Killgaragh.

"Just until I find a solution for this formation," Emery assured the Pestilence Khaos guardian.

<Huh... I don't mind resting… Just make sure you have people feed me,> responded Chututlu with a hint of nonchalance.

Emery had a specific task in mind, and he retrieved two divine beast spiders known as [Cold Jade Spiders]. Both were captured from this sacred ground. These arachnids were still in their youth, lacking an abundance of darkness energy for Emery to absorb. Simultaneously, they were infused with cold energy that resisted Emery's attempts. On the positive side, these spiders were highly poisonous and could produce a potent venom, along with a high-grade Tier 4 silk.

His plan involved leveraging Chutulu's pestilence gate energy to aid the spiders in their growth. In return, these spiders, positioned at the top of the food chain in the subterranean mountain, could efficiently hunt down other creatures for the Guardian to feed. It proved to be a beneficial arrangement for both parties, and Chutulu readily agreed.

"Don't worry, I'll certainly come to visit... if I need to make potions," Emery added with a chuckle, acknowledging the unorthodox partnership with a touch of humor.

With everything in place, Emery paid a final visit to the ruler of Alvanic to bid farewell. The beautiful Queen Soonhee appeared visibly troubled, but Emery reassured her that he would come to visit occasionally. Sensing a certain stare from Morgana, Emery quickly added,

"For the trades, I mean… and yes, either Morgana or I will come."

When all goodbyes were exchanged, Morgana opened a spatial gate. They used the Famine gate to access the waypoints leading back to one of the secret rooms inside the Moon Base.

Emery, accompanied by Morgana, Twik, Livi, and Durak, traversed the artificial waypoints. These gates were a remarkable creation, forged through the combined ingenuity of Master Borin, Otto of the Nexus faction, and a precious teleportation orb capable of maintaining a stable Khaos waypoint.

Upon their passage through the portal, a cascade of high-

grade metals swiftly enveloped the gateway, sealing it with an impenetrable barrier. The secure closure was a precautionary measure to forestall any potential infiltration, recalling a past incident involving a formidable group of dark elemental beasts most likely sent by the other Khaos champions.

As the metals seamlessly melded into a protective barrier, Emery and his companions found themselves in the welcoming full force of Moon Base magus, led by Anpu, the hybrid grand magus, and protector of the base. With a display of utmost respect, he greeted,

"Welcome back."

The two-month duration of the trip, though longer than initially planned, had stirred a certain level of worry within the defense force. Nevertheless, Emery remained unperturbed. initially planned, had stirred a certain level of worry within the defense force. Nevertheless, Emery remained unperturbed. Over the past four years, he had dedicated considerable efforts to fortify the Moon Base defense, transforming it into a formidable fortress manned by over 100 personnel. Half of this force comprised skilled magus responsible for safeguarding the two the lunar outpost and Earth.

Exiting the secret room, Emery sought the latest reports and proceeded toward his personal chamber to review them. Among the communications awaited two important messages.

The first emanated from the office of the recently established Magus Academy, announcing the imminent commencement of a new class. Once again, they sought Emery's willingness to serve as one of the teachers, acknowledging his ability.

Despite being the third letter from the Magus Academy since its creation two years ago, Emery's response remained unchanged. His current commitments and ongoing endeavors left him with little time to devote to teaching. The prospect of instructing aspiring magus, though appealing, wasn't feasible at the moment, especially with his focus on other pressing matters, such as preparation for the imminent duel with Kronos that would come in 5 years.

The second message hailed from Golden City, delving into the intricacies of his shop and the forthcoming application for independence from the Qin faction, scheduled to be finalized in eight months. The bureaucratic hurdles surrounding his apothecary business had been a consistent source of annoyance for Emery.

Intending to create another artificial waypoint at Terra using the newly acquired orb from the subterranean world, Emery promptly sent messages to Master Borin and Otto, enlisting their expertise to prepare the necessary materials. While he contemplated checking on his shop, an urgent message intercepted his plans.

"You are not leaving again, are you?! Don't you dare to leave before visiting me! Come down here and give us a hand."

Klea's message was accompanied by details about a significant event that she and Ashaka had organized—a fighting tournament designed to assess the progress of Earth's strongest fighters. Intrigued by the prospect, Emery's plans took an interesting detour.