Earth's Greatest Magus

Chapter 2503: Who is she?

Emery stood calm and composed, meeting the furious glare of the man in front of him without flinching. The man was Ivaris, a Grade 7 alchemist, one of the twenty selected for the competition. His sharp features were twisted in anger as he demanded answers, but Emery knew better than to reveal anything. This was not the time or place—doing so might jeopardize his standing in the event.

”Baldonis?” Emery repeated evenly, his tone neutral. ”Iʼve heard the name, but Iʼve never met him.”

”Youʼre lying!” Ivaris snapped, his voice rising in frustration. ”My brother is famous in Border Town. Everyone knows him.”

Emery kept his calm, replying with measured words. ”Letʼs be clear. I may represent the Azure Cloud, but I am a beastman by origin. I stayed in Border Town only briefly, and I had no time to meet your brother.”

The accusation didnʼt stop there. Ivaris stepped closer, his fists trembling with barely restrained fury. ”I know my brother was looking for an alchemist tarnishing his reputation. That alchemist is you!”

Emeryʼs expression remained impassive, almost dismissive. ”Youʼre mistaken.”

This detached response only fueled Ivarisʼ rage. His voice dropped to a threatening growl. ”You… A small-time Magus Realm alchemist… How dare you! Maybe I should teach you a lesson—”

Before the situation could spiral further, a melodic voice sliced through the tension.

”Enough.”

Both men turned as Kaelyn Silverleaf stepped forward, her ethereal presence immediately drawing all attention. Her silver hair shimmered like spun moonlight in the gardenʼs soft glow, and her icy gaze carried an authority that silenced even Ivarisʼ anger.

”Youʼre disturbing the peace within this garden,” she said, her voice calm but commanding. ”If you wish to fight, do so elsewhere.”

Ivarisʼ scowl deepened, but one of his companions leaned in to whisper hurriedly into his ear. The whispered words carried weight, and Ivarisʼ hostility visibly faltered.

”A Silverleaf,” the companion had said. ”From the Fey Clan.”

Recognition dawned in Ivarisʼ eyes, quickly replacing his anger with caution. He straightened and inclined his head respectfully. ”Lady Silverleaf,” he muttered reluctantly.

Kaelynʼs expression was unyielding as she crossed her arms. ”Leave. Now.”

Grumbling under his breath, Ivaris took a step back. He cast a final venomous glance at Emery. ”This isnʼt over. I will find the truth,” he hissed before turning and stalking away, his entourage trailing behind him.

Emery paid him no further mind, his thoughts consumed by the revelation. A member of the Fey Clan, standing right before him? A sensation he couldnʼt quite place tingled in her presence, stirring curiosity and countless questions.

But Kaelynʼs icy demeanor left little room for conversation. She cast him a single disdainful glance, her lips curling into a faint sneer. ”You ruined my quiet time with your petty squabble,” she said flatly. 𝐫ÅɴȏΒÈs̩

Before Emery could respond, she turned on her heel and walked away, her silver hair swaying behind her like a curtain of light.

####

The next day marked the start of the highly anticipated alchemy competition. Emery, accompanied by Livi and Grand Magus Soltz, made his way to a designated area within the estate—a grand garden adorned with intricately carved stone runes. The space was a masterpiece of natural and magical integration: one side of the garden resonated with serene musical enchantments, while the other was teeming with life, buzzing with spectators and participants.

Thirty alchemists had been selected for the competition, each accompanied by two assistants, forming a group of nearly a hundred individuals gathered on the central platform. The participants represented the pinnacle of alchemical talent, their diverse origins and appearances showcasing the competitionʼs prestige.

Among them, Emery noticed the towering blue-skinned giant, Graknar Blueflame, who had competed alongside him during the selection rounds. Nearby stood a pair of elven alchemists, their ethereal beauty and finely crafted robes marking their noble heritage.

However, even their charm paled in comparison to the renowned reputations of two Grade 8 alchemists: Ada Vleace, famously known as the Rose Feather, and Galel, the Ember Sage. Both commanded immense respect, their presence drawing the awe and whispers of those nearby. Yet one figure managed to capture just as much attention—a mysterious young girl from the fey clan, Kaelyn Silverleaf. Her quiet demeanor and air of focus added an enigmatic aura to her presence.

The audience was equally impressive. Hundreds of VIP guests filled the seats, including members of the royal family. Among them was the Third Prince, who sat near the front with an air of detached interest.

Emery couldnʼt help but glance toward the prince, but the young manʼs gaze passed over him without the slightest flicker of recognition. Seeing this, Grand Magus Soltz leaned in and muttered, ”I told you so. He doesnʼt even recognize you anymore.”

At the center of the stage stood the Skyroot Patriarch, Grand Master Calidorne, a figure whose commanding presence silenced the murmurs of the crowd. ”Welcome, alchemists and honored guests,” he began, his deep voice resonating through the arena. ”After thirty years, the Alchemy of Heavens and Earth event begins anew. Today, we gather to witness the ultimate test of skill, ingenuity, and perseverance in the art of alchemy. To those competing: may your flames burn bright, and your creations surpass all expectations.”

Applause erupted, rippling through the vast audience.

The patriarchʼs voice boomed once more. ”The realm we open today is one of unparalleled resources and challenges. All participants will have twelve hours inside the realm. All the ingredients you find will be used for the final challenge.”

With a fluid motion, he raised his hand, and a massive portal materialized at the center of the arena. Its shimmering surface pulsed with radiant energy, refracting light into dazzling prismatic patterns that mesmerized the onlookers.

”Let the competition begin!” the patriarch declared, stepping aside as the portal stabilized.

Anticipation surged through the crowd as the alchemists prepared to step forward. Emery felt a mix of excitement and determination coursing through him as he approached the portal, flanked by Livi and Soltz. With a deep breath, Emery stepped through, ready to face the trials that lay ahead.