Earth's Greatest Magus

Chapter 2718: Land Cultivation

The Arbor Master did not speak much as he stood before the Elysian Tree and Twik. Yet, every subtle motion of his body conveyed focus and reverence. His gaze swept over the glowing leaves, tracing the faint streams of light that pulsed like veins of life through the trees.

After a few moments, Linnaeus finally spoke, ”I need to be certain... Let me look around.”

Emery followed without hesitation, and they began to traverse the domain.

First, the Arbor Master studied the flora. He crouched to inspect the soil, brushing away leaves to examine the roots of rare herbs. A soft glow emanated from certain plants, unusual even in Emery’s carefully curated domain. He paused at sporadic clusters of luminous fungi, running his fingers and murmuring faint incantations. Emery noticed that the Arbor Master wasn’t merely observing; he was communicating, coaxing the life force of each specimen into resonance, testing its health and vitality.

Next came the Chizpurs’ village in the southern forest. Linnaeus communicated with them, watching how they moved, examining their habits and interactions. The stone creatures chirped and twitched in response, seemingly recognizing his presence as a force of gentle authority.

The two continued toward the center of the domain, where the [Spring Lake] shimmered like a mirror, reflecting the complex interplay of wind, sunlight, and magical energy. Linnaeus circled the lake, running a hand through the water, feeling the currents, and observing the interaction of the elemental forces within it. Emery noticed subtle changes in the currents as Linnaeus’s presence passed over them—the magic of the domain responding instinctively to his masterful control.

From the lake, they crossed into the northern plains where the orc towns were nestled. Linnaeus’ scrutiny was meticulous. He observed the orcs’ diets, their work patterns, and even their waste.

Beyond the towns, the plains sprawled into wild terrain where a dozen types of beasts roamed freely. After taking note of each of them, Linnaeus walked to the foot of the mountains, where two caves lay in contrast. One housed a group of wyverns, about three dozen in number, each tended carefully by the orcs. The other cave harbored thousands of Shadowflame Bees, their hive walls pulsing faintly with dark fire energy, nurtured carefully by Livi. Linnaeus observed each ecosystem, noting the interactions and balance between them.

He ascended the mountains to inspect the Khaos Hub and lingered there with evident concern. Finally, they flew to the far edge of the domain, where an island floated just beyond the northern waters. Linnaeus’s eyes narrowed as he gazed upon the resting beast, his head shaking slowly in disbelief before he finally returned to the Elysian Tree.

Emery finally dared to speak. ”Senior... what are your thoughts?”

The Arbor Master’s eyes softened, a trace of warmth returning. ”Ah... yes. Don’t worry about your friends here,” he said, gesturing toward Twik. ”He is fine... in fact, he is more than fine.”

Emery felt a flicker of hope. The Arbor Master continued, ”It is currently in an evolution stage.” Linnaeus explained, his gaze fixed on the creature. ”There is a unique power of pure light within him, nourished by the Elysian Tree.” He paused, a knowing smile tugging at the corners of his lips. ”He will awaken... even more spectacular than before.”

Emery’s mind immediately leapt to the fragments of light wisp from Andora that had taken residence in Twik. The Arbor Master’s words were confirmation enough, and a weight lifted from Emery’s chest.

But Linnaeus’ expression shifted. His brows knitted slightly. ”The real concern lies with your domain itself.”

”What do you mean, Senior?” Emery asked, his heartbeat quickening.

The old man chuckled lightly, easing the tension. ”Do not worry, it is not catastrophic. But it is... unusual. Fascinating, yes, but your domain as it stands could inadvertently harm the life within it.”

Emery’s curiosity sharpened.

”Let us go back to my place,”

Nodding, Emery opened a spatial gate, and they stepped back to the Arbor Master’s porch before entering his house.

The structure was unlike any ordinary home. Books and manuscripts lined every surface, their pages humming with faint magical resonance. Unusual plants—some seemingly sentient—grew along the walls and ceiling, twisting in intricate patterns. Some sprouted from glass containers; others floated freely, tethered by delicate threads of energy. It was a place of learning, experimentation, and wonder.

Linnaeus led Emery to a secluded corner and picked up a single book. He handed it to Emery with a reverent air. The title made Emery’s eyes widen:

[Land Cultivation 101]

A cursory glance revealed the depth of the work. It was a comprehensive guide to farming and terraforming. The book detailed soil composition, plant physiology, energy flow, and even the subtle interplay of elemental laws with life forms.

”Your domain is arranged beautifully, but it is still inefficient. You must put in additional work if you intend to sustain so many living beings and rare materials here. Otherwise, the system cannot function at full potential.”

Emery listened intently as the Arbor Master explained that in its current state, it could take 40 to 50 years for Twik to fully regain consciousness. Introducing more living beings without adjustments could exacerbate the inefficiency, potentially endangering them.

Linnaeus walked Emery through the complexities of managing a domain of this magnitude.

Most Grand Magus domains could grow common materials or act as repositories; living beings were temporary residents at best. Emery’s domain, however, combined a deep understanding of nature and spatial law, creating an unprecedented ecosystem. The Elysian Tree served as the central source of nourishment, but its youth meant that it was unable to sustain the high energy consumption. Without careful cultivation, the ecosystem could stagnate or collapse.

”This will guide you step by step.” The Arbor Master took the time to write his own annotations, as if carefully prescribing a medicine.

Emery’s relief was palpable. He held the tome like a priceless artifact, already imagining the improvements he could make. Seeing this, the Arbor Master’s face lit with approval.

”I am glad you have put my teachings into practice. I am even more pleased to see your care for the plant beings. Truly, I am happy.”

The Arbor Master drew a deep breath, then continued, a note of anticipation in his voice. ”I have another skill to teach you, one that will significantly enhance your cultivation of nature laws... especially with the World Tree residing within you. The results could be extraordinary...”

He paused abruptly, and a slight twinkle appeared in his aged eyes.

”However, I hope, this time, you have enough time to stay and assist this old man.”

”...”

Emery’s heart leapt at the words—it was exactly what he had wished for. Even more, he had promised the Arbor Master forty years ago that he would one day return to assist him. Yet the timing could not have been worse. Emery was in a hurry to return home; he truly could not stay.

A slight awkwardness hung in the air, but before anyone could speak, one of the Arbor Master’s plant creatures scuttled forward, informing of the arrival of a guest.

”Who is it?”

Emery couldn’t help but feel a spark of curiosity. He knew that no ordinary visitor could casually visit the Arbor Master’s residence.