Earth's Greatest Magus
chapter-2358

Emery nearly forgot about the prestigious instructor reward.

Every year, the academy selects one of its most exemplary instructors for a special honor—the Myriad Spring Lotus Fruit. These fruits, which only grow once a year, are highly coveted treasures typically reserved for the academy's top Grand Magus instructors, such as the three guardians of the academy, someone like the Star Tower Lord. Even instructors from the highest-grade factions rarely dare to covet such a prize.

Grand Magus Aurora approached with a slender tube filled with crystal-clear water. Inside the tube floated the Myriad Spring Lotus Fruit, a bell-shaped, smooth blue fruit that gleamed with a mesmerizing light. The way it floated delicately within the water, radiating a soft glow, made it almost seem ethereal.

"Congratulations," Aurora said once more as she handed the tube to Emery. Emery stared at the fruit, fully understanding just how rare and valuable this item was. The Myriad Spring Lotus Fruit was known to accelerate the cultivation of any who consumed it, especially in the realms of nature and light energy. Though he had earned recognition as a rising star within the academy, Emery hadn't expected to receive such a reward. A lingering sense of curiosity began to stir in him. This level of generosity made him wonder—was there more to this gesture than met the eye? Could Headmaster Goldstein be plotting something behind the scenes? The Oracle, with her usual calm demeanor, seemed to sense Emery's thoughts. Her slight smile was all-knowing as she responded, "No, this was a request by the island master himself."

The words startled Emery once again. The island master was the supreme being who owned the watery planet where the academy resided. This powerful, almost mythical figure had always remained shrouded in mystery, and for such a person to take interest in him felt both humbling and unnerving. Klea stepped forward and accepted the tube with her usual grace and poise. "We are very grateful... and we think it would be nice to say our thanks personally."

The Oracle's smile widened slightly, "Of course," she replied, her voice carrying a meaning that Emery didn't quite catch. There was something more behind her words, a layer of significance that seemed to hover just beyond his reach.

Sensing this, Klea leaned closer and whispered "This gift isn't just a reward—it's an invitation. The Supreme Magus wants to meet you. This is a great opportunity."

Klea's intention was clear: Earth's faction needed every ally it could get, and being in good standing with a Supreme Magus was a great fortune.

Without hesitation, Klea took the lead, and together they swiftly flew to the other side of the island, where the teleportation gate was located. However, instead of stopping there, they continued onward, reaching the island's edge. Before them, stretching out across the vast ocean, was an awe-inspiring bridge—an intricate structure crafted from shimmering sea corals and delicate shells, arching gracefully for miles over the water.

The two flew across the bridge, feeling the salty breeze against their skin. As they approached the far end, the bridge began to dip downward, leading them into an underwater tunnel. The walls around them shimmered like glass, revealing the breathtaking marine world beyond. As they approached the end of the tunnel, a heavily fortified outpost came into view. Dozens of Magus-level merman guards stood watch, their armor gleaming under the dim blue light of the water. These guards protected the gateway to what was known as the Shambala Underwater Kingdom—an area restricted to the academy and home to the Supreme Magus and his closest vassals.

Klea, with a casual confidence, approached the guards and proudly displayed the Shambala badge in her possession, it was clear this was not her first visit to this place. Moments later, a stunning female Magus emerged from the gate, her pale blue skin reflecting the hues of the ocean. She gestured for them to follow, leading the way into the underwater Kingdom.

As Emery and Klea crossed through the gate, they were immediately submerged in a mesmerizing underwater world. The first thing that caught Emery's attention was the vibrant glow of the sea corals and plants that lined their path, casting a soft, ethereal light throughout the watery expanse. It felt as though they were entering a hidden realm beneath the ocean, one teeming with life and untouched beauty.

The deeper they ventured into the abyss, the more captivating the sights became. Strange and magnificent sea creatures swam alongside them, their forms like nothing Emery had ever seen before. Half of them were unique to this underwater kingdom, their shapes and colors so diverse that even VIA needed time to identify them.

The water was alive with swirling schools of fish that shimmered like precious gems, and the flora ranged from glowing tendrils to towering plants that seemed to pulse with magic. It was an environment rich in both spirit energy and mystery, and Emery couldn't help but feel the excitement build within him.

As they approached the heart of the underwater kingdom, came the sight of an awe-inspiring palace-like city. The structures appeared to be grown from the very sea itself—massive coral formations shaped into elegant homes and halls, with luminous huge cocoon-like plants serving as residences.

Dozens of mermen and mermaids moved gracefully through the water, some riding on the backs of enormous sea creatures that swam in harmony with their masters. Among them were even Desolate-level beasts, their sheer presence commanding respect and guarding the sacred city.

Emery's eyes were drawn to the biggest cocoon about the size of a castle. As they entered, the water thinned, and they soon entered a chamber filled with air. The transition was seamless as if the water itself bent to accommodate their arrival. Standing before them, was Grand Magus Neytiri. Her long hair flowed like seaweed, and her presence radiated grace and power. She smiled, her gaze warm yet intense as she addressed Emery. "Welcome, Magus Emery... My father has been waiting for you.