Earth's Greatest Magus

By noon, the Magus Tournament had reached its ultimate conclusion.

Even though it was a short 30 minute fight, most people seemed delighted with the outcome, as evidenced by the ear-splitting cheers that resounded through the magnificent Grand Assembly Hall of the Magus Academy.

Mahinder Nieves, the one famously known as the Divine Monk. The embodiment of the most talented figure that hailed from a simple background – a distant monastery – yet managed to rise through all odds against the geniuses of nobles and half-bloods, becoming the champion of the illustrious tournament through hard work and dedication.

All the spectators stood from their seats and gave a round of thunderous applause, displaying their recognition to the young monk.

As soon as Mahinder left the arena and walked to his corner, Magus Serena rushed to the center of the arena. She once again congratulated the former for his success in claiming the championship before finally leading the audience toward the end of the event.

Within seconds, the screens scattered across the arena showed the names of those who managed to enter the top 100. These men and women were all given 300,000 contribution points for their exceptional achievement.

The screens then proceeded to highlight the names that were ranked in the top 16, separating them from the top 100. These individuals receive an additional 500,000 contribution points for their standings. Alas, most of the audience's attention was drawn to the names that ranked in the final top three.

[Mahinder Nieves - 3,000,000 contribution points]

[Zach Talon - 2,000,000 contribution points]

[Emery Ambrose - 1,000,000 contribution points]

"While we prepare for the closing ceremony and the subsequent celebration, let's take a look back at all the highlights of this year's tournament first!"

Not long after Magus Serena's words, the names on the screens were replaced by moving images of the tournament that were taken from top 100's fights. Showing all the people currently watching the journey of the best the Magus Academy's current acolytes from start to finish.

In the VIP area, thanks to the new addition of guests, who just now saw these talents, deep conversations broke out among them as these distinguished people began analyzing and speaking out their thoughts on this year's tournament.

"This year is definitely one of the best batches in hundreds of years."

"I concur… I even saw a few who showed a glimpse of comprehension of law. Truly an amazing feat at their young age."

"You're right! Especially that elite class acolyte who made it into the top 16, that brute named Thrax! His fights were so unexpected!"

"Besides the finalists, I'm actually impressed with the one called the Metal Puppeteer. Jai, is it? The young man has a good understanding of battle tactics. I personally think he will have a bright future ahead of him."

"You think so? For me personally, my underrated list is definitely Anzi, the Inhuman who seems like he can't die. I can't imagine what kind of monster he will grow up to be in the future."

"For me, I actually hope I can get to see a fight between the two half-bloods!"

"Yes! Did you see that last strike! I definitely sensed a sword's intent! Such a young acolyte, yet he's able to achieve that!?"

The discussions about various acolytes as the images continued to roll eventually led to the talk about the champion. These people were still amazed by Mahinder's adept prowess to repeatedly harness divine power.

"That Mahinder must have been a very devoted believer to gain such divine gifts."

That was the general consensus that these people agreed on. On the other hand, a few actually found such power to be unorthodox and wished to know more about it, about how the Monk could even master it in the first place.

Minutes after discussions sparked among these distinguished personalities, Headmaster Delbrand, who had been quiet all this time, suddenly stood up from his seat. His abrupt action naturally caused many to look at him with confusion.

"Headmaster, where are you going?"

The man looked more serious than usual, "My apologies, we still have an hour and half until the closing ceremony. In the meantime, I'd like to check on the injured acolytes."

Without waiting for a response, Headmaster Delbrand swiftly walked out of the VIP area and was followed by Magister Griffith. As the door closed behind him, he asked the one in charge of Magus Academy security.

"What is the latest news on the Zodiac city?"

Silence fell for a moment as the magister's deep voice rang through the air.

"It's not looking good, The Supreme Commander is heading there as we speak"

"He is? What about Golden City then?"

"Last I heard Magister Barty had successfully caught more than 500 suspects, I think they believed the situation in Golden City is under control"

The news doesn't give much relief to the headmaster, even though his outward appearance was the definition of calm, inside Headmaster Delbrand was in fact feeling anxious.

To assuage some of his worries, he decided to visit the medical facility and examine the two finalists who were currently being treated there. Upon arriving, his eyes immediately scanned the entire place looking for any suspicions, before locking onto the two people he wanted to check on.

At the moment, the Arkaland protege was still unconscious inside the medical tube. On the other hand, the young wolf had just finished his treatment and was currently surrounded by his concerned friends.

Without further ado, he walked towards the group and gave his heartfelt congratulation to Emery. The latter expressed his gratitude, but a hint of confusion was visible on his face. It was as if he still didn't catch on to the situation.

"How is his condition?" Headmaster Delbrand motioned to the nearby medical staff who quickly provided an explanation.

"He has an extraordinary regeneration factor. Now that his injuries have been treated, he's already in perfect health."

"Good." Nodding his head, he thanked the staff and then turned to the group, "I will see all of you at the ceremony later."

Since he could see Emery's friends worrying about him, Headmaster Delbrand didn't plan to linger any longer. But just as he was about to leave, a magus burst into the medical room and came up to him. His breath was ragged, but he still said his purpose.

"Headmaster, we have news from Golden City."

A variety of expressions appeared on the headmaster's face as he heard the news. Everyone within the room could see his concern at the sudden news.