Earth's Greatest Magus

[Application received - 6]

Three more days passed, and the tally of applications stood at 6. These five new acolytes had gathered in the yard alongside Damo.

Despite Klea's strategic maneuvering and Magus Urix's tireless assistance, the task of convincing the remaining 130 acolytes proved to be an arduous one. As they delved deeper into their recruitment efforts, they uncovered a myriad of reasons behind the reluctance of many to join their hall.

It became apparent that half of the prospective candidates were already aligned with specific factions, their loyalties firmly established elsewhere. Others had received tempting offers from the more prestigious middle and higher halls, making it challenging to sway them. Furthermore, there were some individuals who seemed unreachable, yet, perhaps most disheartening of all were those who, despite enduring mistreatment, remained hesitant to settle for the lower halls.

"Don't worry, more will join," Klea reassured Emery, as the two closely observed the ability of these 5 acolytes tested by Ashaka.

All five were new arrivals, they were first-year acolytes who were still navigating the intricacies of the Magus universe and the dynamics of the academy. Despite their short arrival, all five had faced rejection and mistreatment, even from the lower halls.

Their rejection stemmed not only from their B-level aptitudes but also from their relatively mature ages, ranging between 17 and 19. Moreover, they were still in the Earth realm stage, a mere acolyte rank 4 to 6.

Despite their underwhelming stats, Emery understood that each of them had successfully conquered the perseverance mountain. This achievement spoke volumes about their latent talent, which was merely waiting to be nurtured with the right resources and guidance.

As Emery observed the hopeful expressions on the faces of these rejected acolytes, he couldn't help but be reminded of a similar situation they had faced during their second year at the academy. It was then that Lord Izta's generous gift of 100,000 spirit stones provided them with the means to advance to rank 6 and procure tier 3 spells and equipment. Emery pondered how different their outcomes might have been without that crucial assistance.

Klea's revelation shed new light on the intricate dynamics among the halls. It appeared that many instructors were willing to go to great lengths to attract talented acolytes, offering enticing incentives outside of the academy, such as spirit stones, secret skills, or even positions within their factions. Unfortunately for most acolytes from the low realm world, despite possessing impressive S or A aptitudes, the reality was grim. They often received meager resources, unfavorable deals, or were even coerced into servitude contracts.

The weight of this knowledge hung heavily on Emery, his brow furrowing in concern. Klea's offered a suggestion. "I think we should consider offering some of your apothecary products," she proposed. "Even spirit serum would be beneficial for them."

Indeed, spirit serum was a coveted commodity among acolytes, the same resources he and his friend used at that time.

While it fetched a steep price of 1000 spirit stones a piece in the market, Emery's advanced skills as an apothecary allowed him to produce it at a fraction of the cost.

Yet, as he listened to Klea and observed the plight of these acolytes, Emery couldn't shake the feeling that there must be a better solution, one that would truly uplift and empower these students, as well as benefit himself.

If these situations persisted, Emery realized that he might eventually meet the minimum quota of 20 acolytes for Hall 120. However, merely reaching the quota wouldn't suffice. Without talented individuals among his ranks, competing for higher positions within the academy would prove exceedingly difficult.

The need to attract more skilled acolytes weighed heavily on Emery's mind. In order to elevate the hall's status and secure superior opportunities for its members, Emery knew he needed to devise a strategy to entice talented individuals to join.

As Emery contemplated the challenge, Hall 120 received an unexpected visit from a small group of five acolytes. Klea, recognizing them immediately, said, "They are senior acolytes from lower realm worlds"

Leading the group was a formidable-looking female, a third-

year acolyte about the same age as Damo. She fixed her gaze on the monk and addressed him directly, "Damo! I guess the rumors are true! You really rejected Hall 36 and joined this hall!"

Despite her striking appearance, her voice rang out with authority, filling the yard with its commanding tone. She surveyed the scene, her eyes sweeping over Emery, Klea, and then finally settling on Ashaka. With a sense of determination, she stepped forward and addressed the Abbot directly, "You must be Instructor Emery!"

Before anyone could interject to correct her, the young woman, with her fierce gaze, said. "I am Kat," she declared. "I am here to know what your intention is?" With a stern look directed at the five acolytes, she warned, "You better not try to fool these young acolytes!!"

Emery, sensing the tension, decided to approach and intervene. "I am Instructor Emery," he announced calmly, stepping forward. "Can I assist you?"

The young woman turned to Emery, her surprise evident, followed by a suspicious gaze. "You are not the assistant? Aren't you a bit too young?" she questioned, her tone laced with skepticism.

Emery disregarded her inquiry and instead posed his own question, curious as to why she suspected him of deceiving the young acolytes. With Kat's brash demeanor, coupled with the information from Damo, her true identity and intentions were quickly revealed.

The girl named Kat was no stranger to the academy, hailing from middle hall 59, where she held the title of Big Sister Kat among her peers. She was part of a small but tight-knit group of lower realm acolytes who had been supporting each other through the challenges of academy life. In her eyes, Emery's plan to consolidate all these lower realm acolytes into one hall seemed misguided and potentially hazardous.

"You only care about reaching your lowest number, don't you?" she accused, her voice laced with frustration. "You don't care if they could succeed or not!"

Despite the brashness of her approach, Emery could sense that Kat's intentions were rooted in genuine concern for the young acolytes. With a calm smile, Emery responded, "Yes, I am trying to reach my lowest quota, but it doesn't mean I don't care."

The situation that unfolded before him provided Emery with a potential solution to their predicament. With newfound clarity, he decided to take action. Turning to Kat and the others, he gestured for them all to follow him to the hall's backyard.

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