Chapter 1373 Magnusson <TOC> Chapter 1375 Convenience and Duty
Next page password is bold portion: *oDrog4gaX&Z
Translator: SumTLMan
Once they had finished appreciating its exterior, all eyes turned to Muse, Midora, and Fingernail Granny. Only these three were physically present; the others had sent avatars through special spells.
Although they had already sensed the uniqueness of this alchemical creation, they needed Muse and the others to assess whether the work had reached high rank.
Upon seeing the Rhythm of the Ocean, both Fingernail Granny and Midora had made up their minds, whispering to one another as if discussing something.
Muse, after a glance, remarked, “This is undoubtedly a masterpiece of high-rank alchemy.”
He then turned to Magnusson, adding, “The evidence is clear; Angel is indeed qualified to be a member.”
While Magnusson seemed inclined to argue, he understood that no matter what he said, Angel had already passed the bar today.
The fact remained: Angel had both the techniques and insight. Even if his alchemical proficiency and knowledge weren’t as polished as the other members present, it was undeniable that he had met the Research Institute’s minimum criteria.
Of course, merely meeting the criteria doesn’t guarantee acceptance. For instance, ‘Mithril Shaper’ Jailall met the requirements but was never inducted, simply because Muse hadn’t given the nod.
Now, Muse was clearly in Angel’s corner, so whatever objections there were, the outcome was unalterable.
Magnusson sat silently, refraining from further comments.
“It seems there are no other objections. Let’s prepare for the induction ceremony,” said Muse.
Just as he finished, a voice interjected, “I have something to say.”
A youthful blonde witch stands before them, her visage concealed by a veil of aqua hue. Blue pendulum earrings dangle from her ears, and she’s garbed in a long dress reminiscent of fish scales, shimmering with crystalline brilliance.
Muse’s eyes widen slightly in recognition, “Ah, Water Ripple Witch. What brings you to speak today?” Surprise evident because she’s known as the most amiable neutral amongst them. At past ceremonies, she had never interjected. Hence, as she begins to speak, all present lend her their full attention, anticipating her insights.
Water Ripple Witch lets out a melodious chuckle, a sound pleasing to the ears.
“Since I am here,” she began gently, “I naturally support the Director’s view. What I wish to convey, however, are merely my own thoughts.” Turning to Angel, she inquired, “Might I know a bit about this alchemical Magnum Opus of yours? Its name and its capabilities perhaps?”
Upon her words, Midora frowns slightly, “This is Angel’s private creation. Is it not a bit indiscreet to probe so?”
Should this masterpiece be of offensive nature, it could be Angel’s ace in the hole. Revealing its power would provide a preemptive advantage to those scheming against him. Although all present are brimming with curiosity about this alchemical creation, none had voiced their inquiries, including Magnusson.
Such a query could easily lead to strife unless one shared an exceptionally close bond with Angel.
Water Ripple Witch offered Angel a subtle apologetic glance. “Merely curiosity drives me. If you’re hesitant to reveal its full potential, that’s quite alright. Mainly, the old Sea God has been coveting your item. I’m truly intrigued as to what it possesses that keeps him so enchanted.”
The ‘Sea God’, Florence, is among the pinnacle wizards of the Southern Region.
Rumors had floated among the audience about Song of the Deep Sea faction’s keen interest in Angel’s ocean-crafted masterpiece. But this was the first intimation of deeper intrigues, hinting at Florence’s vested interest behind the scenes.
Upon Water Ripple Witch’s revelation, understanding dawned upon the onlookers. Given the cryptic bond between her and the Sea God, it’s no wonder she couldn’t resist her inquisition.
Speaking of it, the words of Water Ripple Witch indeed added merit to Angel. After all, even Florence couldn’t forget about this Magnum Opus, which speaks volumes about Angel’s alchemical prowess.
After some contemplation, Angel conveyed that if one truly sought information on the “Rhythm of the Ocean,” they could indeed find it, especially since there were apprentices who had used it in the Savage Grottoes.
Moreover, this Magnum Opus served primarily as an aid, and there wasn’t any concern of it being a concealed trump card.
Thus, Angel revealed a modicum of information with discretion, “This creation is known as ‘Rhythm of the Ocean.’ Its primary function is to amplify the affinity for water magic. Depending on one’s innate abilities, the amplification can vary.”
Angel only revealed the basic details, choosing to withhold the crucial “enlightenment” effect of the Rhythm of the Ocean.
Upon hearing this, Water Ripple Witch intuited that Angel was holding back some details. However, instead of pressing further, she remarked with a smile, “Just by the name ‘Rhythm of the Ocean,’ there’s a captivating allure. If given the opportunity, I’d love to experience it firsthand.”
Angel responded, “There should be an opportunity.”
Water Ripple Witch grinned and turned to Muse, “I have no further inquiries.”
Muse surveyed the room, his gaze probing, as if looking for dissent. But as his gaze swept across, everyone’s countenance remained serene, including Magusson who appeared rather placid.
“It seems everyone is in agreement with the new member’s induction. Let’s commence the witness ceremony.”
There was unanimous consensus.
Finally, the witness ceremony began, proceeding smoothly without any significant tumult.
Angel had initially thought that this ceremony might be intricate and ceremonial. After all, being named a “ceremony,” it would surely involve a series of rites.
To his surprise, the ceremony was so swift that it concluded before he could even process it.
Antonio unveiled a contract bearing witness to the rite, which levitated at the heart of the long table. The contract’s clauses emerged one by one, hovering in mid-air.
These stipulations were straightforward, serving as evidence of witnessing a new member’s initiation and, at the same time, encompassing some lenient terms for knowledge exchange.
Once all the terms were displayed, a final statement appeared:
“On the foundation of the aforementioned terms, do you consent to the inclusion of the new member?”
Midora was the first to voice his opinion: “I consent.”
As Midora finished speaking, Fingernail Granny gave a nod of agreement: “Consent.”
Such agreement spread contagiously, and within moments, a chorus of “consent” echoed around. Some even exchanged a few words with Angel after expressing their approval.
“It’s always a pleasure to see fresh blood. I have a keen interest in enchantment studies. Angel… It’s appropriate to address you as Angel, right? If you ever find your way to Magic Flute Monastery, I’d relish an all-night discussion with you.” An elder clad in a divine robe greeted Angel with a nod.
Angel responded without hesitation, recognizing the elder from his early days in alchemy.
The renowned “Golden Touch” from Magic Flute Monastery, Matthew, a distinguished alchemist specializing in concoctions.
“I trust in Midora’s judgment, and likewise, I eagerly anticipate the transformative influence our new member might bring to the alchemy community,” voiced a white-haired elder leaning on a staff, emanating warmth and kindness as he spoke. “I too, consent.”
Angel recognized this elder as well: Gandalf, often referred to as the “Holy Light Wanderer,” an expert in potion-making and a dear friend of Midora’s for many years.
“After some contemplation, I consent,” Portia declared, her eyes twinkling mischievously at Angel. “I’ve always wanted to converse with you about enchantment techniques. Unlike Matthew, you don’t need to make a special trip to see me; I’ll be visiting the Research Institute soon. Not to oversee, mind you, but to procure some unique magical materials. Perhaps I’ll look you up then?”
Angel wore a look of consternation, “I’ll be leaving with my mentor soon. I don’t plan to stay long in Sky Mechanical City.”
A hint of regret flashed across Portia’s face, “That’s a shame. Nevertheless, the future holds countless possibilities.”
Following that, a few more individuals voiced their agreement. These were the same individuals Angel had previously observed as distant and indifferent. Yet, their demeanor now shifted to warmth and enthusiasm. Perhaps it was the allure of the Rhythm of the Ocean or just polite small talk. To Angel, the reasons mattered little.
Finally, it was Magnusson’s turn to speak.
By this point, ten people had already stated their positions. Technically, Angel was already a shoo-in as a new member. However, Magnusson had been the only one to express dissent earlier. Hence, everyone, not just Angel, was eager to know if he would take a stand now.
Magnusson pondered in silence for a considerable amount of time before he finally uttered, “The mere fact that I didn’t walk away earlier signifies my agreement with the Director’s viewpoint.”
He paused momentarily, his gaze fixed intently on Angel, “Many display cabinets in the Research Institute still remain vacant. I fervently hope to see your masterpieces grace them soon.”
Lastly, Magnusson nodded in affirmation, “I consent.”
Magnusson’s unexpected stance took Angel slightly aback. Yet, perspectives are ever-evolving, and perhaps Magnusson had experienced a change of heart.
Following Magnusson’s consent, the final contract soared towards Angel.
Angel sat in grave deliberation, expecting a task to fall upon his shoulders. However, the contract merely extracted the Research Institute’s access card from him and swiftly returned to Muse.
“The card you possess is currently blank,” Muse paused momentarily, addressing the others. “Once the new details are imbued, it shall be returned to you. With that, our witness ceremony concludes. I do hope you frequent the Research Institute in the future.”
The audience responded with knowing smiles, their words unspoken.
Upon the meeting’s conclusion, Angel and the fellow alchemists engaged in brief exchanges, becoming better acquainted. Subsequently, they diverged, each immersed in their own endeavors.
Once they dispersed, only Angel, Midora, and Muse remained in the conference room. Even Fingernail Granny had taken her leave earlier due to an urgency in her shop.
Turning to Angel, Muse remarked, “With our business here concluded, let’s return to Enchanted Mechanical City. I’ll take the liberty to finalize your details.”
Chapter 1373 Magnusson <TOC> Chapter 1375 Convenience and Duty