Emrys was confused about Elder Morem's true identity. He wanted to understand how everything suddenly changed the moment the old man entered the hall and interrupted the judgment against him.
And now, they were outside the building as if nothing had happened.
"Elder Morem, how did you do that?"
They stopped walking. Elder Morem was already about to leave the institution because he had only dropped by and could not stay away from his village for too long.
The old man smiled, ruffled the boy's hair, and continued walking with his hands behind his back.
"I know you have many questions about what happened, but please be patient with me, Emrys. I can't answer them for now. You know the crisis happening in Skull Howler. They need me there."
Even though Emrys wanted him to stay longer, he couldn't stop him. He understood Elder Morem's responsibilities, so he could only sigh.
"Alright. I really don't have a choice. But next time, you have to explain everything to me. And don't try to avoid it again."
The old man nodded.
"Thank you for understanding, Emrys. I promise, when the right time comes, I'll tell you everything."
"No, I should be the one thanking you. If you hadn't arrived, I would've been permanently expelled." Emrys exhaled in relief.
Elder Morem laughed.
"I don't know what trouble you caused to end up in the institution's court, but I'm glad I wasn't too late."
Emrys pouted, hands in his pockets.
"Oh please—they just keep finding excuses to make me look bad. And after I won the first contest in the Guilds Event, they handcuffed me and locked me up for hours before dragging me to court."
"You don't want to stay here anymore?" Elder Morem asked.
Emrys chuckled softly and looked up.
"No way, Elder Morem. Actually… the moment I left Skull Howler was the moment my real journey as a traveler began. Even at the very start, I already experienced the hardships of someone aiming to become an adventurer."
The old man frowned.
"Is there a problem in this institution, Emrys? Tell me. If something is wrong, I'll go back to that Hanzuo and squeeze him until things are fixed for you."
It was a tempting offer. Emrys knew Elder Morem held great influence over this place—he still didn't understand why, but he was certain the old man's words would never be ignored.
But instead of telling the truth, Emrys only smiled and scratched his head.
"Oh, don't worry about it. It's just really hard to study here, especially since I'm a beginner. But eventually I'll get used to it."
Elder Morem then commented,
"Your hair looks different now—didn't even notice earlier. And your eyes… they've become fiery. You're nothing like how you used to be, Emrys. I didn't expect your cultivation to awaken this strongly and uniquely.
Just don't let anyone know you're already at 5th Grade Dragon."
He whispered the last part, and Emrys froze mid-step, eyes widening.
"H-how did you…?"
"I taught you for a long time, Emrys. I can feel your changes the moment I see you."
When they reached the institution gates, Emrys stopped and turned to him again. He bowed.
"Thank you so much for everything, Elder Morem. Someday, I'll repay this favor."
"Emrys, you don't need to worry about that. What matters is that you achieve your dream of becoming a great adventurer. Just send my regards to Sai for me. Can you do that?"
At the mention of that name, Emrys forced a small smile and nodded.
"Yes! I will."
"Good."
Elder Morem turned around and Emrys simply watched him walk away until the gates closed again.
Emrys let out a long sigh and headed back to his room.
---
The next morning.
All students were gathered in the central field of the institution. Each guild was grouped together in neat rows facing a small stage at the front.
And Emrys Valestron was the only one standing alone. No group, no guild—just himself, holding onto his pride and determination to continue through the competition no matter what obstacles came his way.
On the small stage sat the three kings along with Headmaster Hanzuo.
Their eyes were fixed on the lone boy among the rows of students—just like everyone else's.
Moments later, Headmaster Hanzuo stood and called everyone's attention.
"Good morning, everyone," he began. "First of all, I officially announce that Emrys Valestron is the very first student to win and earn the exact five hundred points promised!"