Zodiac City, two hours earlier.
The people of Zodiac City cheered wildly in celebration moments after they witnessed one of their own – a half-blood – win the third place of the Magus Tournament. Emery had inspired all half-bloods by coming out victorious against one of the renowned human geniuses: the Sword Saint.
At the same time, in the magnificent palace that towered over the bustling city, the 8 Flag Bearers and 3 Elders who had gathered in a meeting seemed to have come to a decision.
"Good! With six to five votes, the decision is final! Gather the troops, we are heading out to rescue our king!"
The passionate voice belonged to none other than one of the few women in the room, Grand Magus Lilith the Black Salamander. Sitting a chair away from her was one of the elders hailing from the Bird bloodline, Elder Sinure. His expression was complicated, as the vote result made him unable to stop her anymore.
