Earth's Greatest Magus
Earth's Greatest Magus - Chapter 2003: Commander

In the vast expanse of the sector, there existed hundreds of wanted bandit and pirate groups, each notorious for their criminal activities. Most of these groups were relatively small in size, comprising a few magus-level criminals. Even the medium-sized groups, usually led by a full moon magus at most, posed a threat that Terra forces could handle, as long as they didn't encounter known elites like the Thunder Leopard.

Emery assessed these pirate-hunting tasks as potentially less dangerous than venturing to the frontline. However, to ensure utmost safety, Emery deemed himself the most suitable candidate for the task.

"I will personally lead this team myself," Emery declared.

The response to Emery's decision varied, eliciting a mix of reactions, but the majority were enthusiasts eager to witness Emery leading them as the commander. Magus Grisa and Chief Beowlf voiced strong support for the decision, recognizing Emery's capabilities and leadership.

While Emery could sense the mixed sentiments, he noted the expression on Magus Rosia's face, discerning the silent reservations she harbored. Her wealth of experience as a veteran commander rendered her opinions invaluable, prompting Emery to seek her input on the matter.

"Lord, with respect, dealing with pirates requires guile more than strength. Unless we plan to attack their base, the key to dealing with these pirates is to find and catch them,"

Emery, exhaling a sigh, acknowledged the validity of her point. Dealing with pirates indeed demanded a strategic approach, emphasizing cunning over brute force. He was well aware that many of these groups utilized stealth technology to evade authorities, and while he harbored hope that adopting VIA capabilities in their ships would prove beneficial, he also recognized his limited knowledge about the pirates' habits in the sector.

Even though Magus Rosia, could offer assistance, Emery recognized that she might not be the optimal choice for this particular task as well. Her diplomatic duties held equal importance.

The most practical course of action seemed to be seeking support from the Zodiac City team who possessed expertise in such matters or a certain famous Violet flame enforcers. However, he hesitated to reach out for external assistance, recognizing that doing so could detract from their primary objective of showcasing Terra City's strength within the sector.

After a moment of contemplation, Emery arrived at a decision. "Alright," he announced, his tone resolute. "Luckily, we have an ex-enforcer among us. I will ask Chumo and bring him into the team."

"That would be splendid," Magus Rosia responded, expressing her support for Emery's choice.

As the discussion unfolded, Emery couldn't ignore the subtle opposition emanating from Klea. Her reluctance for him to lead the task was evident, and she made her stance clear by expressing, "Having Chumo is best, but for the commander, I have a better person for the task."

All eyes turned to Klea, awaiting her suggestion with anticipation. With a confident smile, she revealed her choice. "The immortal gladiator, Thrax! He will definitely come home for this job!"

The room murmured in agreement with Klea's proposal. Thrax was renowned for his prowess as a commander, and his ruthless nature made him a formidable adversary for bandits and pirates alike.

Despite the consensus among the group, Emery couldn't shake the feeling that Klea had her own motives for recommending Thrax. It was no secret that she wished to call Thrax home to spend more time with them. Additionally, Emery harbored concerns about Thrax's ability to handle encounters with elite pirates like the Thunder Leopards, who operated at the grand magus level. They posed a significant threat even for a formidable warrior like Thrax.

As if she could read Emery's thoughts, Klea preempted his concerns. "You don't need to do everything yourself you know," she reassured him. "We are ready to share the burden."

Klea envisioned a formidable team comprised of Thrax, Chumo, and Morgana. If Emery left Killgragah to Morgana, she explained a situation where Emery could always utilize the Khaos gate to provide support whenever the team faced imminent danger. And if that wasn't sufficient, Klea suggested enlisting the expertise of Grand Magus Anpu. With Fuxi guarding Earth, assigning the hybrid Grand Magus to this task seemed like the most strategic choice.

A warm smile graced Klea's lips as she turned to Emery. "This way, you'll be more accessible when other critical matters arise."

Emery couldn't help but admire Klea's thoroughness in her planning, and it seemed that everyone present was in agreement with her proposed arrangements. Turning his gaze to Klea, Emery voiced his concern,

"Are you sure you can convince Thrax to come home?"

With unwavering confidence, Klea responded, "Yes, of course. Unlike our busy friend who likes to play god, Thrax will definitely come."

Emery turned towards Morgana, seeking her opinion on the matter. However, before Morgana could offer her perspective, Klea interjected. "You've been hanging out with her for the last 3 months, she'll be fine," Klea's gaze shifted towards Morgana. "Don't worry, I'll take care of him while you are away"

The sudden proposal caught Morgana off guard, and the eyes of the room turned expectantly towards her. Despite any reservations she may have harbored, she was compelled to acquiesce to Klea's proposal, recognizing the necessity of her role in the plan.

With Morgana's agreement, Emery found himself inclined to accept Klea's plan. As they delved further into the discussion, the group meticulously outlined the logistical details, deliberating over the requisite number of magus personnel and equipment needed for the task ahead. Each aspect was carefully considered to ensure the success and safety of their mission.

As soon as the meeting concluded, Klea drew Morgana close, enveloping her in an intimate gesture. "You're not mad, are you?" she inquired softly, forcing Morgana to hold her irritation.

Witnessing their exchange, Gwen couldn't help but chuckle, finding the interaction between the two amusing.

Emery, ever observant, watched the scene unfold with a keen eye. He couldn't shake the feeling that Klea had another scheme up her sleeve.

"You have another plan prepared for me, don't you?" he challenged, "What is this urgent matter you speak of?"

Klea's expression remained unreadable for a moment, but Emery knew her well enough to discern that she wouldn't be so insistent without ulterior motives. Caught off guard, Klea reluctantly admitted,

"Actually... I've been in contact with the academy. I think you should reconsider their offer."