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C1807

Emery grappled with a complex mix of emotions and concerns regarding the upcoming expedition. While he trusted Jinkan on some level and recognized her reliance on him, a lingering unease persisted. He couldn't shake the feeling that Jinkan most likely prioritized her own objectives over the safety of his world, potentially putting Earth in jeopardy.

Another crucial factor weighed on Emery's mind—the presence of the Khaos Gate within Morgana. Having Morgana and the Khaos Gate remain on Earth offered him a sense of security, knowing that he could always return home when necessary. This was especially valuable considering the challenges and dangers they might encounter during the expedition.

Seeking clarity on this matter, Emery decided to test the potential for returning to Earth using the Pestilence Gate's stone in the Khaos Domain stone formation. He approached the Pestilence stone, ready to touch it, and inquired,

"So, if I touch this stone, I'll be able to return back home?"

<Haha, not that easy>

Chututlu, the Guardian's response echoed within his mind,

<If you do that now, will lose a waypoint back to the place are now>

It was the same thing that happened the last time he traveled, he was able to bring the Kahos gate back to Earth but lost access to the waypoints he created in the Demon's Pit planet. —an outcome he didn't want.

The guardian explained that Emery needed to prepare a suitable location for the gate, similar to the formation he had created near Emery contemplated this revelation for a moment before asking, "Then how can I make it work?"

The guardian explained that Emery needed to prepare a suitable location for the gate, similar to the formation he had created near the Fey Forest. This new location would require proper spiritual energy, allowing him to establish a portal waypoint for his return.

Understanding the requirements, Emery nodded and remarked, "I see."

Actually, the Amarekhis garden possessed an ample supply of spirit energy, which would make it possible to establish a suitable location for the Khaos Gate. However, the idea of leaving the gate on an unfamiliar and potentially unsafe planet, even for a brief period, was not something he felt comfortable with.

As he weighed the pros and cons of this decision, Emery came to a realization about the significance of leaving one gate on Earth. This revelation was not without its challenges, one of which was that Morgana would miss the opportunity to improve herself during the expedition.

With all these considerations in mind, Emery decided to seek Morgana's opinion.

What do you think? Are you interested in joining?"

Their close bond allowed them to sense each other's thoughts and feelings to some extent, even before they were spoken. He knew that Morgana was interested in spending more time with him and was more than willing to protect him, but she respected his choices.

In the midst of considering Morgana's response, Emery was interrupted by Killgragah's voice penetrating his thoughts.

<You are going for that Celestial Ruins?!>

Emery responded affirmatively, "Yes, I am planning to go. Do you know about that place?"

Killgragah's tone turned stern and serious as he cautioned Emery, <You better not go.>

Emery was taken aback and questioned, "Why?"

Killgragah explained, <For one thing, the power of Khaos cannot be used there.>

Emery was shocked by this revelation. "What? Is this true?"

Seeking a second opinion, Emery turned to the other guardian, Chututlu, and asked for his thoughts. Chututlu responded, <Even if it's true, you could still gain many benefits for your nature law.>

Killgragah interjected with concern, <Not if he dies...>

Unlike Cthulhu, who had remained dormant for most of his time as Emery's guardian, Killgragah's previous host had ventured to the Celestial Ruins before. He knew for sure that although Emery's Khaos power coiled within him to strengthen his fractured primal core, he would not be able to summon the guardian within the Ruins.

Chututlu, the other guardian, chimed in confidently, <Maybe it's just you who can't. I am certainly more superior to you.>

Killgragah retorted angrily,

<You ignorant beast, I was just making sure the champion stays alive!>

As the two guardians engaged in a heated argument, Emery couldn't help but reconsider his plan regarding the expedition. He believed that, even without the guardian of Khaos, his current strength would still place him among the top participants in the competition. However, the situation was different for Morgana. Considering the absence of a darkness element vault in the Celestial Ruins and the potential risks, Emery decided not to bring Morgana along for this expedition.

He communicated his decision to Morgana, saying,

"When someone comes looking for you, just say you can't come."

Morgana nodded in understanding and accepted Emery's decision, although there was a hint of disappointment in her eyes. Sensing her feelings, Killgragah chimed in to offer some reassurance.

<Just let the girl train with me, our mastery of Khaos is much greater than that ancient race anyway,> the dragon said proudly.

Cthulhu couldn't resist adding a humorous comment, <You are indeed the greatest ass-kissing dragon I know.>

Emery couldn't help but agree that Morgana had made significant improvements in just a week of training with Killgragah. Perhaps not joining the expedition wouldn't be a significant loss for her after all.

With his decision made, Emery returned to the Pestilence Gate, bringing all his plant creatures with him. As he closed the gate, the Chizpur brothers voiced their eagerness.

"Kuang! Ku! Ku! Ku!"

Emery spoke reassuringly, "I will take you out tomorrow, for now, you can stay here."

By the time Emery had concluded his preparations, night had fallen, and Julian was already looking for him to attend the dinner invitation from the Nephilim.

To be continued