Everyone was stunned by Thaddeus’ remark, yet no one voiced their thoughts.
Thaddeus continued, “Whether it’s the Alchemist Guild or the top families, there’s always been a constant struggle-both in the open and behind the scenes. Both Mr. Boucher and Mr. Dupont from Yannopolis are surely aware of this. With the Zupakie and Zeever families now united through marriage, even the esteemed Mr. Bellamy has joined the Zeever family. And let’s not forget Jared, who suddenly appeared out of nowhere and was brought in by Winonabeth, despite her having left the Zeever family decades ago. It was clear that the power of the Zeevers and Zupakies surpassed any other prestigious families. In time, they will soon take over the Boucher and Dupont families. Maybe it’s time for a shake-up at the Alchemist Fair. I doubt Medicine God Island invited everyone here just out of kindness. From what I’ve heard, the Island was under threat, which is why they were so determined to host the Fair there.”
Someone in the crowd began to question Thaddeus. “President Surrey, what’s going on? Why didn’t you tell us if you knew about this? Why did you still tell us to come to Medicine God Island?”
“Who would dare risk offending the Medicine God Island, though? I don’t think anyone dares to underestimate its power!” another person chimed in.
“Is Medicine God Island under threat? Are they using us as their shield?” everyone asked in utter confusion.
“President Surrey, what mind game are you playing? We all trust you, so there’s no need to keep us in suspense,” demanded Ernesto, the head of the Boucher family.
Vincent, the head of the Dupont family, echoed, “That’s right. We’re in this together now. There’s no need to hide anything from us anymore.”
“Do any of you know about Sky Slasher Sect?” asked Thaddeus.
“Of course. It’s well-known for its expertise in medical skills and arcane arrays, isn’t it?” someone answered.
“The Sky Slasher Sect is nothing more than a den of tricksters. Their medical skills are superficial at best. However, I must admit, their expertise in arcane arrays is indeed impressive,” another person said. “If my memory serves me right, this Sky Slasher Sect is a Demonic Cultivation sect, right?”
The crowd started sharing their thoughts.
“President Surrey, what’s the connection between Sky Slasher Sect and Medicine God Island? Is Medicine God Island under Sky Slasher Sect’s threat?” Ernesto asked.
“That’s right,” Thaddeus replied, nodding. “The Sky Slasher Sect knew that Medicine God Island was where the Medicine God had fallen. They aimed to seize control of the island. In response, Medicine God Island offered substantial resources to host the Alchemist Fair, gathering us all in one place to help resist the Sky Slasher Sect’s advances!”
Everyone was somewhat baffled. Some asked in confusion, “President Surrey, how did you find out about all this? Did someone from Medicine God Island inform you?”
“Of course not!” Thaddeus shook his head. “I knew about this because I’ve been collaborating with the Sky Slasher Sect!”
As soon as these words were spoken, an uproar instantly erupted among the crowd.
Some people even abruptly rose to their feet, staring at Thaddeus in disbelief. “President Surrey, you’re not a Demonic Cultivator, aren’t you?”
“Of course not,” he denied. “What makes you think only demon cultivators can ally with the Sky Slasher Sect? I’ve brought you all here secretly for a reason. When the time comes, we’ll join forces with those within the Sky Slasher Sect. Eventually, we’ll take control of Medicine God Island and its resources. No one else will dare to claim an equal share. As for the other alchemists, if they understand the situation, we’ll bring them into our fold. If they don’t, they’ll face the consequences. By then, we’ll be the only ones with the medical expertise in the Ethereal Realm. No matter how formidable the other sects are, they’ll have no choice but to seek our aid.”
Thaddeus’ eyes sparkled with greed.
The position of president of a small Alchemist Guild from Epea could never satisfy his ambitions. What he truly yearned for was dominion over the entire Ethereal Realm.
He sought to master the medical skills of the Ethereal Realm. Once he achieved his goal, he would have access to any resource he desired!
