Chapter Sixty-Two: Breaking the Illusion

As the spell descended, subtle changes began to occur where Qi Xiao’s fingers touched the crystal. The once rigid surface, under the influence of sorcery, started to soften, as if its internal structure was being rewoven. Although an ordinary crystal, tainted by magical power, would typically be transformed into sand and mud in an instant, this illusion had been created by a true wizard. Qi Xiao dared not be careless; he deliberately slowed the spell’s effect, both to evade any unexpected developments in time and to observe the vulnerabilities during the crystal’s transformation.

Soon, the crystal’s surface lost its original hardness, becoming soft and moist, as though permeated by water. The rigid internal structure began to yield, the molecular bonds weakening, and the entire form became loose. The edges blurred, the once sharp geometric contours gradually rounded, and minute grains of sand appeared on its surface. As its structure changed, the crystal’s vibrant red hue faded into a duller shade. Eventually, the crystal’s luster vanished, no longer reflecting light but presenting instead the matte texture of earth.

Its substance shifted from hard to something akin to mud and sand; a gentle pinch would reveal its newfound malleability. When Qi Xiao tapped it, the crisp sound was replaced by a muffled thud, as if striking damp soil. The faint energy within the crystal dissipated with its structure, until none remained.

Qi Xiao smiled faintly, having found the flaw. Rising, he summoned his magic with full force, expanding the area where stone became mud. At the same time, he invoked the Mist spell, conjuring masses of water vapor that quickly condensed in the volcano’s blistering air, forming a thin veil of mist. The mist met the high temperatures and transformed instantly into steam, enveloping the area in a hazy cloud.

The scorching volcanic rocks beneath his feet softened and cooled. Around Qi Xiao, a small portion of the volcano was shrouded in a miniature rain cloud formed by the mist—cloudy but not raining, the dryness in the air replaced by a humid, oppressive atmosphere. The sand formed from volcanic rock grew damp, showing signs of turning to mire. The volcanic crystals growing on the rocks were no exception; they either dissolved into mud or splintered into a soggy mess, their former splendor gone.

As the environment changed drastically and many illusion nodes were destroyed, the illusion had to devote extra computational power to patch its vulnerabilities during self-repair, naturally revealing several glaring flaws. Since this illusion was meant as a trial, its dissolution followed the appearance of these flaws, and Qi Xiao soon found himself back in the familiar study.

Before he could gather his thoughts, Melanie’s approving voice rang out: “Well done. Your keen observation of environmental changes and understanding of material transformations mark you as someone with a talent for cultivating true illusions.”

Melanie was grinding pollen, her voice ethereal. “Illusions are also tools for exploring the depths of the soul, allowing one to pierce the surface and touch the essence of spirit. So, what do you say—are you interested in learning a thing or two from your sister?”

Qi Xiao shivered uncontrollably; he had heard Melanie refer to the teacher as ‘little brother’ before, and the teacher was over three hundred years old… But he dared not mention this, hastily replying, “Thank you for your kindness, ma’am. I only happened upon the flaw thanks to my research into various materials. It was merely a trick, not a sign of true talent.”

Melanie laughed lightly at his words. Seeing she had dropped the matter, Qi Xiao breathed a sigh of relief and turned his attention to the remaining three.

Their eyes were shut, brows knit tightly—they were clearly still trapped within the illusion. Qi Xiao quietly returned to stand behind his teacher, hoping they would take a while longer to break free, preferably until the auction began, sparing him from any further rounds.

But fate was contrary. As true disciples brought out by formal wizards to attend the gathering, they were no ordinary novices. Less than a quarter of an hour passed before even the sturdy young man, who clearly struggled with breaking illusions, managed to awaken.

Twice finishing last, the robust youth could hardly accept it; his face flushed deep red. The slender youth, seeing he was not first this round, furrowed his brows. The other girl needed no mention—her performance in the first round made it clear she was fiercely competitive. Watching their determined expressions, Qi Xiao felt a chill in his heart as they prepared for the next trial.

Well… Wizards are, after all, mostly competitive. Perhaps those like himself, content to avoid conflict, are the true exceptions. He sighed inwardly, wondering how much longer this torment would last.

Elton’s silver hair gleamed, every strand distinct under the sunlight pouring in from the tall windows. Seeing their spirits high, he laughed lightly and said, “You’ve all performed admirably. The auction will soon begin. Gather yourselves and let’s head out.”

The three apprentices instantly deflated, while Qi Xiao felt a sudden surge of vitality—a tremendous joy rekindled his hope for this world. Suppressing a smile, he hurried to help the four wizards tidy the books on the table. As the scene before him blurred, the group of eight soon arrived in a vast private suite.

The sofas, chairs, and tables within were crafted from rare Skywood, exquisitely carved so that every detail revealed the artisan’s ingenuity. The lighting was provided by advanced alchemical lamps, a model improved about fifteen years ago, emitting a gentle, non-glaring glow that created a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

One side of the suite was adorned with murals and tapestries; the other featured a massive transparent crystal window, offering a panoramic view overlooking the entire Starlight Hall. Qi Xiao observed through the crystal window, realizing their suite was situated high above the hall, granting the best vantage, ensuring privacy yet allowing them to observe every detail of the auction. There were five such suites in the hall.

The walls were inscribed with amplification and soundproofing sigils, allowing clear reception of the host and auction sounds while preventing any conversation from leaking out. If desired, the suite’s occupants could even block out the hall’s sounds entirely.

The seats were broad and comfortable, covered in soft leather or fabric to ensure prolonged comfort—some could be pulled back fully so one could recline upon them. Melanie was now lying on one such seat; it had apparently been modified with illusion nodes, unfolding into the size of a double bed, yet stable enough not to fall—remarkably lifelike and magical.

The table was laden with various foods and drinks, and the boxes below were engraved with chilling sigils to ensure freshness.