December.
The presence of magic made winter even colder, but it still could not dampen the Wizards' enthusiasm.
News of Soren defeating Gabriel, only to be easily defeated by Ian, swept like a gust of wind through the entire Academy and the City of Elements. "Have you heard? Ian from Elemental Mysteries even beat that genius from Gray Tower. He's amazing."
"Coming to Elemental Mysteries was definitely the right choice. I'm determined to join."
The voices drifted through the window. Horton glanced outside and saw several Wizards walking past.
The Wizard at the front was at the First Ring, while those behind him were at the zero ring. Excitement shone on their faces.
They looked just as they themselves had upon first arriving here.
"Ian, even my business partners have been talking about you lately. Some are calling you the best of this generation at Elemental Mysteries." Kieran turned to look across the table.
Ian wore a simple Witch Robe. He set down his wineglass and said, "Please don't tease me, Teacher. I wouldn't even have stepped in if the circumstances hadn't been unusual."
"You really haven't changed."
Horton shook his head.
"Why don't we talk about the Chamber of Commerce's earnings instead, Teacher?"
Ian looked at Horton.
"With the Black Gold Chamber of Commerce's help, the Bayers Chamber of Commerce now covers most of the White Stone Territory. We've even opened a shop over in Gray Tower. This month's earnings are currently around five hundred thousand, but they should increase next month. Your victory over Soren brought the Chamber of Commerce enormous publicity. Earnings have been noticeably higher these past two days."
Horton explained.
Ian nodded in satisfaction.
Five hundred thousand a month meant nearly six million a year.
Sure enough, how could earning money himself compare to the