Competitors' Works 2

During the brief interval after Dalia left and before the next competitor came forward to present their work, Professor Murray turned his head slightly, his gaze falling on Wade as a subtle smile appeared on his face.

Wade noticed his gaze and asked in a low voice, somewhat puzzled, "Professor... was there something wrong with what I said just now?"

Professor Murray shook his head gently, the amusement in his eyes deepening.

As though sharing a secret, he said softly, "To be imitated... or rather, to have others draw inspiration from your ideas, is itself proof that an Alchemist is exceptionally outstanding..."

He chuckled. "I had been worried that, with you sitting here, some people might question your abilities. But that does not seem to be the case... How does it feel, Wade, to be emulated and studied by people two or three times your age?"

Wade said nothing, but a strange feeling suddenly welled up within him.

This was different from someone trying to copy his Book of Friends, or copy Golems.

This time, equally exceptional Alchemists were studying things more fundamental and personal to him—his ideas... his methods... things like that.

"Good evening, esteemed judges." The second competitor stepped onto the stage and said, "What I will be presenting is a set of equipment for dealing with corrosive environments, including a Potion that forms an insulating layer over the skin after being consumed, a respirator capable of filtering toxic substances..."

The man from Australia presented his creations one after another. Professor Murray watched him kindly, yet his heart remained filled with an indescribable joy and pride.

Though he had long known that Wade was extraordinarily gifted and far surpassed his peers, each new piece of evidence proving it—whether Wade directly displayed astonishing achievements or received affirmation and praise