Chapter 333: The Breakthrough

Watching Goodwin leave with the stack of parchment, Israel remarked, “It’s hard to believe you came up with all that in such a short time.”

Having witnessed Helag’s writing process, he found it almost unbelievable.

It was a reminder that sometimes the gap between individuals is greater than between humans and dogs.

Helag put away his quill and unused parchment, pouring himself a glass of red wine at a nearby table.

After writing for so long, he was quite thirsty.

Many watched him, having seen the thick stack of parchment Goodwin carried.

This was the second solution approved after nearly an hour, the first being Muir’s.

Muir, a second-level array master with deep experience, was well-known, so his proposal didn’t surprise anyone.

His holistic approach inspired many to try similar methods.

Thus, Muir’s proposal was expected.

However, Helag was an unfamiliar face; only a few attendees knew him, while most were unaware of his identity.

Seeing Helag’s thick stack of parchment seemed impressive.

Ignoring the curious glances, Helag approached Israel, saying, “I’m not sure if it’ll work, just giving it a try.”

“I think there’s a good chance. I reviewed your later calculations; they seemed solid,” Israel replied, though not entirely sure, as Helag wrote too quickly for him to fully grasp.

“Let’s hope,” Helag said.

This time, Goodwin took longer than before, not returning after a few minutes.

Many awaited Goodwin’s results, growing hopeful with the delay.

Some continued writing furiously, undeterred by external events.

Wizards are highly focused, concentrating intensely when working.

Helag felt confident, nearly certain of success.

Outwardly, he feigned uncertainty.

In the crowd, Muir, surrounded by legs due to his height, discreetly observed Helag through gaps.

He felt unsure; Goodwin’s prolonged absence was unusual.

Typically, verification was quick, needing no further testing.

Goodwin’s delay suggested the initial attempts were successful, though the full process wasn’t complete.

The longer it took, the higher Helag’s solution’s success rate seemed.

If the first part worked, the rest likely would too.

Thus, Helag’s solution was probably viable, possibly in the final verification stage.

After a while, Goodwin returned, smiling, without the parchment stack.

Half an hour had passed since he left.

Everyone watched, awaiting Goodwin’s verdict.

Approaching Helag, Goodwin smiled, “Congratulations, Helag. Your solution successfully broke the relic’s array. The 100,000 magic stones and 500 contribution points will be credited to your account soon.”

The announcement brought a moment of silence, followed by exclamations, as many turned to the unfamiliar young man.

They expected the wheel array to take much longer, perhaps even remain unsolved.

Yet, in about two hours, it was broken.

The solver was young and unknown; if it were a famous array master, it would be unsurprising.

Helag’s solution prompted many to take him seriously, quietly discussing and inquiring about him.

Goodwin praised, “You’re truly remarkable, young man. Keep it up! I’m sure you’ll pass the second-level array master exam once you become a second-level wizard.”

“Thank you for the compliment, President,” Helag replied humbly, showing no arrogance or pride, remaining modest.

His demeanor impressed many, raising their opinion of him.

Most young achievers would show some pride, but Helag remained composed.

For wizards, composure is a valuable trait.

Wizards have no shortage of geniuses, but few go far.

Goodwin, Israel, and others had seen many such cases, appreciating Helag’s character.

Muir approached, eyeing Helag, rasping, “Kid, add me as a contact. If you have questions, ask me. Also, share your solution.”

Helag didn’t expect Muir’s generosity, overlooking past tensions.

Noticing Helag’s expression, Muir said, “I just dislike Israel, not you. I see potential in your array skills, so I’m willing to guide you.”

With Muir’s words, Helag saw no reason to make an enemy.

He and Muir had no real conflict; reconciliation was best.

After adding Muir as a contact, Helag explained his solution.

Muir listened intently, without interruption, focused on Helag’s explanation.

As Helag explained, other array masters gathered to listen.

Helag held nothing back, seeing no reason to.

After his explanation, those around him were impressed.

Helag’s clear reasoning and methodical approach were evident.

The key was Helag’s quick solution.

Helag added several contacts, maintaining humility, never arrogant.

With the gathering’s main goal achieved, it transitioned to a regular exchange and ball.