Chapter 941 – "The Gamble of Power"
The news broadcast did not end there. The anchorwoman leaned forward, her voice heavy with the weight of the report.
"According to verified accounts, the process of turning Alex's hair into alchemical potions is not simple. It is not enough to merely refine it. The alchemist must concoct a formula that matches the individual's constitution and essence. Only then can the potion awaken a true affinity."
The screen shifted to diagrams of glowing cauldrons, ancient runes, and scrolls filled with half-burned recipes.
"Drinking such a potion always guarantees something: immense strength and a vast increase in pure mana. However, whether one gains an affinity or not is uncertain. It is, in truth, a gamble. A potion perfectly suited to one's body may awaken an affinity of unimaginable value. But if the formula is mismatched, the drinker will still gain tremendous strength, yet no affinity will emerge."
A wave of murmurs spread through the hall. Even the most aloof of Alex's women leaned closer, intrigued.
The anchorwoman's voice sharpened with emphasis:
"Lady Sharon's rise to SS-Rank was not due to her own brilliance alone. It was fortune. The alchemist she employed had already concocted a potion, and by sheer luck, the recipe aligned perfectly with her constitution. That coincidence granted her the rare Space Affinity, the very foundation of her power."
On the screen, Lady Sharon's confident face appeared once more, her poise and elegance magnified by the weight of destiny.
Hanabi immediately burst into laughter, clutching her stomach as her tails flicked in amusement. "So she hit the jackpot by chance? Hah! Imagine if she knew the truth—that it was all because of your hair. She'd probably faint if she realized the real source is sitting right here!"
Reyne smirked, her purple eyes gleaming. "A gamble, huh? With his power, even luck bends."
Morgan's cold chuckle followed. "So mortals throw dice with relics of him, hoping fortune will favor them. How fitting."
Ying Hua's calm voice carried unwavering certainty. "It is not luck. It is his will, whether they know it or not."
Ciel smiled softly, tilting her head toward Alex. "Even by accident, Alex… you give people more than they could ever dream of."
Alex simply sighed faintly, though his eyes betrayed a flicker of amusement. So even chance conspires to bless them, just because they cling to a piece of me.
The anchorwoman's tone deepened as the report expanded.
"For this reason, those who possess unused strands of Alex's hair have not squandered them. Instead, they have hired countless alchemists, scholars, and arcane researchers to test, experiment, and divine formulas suitable for their bodies. Each attempt requires immense resources, but the cost is considered nothing compared to what might be gained."
The screen shifted again, showing shadowed images of laboratories filled with glowing cauldrons, scrolls, and exhausted alchemists collapsing beside their failed concoctions.
"Affinity is the rarest treasure a human can acquire. Statistically, only 0.001% of the global population has managed to awaken any form of affinity. For many, even climbing to S-Rank or SS-Rank means nothing if they cannot grasp one. It is the dividing line between strength and transcendence."
The anchor's voice grew sharper.
"That is why Alex's hair has become a beacon of desperation. To gamble on it is to gamble for a future where one might rise above millions. And so, the world's most powerful will continue to hoard what little exists, searching endlessly for the right formula."
Hanabi puffed her cheeks, her tails flicking restlessly. "Pfft—so the whole world is basically playing alchemy roulette with your hair? That's both hilarious and pathetic."
Reyne smirked, shaking her head. "0.001%. No wonder they're desperate. They'd rather burn fortunes chasing a sliver of hope than accept they're ordinary."
Morgan's eyes narrowed slightly, her cold smile faint. "And yet, even their desperation proves the truth. One fragment of him has more worth than entire nations."
Ying Hua's voice was calm, absolute. "It does not matter how many try. Affinity is not theirs to take. If Father wills it, they receive. If not, they do not."
The news shifted once more, the anchorwoman now joined by a robed figure seated in the studio. His translucent skin shimmered faintly with blue light, his long hair flowing like mist—clear signs of his origin.
"To help us better understand the subject of affinities, we have invited Elder Ivaris of the Spirit Clan," the reporter said. "His people have studied affinities since ancient times."
The spirit elder inclined his head, his voice calm but resonant, carrying an otherworldly echo.
"Affinities are not all equal. They exist on a spectrum. At the normal level, there are the elements most humans are familiar with: Earth, Water, Wind, Fire, Light, and Darkness. These are already difficult enough for most to touch."
He paused, and the camera shifted closer as he raised a hand, shimmering sparks of elemental light flickering around his fingers.
"But above them exist the high-level affinities. These are exceedingly rare—Space, Time, Destruction… and others that may not yet even be known to humanity. Their numbers are so small they can barely be counted"
The anchorwoman nodded gravely.
"So Lady Sharon's Space Affinity places her among the rarest of the rare?"
The spirit elder inclined his head again.
"Indeed. Without that chance alignment of potion and body, she would never have touched such a power. It is not something one can simply cultivate by will—it is fortune itself."
Hanabi, who had been lounging with her tail swishing behind her, smirked mischievously. "So that's how it is, huh? Half the world struggling for normal fire and water affinities, and Lady Sharon just waltzes into Space because you sneezed out a hair once. Talk about luck."
Morgan chuckled coldly, her icy eyes sharp. "Luck? No… it's just scraps of him. Even scraps hold power greater than all their legacies combined."
Ying Hua's calm voice followed, absolute as always. "Normal or high-level, they are meaningless when compared to Father's truth. His laws make their affinities look like children's toys."
The spirit elder folded his hands, his glowing eyes steady as he continued.
"Affinity itself is a mystery even to us of the Spirit Clan. Humans often wonder why it is so rare among them, but in truth, it is rare for all races. Even among my people, who are born closer to the flow of mana and the natural elements, less than one in a thousand awaken affinity. And the higher levels—Space, Time, Destruction, and beyond—are rarer still. Generations may pass without a single one emerging."
The anchorwoman leaned forward, curiosity clear on her face. "So why is it so rare?"
The elder's voice deepened, carrying an air of reverence.
"Because affinity is not something cultivated alone. It requires resonance between the soul and the fundamental forces of existence. Most souls are simply not strong enough, not precise enough, to endure such contact. The more powerful the affinity, the more demanding its requirements. That is why even we, the Spirit Clan, find it elusive. And for most other races, it is no different."
He let his words sink in before adding:
"In truth, only the gods embody affinity with certainty. The god of the sun manifests Fire. The goddess of the moon, Light. The god of storms, Lightning. It is their nature, their divine essence. Mortals, whether human, elf, or spirit, can only ever borrow fragments of this truth."
The audience in the broadcast studio murmured with awe.
Chapter 942 – "The End of the Auctions"
The broadcast shifted back to the anchorwoman, her expression solemn as she summarized the elder's words.
"As Elder Ivaris has stated, affinity is so rare that even the Spirit Clan cannot guarantee its awakening. This is precisely why the value of Alex's hair cannot be measured in money or power—it is beyond price."
The elder inclined his head gravely, his voice carrying finality.
"That is also why you no longer see these items in auctions. The early days saw strands being fought over by the wealthy and the ambitious, but that era has ended. Those who acquire them now understand too well: to sell such a treasure is foolishness. They keep it hidden, locked away, studied endlessly, or used in secret experiments. A single hair could decide a lineage's future, or elevate a mortal into a figure rivaling gods. None who possess it would dare let it leave their hands."
The anchor nodded, her tone serious.
"And so, while records show twenty-nine public auctions, the truth is that the age of such open contests has long passed. Alex's hair has become too valuable, too strategic, to ever see the light of an auction house again."
Silence settled in the hall where Alex and his women watched.
Hanabi let out a whistle. "So it's official then—your hair has gone extinct from the market. Makes sense. If I had one, I wouldn't sell it either."
Reyne smirked, tossing her long white-lavender hair over her shoulder. "Of course. Why trade a crown jewel for coin?"
Morgan chuckled darkly. "The fools finally learned. Better to cling to it in desperation than to risk losing their one chance."
Ying Hua's calm, absolute tone filled the room. "They should never have possessed it in the first place. What belongs to Father cannot be priced."
Ciel smiled softly, resting her hand on Alex's arm. "Even when you do nothing, Alex, the world builds legends around you. Now your very hair has become a sacred treasure."
Alex only gave a faint sigh, his gaze narrowing slightly. So even accidents in my wake are no longer accidents—they're currency shaping the world itself.
The screen shifted again, the anchorwoman's voice steady as the studio lights dimmed slightly.
"According to predictions from experts within the global magical community, the strands of Alex's hair that remain in circulation are no longer in the hands of merchants or collectors. Instead, they are most likely secured by families and clans with direct ties to sorcery, alchemy, or divination."
The broadcast cut to footage of sprawling European estates, ancient Asian clans, and dark, candlelit chambers filled with arcane diagrams.
"Families that specialize in divination, for example, are believed to have acquired several strands. Their methods of searching, guided by fate and prophecy, give them an edge over mundane organizations. Likewise, nonhuman races gifted with innate searching abilities are suspected to be among the hidden holders. Whether they will ever reveal these treasures—or keep them hidden for generations—is unknown."
The anchorwoman paused for emphasis before concluding.
"What is clear is that Alex's hair will never again appear in open bidding. Its value is now strategic, cultural, and spiritual. For some, it is a relic. For others, the seed of future empires. But for all… it is priceless."
The studio camera lingered on the image of a single glowing hair sealed inside a crystal vial, then slowly faded to black.
The anchorwoman shuffled the papers in her hand, signaling the end of the segment. Her expression softened into a professional smile.
"That concludes today's special report on the mysteries and value of Alex's hair. As always, our team will continue monitoring any developments regarding the rarest treasures in the supernatural world. We now move on to our next story…"
The studio's background music swelled as the screen transitioned, the image of the glowing strand sealed in crystal dissolving into the logo of the news channel.
With that, the broadcast on the legendary hair officially ended.
Chapter 943 – "The New Africa"
The screen brightened again as the anchorwoman's voice carried firmly.
"We now turn our attention to Africa, where the political landscape has undergone a transformation unlike any in recorded history. Nearly every nation once ruled by dictatorships has experienced dramatic change. In the span of a few short years, leaders who once held absolute control have been toppled, and entire regimes dismantled."
The broadcast cut to scenes of city streets filled with people waving new flags, once-abandoned schools reopening, and construction cranes dotting skylines that had long stood in ruin.
"What is striking about these revolutions is not merely their success, but the manner in which they occurred. In many cases, not a drop of blood was spilled. Those who had once lived under oppression revealed themselves to have infiltrated civil service, law enforcement, and even the military. When the time came, they did not rise from outside the system but from within it."
The anchor's voice grew sharper, underscoring the scale of the shift.
"When these infiltrators revealed themselves, more than half of the armed forces and government staff in certain nations were discovered to be rebels in disguise. With such overwhelming control already in place, dictators found themselves isolated, powerless, and swiftly deposed."
Images of bewildered generals surrendering, palaces left empty, and citizens cheering filled the broadcast.
"The result has been a near-complete reshaping of Africa's political map. Where once stood iron-fisted rulers, there now stand provisional councils, reformist leaders, and new voices rising to prominence."
The report pressed on, the anchorwoman's voice steady but edged with awe.
"Perhaps the most remarkable development has been the collaboration between these newly freed nations. Many African states, once divided by dictatorship, corruption, and endless civil conflict, are now joining together to establish regional unions. These organizations, modeled after the European Union, are built on the principles of shared governance, free trade, and collective defense."
The broadcast cut to footage of delegates from across the continent shaking hands in vast halls adorned with newly sewn banners. The sound of simultaneous translations echoed faintly in the background as men and women in ceremonial attire raised their voices in unison.
"These African unions are still in their infancy, but their progress has been startling. Within months, treaties on border stability, shared currency trials, and cooperative infrastructure have already been signed. Where once fear ruled, now there is cautious optimism. Citizens speak of a new era—one where Africa may no longer be seen as a land divided, but as a continent united."
The camera showed a group of children running through a reopened schoolyard, their laughter rising over the hum of rebuilding machines.
"For the first time in centuries, hope is no longer a distant dream for millions. It is becoming daily life."
The anchorwoman's voice grew brighter as the footage shifted to bustling markets and newly built schools.
"Much of this transformation has been made possible by the steady supply of Aten rice. Once considered mysterious, now recognized worldwide as a stabilizing miracle, this grain has changed the very foundation of human society."
The screen displayed families sharing steaming bowls of rice, children in uniform eating together before class, and farmers harvesting golden fields under the sun.
"Food scarcity, once the bane of many African nations, has all but disappeared. With Aten rice, hunger is no longer a daily concern. Combined with expanded access to education, new generations are being raised in stability instead of survival."
The report cut to a small clinic where doctors were examining patients, their smiles genuine as children received check-ups.
"The medical impact has been just as profound. Aten rice strengthens the body, increases resilience, and reduces vulnerability to disease. In regions once devastated by epidemics, illness rates have plummeted. Citizens who once lived in constant fear of famine or plague now find themselves healthier and more capable than ever before."
The camera showed a young woman lifting a heavy sack with ease, her laughter joining the voices of others as they worked together rebuilding their town.
"Where food, education, and health once faltered, now they flourish. The effects ripple across Africa, fueling the rise of new nations, united communities, and the birth of a hope long thought impossible."
The broadcast turned to another segment, this time showing images of once crime-ridden neighborhoods, now noticeably calmer.
"Another surprising outcome of Aten rice's influence has been the near-eradication of the drug problem that once plagued many regions. With the human body now more resistant, tolerance to narcotics and stimulants has increased drastically. Substances that once addicted and destroyed lives now have little effect on the population."
The anchorwoman gestured toward the screen, which showed community halls filled with youth and teachers.
"Coupled with this, expanded education has brought widespread awareness of the dangers of drugs. People are not only more physically resilient, but also more informed. The result has been a cultural shift—one where sobriety and strength are celebrated, and the old chains of addiction lose their hold."
The camera showed a former addict speaking to a class, his voice firm as he recounted his past. Around him, children listened intently, their faces reflecting curiosity and determination.
"Communities that once lived under the shadow of narcotics are now free to rebuild, focusing their energy on growth, trade, and cooperation. The streets that once echoed with violence are now filled with laughter, study, and song."
The anchorwoman's closing words carried weight:
"The world is watching Africa's transformation closely. What was once thought impossible has become reality. And for many, this is only the beginning."
The camera shifted again, this time to wide shots of golden-roofed temples rising above African cities, smoke from incense drifting into the skies. Worshippers knelt before towering statues of a figure cloaked in a yellow robe, his face hidden behind black bandages.
The anchorwoman's tone became solemn, almost reverent.
"Some observers claim these sweeping changes are not merely political or economic, but divine. Around the world—and especially across Africa—millions are saying this is the plan of Aten, the mysterious god who has influenced humanity's fate"
Footage showed long processions of worshippers singing hymns, their chants echoing through crowded streets. Priests in yellow robes lifted staffs wrapped in black cloth as they led ceremonies at dawn.
"This enigmatic figure, always depicted as a man whose entire body is covered—yellow robes concealing his form, black bandages hiding his skin—is regarded with awe and fear alike. In the eyes of his faithful, he is the unseen hand guiding the new world."
The broadcast cut to interviews with citizens.
"We eat because of him."
"He made us stronger."
"Africa was dying, but Aten gave us life."
The anchorwoman continued.
"Temples and shrines dedicated to Aten now stand in nearly every African nation, and the movement has spread globally. While in some places he is seen as a distant protector, in Africa, Aten worship has become a central force—so much so that it could be considered a major religion."
The screen lingered on a temple wall etched with an image of Aten's veiled form towering over fields of golden rice, his hand outstretched as if blessing the harvest.
The broadcast shifted to a polished segment, the headline emblazoned across the screen in bold letters:
"Aten's Rice – The Catalyst of a New Humanity."
The anchor's voice grew reverent as the footage showed vast golden fields swaying under the sun, farmers working with pride, and children carrying bowls filled with steaming rice.
"Aten's rice is no ordinary grain. Golden-hued and faintly glowing with divine energy, it was created to nourish not only the body but the soul. Unlike other crops, its effects are cumulative—its power grows with every meal. Those who consume it steadily find their bodies strengthened, their wounds healing faster, and their resistance to disease heightened. Most importantly, it awakens the dormant mana within them."
The screen displayed before-and-after images: weak children now running with supernatural energy, elderly women lifting heavy baskets with ease, and students conjuring small sparks of magic in classrooms.
"At first, awakening came slowly, requiring years of daily intake. But as Aten's rice spread across the globe, its resonance with humanity accelerated. One by one, barriers fell. What was once impossible for common people became reality."
The footage turned to crowded city streets, showing workers moving with grace and agility, merchants lifting crates heavier than their own bodies, and healers using mana in community clinics.
"Over time, the transformation became universal. The grain's mana-infused nature harmonized with human life force, erasing the distinction between 'ordinary' and 'supernatural.' Now, every man, woman, and child carries mana within them."
The anchor's voice rose with conviction, echoing over the images of the world reborn.
"Today, there are no 'ordinary humans' left. Children awaken earlier, elders regain vitality, and the human race itself has ascended onto the path of power. Aten's rice was the seed, and from it, a new era of humanity has sprouted."
The broadcast ended with the solemn image of Aten's mural, the anchor's final words still echoing in the room. Silence lingered for only a moment before Hanabi's fox ears twitched and her crimson eyes sparkled mischievously.
She leaned over toward Alex, tails swaying behind her with obvious amusement.
"So~ it turns out you're the one who rewrote humanity itself, huh? A whole new world, born from a single grain of rice. Your rice, Alex."
Her grin widened as she poked his arm lightly.
"Honestly, it's kind of funny. You didn't just feed people—you turned every single human into a mana user. The gods must be grinding their teeth. And here you are, sitting at the table like it's no big deal."
Morgan gave a soft snort at her words, though her eyes glimmered with pride. Ciel simply smiled warmly, resting her hand on Alex's shoulder.
Hanabi tilted her head, pretending to look serious, though her playful tone betrayed her.
"You know, if they start worshiping rice bowls as holy relics, I'm blaming you. Just imagine—Aten's holy kitchen, with priests cooking divine stir-fry."
The women around the room laughed, the tension breaking into warmth and affection, their gazes returning to Alex with love that was equal parts reverent and teasing.
Chapter 944 – "The Expanding Uses of Aten's Rice"
The news broadcast resumed, the anchorwoman's voice steady as the screen displayed images of breweries, taverns, and bustling city streets filled with glowing mugs.
"In addition to its role as a staple food and catalyst for humanity's awakening, Aten's rice has found new and unexpected uses. One of the most popular among them is the brewing of alchemical beer. This beverage, crafted with the golden grain, has become a sensation across the world. Not only does it provide a rich, refreshing taste, but it also carries the faint properties of the rice itself—leaving drinkers invigorated rather than dulled."
The broadcast cut to taverns overflowing with laughter, travelers raising their mugs in unison, and even nobles sipping the glowing liquid during banquets.
"The drink has quickly become a symbol of celebration across nations, enjoyed by both commoners and elites alike. Many say it brings warmth to the body and clarity to the mind, making it unlike any alcohol humanity has ever known."
The screen shifted again, this time to laboratories and research halls, where white-coated scholars examined the golden rice under enchanted glass.
"Beyond beer, research has begun to focus on extracting sugar from Aten's rice. Early studies suggest the potential for a powerful new sweetener—one that may carry traces of the rice's unique energy. While the process remains experimental, alchemists believe it could revolutionize not only food production, but medicine and potion-making as well."
Charts and diagrams flashed across the screen, showing chemical structures and magical runes side by side.
"If successful, this breakthrough may once again reshape economies and diets worldwide. The possibilities of Aten's rice seem limitless."
The broadcast shifted to a press conference, where a group of young researchers in lab coats stood proudly before rows of cameras. A banner behind them read:
"University of Cambridge – Department of Alchemical Studies."
The anchor's voice carried over the footage.
"Breaking news confirms that a team of students from the University of Cambridge has successfully managed to extract sugar from Aten's rice. Though their process currently yields only small quantities, experts agree this is a milestone discovery. It demonstrates that the grain's potential extends far beyond its role as a staple food or a brewing ingredient."
Clips showed the students holding up small vials of crystalline golden sugar that shimmered faintly with mana, their faces glowing with pride as professors applauded behind them.
"Fortunately, low yield is not considered a major obstacle. Aten's rice is unlike any other crop in history. It matures to full growth in just two weeks, requires minimal care, and thrives in every climate and terrain tested so far. In fact, the problem faced by several nations is not scarcity but overabundance."
The screen displayed images of vast golden fields, some stretching farther than the eye could see, overflowing granaries, and even warehouses packed to their limits.
"In some countries, rice has grown so plentiful that storage facilities are overwhelmed. While this abundance has eradicated famine, it has also introduced new challenges of management and distribution. Some communities are even beginning to explore unconventional uses, from construction materials to experimental fuel sources."
The anchorwoman smiled faintly at the camera, her words carrying a sense of inevitability.
"One thing is certain—humanity has not yet reached the limits of what Aten's rice can offer."
The press conference continued, cameras flashing as one of the reporters stepped forward with a smile.
"This is only the first step," she said, leaning into her microphone. "But let me ask you a simple question—one that I think everyone already knows the answer to. What kinds of food and desserts use sugar?"
The room burst into laughter, the tension easing. One of the students adjusted his glasses nervously before answering.
"Almost everything," he admitted with a sheepish grin. "From cakes, candies, and puddings to sauces, breads, and beverages. Sugar is one of the most widely used ingredients in the culinary world. If Aten's rice can truly provide an endless supply of it, then the possibilities are… overwhelming."
Another student raised a vial of the shimmering crystals for emphasis.
"Imagine chocolate infused with mana. Or fruit preserves that can restore stamina. Or even simple tea—sweetened not just with flavor, but with energy."
The audience of journalists murmured in agreement, scribbling notes furiously.
The anchorwoman's narration cut in over the footage, her voice warm and steady.
"Though their discovery is still in its infancy, the potential applications of Aten's sugar have already set imaginations ablaze. With rice growing so rapidly and abundantly, it may not be long before entire industries of confections, medicines, and magical supplements emerge."
The camera panned across the students again, their youthful faces filled with both excitement and nervous pride.
As the questions wrapped up, one of the younger students, clearly less nervous than the rest, raised his hand with a grin. He held up a small vial of the shimmering sugar and said into the microphone:
"Honestly, this feels just like a game. You know—eat food, restore HP."
The room erupted in laughter. Even the professors standing behind him couldn't help but chuckle, shaking their heads at his boldness. The cameras zoomed in on his amused face, capturing the moment for audiences worldwide.
The anchorwoman's narration overlapped the scene, her tone playful.
"Though said as a joke, the comparison may not be far off. With Aten's rice already known to strengthen the body and heal faster, many speculate that confections and meals made with its sugar could carry unique restorative properties—turning the old fantasy of healing food into reality."
The broadcast cut to a montage of children eating rice cakes, elders enjoying bowls of sweetened porridge, and adventurers drinking glowing tea brewed with rice sugar. Their smiles seemed to carry more vitality than simple food could explain.
The students themselves exchanged proud but embarrassed looks, one of them muttering:
"If the whole world starts thinking of dessert as medicine, I guess we'll be blamed."
The hall filled with lighthearted laughter again, though the weight of their discovery lingered beneath the humor.
The press conference quieted as one of the lead students, a young woman with steady eyes, stepped up to the microphone. She held up a bound stack of papers filled with formulas, notes, and diagrams.
"We don't intend to keep this discovery locked away," she declared. "Our method of extracting sugar from Aten's rice will be made public. Anyone with the proper equipment and training will be able to replicate it. This discovery belongs to humanity, not just us."
The crowd of journalists erupted into chatter, some shocked, others impressed.
The anchorwoman's voice overlapped as the footage replayed her words.
"Unlike many breakthroughs that are patented and sold for profit, the Cambridge students have announced their intention to spread their method openly, ensuring that every nation can access the process. This decision, already hailed by some as selfless, is expected to reshape global industries overnight."
The screen flashed images of ministers and economists debating furiously, some praising the move as a victory for equality, others warning that it could collapse entire markets.
An invited expert commented:
"If this formula spreads freely, it could destroy traditional sugar industries within years. But it could also ensure that no child on Earth ever grows up without access to food or medicine. The decision these students have made will echo through history."
The camera returned to the group of students, who stood together resolutely. Their nervous smiles hinted at the weight of what they had just promised the world.
Another student leaned toward the microphone, his voice steadier now that the first shock of the announcement had passed.
"We should also clarify something," he said. "Extracting sugar from Aten's rice is actually easier than extracting sugar from sugarcane or sugar beet. The process is less labor-intensive, requires fewer resources, and can be adapted to even basic facilities. Simply put… every country in the world can do it."
Gasps rippled through the audience. The murmuring of journalists swelled into excitement, pens scribbling furiously and cameras flashing.
The anchorwoman's voice carried over the noise:
"This revelation sent shockwaves through the conference. Unlike conventional sugar extraction, which requires heavy infrastructure and industrial investment, Aten's rice sugar can be produced with minimal equipment—potentially transforming local economies overnight."
The footage shifted to video clips of vast golden fields in different nations, swaying under the sun.
"Because Aten's rice grows in nearly every environment and matures in just two weeks, experts predict that sugar will soon cease to be a controlled commodity. For the first time in history, nations large and small may achieve complete independence in sugar production."
One of the professors from Cambridge stepped forward, his face proud but somber.
"This is not just a scientific breakthrough. It is a turning point. No longer will developing nations be forced to rely on imports or be crushed by monopolies. Aten's rice may erase the very concept of scarcity in this industry."
The scene cut back to the students, their youthful faces filled with determination as the hall filled with applause.
The students glanced at each other, and one of them finally spoke again, this time with an almost embarrassed laugh.
"To be honest… this isn't some great, complex innovation. If someone has studied even basic alchemy, they can do it themselves at home. The reason we succeeded was simply because we didn't overlook the fundamentals."
The audience stirred. A reporter raised her brow, whispering to her colleague in disbelief.
The young man continued, holding up a small alchemy kit no larger than a lunchbox.
"Most people chase advanced techniques or complicated formulas, forgetting that the simplest paths are sometimes the most effective. We just applied the basics: purification, separation, and condensation. Nothing more. The process was always there—it was just ignored."
The anchorwoman's narration returned as the camera panned over the students, who now looked both proud and slightly sheepish.
"According to their statement, the breakthrough was not due to cutting-edge research or rare equipment, but to rediscovering overlooked fundamentals of alchemy. What many experts dismissed as too simple, the students revisited—and found success where others had failed."
A professor behind them smiled knowingly, stepping to the microphone.
"This is a reminder to the world: greatness often lies in mastering the basics. In our rush to push the boundaries of magic and science, we sometimes forget that the answers may already be within reach."
The room erupted in applause again, the students bowing their heads modestly as their achievement was broadcast to the world.
The camera panned across the students once more, but this time the scene shifted to the University of Cambridge itself. Reporters gathered in the great hall as the Vice-Chancellor stepped up to a podium, robes flowing, his voice solemn yet proud.
"The University of Cambridge does not remain indifferent to what these young scholars have achieved. Their discovery has the potential to reshape the future of humanity, and it was born within these halls. It is only fitting that we honor them properly."
A hush fell over the audience. Behind him, the students stood in neat rows, their faces still flushed with disbelief.
"Therefore, we award them honorary doctorates in Alchemical Sciences, effective immediately. Furthermore, each will be granted lifetime fellowships, ensuring they will always have a place here — as researchers, as teachers, and as examples of what it means to question boldly, and to return to the fundamentals with fresh eyes."
Applause thundered through the chamber, echoing off the ancient stone walls. Some of the students blinked back tears, while others looked as though they couldn't quite believe what they were hearing.
The Vice-Chancellor raised his hand for silence.
"Let the world know that Cambridge treasures its children. This discovery will not simply be remembered as a scientific milestone. It will be remembered as proof that even the youngest among us can change the course of history."
The anchorwoman's narration cut in, her voice carrying the weight of the moment.
"The University's recognition has elevated these students overnight from ordinary researchers to living legends. With honorary doctorates and lifelong fellowships, their names are now etched into history alongside the greatest figures of science."
The broadcast ended with the image of the students bowing, golden sugar crystals glimmering in small glass vials on the podium before them — the symbol of their contribution to a new era.
Chapter 945 – "Industries in Upheaval"
The camera cut away from Cambridge's celebration, shifting instead to the glass towers of corporate headquarters. A calm but firm voice narrated over sweeping shots of boardrooms, factories, and assembly lines.
"While the academic world celebrates, global industries are facing a revolution. Sugar is not only the foundation of sweets and desserts — it is the lifeblood of the world's largest beverage companies."
Logos flashed across the screen one after another: Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, Nestlé, Red Bull, Monster Energy, and Starbucks.
The anchorwoman continued:
"These companies, whose products depend on vast supplies of sugar, now find themselves at a crossroads. The arrival of Aten's rice sugar — easier to extract, cheaper to produce, and infused with mana — threatens to overturn decades of supply chains and global trade."
Clips rolled of corporate spokespeople addressing the press.
A Coca-Cola representative spoke first, his tone measured but strained:
"We are closely monitoring the situation. Aten's rice sugar presents new opportunities, but also challenges. Our research teams are already experimenting with this ingredient, and we believe it could create a new category of products unlike anything seen before."
Next, a PepsiCo executive leaned forward in her chair during a televised interview:
"Let's be clear: this is disruption at its peak. But we're not afraid of change. If this sugar can be scaled safely, we will adapt, and perhaps even lead the industry in mana-infused beverages."
The camera then cut to Red Bull's headquarters, where their marketing team seemed almost thrilled.
"Energy has always been our brand," their spokesperson said with a grin. "Now imagine a drink that doesn't just energize, but heals. Aten's sugar could make that possible. We're already drafting concepts."
Starbucks, on the other hand, sounded more cautious.
"We are committed to sourcing sustainably. While Aten's rice is abundant, we must study its cultivation impact carefully before integrating it into our beverages worldwide."
Finally, the narration returned as the logos reappeared on screen.
"Whether cautious or eager, all of the world's largest beverage companies now stand on the brink of a transformation they cannot ignore. Aten's sugar is here — and their next moves will shape not just the industry, but the daily lives of billions."
The broadcast shifted again, this time showing aerial shots of massive food factories, conveyor belts stacked with chocolate bars, cookies, and packaged meals.
The anchorwoman's voice returned, smooth yet edged with anticipation.
"It isn't only the beverage industry facing disruption. Food giants who rely on sugar as a cornerstone of their products are also preparing to adapt."
The screen filled with the logo of Nestlé, the world's largest food and drink company.
A Nestlé executive stood at a podium, speaking into a forest of microphones.
"Aten's rice sugar represents both a challenge and a promise. If it truly can be produced at scale with fewer resources, the potential for healthier, mana-infused products is enormous. We are already in talks with universities and alchemists to integrate it into our confectionery lines."
Next came Mondelez International, makers of Oreo and Cadbury chocolates.
A company spokesperson adjusted his tie nervously.
"Our brands are beloved worldwide because of their sweetness and comfort. Aten's sugar could allow us to maintain those flavors while offering new benefits — resilience, stamina, even slight healing properties. We cannot afford to ignore this, and we won't."
Then the broadcast turned to Kraft Heinz, known for its sauces and processed foods.
A female executive spoke confidently on camera:
"Our industry has long been criticized for unhealthy products. Aten's rice sugar might let us change that narrative. Imagine ketchup that boosts energy, or desserts that restore health. We see this as an opportunity to rebrand not just our products, but our legacy."
The camera panned across supermarket shelves stacked with brightly colored packages.
The anchorwoman summarized:
"For decades, sugar has been both the world's sweetest delight and its greatest dietary problem. Now, with Aten's rice sugar, the balance of health and indulgence may shift forever. But while some companies see salvation, others fear the collapse of old systems, from sugarcane farmers to transport networks that once fed the global supply chain."
The footage ended with shots of farmers in Brazil and Thailand staring at their fields, worry etched into their faces, as the world's largest corporations began to pivot toward a future built on golden grains.
The broadcast cut back to the students from Cambridge, their press conference not yet finished. One of them adjusted her glasses, glanced at her notes, then leaned toward the microphone with a quiet but firm voice.
"There's one more thing we need to clarify. Aten's rice sugar does not behave like normal sugar in the body. In our clinical trials and preliminary tests, we've found that it does not cause spikes in blood sugar or lead to diabetes."
The room went utterly silent. Journalists froze, pens hovering in the air. A second student quickly added:
"Its mana-infused structure breaks down differently, being absorbed as clean energy by the body instead of stressing the pancreas. In other words… it provides sweetness, but without the long-term damage of ordinary sugar."
The camera panned over the stunned expressions of reporters. The anchorwoman's voice carried the gravity of the revelation:
"If confirmed, this discovery could change the very definition of health and diet. With Aten's sugar offering the sweetness humanity craves without the risks of diabetes, obesity, or metabolic disease, global healthcare systems may be on the verge of transformation."
Clips rolled of ordinary people reacting: a mother crying with relief while holding her diabetic son's hand, doctors shaking their heads in disbelief, chefs smiling as they imagined guilt-free desserts.
The footage returned to a student, who added almost apologetically:
"We know this sounds too good to be true. But our tests are solid, and peer review is already underway. This may be the first sugar in history that heals instead of harms."
The hall erupted in chaos — flashes of cameras, shouts of questions, and thunderous applause blending into a single roar.
The scene shifted from the noisy Cambridge auditorium to the polished conference halls of Geneva. The World Health Organization (WHO) had convened an emergency press briefing.
Dr. Elena Rossi, a senior official, stood before a packed room of reporters. Her tone was professional, but the sparkle in her eyes betrayed her excitement.
"If the students' findings prove accurate, Aten's rice sugar may be the single greatest breakthrough in global health since the discovery of antibiotics. For decades, we have battled an epidemic of diabetes and obesity. A sugar that does not harm the body, but nourishes it, could end this crisis."
Applause broke out among the journalists, quickly hushed as she raised her hand.
"The WHO will immediately begin independent verification. If confirmed, we will recommend international adoption."
The broadcast then cut to the American Diabetes Association, whose spokesperson, Dr. Michael Chen, appeared almost overwhelmed as he addressed a crowd in Washington, D.C.
"We never thought we'd see the day… but the data suggests it's real. If Aten's rice sugar truly bypasses the metabolic pathways that cause Type 2 diabetes, then millions of lives — millions — could be saved every year. We are cautiously optimistic, but make no mistake: this could rewrite medical textbooks."
Clips rolled of hospitals and clinics around the world, doctors watching the news on small televisions in staff rooms, some of them openly weeping, others cheering.
Back in the newsroom, the anchorwoman summarized with practiced calm:
"The reaction from the medical community is unanimous — cautious, but deeply hopeful. Health organizations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas have all pledged to investigate. What began as a student experiment may soon reshape not only the food industry, but the future of human health itself."
The screen faded to a montage: children laughing as they shared sweets, scientists poring over glowing vials of sugar crystals, and headlines flashing in every language.