Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 206 Avoiding Contracts
Mrs. Allen smiled slightly: "No need to be so polite. You are now the only student I truly acknowledge. And I have always admired those who can break the mold and find their own path."

She paused, a strange light flashing in her eyes:

"Besides, I can tell you're not the kind of person who'd willingly be tied down. Isn't that right?"

Ron and Mrs. Allen looked at each other, and in those emerald green eyes, he seemed to see a kind of understanding and acceptance.

“There’s one more thing,” Mrs. Allen continued.

"I have a method to advance to a full-fledged wizard without using the school's universal 'key' potion. Although it's riskier, it's also more free. If you're interested, you can come find me at the herbal medicine shop after Valen leaves in a while."

Ron's heart skipped a beat.

Becoming a full-fledged wizard is the ultimate goal for every apprentice, and advancing without relying on a school's keys and potions means greater freedom.

“I will consider it.” He nodded solemnly.

Mrs. Allen smiled, a smile unusually devoid of its usual harshness: "Let's go, let's leave here together."

Ron nodded and followed Mrs. Allen toward the exit.

On the way, Mrs. Allen brought up an interesting topic:

"By the way, Ron, have you ever considered that soul contracts might have different effects on people with special soul talents?"

A flicker of surprise crossed Ron's eyes: "You mean...?"

"It's just a guess." The pink-haired witch smiled mysteriously.
"After all, rules in this world often have unexpected flexibility, especially for those who are exceptionally gifted."

Her words were pointed, making Ron wonder if Mrs. Allen had already seen through his secret.
But in any case, this conversation gave Ron a new idea:

Perhaps he could use the characteristics of "dual soul" to sign a contract to acquire resources from the Crystal Spire without being completely bound by it.

In this way, he can maintain good relationships with some of the mentors who taught him, while also maintaining a certain degree of freedom.

Of course, this requires more in-depth research and preparation, but it is at least a feasible direction.

As the two gradually moved away, the crystalline structure within the bloodline altar began to collapse, signaling the end of this trial.

For Ron, this was not the end, but the beginning of a new journey.

The strengthening of bloodlines, the advancement of substitute puppets, the battle against clones, Mrs. Allen's secret, and the mysterious "Eye of the Abyss" organization.
Every factor is pushing him toward a wider world, and he is ready to embrace it all.

………………

At the exit of the Bloodline Altar, Valen waited anxiously.

His tense expression finally relaxed when he saw Mrs. Allen and Ron appear near the portal.

"Finally back." Warren breathed a sigh of relief, his gaze first sweeping over Mrs. Allen.

After confirming that she was not injured, he turned to Ron and said, "Apprentice Ron, it seems you have successfully completed the trial."

Ron nodded in acknowledgment: "Thanks to Mrs. Allen's help."

Valen nodded slightly, without saying anything more.

He could sense the changes in Ron—his aura was more stable, his magic flowed more smoothly, and his bloodline power had been significantly enhanced.

This is the result of the Bloodline Altar Trial, and it seems to be quite effective.

"Where is the intruder?" Warren asked Mrs. Allen.

"They self-destructed," Mrs. Allen replied curtly, a cold glint in her eyes.
“He called himself ‘Mr. Holy Disc,’ a member of ‘Eye of the Abyss,’ and the mastermind behind Oliver. He chose self-destruction just as I was about to interrogate him.”

Valen frowned:

"The Eye of the Abyss. They're getting bolder and bolder. First it was Oliver and Cynthia, and now this 'Mr. Holy Disc' has appeared. It seems we must intensify our investigation into the Black Mist School."

Mrs. Allen nodded:
"Their infiltration is more serious than we imagined. That Mr. Holy Disc must have been posing as a mentor, developing his power within the school for a long time, and cultivating pawns like Oliver."

Valen's expression grew even more serious: "This matter must be reported to the Alliance of Schools. The Eye of the Abyss's ambitions clearly extend beyond this; they may be plotting an even larger conspiracy."

Ron listened quietly to the conversation between the two wizards, occasionally organizing the information in his mind.

Interestingly, this mysterious figure, known as "Mr. Sacred Disc," has set his sights on himself.

This both alarmed and intrigued him. Why had he become the target of the Eye of the Abyss?
Was it simply because they displayed extraordinary talent, or had they discovered some deeper secret?

In any case, this means he must be more cautious, more vigilant, and guard against potential threats.

“Ron.” Valen suddenly turned his attention to him:

"Your performance in the trial was extraordinary. Even the clones displayed astonishing power, which shows that your potential far exceeds that of ordinary apprentices."

Ron responded modestly, "I just did my best."

Valen smiled slightly: "No need to be modest. Talent is a wizard's most valuable asset, and you clearly possess extremely rare potential."

He stared at Ron, his eyes flashing with an undisguised expectation and calculation.

“Your potential far exceeds that of ordinary apprentices, and you will even stand out among the elites of the Crystal Spire.”

The man's voice was perfectly controlled, expressing appreciation without sounding overly eager.

"If you wish, I can introduce you to several outstanding mentors in our faction. They have unparalleled expertise in elemental science, alchemy, and supernatural biology, which I believe will greatly benefit your growth."

Valen had already sketched out a perfect blueprint in his mind—not only would he have the guidance of top mentors, but he would also have several outstanding and good-looking eligible young men.

Through marriage alliances, the Crystal Spire has gained countless geniuses.

In his view, such a transaction is mutually beneficial, with both parties getting what they need.

However, just as he was about to elaborate on these "generous terms," ​​a strong sense of warning came from his side.

Mrs. Allen's gaze was sharp as a knife, containing not only a warning but also a tangible threat, causing Warren to swallow the rest of his words.

He coughed lightly and quickly adjusted his strategy:
"Of course, if you are interested, you are welcome to come to the Crystal Spire for further study and advanced training through the Black Mist School. Elliot and I will return to the Central Lands in about three days after we finish our last few matters."

Three days is roughly the time needed to finish up the related matters concerning the bloodline altar.

Elliott, who had been standing behind Warren, stepped forward.

Those unusually large ears twitched incessantly, as if trying to catch the slightest energy fluctuations in the air.

Ron has noticed through "supernatural perception" that this seemingly strange trait is actually an extremely rare perceptual talent that allows him to "hear" information that ordinary people cannot perceive.

"Ron Ralph, I've heard so much about you."

Elliott's tone was gentle, but the scrutiny in his eyes made Ron wary: "Seeing is believing, and it's more unforgettable than hearing about it."

He took out an exquisite silver emblem from his pocket, which was engraved with a complex network of runes.

Ron sensed that the emblem contained a complex communication array, its energy structure incredibly precise.

"This is a special personal magical emblem, a common means of communication between wizards and advanced apprentices."

Elliott explained, "Unfortunately, the Black Mist School had limited resources and could not circulate widely, just as academic journals were not popular here."

Ron took the emblem and sensed the exquisite magical structure within it, secretly marveling at it.

The production of these small items may seem simple, but the principles of energy transmission involved are extremely profound.

This demonstrates the research level of the major powers in the Central Lands regarding auxiliary tools, far surpassing that of a remote school like the Black Mist School.

"If you come to the Central Land, you can contact me directly through this item."

Elliott's tone became more sincere: "I would love to befriend a genius like you and offer my assistance to the best of my ability."

Ron tucked the badge into his inside pocket and nodded his thanks without making a sound.
"Thank you for your kind offer. If I have the opportunity to visit the Central Region, I will certainly pay you a visit."

Having said everything that needed to be said, Elliott consciously followed Warren away, as they had other things to attend to.

Mrs. Allen, standing nearby, cleared her throat:
“Ron, you should know that time flows differently inside the Bloodline Altar than outside. In fact, two whole weeks have passed outside.”

"Two weeks?" Ron was startled and frowned slightly.

He quickly calculated the potential impact—the workshop's daily operations, experimental progress, potion order deliveries…

“You’d better get back to the workshop as soon as possible,” Mrs. Allen said, her tone softening slightly. “I’m afraid someone is still waiting for you to return.”

She gave Ron a meaningful look and added:

“Remember, come see me after Valen leaves. There are many things I need to tell you, and they are very important.”

Ron nodded in agreement, his thoughts already drifting back to the workshop. He couldn't help but worry about Lilia and Ailan's condition, especially Lilia, that girl who was always so cautious about everything; she must be terrified.

After bidding farewell to Mrs. Allen, Ron and Dale did not linger and walked briskly towards the workshop.

During the journey, he keenly noticed the subtle changes in the atmosphere of the school of thought.

Many apprentices looked at him with more awe, and even members of the enforcement team spontaneously bowed to him.

"It seems the news has spread," Ron thought to himself, but he didn't care about this superficial respect.

In his value system, power is the only constant currency.

The greatest value of this currency lies in its ability to exchange for more knowledge and resources, helping him to further strengthen himself.

Others' opinions are merely a reaction to power and have no real significance.

When Ron and Dale finally arrived at the workshop, the door was suddenly yanked open.

Lilia stood at the door, looking heartbreaking—her eyes were red and bloodshot, as if she hadn't slept for a long time;

Long-term worry and exhaustion left obvious marks on her face, and her once neat hair was now disheveled.

The moment Lilia saw Ron, her eyes went from disbelief to joy, and finally to uncontrollable tears.

She had intended to remain composed and greet him respectfully, like a proper apprentice, but her long-suppressed emotions finally broke free at that moment.

"Teacher! You're finally back!"

Her voice choked with emotion, her hands gripping her sleeves tightly, her knuckles turning white from the force: "We almost thought..."

Ailan appeared at the door shortly afterward, her elegant face also filled with surprise.

Although she was better able to control her emotions than Lilia, her flickering eyes and slightly trembling vines still betrayed the turmoil in her heart.

"Master! Dale! Thank goodness, you are all safe and sound!"

The tree spirit stretched out its vines, gently yet irresistibly pulling Ron and Dale into the workshop.

Her vines wrapped around their arms with a protective tenderness, as if to confirm that they had indeed returned unharmed.

"Everyone, calm down." Ron tried to keep his voice steady to soothe the two women who were clearly losing their tempers.
"We are all fine, but the flow of time inside the altar is different from that outside, so we are a little later than expected."

Lilia raised her head, fighting back tears, and tried to regain a sliver of reason:
"We are very worried. Many terrible rumors are circulating in the school, saying that there is something wrong with the bloodline altar, that some apprentices have even been trapped inside forever, and that Miss Trish and Lord Holt have already returned before you..."

Her voice trembled slightly, and her face was pale, clearly indicating that she had been under great stress for the past few days.

"Those are just rumors."

Ron gently shook his head, his tone unusually gentle, to ease the girl's worries:

"The Bloodline Altar is indeed dangerous, but it is not invincible. In fact, we not only successfully completed the trial, but Dale also gained a bloodline enhancement as a result."

The little siren immediately puffed out her chest proudly: "That's right! I'm a 'purebred siren' now! Look into my eyes!"

Lilia then noticed the change in Dale.

Its originally large, purplish-blue eyes have turned into a pure gold, and subtle scales have appeared on the surface of its skin.

Her entire demeanor was transformed, exuding an extraordinary aura that combined nobility and purity.

"This is amazing!" Lilia exclaimed, her emotions calming down a little.

Ailan's keen eyes caught the changes in Ron.

Compared to Dale, Ron's changes were more subtle, yet more fundamental.

His aura became purer and more powerful, his energy flowed more smoothly, and his bloodline fluctuations became more harmonious.

"Master, your bloodline has also been enhanced, hasn't it?"

The tree spirit asked softly, her vines gently caressing the workshop floor—a habitual gesture when she was thinking.

Ron nodded slightly, neither trying to hide it nor explaining in detail:

"That's true. Although this experience was dangerous, it was very rewarding."

He looked around and noticed that everything inside the workshop was in good order, even cleaner than when he left.

An enticing aroma wafted through the air, causing his stomach to protest involuntarily.

"I can smell the aroma of food."

Ron sniffed the air, his tone tinged with anticipation: "Have you already prepared dinner?"

Lilia immediately perked up, as if she had rediscovered her role:
"Yes! After receiving the news, we prepared a welcome feast with Sister Ailan! Let's eat it while it's hot!"

The restaurant has been newly decorated, and the tables are filled with all kinds of delicious food.

From the special fruits and vegetables cultivated by Ailan herself, to the various meat dishes carefully cooked by Lilia, and even a few seafood dishes that Dale loves the most.

Each dish exudes an enticing aroma, a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate.

Ron sat at the table and took his first bite of stew, immediately feeling a warm current spread from his stomach throughout his body.

This feeling comes from both the deliciousness of the food itself and an indescribable sense of security.

Only in this workshop, which he built himself, could he relax his vigilance slightly and not have to be constantly on guard against various potential threats.

What does the inside of the altar look like?

Lilia asked impatiently, her eyes sparkling with curiosity: "There's very little recorded in the books; most of it is just speculation."

Ron sipped the fruit wine in his glass, pondering how to describe the experience.

He didn't want to overemphasize the dangers, lest he cause the two women more worry; nor did he want to reveal too many details involving his core secrets.

"The altar is divided into several areas. The outer area is heavily influenced by the abyss, with a complex and changeable environment where various mutated creatures roam."

Ron could only describe it briefly: "I temporarily teamed up with Trish, Holt, and came to the core area together. They left first, while I completed the final trial."

Dale excitedly interjected:
"The battle was incredibly intense! My master used that puppet to defeat a powerful enemy, while I dueled with my own clone and ultimately gained a bloodline enhancement!"

"A clone?" Lilia tilted her head curiously.

"Yes, the altar will generate a copy of each participant."

Ron explained, "Defeating your own clone grants you a bloodline enhancement. That's how Dale achieved her 'pureblood' breakthrough."

"What is that puppet?"

"It's the prize from the gladiatorial tournament, a substitute puppet."

Ron spoke calmly, but a hint of satisfaction flashed in his eyes: "It did play a crucial role."

By praising the efficacy of the substitute puppet, he avoided further details about the replica.

Especially that terrifying being who absorbed all the other clones and almost reached the level of a formal wizard.

The fewer people who know this level of information, the better.

Ailan seemed lost in thought:
"That's why I can sense that subtle change in my master's aura. It's not just an improvement in his bloodline, but a deeper transformation. It seems that some kind of power from the bloodline altar has created a wonderful resonance with my master's own characteristics."

Ron nodded without changing his expression.

Ailan's observational skills remained as sharp as ever, which was one of the reasons he appreciated this tree spirit assistant.

She can not only perceive appearances, but also intuitively grasp the essence, without interfering or questioning too much.

“Ailan is right,” Ron admitted. “The Bloodline Altar has indeed brought me a special transformation, not only an increase in power, but also a deeper understanding of the characteristics of my own bloodline.”

He could feel that the two bloodlines within him, Chimera and Crimson Dragon, had become purer and more harmonious, no longer clashing as often as before.

The flow of bloodline power is smoother, and the efficiency of energy utilization has also made a qualitative leap.

The atmosphere at the dinner table gradually relaxed, and everyone shared their experiences.

Lilia described in detail how the workshop had been operating during this period—order processing, material procurement, and accounting management—everything was in good order.

Ailan then introduced several new medicinal herbs she cultivated in the garden, one of which, the Night-Shining Fern, seemed to have a special effect of stabilizing mental energy.

Dale also described the various strange sights inside the altar in great detail, adding her own embellishments, but making it vivid and interesting.

(End of this chapter)