Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 262 Six Ears

In the conference hall on the top floor of the Crystal Spire, that brief reply stirred different ripples in the hearts of everyone present.

"Treat it normally?"

The third voice—the female wizard—broke the silence first, her voice tinged with confusion:

"The Tower Master only said these two words? No further instructions?"

"Indeed."

The leader responded in a dignified voice, his tone now tinged with contemplation:

"Lady Cassandra is always concise, but there is a deeper meaning behind every decision she makes."

"Treat it normally"

An aged, hoarse voice slowly repeated the phrase, as if chewing on each byte:
"Is this a complete abandonment, or is there a deeper meaning?"

Under the projection of the crystal ball, the figures of the crowd swayed slightly as they pondered.

Everyone is trying to decipher the deeper meaning behind this seemingly ordinary instruction.

"Let me first share my thoughts," the young voice said cautiously.
“I think this is the tower master’s way of reminding us not to repeat the mistakes that happened to Greenwood seventeen years ago. We put too much pressure and expectations on him back then, which ultimately led to that tragedy.”

"Everyone has a point."

The owner of the aged voice sighed softly, and the figure shrouded in light and shadow leaned forward slightly:
"But more likely, the tower master wants us to neither deliberately interfere nor completely let things go, but to act according to established procedures and rules."

He paused for a moment, as if organizing his thoughts:

"Treat any newly ordained wizard as you would any other, without giving them excessive attention because of their original characteristics, and without imposing additional restrictions because of their potential risks."

A brief silence fell over the room as everyone seemed to weigh the plausibility of the explanation.

"In that case."

The first person continued, his voice now carrying a newfound decisiveness:
“We will handle it according to the standard procedure. After he formally submits his application, we will arrange an evaluation team to conduct a comprehensive assessment of his abilities, and then assign him an appropriate position based on the results.”

“Let’s start with the most basic teaching assistant position,” the woman added, her voice laced with sarcasm.

"The tradition of the Crystal Spire is that no matter where you come from, you have to start from the bottom."

"Okay, everyone."

The first person to make the final decision:
"Everything will be handled according to procedure, neither expedited nor hindered, just as the tower master said—'treat it normally.' The meeting is now adjourned."

With a soft sound, the crystal ball's light gradually dimmed.

The figures in the projection disappeared one by one, leaving only an empty conference hall and a few lingering rays of light.

………………

In the Jade Courtyard, Ron stood in the center of the third-floor laboratory, his hand gently stroking the experimental table made of "Dark Night Stone".

A subtle energy resonance emanated from the cold stone surface, as if responding to his touch.

After a night of rest and adaptation, the magic within him had gradually adapted to the high-concentration energy environment of the Central Land.

The initial discomfort, like being an overinflated balloon, had subsided, replaced by a smooth and full feeling.

"Star Projection" thrives in this energy-rich environment; his magic pool not only regains its previous balance but continues to expand.

Ron closed his eyes, sensing the flow of magic within his body.

Compared to yesterday, the total amount of magic power has increased by at least five percent.

This is an achievement that would normally require at least several days of continuous meditation.

"The magical environment of the Central Lands truly lives up to its reputation."

Ron muttered to himself, a faint blue light emanating from his fingertips—a visual manifestation of pure magic.

He walked toward the communication crystal and decided to contact Melanie first to learn more about the specific procedures for joining the Crystal Spire.

Although the other party had given preliminary guidance yesterday, details often determine success or failure, and Ron never takes risks without preparation.

The crystal lit up quickly after being infused with magic, projecting Melanie's dignified and elegant face.

She maintained that professional smile, looking ready to provide any kind of service at any time.

"Good morning, Wizard Ralph."

Melanie nodded slightly, her voice as gentle as flowing water: "Is there anything I can help you with?"

“Ms. Melanie, I would like to know the specific procedures for joining the Crystal Spire.”

Ron got straight to the point, without any unnecessary formalities:

"And I have a personal question—are Trishlind Apprentice and Wizard Corinna at the Crystal Spire now? I'd like to get in touch with them."

Melanie's expression barely changed, but a subtle glint flashed in her eyes, clearly indicating that she was reacting to the two names Ron had mentioned.

"Regarding joining the Crystal Spire."

She began to explain in a calm tone, her finger lightly tracing a pattern in the air, as if retrieving some kind of information:

"You need to submit a formal application to the Nova Reception Office first. Then an evaluation team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your abilities and expertise, which usually includes multiple stages such as spell construction, meditation characteristic testing, and academic achievement verification."

She lightly tapped her finger in the air, and a semi-transparent table projection appeared on the communication screen:
"Based on the evaluation results, they will assign you a suitable position. Generally, new wizards will start as teaching assistants or research assistants and gradually qualify for higher positions by accumulating contribution points."

Melanie paused, her gaze shifting slightly, as if organizing her thoughts for the next sentence:
"As for Miss Lind and Wizard Corinna, as far as I know, they were sent to a certain outpost in the Abyss about a month ago."

Her tone became more cautious:

"The specific location is confidential information, and I'm afraid I'm not authorized to disclose it. If you wish to contact them, you can submit an application through the official channels within the tower, and after review, a communication opportunity will be arranged for you."

Ron frowned slightly and tapped his fingertips lightly on the table.

This information was unexpected; he had originally thought that Trish would stay at the Crystal Spire and use its abundant resources to accelerate her advancement.

"Outpost of the Abyss," Ron repeated softly, his gaze fixed on Melanie's facial expression like a probe:
"Is it related to the recently built deep-sea observation station?"

This issue clearly touches on a sensitive point.

Melanie's expression froze for a moment, and although she quickly resumed her smile, Ron keenly caught that fleeting stiffness.

"The abyss observation station is a relatively independent institution."

Her answer became more restrained and cautious, and her speaking speed slowed down slightly:

"Although it is under the jurisdiction of the Crystal Spire, it has its own recruitment and management system. If you are interested, you can mention it to the Nova Reception Office, and they will provide you with relevant information."

Her gaze flickered subtly: "Research related to the Abyss has always been one of the Crystal Spire's key focuses, and we welcome wizards with expertise to join us."

Ron nodded slightly, deciding to temporarily refrain from pursuing this topic, which was clearly categorized as sensitive.

Information gathering is a gradual process; rushing to break through the defenses will only increase the other side's vigilance.

"Thank you for your answer." He calmly ended the topic.
"So, could you please tell me exactly where the New Star Reception Office is located? I'd like to submit my application as soon as possible."

"It's located in the third tower to the west of the central tower, inside the stargazing building called 'Sunset Skyline'."

Melanie seemed relieved, and her tone became fluent again:
"It's about a 20-minute flight from Jade Villa. The receptionists there will be at your service around the clock. Would you like me to make the arrangements?"

Ron declined the offer, saying he preferred to learn about the city's layout himself.

For a wizard who has just arrived in the Central Lands, getting to know the environment is the first priority, and nothing is more effective than walking around to truly feel the pulse of a city.

After ending his communication with Melanie, Ron pondered for a moment and decided to contact Elliott immediately.

If anyone could provide a more authentic picture of what's inside the Crystal Spire, this local aborigine would undoubtedly be the best candidate.

He took out a badge from his spatial bag, which was the contact information Elliot had given him after the Bloodline Altar.

He imprinted the emblem onto his communication crystal, creating a unique call inscription for Elliott, after which the emblem slowly dissipated on its own.

Ron infused it with magic, and the crystal immediately emitted a buzzing sound, like some kind of confirmation signal.

A few seconds later, Elliott's handsome face appeared in the projection formed by the crystal.

Compared to when he was at the Bloodline Altar, although less than a year has passed, he now appears to be much more mature and composed.

His golden curly hair was meticulously combed, the only thing that remained unchanged was his unusually large ears.

The most obvious change was the insignia on his chest—it was no longer an apprentice's mark, but a star ring symbolizing a Morning Star wizard, proving that he had completed his promotion.

"Ron!"

Elliott's voice was filled with surprise, but it quickly turned into a strange understanding, as if he had long anticipated this contact:
"You've arrived in the Central Lands? When did you arrive?"

"yesterday."

Ron gave a brief response, revealing no extra emotion:

"There are some things I'd like to discuss with you in person. Would that be convenient?"

A thoughtful look appeared in Elliott's blue eyes, before he quickly made a decision:

“Of course, very convenient. Give me half an hour, and I will personally visit you at the Jade Garden.” He paused briefly and added, “I am very familiar with that place; I have accompanied my family elders there to visit guests many times.”

Ron nodded. "Thank you, I'll wait for you."

"We'll discuss this in detail when we meet." Elliott smiled slightly, revealing a row of neat white teeth.

"By the way, it seems some of the rumors I've heard are true; you did indeed take that legendary path."

After the communication ended, Ron thoughtfully put the crystal back into his spatial bag.

The information revealed in Elliott's last sentence is intriguing—it's clear that news of his promotion through the authentic route had already spread within certain circles of the Crystal Spire.

This was both expected and something to be wary of.

In the wizarding world, information is currency, and overly conspicuous traits are often a double-edged sword.

"Master, is there anything I need to prepare for the visitors?"

Ailan's voice sounded behind her, and her green figure appeared silently at the door, holding a pot of hot tea that exuded a rich aroma.

Ron shook his head slightly:

"Simple tea and snacks will suffice; there's no need for anything too extravagant. My relationship with Elliott is only at a preliminary stage, and it's not something that warrants special hospitality."

Ailan nodded gracefully, and the vines swayed gently:

"I will prepare some mid-range snacks, which will be neither impolite nor overly enthusiastic."

Ron nodded in approval, and then began to inspect the protective magic array and privacy barrier in the courtyard.

Caution is never a fault, especially in an environment where information is power.

On the second floor of the villa, a small figure peeked out from a crystal tank.

Dyer's large golden eyes sparkled with curiosity, and her long silver hair floated in the water like a blooming flower.

"Master, are we having guests?" she asked innocently, her voice filled with childlike curiosity. "Is it that golden-haired human in the communication crystal?"

"Yes."

Ron gave a brief reply, his gaze sweeping over the various indicators of the crystal tank to confirm that everything was functioning normally:
“A wizard I met at the Bloodline Altar is now working at the Crystal Spire.”

He offered no further explanation, nor did he need to.

"Will he stay long? Can I play in the yard for a while?" Dale blinked her big eyes.

Ron pondered for a moment, then shook his head: "Not this time. We need to discuss some private matters. After he leaves, let Ailan take you for a walk around the area."

Dyer pouted slightly, but simply flapped her tail and sank back into the water to continue her playful antics.

About half an hour later, a unique energy fluctuation came from outside the villa.

Ron walked to the window and saw a silver, bird-shaped aircraft slowly landing on the open ground in front of the villa.

The aircraft was covered in complex runes, and its wings were made of some kind of translucent magical construct that shimmered with rainbow-like light in the sunlight.

The bird's back hatch opened, and a blond youth dressed in formal wizard robes appeared.

The collar and cuffs were embroidered with star patterns, and the star ring emblem on the chest shimmered in the sunlight, giving the person an air of refined elegance unique to the nobility.

He silently assessed the value of the aircraft.

Magical tools of this caliber are worth at least dozens of complete magic stones, a luxury that most ordinary wizards can only dream of in their entire lives.

The doorbell rang, and Ron composed himself to greet the special visitor.

"Ron Ralph."

Elliott bowed slightly, performing a standard wizard's salute, and drew the shape of a star ring in front of his chest with his palm:

"It's a pleasure to see you again. Congratulations on your promotion to a full-fledged wizard."

"Elliott Vander".

Ron returned the gesture with a standard wizard's salute, his posture proper yet natural:

"Thank you for visiting, please come in."

The two walked through the meticulously arranged courtyard and along the corridor to the second-floor reception room.

This room is located in the center of the courtyard, and its walls are covered with soundproof and anti-detection runes, making it an ideal place for private conversations.

"Please wait a moment," Ron said before closing the door, then quickly walked to the third floor and took out a small crystal ball from the laboratory.

This is a safety device that he painstakingly improved during his time at the Black Mist School.

Although it has a simple appearance, its internal structure is extremely sophisticated, containing multiple anti-spy and energy isolation functions.

Upon returning to the reception room, he placed the crystal ball in the center of the table and infused it with a trace of magic at a special frequency.

The crystal ball immediately emitted a soft blue light, forming a semi-transparent energy shield that enveloped the entire room.

"Additional protective measures."

Ron explained briefly, his gaze sweeping across the young man's face to observe his reaction:

"Isolate external energy detection and sound transmission."

Elliott raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips:

"It seems your reputation for caution is well-deserved. This multi-frequency isolation field is very finely crafted."

He reached out and lightly touched the energy shield, feeling the flow of magic within: "You designed this yourself?"

"It is an improvement on the basic model that is circulating in the market."

Ron responded indifferently, neither boastful nor humble:

"The prototype had the defect of uneven energy bands, so I added a quadruple progressive stabilizing ring to make the isolation effect more comprehensive."

Ailan silently served tea and snacks, while Tengman gracefully poured each of them a cup of fragrant herbal tea before quietly leaving.

First of all, congratulations on your promotion.

Ron picked up his teacup and gazed at the young wizard opposite him:
"In terms of time, your promotion has been quite rapid."

Eliot took a sip of tea and gave a somewhat self-deprecating smile:
"Not at all. Compared to you who promoted directly through genuine means, I, who took the conventional path, seem rather mediocre."

He put down his teacup, his expression becoming subtle:

"To be honest, if it weren't for the special arrangements made by my family, I'd probably still be waiting in line for the key potion."

"Special arrangements?"

Ron raised his eyebrows slightly, his tone devoid of any judgment, only pure curiosity.

Elliott shrugged, somewhat helplessly:

"The failure at the Bloodline Altar has significantly lowered my ranking. According to the normal process, it will be at least several more months before it's my turn to obtain the Key Potion."

His pale golden curls shimmered softly in the light.

"However, after the clan saw that the heirs of the other competing families had already been promoted, they immediately used some personal connections and resources to help me get a promotion opportunity ahead of time."

At this point, Elliott paused slightly, his blue eyes filled with complex emotions:
“I envy your freedom, not having to bear the expectations and shackles of your family. Every decision you make can be based entirely on your own will, instead of being led by invisible strings.”

Ron simply nodded, neither agreeing nor disagreeing, but simply keeping the information in mind.

The operating methods, internal rules, and control over external resources of the various wizarding clans are all valuable intelligence.

"However, getting promoted earlier is definitely more beneficial."

Eliot's tone suddenly brightened:

"My special talent, 'Listening to the Wind,' has been significantly enhanced due to the acquisition of the meditation technique, which is one of the reasons why the family is so eager to promote me."

Ron's gaze sharpened slightly; the "special talent" he had casually mentioned immediately caught his attention.

"'Listening to the Wind'?"

Although he had already noticed something, he still asked calmly, his tone carrying just the right amount of interest:
"Does this sound like a talent related to information gathering?"

Elliot nodded: "Simply put, I can hear sounds that ordinary people cannot hear."

He paused for a moment, seemingly considering how to explain this abstract ability:
"It includes not only sound in the physical sense, but also energy fluctuations, information flow, and even the echoes of certain things that have not yet happened but are already set in stone."

Ron's eyes subtly shifted. These special talents, capable of foreseeing or perceiving the future, were at least among the top in the second tier, and their value was immeasurable.

"This sounds like an extremely rare talent."

He made a casual remark while mentally reassessing Elliott's potential value.

Such a unique entity, much like the "Six-Eared Macaque," holds undeniable strategic significance, whether as a partner or a source of intelligence.

(End of this chapter)