Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots Chapter 688 - 324: The Golden Shackles

Upon hearing those words, Ron's vigilance surged to its utmost level. He perceived that Cassandra was molding him into the emblematic leader of the Conquest Faction via this overt commendation. Should he embrace this role, preserving his neutrality would prove exceedingly challenging.

The Trap of Power

“In the forthcoming multi-dimensional Conquest Plan, a person with such diverse talents possesses value beyond measure.”

Cassandra proceeded to reveal more detailed assignments, her voice infused with unquestionable command:

“Hence, I hereby appoint Ron Ralph as the temporary deputy for the Crystal Tower’s ‘New Star Plan.’ ”

A collective intake of breath echoed through the hall, as the gravity of this role surpassed all anticipations. Ron sensed the atmosphere growing heavier around him, with the sentiments in numerous gazes turning more intricate and fervent.

The “New Star Plan” represents a unique initiative launched by Cassandra aimed at grooming future leaders, and securing this post grants direct entry into the School Alliance’s central decision-making circle. Leaps of this magnitude in rank are exceptionally uncommon in the institution’s annals.

“The leading role shall stay open for now, pending further exceptional feats to demonstrate worthiness.”

A suggestive spark appeared in Cassandra’s gaze, implying that this spot might be closer than it appears:

“This New Star Plan will extend over fifty years; by the conclusion of its initial stage, the top achiever will emerge as a contender for Sky City’s Vice Tower Master.”

This revelation ignited the hall’s ambiance into a frenzy. The Vice Tower Master position nearly matches the third highest authority in the School Alliance, trailing only Cassandra and a handful of venerable Great Wizards. Numerous young wizards’ stares blazed with ambition, while directing even more layered looks toward Ron.

In his mind, Ron swiftly assessed the profound ramifications of this setup. For common folk, fifty years marks a full lifespan, yet for wizards, it’s just a growth period. Evidently, Cassandra is laying groundwork for enduring dominance, positioning him as the pivotal element in her scheme.

From her robes, Cassandra retrieved an ornate container radiating an odd glow, its substance appearing as some form of animate alloy, featuring minute patterns that shifted across its exterior:

“To mark your induction, I present you with a distinctive sacred item.”

With great care, she unveiled the container, revealing a badge forged from “Time Crystal.”

This badge’s craftsmanship is remarkably intricate, built on a hexagram framework, where each vertex embeds a Time Crystal of varying hue.

Beneath the illumination, the badge generates a mesmerizing prismatic illusion, seeming to unveil the paths of passing moments to the viewer.

Yet, via “Extraordinary Recognition,” Ron discerned the item’s actual essence. Those alluring Time Crystals harbor elaborate monitoring mechanisms, designed to capture the bearer’s every action, encompassing even mental processes.

“This is the sacred item ‘Eye of Foresight’ originating from the ‘Time Lord Civilization.’ ”

Cassandra’s inflection conveyed evident appreciation, though Ron detected the implicit warning:

“It will greatly amplify the wearer’s temporal awareness, permitting partial glimpses into impending perils and prospects. For youths venturing into tangled circumstances, this sacred item serves as their ultimate safeguard.”

She affixed the badge to Ron’s chest herself, the ritualistic gravity making all attendees feel the epochal weight of the instant. However, Ron experienced something different—a faint force infiltrated his form upon contact, commencing a linkage with his magical essence.

This goes beyond a mere present; it’s an advanced restraint apparatus.

“Starting now, you shall have privileges equivalent to an Associate Professor, granting entry to nearly all restricted archives in the School Alliance.”

Cassandra concluded her declaration, her tone laced with evident temptation:

“Additionally, you’ll receive approval for solo research endeavors, empowering you to command substantial assets for your scholarly pursuits.”

This encompasses favored entry to Otherworld resources, boundless use of cutting-edge lab tools, and a personal squad of aides for investigation.

This lavish privilege drew attention from all in attendance.

A novice wizard freshly integrated into the Crystal Tower suddenly ascended to such heights, an occurrence seldom seen in the school’s chronicles.

Positioned on the stage, Ron endured the scrutiny of thousands of eyes, yet no spark of elation or arrogance stirred in his core.

Instead, a profound wariness expanded inside him, akin to a bug ensnared in a silken trap, where each twitch only heightens the entanglement.

“This lavish boon is nothing less than a gilded chain.”

While projecting outer poise, he methodically evaluated his predicament inwardly:

“By bestowing such vast benevolence, she anticipates fitting reciprocity. Moreover, this spotlighted accolade at this pivotal juncture broadcasts to all—I’ve become a vital ally in her faction.”

This insight rendered Ron’s disposition profoundly somber. He had originally aimed to uphold a balanced footing amid the School Alliance’s internal rivalries, earning esteem and assets via his discoveries and inherent prowess. Yet, Cassandra’s open endorsement has inexorably tied him to the Conquest Faction’s cause.

More astutely, she chose a moment and approach that rendered denial nearly unattainable. Amid this open assembly, observed by thousands of wizards, any rejection would signal an open defiance against the Conquest Faction. Considering Cassandra’s prevailing sway, such defiance would invite ruinous fallout.

“Henceforth, all my actions will be seen as indicators of the Conquest Faction’s intentions.”

A tide of resignation welled up from his depths, though logic urged him to embrace the facts:

“Neutrality is no longer feasible; I need to overhaul my path forward.”

Externally, Ron preserved his signature serenity and dignity. He offered Cassandra the customary academic salute, his tone firm as he replied:

“I am grateful for the Tower Master’s confidence and guidance; I shall endeavor not to disappoint.”

His response allowed no openings, showing thanks while avoiding explicit endorsement of the conquest agenda. Still, all those gathered knew this formal elevation had already sealed his alignment.