Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots Chapter 819 - 367: All Lies? (Part 3)

Throughout the time spent alongside the Stand-In Puppet, subtle abnormalities had long been detected.

The responses were excessively perfect, the 'growth' lacked genuine autonomy, and occasional mechanical traces would gleam through the surface.

Still, the acknowledgment of this harsh truth was consistently refused.

As Ron observed the light in Nari’s eyes gradually dim, a complex feeling washed over him.

This sensation was novel, a burgeoning guilt when confronting innocence that he himself had deceived.

"Yes."

He opted against perpetuating the falsehood, his voice laced with a rare sincerity: "From the very inception, it was my Alchemy creation. Every word, every reaction, was orchestrated by my consciousness."

This unvarnished confession struck Nari’s core like a sharp blade.

Innumerable tendrils began to convulse, projecting a palpable sadness into the atmosphere.

"But..."

Nari's voice started to splinter, akin to a child's weeping: "But I could perceive its development... feel its burgeoning attachment to me... those warmth-filled responses..."

"All of those are genuine."

Ron interjected, cutting through the self-doubt, his tone gaining steadiness: "Though the puppet lacks independent sentience, the affection you’ve shown it has undeniably altered its fundamental nature. Through the Two-way Communication, I can sense every iota of your tenderness."

He gently placed a hand over his chest, the locus of the Spiritual Link.

Within the perception of 'Extraordinary Recognition,' a faint, silvery thread was visible, connecting him to the Stand-In Puppet nearby: "Your affection has imbued it with certain... life-like qualities; this transformation has even astonished me."

Nari’s emotional state began to shift subtly.

Its vast eyes re-focused on Ron, the sorrow gradually receding, supplanted by a different sentiment.

"You..."

A tentative tremor underscored its voice: "You can sense my emotions?"

"Every moment, every second."

Ron's reply caused all of Nari’s eyes to brightly illuminate.

For this entity, solitary for millennia, the profound feeling of being understood and perceived was a gift far exceeding any material treasure.

"Then... then why have you arrived now..."

Nari’s voice grew hesitant, as if bracing for a dreadful revelation.

"I intend to forge a far closer connection between us."

Ron retrieved the Magic Power Amplification Crystal from his Storage Bag.

The octahedral gem pulsed with an uncanny, life-like luminescence under the Chaos Storm's light, its interior swirling with energy bands resembling a miniature galaxy: "This is the pivotal component I've prepared for the puppet; upon integration, it will undergo a significant transformation, and you..."

He paused momentarily, a flicker of anticipation in his eyes: "...will receive twice the Favor feedback."

Upon beholding the crystal, Nari’s breathing quickened.

It could discern the potent energy contained within, its intricate energetic structure inspiring even awe in itself.

"This level of craftsmanship..."

Nari’s voice resonated with curiosity: "Even in my extensive lifespan, creations of such exquisite detail are seldom encountered. How much dedication did you pour into this?"

"My preparations for this juncture commenced even before I attained the status of an Official Wizard."

Ron's voice reflected a researcher's profound commitment: "From material acquisition and technological advancement to theoretical refinement... each phase involved innumerable simulations and rigorous validations."

Nari observed the young human before it with quiet contemplation.

Throughout its long existence, it had witnessed countless Wizards driven by avarice and insatiable ambition.

Yet, Ron stood apart; his was an unadulterated thirst for knowledge, an unwavering resolve to pursue truth regardless of the cost.