Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots Chapter 854 - 379: Competing to Curry Favor (Part 2)

"I could never gain access to those valuable research opportunities. You understand, the research significance of those materials from other worlds..."

He left his words unfinished, the gleam in his eyes conveying the rest.

"Your advancement is a testament to your own hard work."

Ron replied with composure, all the while subtly gauging the reactions of the surrounding guests.

He could discern that others were employing their Spiritual Power to eavesdrop on their conversation.

In this setting, every utterance and facial expression held the potential to be dissected and speculated upon by onlookers.

Just then, the gentle sound of footsteps echoed from the hall's entrance.

Three young ladies, adorned in lavish attire, made their slow entrance.

Their arrival seemed to subtly shift the very atmosphere of the grand banquet hall.

All three sported the distinctive golden hair and bright blue eyes characteristic of the Storm Clan, possessing tall and appealing figures.

Yet, what truly commanded attention was the noble bearing instilled by their family upbringing.

"Allow me to make introductions."

Cassius’s voice held an unmistakable note of paternal pride:

"These are Lianna, Carmella, and Lavni, all from our Storm Clan."

Leading the way, Lianna appeared to be around seventeen or eighteen years old, donning decorative crystal spectacles that lent her an air of intellectual allure.

Her gaze was clear and sagacious, her movements reflecting a refined education.

"Lecturer Ralph, your reputation has long preceded you."

Lianna executed an elegant bow, her voice crisp and clear:

"My father has spoken of you frequently of late.

To have confronted Apostle-level entities solo within the Abyss and emerged unscathed is an accomplishment I doubt many of the younger generation could match."

"Miss Lianna’s praise is too generous."

In truth, Uphemia had also returned safely after confronting the "Blood Tear Duke" Asmond single-handedly...

Ron silently critiqued internally, not taking the compliment to heart.

He offered a polite acknowledgment while discreetly activating "Extraordinary Recognition" to evaluate the prowess of these clan ladies.

As anticipated, their Spiritual Talent readings hovered around the third level, reminiscent of Trish’s aptitude previously.

Their actual combat strength placed them at the rank of an Advanced Apprentice.

Considering their tender age and esteemed family lineage, this level of talent was respectable, though falling short of true prodigy status.

"We have harbored a deep passion for exploration and research since our childhood days."

Carmella continued, her eyes alight with curiosity:

"Particularly concerning the mysteries of the Abyss, a realm brimming with countless unknown secrets and potential discoveries."

"However, we are also acutely aware of the perils inherent in the Abyss."

The youngest, Lavni, chimed in:

"The treacherous landscapes, the unspeakable creatures that dwell within, and the pervasive forms of corruption and curses..."

The three sisters spoke with precision, clearly having done their due diligence.

Nevertheless, within the Wizard Society, where research capabilities and sheer power were paramount, mere social pleasantries found little fertile ground.

"Might you elaborate on some specific experiences?"

Lianna posed a pointed question: "For instance, how does one effectively gauge risk levels when confronted by unknown dangers?"

"That is a rather intricate question; I shall endeavor to simplify my explanation..."

Ron displayed a flicker of interest, casually elaborating:

"Firstly, cultivate the skill of observing subtle shifts in the environment. Threats within the Abyss frequently signal their approach through certain precursors, such as anomalous fluctuations in Magic Power, minute variations in temperature..."

"Lecturer Ralph, allow me to introduce you to some associates."

Cassius seized the opportune moment to guide Ron towards the designated seating:

"These individuals are distinguished figures from the Central Lands; I am confident you will find ample common ground for discussion."

A table was already prepared, and alongside Frederick, representatives from allied clans awaited.

"Lecturer Ralph, permit me to introduce some acquaintances of long standing."

Cassius introduced them with evident confidence, one by one:

"Victor Morton, my cousin, whose expertise lies in Space Magic and defensive barriers."

Victor was a powerfully built man of middle age; his lower facial features were particularly noteworthy.

It appeared to have been mauled by some beast, the scarred area unnaturally replaced by crystalline material that emitted a subtle, resonant hum.

"Cousin Vander, you are far too kind."

Victor’s voice possessed a harsh, grating quality, punctuated by the crackle of electrical discharge:

"I have long admired Lecturer Ralph’s… singular perspectives on Abyss exploration.

Even amongst wizards of our generation, confronting Apostles deep within the Abyss and managing a safe withdrawal is an exceptionally rare feat."

His gaze fixed upon Ron, the intense scrutiny causing a subtle sense of unease.

"Gareth Rory, my wife’s cousin, who excels in Alchemy and the transformation of metals; Victor’s injury was mended through his skillful intervention."

The second man was comparatively short and stocky, but his hands were fashioned from silvery-gray metallic substance.

These were no mere prosthetics; they were intricately alchemically altered appendages of Living Metal.

As he clenched his fist, the faint whirring of internal gears could be discerned.

"Ah, the vigor of youth is truly magnificent." Gareth chuckled heartily:

"These hands of mine were inadvertently fused while I was handling high-temperature metallic compounds.

It took five years to perfect the reconstruction process, and now they are even more capable than before."

With a succession of sharp sounds, his metallic digits bent and moved.

"I've heard that you also delve into the realm of biomechanical fusion. Perhaps we might share our insights at a future juncture."

Eliot took a seat next to his father, his unusually large and sensitive ears twitching almost imperceptibly.

His innate ability, the 'Wind of Listening,' granted him the capacity to perceive the faintest shifts in the emotional states of all those around him.