Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots Chapter 857 - 380: Game of Power (Part 2)

Gareth regarded Ron with a thoughtful expression: "If Professor Blake is initiating a meeting on his own accord, it suggests that Lecturer Ralph’s influence has indeed grown quite significant."

His words held a premonition, a mystical aura: "Perhaps this is the hand of fate. Some individuals are destined to be hailed as the era's favored ones, while others... are merely swept along by the currents."

Approximately half an hour elapsed before the dining hall doors swung open once more. Chester Blake’s silhouette materialized at the entrance.

His ensemble for the evening was remarkably formal—a deep blue scholar's robe, impeccably maintained, with the distinctive emblem of the Blake Clan proudly displayed on his chest.

Yet, a closer examination revealed faint shadows beneath his eyes. Ink smudges on his fingers, signs of haste he'd overlooked, clearly indicated he had arrived in a considerable rush.

"My apologies for interrupting your evening," Chester conveyed, bowing to the assembled individuals. His voice aimed for composure, yet Ron perceived an undertone of unease.

"Professor Blake, there's no need for such formalities; please, have a seat," Caius extended a warm invitation, simultaneously gesturing for a maid to prepare place settings for Chester.

Chester took a seat in an available chair. His gaze swept across the room, eventually settling on Ron with an intensity that was both complex and ardent, akin to observing a rare gem.

"I have long heard of Lecturer Ralph's reputation," Chester stated, his voice imbued with genuine respect. "Your advancements in the study of the Abyss are truly astonishing to us... traditional scholars."

"Professor Blake is too gracious," Ron responded politely.

As the clock chimed nine-thirty, Caius announced the conclusion of the gathering. "Tonight's assembly concludes here. Thank you all for your attendance."

He rose, offering a salute to everyone present: "I trust that tonight's discourse will forge a solid foundation for our future collaborations."

The guests began their departure. Frederick, as he left, reiterated his gratitude to Ron and assured him of his availability should any assistance be required.

Presently, only Ron, Chester, and a select few members of the Storm Clan remained in the dining room. "Lecturer Ralph, I have arranged for a private reception room," Caius informed them, guiding the pair towards a door adjacent to the dining area. "You and Professor Blake may converse there without interruption."

......

Chester settled onto a sofa, his hands clasped tightly, knuckles white with the force of his grip. "Professor Blake, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" Ron inquired, initiating the conversation and cutting directly to the chase.

While he held a general idea of the professor's intentions, Ron preferred the latter to voice them explicitly, thereby securing a superior position in the ensuing dialogue. Chester drew a deep breath, seemingly gathering his thoughts.

His fingers unconsciously traced the document folder resting on his lap—one of the significant 'bargaining chips' he had brought that evening. "Firstly... I must offer my sincerest apologies."

His voice quavered slightly, a hint of regret clouding his features: "Some months ago, during that academic review session, I exhibited an... exceedingly improper questioning demeanor towards your research proposal."

This unfeigned apology caught Ron somewhat off guard. Within the established framework of wizards, admitting fault often entailed a diminution of prestige, particularly for a seasoned scholar like Chester.

"An academic review necessitates rigor and careful consideration," Ron replied with calm composure. "Questioning and debate are integral components of the process, Professor Blake; I fully comprehend your stance at the time."

"No, you must not endeavor to excuse my behavior." Chester shook his head, his expression darkening with evident distress. "I have recently undertaken an in-depth study of your paper concerning the Chaos Adaptation Training System, and I must confess... it stands as one of the most groundbreaking investigations I have encountered."

He retrieved a substantial review report from the folder, his hands trembling slightly. "As a member of the academic review board, I have already accorded it the highest commendation. Yet, this cannot atone for my prior lack of foresight and my foolishness."

Ron accepted the report and gave it a swift perusal. Chester's assessment was indeed highly favorable, bordering on effusive praise.

This stark contrast immediately alerted Ron to the fact that the professor's visit was motivated by more than just a simple apology. "Beyond your apology, was there another matter you wished to discuss?" Ron inquired directly, his gaze steady yet piercing.

At this question, Chester's posture stiffened noticeably. He remained silent for a prolonged period, his facial expressions shifting rapidly, suggesting an intense internal conflict.

"I..." His voice grew fainter, each word seeming to be extracted with great effort from the depths of his being. "I seek your assistance."

Upon uttering this sentence, Chester appeared utterly drained, as if all his energy had been expended, slumping into a state of listlessness.

As the patriarch of the Blake Clan, and furthermore, as a senior Associate Professor at the Crystal Tower, even he never imagined a scenario where he'd find himself seeking assistance from a considerably younger individual.

However, the stark and unforgiving reality had cornered him, leaving him with absolutely no alternative.

"What sort of assistance do you require?"

Ron displayed no outward astonishment, merely inquiring with an unruffled demeanor.

"I sincerely hope... I truly hope you can speak on my behalf to Tower Master Cassandra."

Chester’s voice faded, a profound sense of hopelessness clouding his gaze.

"I am aware that this plea is exceedingly bold, but truthfully... I am completely out of viable options."

He then commenced articulating the intricate difficulties he was currently confronting, his voice laced with an ever-deepening vein of acrimony.

"Ever since that controversial policy presentation on conquest, the research proposals I've submitted have been repeatedly thwarted by 'technical' rejections."