Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots Chapter 901 - 394: The Torrents of Fate (Part 3)

Her slender fingers repeatedly traced the 'Celestial' crystal adorning her chest, the rhythmic motion betraying her inner turmoil.

An unnerving sensation of displacement was more than apparent. It was as if the fabric of reality around her warped, distorting the very flow of time and creating a palpable dissonance.

"My apologies for disturbing you so late, Lecturer Ralph," Chloe's voice, soft as a whisper, somehow chilled the room perceptibly. "But Professor Yutel believes some matters can brook no further delay. The mists of fate are growing dense, and without prompt action..." Her words trailed off, the unspoken consequences hanging heavy in the air.

Ron settled onto the sofa opposite, his gaze fixed on the young woman. Even through the fine black silk, he perceived a distinct longing radiating from her eyes—a longing not for material riches or worldly power, but for something far more profound: a sense of belonging, a need for a guardian.

"Please, have a seat," Ron invited, gesturing to the chair before him as he subtly assessed the enigmatic Astrologer. "Professor Yutel must have a compelling reason to send you to me." Once Chloe was seated, her delicate fingers resumed their unconscious caress of the crystal upon her chest.

"The Professor mentioned... you have been delving into certain specialized matters recently," her gaze, seemingly piercing the silk, locked with Ron's. "Regarding the Blood Moon Clan, and certain obscured truths." This statement resonated within Ron. Despite Yutel's assurances of non-interference, it was clear the Professor had been observing events from the periphery.

"That is correct," Chloe affirmed, her voice softening further, yet imbued with a newfound resolve. "Through my prophetic gift, I have glimpsed... disquieting visions. Visions concerning you, the White-haired Witch, and an approaching brutal trial." She paused, gathering her thoughts. "The Professor suggested you might require unique assistance, and I... I have my own motivations for offering it." The nature of Astrologer prophecies, interwoven with the threads of destiny, suggested Chloe's overture stemmed from a foresight of personal benefit in her divinations.

"What precisely did you foresee?" Ron inquired directly, his curiosity piqued. "A crimson cage, a broken spirit, and a mad king's merciless contest." Chloe's form began to quiver slightly. "In the majority of potential futures, Uphemia Pelé succumbs as a sacrifice to a malevolent entity. However..." She inhaled deeply. "I have also perceived entirely divergent outcomes. With suitable counsel and support, she might become the very key to shattering this grim cycle." Ron's understanding of Yutel's intricate plan deepened. The venerable Professor likely possessed insight into his nuanced connection with Uphemia and the broader conspiracy lurking beneath the surface. More than that, the Professor undoubtedly knew far more than Ron could fathom, especially considering the Illusion King's prior mention of agreements with Yutel.

"So, in what manner do you propose to assist me?" Ron asked. "Allow me to conduct a comprehensive divination for you," Chloe replied, her tone growing solemn. "To reveal the White-haired Witch's true destiny, to help her comprehend her current predicament. Sometimes, direct visions of the future hold more sway than any words." This proposition intrigued Ron. If divination could lay bare Uphemia's fated tragedy, it would undoubtedly be the most effective method to secure her cooperation.

"Before we proceed, I seek clarification on one matter," Ron stated, carefully studying Chloe's expression. "Professor Yutel, as a Mystic Scholar holding an advanced Astrologer classification, inherently commands superior divinatory prowess. Why, then, did he recommend you for this task specifically?" Answering this question caused a slight tremor to pass through Chloe's body. A prolonged silence followed before she finally responded with a tone of deep reverence: "Because... Professor Yutel can no longer perform divinations." "Cannot?" "Every act of divination is a momentary gaze into the river of fate, and fate... does not welcome scrutiny." Chloe's voice grew heavy. "To probe too deeply into destiny's currents, or to engage with powers far exceeding one's own. Such actions dramatically elevate the risk of failure while inviting terrifying repercussions. And Professor Yutel... he has shouldered too much." Her fingers gently brushed the 'Celestial' crystal. "Throughout his millennia-long journey as a wizard, he has undertaken innumerable profound divinations. Each endeavor etched an indelible scar upon his soul. He is now akin to a vessel brimming with water; even a single additional drop would precipitate utter destruction." This revelation brought a sudden clarity to Ron's understanding.

It became clear why Yutel, in navigating numerous dangers, limited himself to routine astrological readings for information, refraining from engaging in profound divination.

"For an individual like him, any significant divination backlash could instantly shatter his Void Remains structure," Chloe explained, her voice laced with immense admiration.

"Despite this immense risk, he still dedicates himself to mentoring us aspiring diviners, generously imparting his vast experience honed over centuries."

Ron couldn't help but furrow his brow at this point, inquiring, "So... if I may be so direct, given your current Power Level, wouldn't undertaking such a divination also result in a terrifying backlash for you?"

"No, I believe you might be underestimating my capabilities a bit..." the young woman chuckled softly, a clear note of confidence in her tone.

"While I may be young, my Celestial Ball Crystal possesses the resilience to endure a significant degree of backlash. Furthermore, my Special Talent offers some mitigation against the rebound effects. It is precisely for these reasons that the professor recommended me to assist you."

Ah, it truly is a case of entrusting specialized duties to those uniquely suited for them. My primary profession, after all, is not that of an Astrologer.

He recalled instances where his intuition had sharply warned him against attempting more in-depth divinations.

Ron offered a nod of understanding to the sightless young woman before him, his appreciation for Yutel growing even deeper.

However, as the conversation progressed, Chloe conveyed with a wry smile, "Nevertheless, when it comes to the backlash from high-level divinations, I can only mitigate it partially; complete immunity is beyond my reach. Yet, when weighed against the catastrophic events I foresee in the prophecy, this price is still justifiable."

Her fingers gently traced the crystal adorning her chest once more.

"Moreover, the professor conveyed that you are someone worthy of trust. In a world rife with deception and betrayal, discovering a genuine ally is an exceptionally rare and valuable fortune."

Ron silently observed the young Astrologer.

Possessing considerable talent in her field, she was acutely aware of the grim future that lay ahead and likely desired more than anyone the possibility of altering predetermined fate.

"Very well," he finally conceded with a nod. "When shall we commence?"

"At the earliest opportunity," Chloe affirmed, rising to her feet.

"According to the celestial alignments, tomorrow evening presents the most auspicious time for this divination. If you concur, the professor will arrange a suitable meeting time for us, ensuring we are neither disturbed nor under surveillance during this crucial period."

"Understood. I shall be prepared by then."

As Chloe made to depart, she paused and turned back.

"Lecturer Ralph, I believe it is imperative you understand this: once we embark on this course of action, there will be no turning back. This applies equally to you, to me, and to her."

Her voice resonated with a maturity that belied her years.

"Within the relentless current of destiny, certain choices, once made, irrevocably alter the paths of all involved."