CHAPTER 264: CHAPTER 178: RETURNEE FROM THE ABYSS (PART 3)

"Today we will officially test your spiritual power level and magic control ability to confirm whether you meet the standard of an Advanced Apprentice."

"Thank you for your arrangement, Lord Griffith." Ron bowed slightly, his voice steady.

Soron briefly introduced to his two colleagues: "This is Master Mariana Hall, responsible for spiritual power theoretical research; and this is Master Drake Anson, responsible for magic stability testing."

The two masters nodded in acknowledgment, their eyes carrying a scrutinizing gaze.

Mariana seemed particularly curious about this young Advanced Apprentice candidate, her old but bright eyes seeming to see through Ron’s every thought.

"First is the basic spiritual power measurement."

Soron pointed to the central crystal platform: "Please stand on it and release your spiritual power, letting it flow naturally."

Ron stepped onto the crystal platform, took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and began to release his spiritual power.

As his spiritual power gradually unfolded, the crystal platform began to emit a soft blue glow, which became increasingly bright, eventually forming a bright energy ball that encapsulated Ron entirely.

The recorders in the four corners of the room immediately became busy, the instruments in their hands emitting slight buzzing sounds as they recorded various parameters of spiritual power.

"Spiritual power scale reached 4.2... This already exceeds the Advanced Apprentice standard line."

Mariana Hall commented in surprise: "Moreover, the purity and stability are quite excellent, with almost no impurities or fluctuations."

Soron nodded, seemingly unsurprised by this result:

"Next is the magic control test. Ron, please demonstrate three spells that you have mastered well, particularly paying attention to the stability and precision of energy flow."

Ron began to demonstrate his spells one by one: Sound Wave Vibration, Slime Splash, and Ring of Brilliance.

But unlike ordinary casting, he deliberately slowed down the construction process during the demonstration, allowing the three masters present to clearly observe each step of energy flow and magic structure.

"Look at this magic construction process."

Drake Anson commented softly, raising his brow slightly under the metallic eyepatch:

"The position of each energy node is precise to an incredible degree, this level of control... is more like an experienced Magic Constructor than an Apprentice."

"The most surprising thing is the thought network structure he formed."

Mariana added:

"Most apprentices, when first reaching the standard of Advanced Apprentices, have thought networks that are often sparse and fragile, taking years to consolidate and encrypt. But his network... is already quite dense and sturdy."

When Ron completed the demonstration of the Ring of Brilliance, the entire room was bathed in warm golden-red light.

Under his control, the ring changed shapes, from a simple circle to a shield, and then to a glowing longsword, each transformation smooth and precise, without any energy leakage.

A hint of appreciation flashed in Soron’s eyes:

"This magic usually can only maintain a fixed form, yet you seem to have endowed it with a high degree of malleability."

The test lasted nearly half an hour, and in addition to basic magic, Ron also demonstrated, upon request, his fine control over spiritual power.

"Alright, the test is concluded."

Soron finally announced, after a brief exchange with the other two masters, turning to Ron:

"Apprentice Ralph, based on today’s test results, we unanimously believe you have reached, or even surpassed, the standards of an Advanced Apprentice."

He took out an official certification document, signed his name on it, and handed it to the other two masters for confirmation:

"From today onwards, you officially become an Advanced Apprentice of the Black Mist School. This means you will receive more resources and permissions, as well as increased expectations and responsibilities."

"Thank you for the guidance and recognition from all masters."

Ron respectfully accepted the document stamped with the seals of the three, feeling a surge of satisfaction inside.

When the two masters prepared to leave, Drake Anson suddenly stopped and turned to Ron:

"Young man, your Ring of Brilliance is somewhat special. That kind of light flame trait... is not an effect that ordinary Fire Elemental magic can achieve. Have you performed some modification?"

Ron cautiously nodded: "Yes, Lord Anson. I attempted a special fusion of the Light Element and Fire Element, creating a more stable and malleable composite energy form."

Drake nodded slightly, the metallic eyepatch glinting coldly in the light:

"An interesting direction. Magic modification is a necessary path to becoming an Official Wizard, and you seem to have already taken the first step."

After the two masters and several recorders left, only Ron and Soron remained in the room.

Soron’s expression became more relaxed than before:

"Your performance is impressive, Ron. Especially that kind of precise control over spiritual power, which is top-tier even among Advanced Apprentices."

Ron humbly lowered his head: "This is thanks to your careful guidance, Lord Griffith."

Soron shook his head, a complicated light flashing in his eyes:

"No, this is your own talent and effort. I merely provided some direction."

He hesitated slightly, as if considering whether to say the next words:

"Ron, I think you should know, the sequence’s quarterly evaluation will soon take place."

"Yes, my lord, I am preparing for it."

"With your current achievements—holding dual roles as an Advanced Apprentice and Bloodline Modifier, in addition to your performance in the gladiatorial arena, you have a great chance of securing a spot in the top ten or even top five."

Soron’s voice was low and cautious: "This means you will be almost guaranteed a spot at the Bloodline Altar."

Ron’s heart beat slightly faster, but outwardly he remained calm:

"That would be a great honor."

Soron’s eyes became deeper:

"The Bloodline Altar... is a double-edged sword. It can bring great enhancement but is equally fraught with risks. Many have entered, but have not emerged as they were."

Ron could sense the hint and concern in Soron’s words, which surprised him a bit.

All along, Soron had given him the impression of a businesslike, serious master who rarely showed personal emotions.

"I will heed your advice, Lord Griffith."

Ron responded sincerely: "Whether it is researching Abyss creature samples or participating in the Bloodline Altar, I will maintain the necessary caution."

Soron seemed satisfied with this answer, nodding gently:

"Very well. Wisdom lies not only in the pursuit of knowledge but also in knowing when to stop."

This statement was almost identical to what Master Maxim had said earlier, sending a jolt through Ron’s heart.

The fact that two senior Wizards had coincidentally given the same warning might not be a coincidence.

"Lastly, regarding the sequence evaluation meeting."

Soron’s expression returned to formality: "I will do my utmost to secure the position you deserve; your talent deserves more recognition."

Ron nodded in gratitude: "Thank you for your support, Lord Griffith."

Leaving the Central Tower, his mood was exceptionally complex.

On the one hand, he felt some satisfaction with today’s dual certification success;

On the other hand, the warnings from Maxim and Soron made him reassess his research direction and progress.

The sunset light spilled over his shoulders as Ron looked at the two certification documents in his hands:

Advanced Apprentice and Bloodline Modifier, without a doubt, he once again took a big step closer to becoming a true Wizard.