Chapter 268: Chapter 179: When the Dust Settles (Part 4)

This decision was like a stone cast into a calm lake, immediately causing ripples.

Surprised whispers filled the hall, with many eyes focused on Ron.

An eight-level leap! This is almost unheard of in the history of the School.

Hayek seemed to expect this reaction and added:

"This decision is based on multiple objective criteria, including but not limited to:

Recent outstanding performance in the Bloody Gladiatorial Games, formal acquisition of the Bloodline Modifier certification, and successful passage of the Advanced Apprentice certification.

Additionally, strong recommendations were provided by both Master Soron and Master Yuni."

Ron’s expression remained calm, though he felt a slight joy in his heart.

This significant progression in ranking is not only recognition of his efforts but also a crucial step toward entering the Bloodline Altar.

"Furthermore," Hayek continued, "Trish Lind has been promoted from tenth place to seventh place, right after Apprentice Ralph."

Though Trish’s leap is not as astonishing as Ron’s, it is still quite remarkable.

Ron looked towards the brown-haired girl, meeting her gaze filled with complex emotions.

There was joy, admiration, and a faint trace of competitiveness.

Hayek then announced several other ranking adjustments, mostly minor ascensions or descensions, causing no significant stir.

"The above are the main changes in this quarter’s sequence ranking,"

Hayek concluded, "Please adjust your seats according to the new ranking."

Ron stood up and walked to the seat representing sixth place—Oliver’s former position.

As he sat down, he could feel the gazes from all directions.

But he was already accustomed to such attention.

Ever since becoming an Elementary Apprentice, every step of his progress had been accompanied by various speculations and discussions.

These external voices could no longer shake him.

Once everyone was seated according to the new ranking, Hayek moved to the second topic of the meeting—distribution of spots for the Bloodline Altar.

"In one month, the Bloodline Altar will open again. This is a rare opportunity for participants to deeply comprehend and enhance their bloodline potential."

Hayek’s voice became more solemn:

"According to the agreement with the Crystal Tower, we have obtained five participation spots this time.

Considering various factors, the School has decided to allocate these spots as follows:

One seat each goes to the top three, Holt Elvin, Herbert Levin, and Caitlin Gardner, with the remaining two spots given to Ron Ralph and Trish Lind."

This allocation plan immediately caused some dissatisfaction.

Especially among the two Advanced Apprentices who were directly skipped over despite being ranked fourth and fifth, their expressions visibly darkened.

However, since it was a decision made by many mentors and the vice-dean, these apprentices naturally dared not complain.

The status gap between Apprentices and Official Wizards is distinctly pronounced.

No one dared to oppose at this time; anyone seated in this hall was certainly no fool.

"Alright, the allocation of spots is settled."

Seeing everything finalized, Hayek looked around the hall:

"The five apprentices who received spots, please stay after the meeting, as we need to provide some important information and guidance regarding the Bloodline Altar."

The meeting proceeded to discuss some internal affairs of the School and external threats, mainly regarding the latest intelligence and defense measures related to the Eye of the Abyss organization.

After the quarterly meeting officially ended, other apprentices gradually left, leaving only the five who received spots for the Bloodline Altar and a few mentors.

"Congratulations on gaining this rare opportunity."

Hayek walked up to the five, with a rare warmth in his voice:

"The Bloodline Altar is not only an opportunity to enhance oneself but also an important investment from the School in you."

Soron stepped forward, adding:

"While the Bloodline Altar is full of opportunities, it also carries risks. Throughout history, many apprentices encountered accidents within, sometimes even losing their lives. Therefore, thorough preparation and a cautious attitude are extremely important."

His gaze paused on Ron for a moment, eyes showing an indescribable complexity:

"Especially you, Apprentice Ralph. As a Bloodline Modifier, your expertise will be a crucial pillar for the team."

Ron nodded in acknowledgment: "I will do my best to ensure the team’s safety and success."

After the meeting, as everyone else had dispersed, Hayek suddenly called out to Ron:

"Apprentice Ralph, come with me for a moment."

Ron was a bit puzzled, but quickly followed in Hayek’s footsteps.

Hayek led Ron to a quiet little room and, after ensuring no disturbances, began speaking:

"I’ve been observing your progress, Apprentice Ralph. Your growth rate is remarkably fast, and you have the rare development of versatility, which is very impressive."

Ron cautiously responded: "It’s all thanks to the excellent environment the School provides and the guidance from all the mentors."

Hayek smiled slightly: "False humility means nothing to me. You and I both know your achievements primarily stem from your own talent and effort."

He took out a Recording Crystal from inside his robe, on which floated a complex Magic Model:

"I have here a Magic Model that might suit you now."

Ron accepted the Crystal Ball, sensing the intricate structure of the recorded magic within.