When the last contestant stepped into the hall, Hayek raised his right hand lightly, and the entire space fell silent instantly, as if an invisible cloth had enveloped all sounds.
"In yesterday’s duel, you demonstrated wisdom, courage, and strength."
The vice dean’s voice was not loud, but it could be heard clearly in every corner:
"Today, the School will fulfill its promise and award you the rewards you deserve."
He nodded slightly to his assistant beside him, signaling the start.
By convention, the rewards are collected in reverse order.
Ron maintained his composure, but his eyes didn’t miss any detail, observing every contestant’s reaction.
Those ranked lower couldn’t hide the disappointment and envy on their faces.
When they received those dozens of magic stone fragments, the slight trembling of their fingers did not escape Ron’s observation.
These subtle changes were quickly analyzed and categorized into psychological patterns, stored in the "Character Observation" category of the Library of Consciousness.
Soon, it was the turn of the contestant who ranked fourth, this resolute-looking Advanced Apprentice, who chose a bottle of Vitality Potion along with a complete magic stone.
A brief satisfaction flashed in his eyes, quickly returning to the common indifference seen among apprentices.
"A fairly good choice," Ron silently evaluated:
"The market price of a Vitality Potion is equivalent to about sixty magic stone fragments. Adding the magic stone itself, the total value is close to one and a half complete magic stones. This choice ensures immediate gain and provides some protection in case of danger."
"Third place, Trish Lind."
The brown-haired girl walked forward slowly, still maintaining that calm and composed demeanor.
Beside her, Li Yue had mostly recovered from the poison erosion, though her movements were still a bit sluggish, her complexion had improved significantly.
"You may choose three advanced magic potions or one advanced alchemy item, in addition to three complete magic stones."
Hayek’s voice was steady and authoritative.
Trish did not make an immediate choice but looked towards Ron with a hint of hesitation, a complex emotion flashing in her eyes.
"Vice Dean, before making a choice, I would like to exchange opinions with Apprentice Ralph, may I be permitted?"
Trish’s request surprised many present.
Ron frowned slightly; he didn’t like such unexpected situations but maintained his impeccable calm appearance.
Hayek seemed slightly surprised but nodded in consent.
The brown-haired girl walked slowly to Ron’s side and said in a low voice:
"I’ve heard your level in magic potion making is close to that of a senior alchemist, is that true?"
Ron roughly understood her intention but answered cautiously:
"Rumors tend to exaggerate. However, Magic Potion Making is indeed one of the fields I focus on."
"It seems to be true." A sharpness flashed in Trish’s eyes:
"In that case, choosing other ready-made magic potions would be somewhat wasteful. I’m considering exchanging for a magic potion formula that enhances Natural Affinity. Can you refine it?"
Ron quickly evaluated the pros and cons in his mind.
Formulas have long-term value, and with his mastery of magic potion techniques, he has slightly surpassed some senior alchemists.
Plus, with the "Material Refining" fusion skill, refining such complex magic potions was no longer a challenge.
More importantly, to almost get a formula for free—only a fool would refuse.
But he still pretended to think it over, throwing the choice back:
"These types of magic potions usually have a complex formula and require high spiritual control. However, it should be within my capability. Do you have any specific ideas?"
"I can consolidate this selection privilege, along with the additional magic stones, to exchange for a complete formula. Master Corina hinted at a hidden option like this to me yesterday."
Trish looked Ron directly in the eye:
"In exchange, I hope you can refine six batches of finished magic potions for me, delivered in stages, the last batch completed within two months. This way, I can fully utilize the effects before the Bloodline Altar opens."
Ron quickly calculated costs and profits in his mind.
Such a complex magic potion formula is priced at least at five to six complete magic stones on the market, and refining six batches of finished products, the material cost is about one or two magic stones roughly.
Even considering the extra time and effort invested, this is still a transaction destined to be profitable.
"Agree, but you need to provide me the complete formula, and I will prepare the rest myself."
Ron replied calmly, his tone devoid of any emotional fluctuations.
"Deal."
Trish nodded in satisfaction, turned around, and walked back to face Hayek to explain her choice.
The vice dean raised his eyebrows slightly, apparently a bit surprised by this choice.
He signaled an assistant to bring over an exquisite crystal box.
The crystal box was completely translucent, covered with protective runes on the surface, and inside, faintly visible, was a roll of parchment glowing softly.
"A wise choice, Apprentice Trish."
Hayek commented, his voice carrying a trace of appreciation:
"Enhancement of Natural Affinity has a significant effect on activating Forest Elf bloodline, it seems you are well prepared for the Bloodline Altar."
Trish accepted the reward, solemnly saluted the Masters, then returned to her place, a barely noticeable smile emerging on her face.
Ron noticed the way she tightly held the scroll box in her hand, as if grasping the hope for the future.
"Indeed, her choice over directly taking three ready-made magic potions is much wiser, thanks to the hidden option her mentor mentioned."
Ron evaluated in his mind:
"Six successive enhancements of Natural Affinity are enough to take her Forest Elf bloodline a step further, increasing the success rate of gaining something from the Bloodline Altar."