In the conference hall on the top floor of the Crystal Tower, that brief reply stirred different ripples in the hearts of those present.
"’Normal treatment’?"
The third voice—a female wizard—was the first to break the silence, her tone carrying a hint of perplexity:
"Did the Tower Master just say those two words? No further instructions?"
"Indeed so."
The first speaker responded in a voice of authority, a hint of contemplation in his tone:
"Lady Cassandra always speaks concisely, but there is deep meaning behind each of her decisions."
"’Normal treatment’..."
A hoarse, elderly voice slowly repeated the phrase, sounding as if chewing on each byte:
"Is this hands-off, or is there a deeper meaning?"
Under the projection of the Crystal Ball, the figures of those gathered slightly swayed in thought.
Everyone was trying to decipher the potentially profound meaning behind this seemingly ordinary directive.
"Let me share my thoughts first." A young voice cautiously began:
"I believe the Tower Master is reminding us not to repeat the Greenwood tragedy from seventeen years ago. Back then, we placed too much pressure and expectations on him, ultimately leading to that... tragedy."
"Everyone makes a good point."
The owner of the elderly voice sighed lightly, the figure cloaked in shadows slightly leaning forward:
"But it is more likely that the Tower Master hopes for us neither to intervene intentionally nor to allow total freedom, but to act according to established procedures and rules."
He paused, seemingly organizing his words:
"Treat him like any new Official Wizard, without excessive focus on his original traits, nor extra restrictions because of potential risks."
The room fell into a brief silence as everyone seemed to weigh the reasonableness of this explanation.
"If that is the case."
The first speaker continued, his voice gaining a note of decisiveness:
"We shall proceed with the regular protocol. After he formally submits the application, arrange for the evaluation team to comprehensively assess his capabilities, and then assign an appropriate position based on the results."
"Start from the most basic role of Teaching Assistant." The woman supplemented, a touch of irony in her voice:
"The Crystal Tower tradition—regardless of where you come from, you must start from the bottom."
"Alright, everyone."
The first speaker made the final decision:
"Everything will be handled according to the procedure, neither expedited nor impeded, as the Tower Master said—’normal treatment.’ This meeting is adjourned."
With a light sound, the light of the Crystal Ball gradually dimmed.
The projected figures faded away one by one, leaving only the empty conference hall, and a few lingering rays of light.
......
At Cuiyu Villa, Ron stood at the center of the third-floor laboratory, gently stroking the experimental table made from "Dark Night Stone" with his palm.
The cold stone surface emitted a subtle energy resonance, as if responding to his touch.
After a night of rest and adaptation, the magic power within him had gradually adjusted to the high concentration energy environment of the Central Lands.
The initial discomfort, like an overinflated balloon, had dissipated, replaced by a warm and jade-like sense of fullness.
"Star Projection" thrived like a fish in water in such an energy-rich environment, and his Magic Pool not only regained its previous balance but continued to expand.
Ron closed his eyes, feeling the trajectory of magic flowing within him.
Compared to yesterday, his magic power had increased by at least five percent.
Under normal conditions, this would require continuous meditation over several days to achieve.
"The magic environment of the Central Lands truly lives up to its reputation."
Ron mused to himself, his fingertips faintly glowing with a trace of light blue, a visual manifestation of pure magic power.
He approached the Communication Crystal, deciding to contact Melanie first, to learn more about the specific process for entry to the Crystal Tower.
Although she had provided initial guidance yesterday, details often determine success, and Ron never embarked on unprepared adventures.
The crystal quickly lit up after magic was infused, projecting Melanie’s dignified and elegant visage.
She maintained that professional smile, looking ready to provide any service at any time.
"Good morning, Wizard Ralph."
Melanie nodded slightly, her voice as gentle as flowing water: "How can I assist you?"
"Ms. Melanie, I’d like to know about the specific procedure for joining the Crystal Tower."
Ron got straight to the point, without any unnecessary politeness:
"And, I have a personal inquiry—are Apprentice Trish Lind and Wizard Corina currently at the Crystal Tower? I would like to contact them."
Melanie’s expression barely changed, but a subtle glimmer flashed through her eyes, clearly reacting to the two names Ron mentioned.
"Regarding joining the Crystal Tower."
She began to explain in a steady tone, her fingers gently tracing a pattern in the air, seemingly retrieving some information:
"You need to first submit a formal application to the New Star Reception, after which a team will assess your abilities and specialties comprehensively, usually including aspects such as Magic Construction, Meditation Method Characteristic Test, and academic achievement validation."
Her finger lightly tapped the void, and a semi-transparent form projection appeared on the communication display:
"Based on the evaluation results, they will arrange a suitable position for you. Generally, new wizards start as Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant, gradually earning qualifications for higher positions by accruing Contribution Points."
Melanie paused, her gaze slightly drifting, seemingly organizing her next words:
"As for Ms. Linde and Wizard Corina... to my knowledge, they were dispatched to an Abyssal Outpost about a month ago to carry out a mission."