"Indeed, as you said." Ron did not deny the need:
"I’ve been considering this issue, but suitable residences are not easy to find."
"If you don’t mind, I’d like to offer you a residence."
Cassius’ proposal surprised everyone present slightly:
"It’s a three-story building located in the North District of the Central Lands, with a quiet surrounding environment, quite suitable for academic research."
This straightforward generosity made Ron frown.
In Wizard Society, equivalent exchange is the basic principle.
"I appreciate Professor Wandell’s kindness."
He did not accept, but cautiously responded:
"However, there is no free lunch in this world; if I accept such a gift, I should offer equivalent return."
This reaction pleased Cassius even more.
In Wizard Society, someone greedy won’t go far, but those who know the limits are worth long-term cooperation.
"Since that’s your stance, Ron..."
Eliot timely chimed in, evidently having discussed this topic with his father beforehand:
"We indeed have some ideas regarding cooperation that we would like to explore with you."
His tone became more formal:
"Firstly, we hope to obtain priority purchasing rights for certain rare materials from the Abyssal Observation Station.
With your current status, you should be able to provide us with some convenience."
"That’s something worth considering."
Ron nodded, such a request is within reason:
"The Observation Station indeed often has some rare materials for external sale, and I can provide relevant information to the Storm Clan at a suitable time."
"And there’s cooperation in bloodline modulation."
Eliot’s eyes revealed a look of anticipation:
"Our family has nurtured some servants with special bloodlines... If you have time, we hope you can help us with some optimization modulation."
The term "servants" was clearly a euphemism here.
In Wizard Society, each major family tends to nurture some intelligent beings modified through bloodline enhancements.
They are usually referred to as "servants" or "assistants," but essentially are no different from slaves.
Ron carefully considered these terms.
Such a partnership is mutually beneficial:
The Storm Clan gains the technical support and resource channels they need.
While he obtains a stable partner and a foothold in the Central Lands.
"These conditions are within an acceptable range."
He finally nodded in agreement:
"However, I suggest we discuss the details of our cooperation later."
Upon hearing this response, the atmosphere around the dinner table noticeably became more harmonious.
Representatives of two ancient clans also began to hint at their willingness to cooperate, clearly wanting to ride this rapidly ascending wave.
In this harmonious atmosphere, Cassius’ communication crystal suddenly lit up with a blue glow.
He nodded apologetically to everyone before activating the crystal.
"Good evening, Professor Wandell, this is Chester Blake."
A slightly anxious voice came from the crystal:
"I greatly apologize for the late disturbance, but... I heard you are hosting a gathering tonight. I wondered if there’s room for an uninvited guest like myself?"
The conversation in the dining room instantly quieted.
The name Chester Blake was familiar to everyone present.
As one of the most senior associate professors of the Crystal Tower, he was also a key representative of the traditionalist conservative faction.
His sudden visit would undoubtedly cause a subtle change in the nature of the gathering.
Cassius’ expression became complex as his gaze wandered between Ron and Eliot, clearly seeking their opinions.
Eliot lightly closed his eyes, initiating his special talent.
An invisible wind flowed through the dining room, bringing distant information to his ears.
He could not only hear Chester’s words but also capture the subtle trembling in his voice and even changes in his breathing rhythm.
A moment later, he opened his eyes and gently shook his head at his father.
"The visitor bears no malice but indeed comes with a strong sense of purpose."
Using Spiritual Power, he reported to Cassius:
"The ’wind’ has given me the information; his emotional state is an anticipation mixed with extreme anxiety."
This analysis made Cassius more troubled.
He did not want to offend an established associate professor like Chester, but also didn’t wish to disrupt the harmonious atmosphere tonight.
"I don’t mind Professor Blake joining us."
Ron spoke up, solving the dilemma for Cassius:
"However, if he has any important matters to discuss, I suggest doing so after the gathering ends, so as not to affect everyone’s interest."
Hearing this response, Cassius breathed a sigh of relief.
He reactivated the communication crystal:
"Professor Blake, you are certainly welcome to visit.
However, tonight is primarily a casual social gathering; if you have any important topics to discuss, I suggest doing it after the gathering ends."
"I understand, I understand."
Chester’s voice had an evident tone of gratitude and relief:
"I simply... haven’t attended such gatherings for a long time; mainly, I want to meet some old friends, especially the renowned Lecturer Ralph."
"Then we will await your arrival here." Cassius politely concluded the communication.
After the communication ended, the atmosphere in the dining room became more subtle.
The guests, all seasoned veterans, naturally sensed the meaning behind this sudden visit.
"It seems Professor Blake’s situation recently has been somewhat... difficult."
Victor commented quietly: "In the current climate, the traditionalists indeed face considerable pressure."