He silently recited the questions in his heart and then lightly tossed the dice.
The three dice rolled on the carpet, and when they finally stopped, the combination they showed made his heart sink.
"Star of Destruction, Wheel of Chaos, Gate of Death..."
This was one of the most perilous combinations he had ever seen.
No matter how you interpreted it, it pointed to the same conclusion:
Advancing the shared consciousness technology at the current stage would lead to disastrous consequences.
But when he changed the question to "research this technology after becoming an Ancient Alchemist," the dice showed a completely different result.
"Light of Wisdom, Wheel of Balance, Gate of Opportunity..."
This stark contrast gave him a deeper understanding of the importance of timing.
Clearly, the difference in the level of power directly affects the risk coefficient when researching certain forbidden technologies.
The Four-star Profession of an Ancient Alchemist might be the minimum threshold for accessing such technology.
"So the strategy now should be..."
Ron put away the divination tools, formulating his speaking strategy for tomorrow’s review meeting.
Absolutely avoid mentioning anything related to shared consciousness and virtual world interaction.
Even if the review committee members asked proactively, he would evade by saying "the technology is not mature enough."
His research focus must be strictly limited to validated and safe areas.
Abyss Adaptability Training, mobile portability enhancements, and basic simulation effect optimization—these are relatively safe development directions.
Standing up, Ron walked to the window and gazed at the distant spires twinkling in the night sky.
Each tower represented a different research direction, each ray of light bore the effort of a scholar.
But beneath this surface prosperity, how many unknown dangers are hidden?
How many researchers, in their pursuit of knowledge, unknowingly stepped into death traps?
"Tomorrow’s review meeting..."
He reconfirmed the speaking points in his mind.
Only when he truly had enough power and influence could he consider pushing for some more idealistic changes.
Until then, maintaining a low profile and caution was the wisest choice.
He took out another item he obtained tonight from the spatial bag—a "Eyes of True Wisdom" talisman given by Chester.
This heritage item from the Blake Clan held not only high practical value but also represented some connection with the traditional faction.
Although Chester was at a disadvantage currently, the deep roots of the traditional faction would not disappear completely due to temporary political setbacks.
At the right time, this connection might have unforeseen effects.
Carefully placing the talisman into a close and hidden pocket, Ron began to prepare to leave.
Tomorrow’s review meeting starts at ten in the morning, and he needed to ensure he had enough rest.
......
The next morning, the first ray of sunlight in the Central Lands shone through the crystal window into Ron’s temporary residence.
He was already awake, making the final preparations before heading out.
On the table, the various materials needed for today’s review meeting were neatly arranged:
technical drawings, experimental data, and the research report meticulously revised.
"Master, you seem a bit nervous."
Ailan’s voice came from behind, and her green branch gently touched his shoulder, conveying warm comfort.
The Tree Spirit’s keen Natural Perception allowed her to sense the subtle fluctuations in Ron’s emotions.
"It’s not nervousness, it’s caution."
Ron turned to face this loyal assistant, showing complex emotions in his eyes:
"In this kind of environment, any negligence could lead to catastrophic consequences."
He didn’t elaborate on his concerns; some dangerous knowledge should not be shared even with the most trusted companions.
Dale poked her head out from the Crystal Pool, her silver hair sparkling in the morning light like flowing water:
"Master, shall we accompany you? Although we can’t enter the review room, we can at least wait outside."
This concern made a warm feeling surge in Ron’s heart, but he shook his head:
"No need, such academic occasions have strict regulations. Also..."
He paused and spoke more seriously:
"Today’s review might involve some complex factors, and having you there could add unnecessary risks."
Ailan and Dale exchanged a worried glance but did not insist further.
They understood that, at such critical moments, adhering to the master’s judgement was the wise choice.
Ron checked his attire one last time.
The black robe of an Official Wizard, the badge representing his status as a Lecturer on his chest, and the "Eyes of Time" gifted by Cassandra.
Every detail conveyed specific messages: academic rigor and eminent status.
"I’m off."
He nodded farewell to the two assistants, then opened the door to step into the bright morning light.
......
In front of the academic review building, many Wizards had already gathered to attend the hearing.
Although the review meeting itself was semi-publicly broadcast, Ron’s special identity made this session particularly attention-worthy.
"It’s Lecturer Ralph!"
When Ron appeared at the entrance of the building, it immediately caused a slight commotion.
Among those familiar faces, he saw a few members of his Elite Team and some students who had attended his lectures.
"Master, good luck!"
Liss waved to him from the crowd, her brown curls dancing in the breeze, her face filled with support and anticipation.
Other members of the Elite Team also cast encouraging glances, and that pure trust warmed Ron’s heart.