Chapter 264: The Princess

Chapter 264: The Princess

He knew that revealing too much of his Special Innate Talent might draw unwanted attention, but concealing it entirely would seem suspicious.

After careful consideration, he decided to showcase some of his trait-derived abilities, disguising them as traditional Special Innate Talents.

In a series of meticulously designed testing tasks, Luo En selectively demonstrated several key abilities.

The knowledge integration capability from Encyclopedic Memory, the penetrating insight granted by Insight, and most importantly, his remarkable learning ability across multiple magecraft disciplines…

As the testing deepened, the three evaluators’ expressions grew increasingly serious.

They exchanged glances repeatedly, occasionally murmuring softly as if confirming their judgments.

“Based on our observations and testing results,” Melissa’s voice carried a weight of solemnity, “you possess the Hand of All Crafts, Polyhistor, Resonant Physique Resonance, and Ocular Insight—four Special Innate Talents.”

Luo En’s expression remained calm, though inwardly he remained vigilant. These four talents perfectly aligned with his deliberate display. The Crystal Spire’s evaluation system truly lived up to its reputation.

“These four Innate Talents rank in the second tier. Among them, the Hand of All Crafts is considered nearly equal to first-tier talents.” William added, his clouded eyes betraying unmasked awe. “Possessing four second-tier Innate Talents—such a combination is exceptionally rare in mage history.”

Luo En gave a neutral nod, neither confirming nor denying. From his understanding of the mage world, such talents were rare but still reasonable for a primordial mage who had successfully walked the True Path.

On the other hand, his “Senior” Cassandra had been recognized with only three Special Innate Talents. However, one of hers was a first-tier talent—a level capable of influencing fate and causality. Her potential eclipsed his displayed abilities, and her current achievements had already fulfilled that promise.

Combined with the countless prodigies throughout history, Luo En’s talents, while astonishing, still fell within the School Alliance’s expectations.

“Regarding your meditation technique trait,” Ivan asked cautiously, “the evaluation indicates you can continuously expand your mana pool capacity under starlight. Is this a variant of The Murmuring of the Star Devourer?”

Luo En smiled. “Indeed. My meditation technique trait allows me to draw mana from stars during starlight meditation, enhancing both my mana pool’s capacity and quality.”

After showcasing so many astonishing abilities, this meditation trait no longer seemed extraordinary. The evaluators simply recorded it without visible surprise.

Finally, the evaluation concluded. The three convened once more, whispering for several minutes before announcing their final verdict.

“Based on the comprehensive assessment,” Melissa declared solemnly, her eyes gleaming with genuine admiration, “we determine that Lalfmage’s Innate Talent Rank shall be: Treasure Grade.”

“In the mage world’s history spanning multiple epochs,” Ivan explained gravely, as if emphasizing the weight of the title, “this grade places you among the top five hundred geniuses in mage records.”

William added with reverence, “Within the mage hierarchy, those ranked within the top hundred thousand are called Garnet Grade. The top five thousand earn Pearl Grade, and only the top five hundred attain the honor of Treasure Grade.”

“This Pearl Grade threshold marks a critical divide, typically seen as having Archmage potential,” he continued. “But Treasure Grade prodigies almost inevitably ascend far in their mage paths, reaching at least the Archmage level.”

Luo En felt a flicker of emotion. This ranking, while high, aligned with his expectations. It neither squandered his potential nor drew excessive attention.

“Thank you for your thorough evaluation,” he bowed to the three. “Will this ranking be recorded in the mage archives?”

“Yes, it’s standard procedure,” Melissa confirmed. “Your ranking and base instinct description will update in the Crystal Spire branch of the mage archives. Any mage with sufficient privileges can access these basic details.”

“However, detailed testing data and in-depth analysis reports will remain sealed,” William added, as if to reassure any concerns. “This safeguards all mages’ privacy.”

Luo En nodded in understanding. This arrangement made sense, aligning with traditions he’d learned at the Black Mist School.

“Finally, do you have any questions?” Melissa asked.

Luo En pondered, “I’d like to know what learning and research resources Crystal Spire offers a Treasure Grade talent.”

“Naturally, you’ll receive top-tier resource priority,” Ivan answered without hesitation. “This includes, but isn’t limited to: free access to all school public facilities, priority reservation of rare materials, exclusive laboratory space, and most importantly, direct interaction with Crystal Spire’s leading experts across all disciplines.”

“Especially in bloodline studies and Abyss research,” Melissa added, her voice tinged with quiet pride. “With your demonstrated talents and expertise, I believe the Tower Masters will prioritize your development needs.”

Luo En asked further questions about Crystal Spire’s internal structure and learning systems, and the evaluators patiently provided detailed answers.

“Thank you for your guidance,” he concluded sincerely. “It is my honor to join a mage sanctuary like Crystal Spire. I hope to contribute to the School Alliance’s future.”

“We eagerly await your achievements, Lalfmage,” William replied with a rare, warm smile. “I hope to hear your insights in academic discussions soon.”

The evaluator reappeared, guiding Luo En out of the testing hall.

As he stepped through the silver archway, Luo En felt a new world unfolding before him. The Treasure Grade designation and focus on Abyss research heralded unparalleled opportunities at Crystal Spire.

………………

As the last sunlight vanished from the Crystal Spire’s peak, brilliant stars began glittering in the night sky.

Crystal Spire’s nights surpassed its days in splendor. Mana of various hues flowed between the towering spires like luminous rivers, transforming the floating town into a dreamlike realm.

Lis D’went clutched a pile of scrolls, hurrying through the central academy’s corridors. A seventeen-year-old Intermediate Apprentice with chestnut curls and brown eyes, she’d grown up in the Central Lands and adapted well to its dense mana environment.

Even so, she needed nightly respite in specialized mana-isolation chambers. Though her Innate Talents were mediocre, her diligence fueled her lifelong dream of becoming a profession Potion Master.

“Lis, wait!” A familiar voice called from behind.

She turned to see her friend Jack panting, his round face flushed from running.

“Big news!” He waved a notice. “A new teaching assistant has arrived at the academy!”

Lis arched a brow. “Another one? Didn’t we just get one last year?”

“This one’s different!” Jack lowered his voice, eyes gleaming. “I heard from Senior Isa that this new assistant is a True Path ascension primordial mage!”

“True Path?!” Lis gasped, nearly dropping her scrolls. “Isn’t that the legendary Ten Deaths, No Life ascension method? They say Archmage Cassandra herself ascended that way!”

Jack nodded fervently. “Exactly! And his evaluation result was declared Treasure Grade—someone who ranks among the elite!”

“Treasure Grade?”

“Every one of those ranks is a legendary figure!”

Chatting, they reached the academy’s central bulletin area. A crowd of apprentices clustered around a massive crystal noticeboard displaying the latest course listings.

“See this? These three courses!” Jack pushed through the crowd, pointing at a prominent line:

Luo En Lalf Assistant now offers Advanced Potion Theory and Practice, Bloodline Formulation Foundational, and Alchemy Entry-Level and Applications!

"Wait, look at this price."

Lis D'went frowned as she scrutinized the numbers listed next to the course details:

"Advanced Potion Theory and Practice costs 100 Mana Shard Fragments per month?! That's twice as expensive as Assistant Soran's course!"

"The other two courses aren't cheap either", Jack nodded, his expression conflicted.

"Bloodlineformulationfoundational costs 80 Mana Shard Fragments, and Alchemyentry-level & Application costs 85. With an Intermediate Apprentice's annual resource quota, you can only afford one course at most—and even that would mean cutting all other expenses."

A wave of murmurs swept through the academy courtyard.

"This is way too expensive! Why does a new assistant set such a high price?"

"I heard the academy set the price, not him personally."

"Then why does the academy give him such privileges? Could he really be that exceptional?"

"Anyway, the first week is free trial sessions. No reason not to attend. Let's see what this 'Treasure Grade Genius' has to offer."

Lis D'went gazed silently at the bulletin board, her fingers lightly stroking her chin—a habitual gesture when she pondered.

"I want to try the Advanced Potion Theory and Practice trial session. Maybe I can learn something new", she said to Jack, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Even if I can't afford the tuition later, at least I'll gain some knowledge during the free week."

"I feel the same way", Jack replied with a smile, then lowered his voice: "But I also heard certain clan apprentices are interested in these courses, especially the little princess who’s always surrounded by bodyguards."

"Eveprince?" Lis D'went blinked in surprise, her voice dropping instinctively. "Isn’t she rarely leaving that mana isolation tower? I heard her mana corruption symptoms have worsened lately."

"Who knows?" Jack shrugged. "Maybe geniuses just attract other geniuses."

After a moment's hesitation, Lis D'went pulled out her apprentice badge and tapped the registration option for Advanced Potion Theory and Practice on the bulletin board.

"At any rate, I don't want to miss this opportunity. Let's hear him out—maybe it'll open up new perspectives."

Meanwhile, in an elegant mansion at the other end of Crystal Spire, surrounded by complex magical arrays, a similar conversation unfolded.

"Prince, are you certain you want to attend this new assistant's classes in person?"

A woman in a thick, layered gown asked anxiously:

"Considering your special condition, public venues inherently carry risks."

The girl sitting by the window gently closed a crystalline book—precious archival records of ancient sorcery.

Eve Saintmane, with jet-black hair like a moonless night and violet eyes shining with unnatural brilliance, tilted her head slightly.

Beneath her translucent skin, faintly glowing mana patterns pulsed—a visible manifestation of her mana corruption.

"Yes, I’m certain", her soft, steady voice carried an age-defying calm. "Franca, this assistant Luo En is the first primordial mage in over a century to pass the True Path Ascension. He walked the same path as my mother. I’m curious whether his experiences hold lessons for me."

Franca sighed, her voice tinged with concern: "I understand your feelings, but your physical condition—"

"Please don’t worry", Eve interrupted with a smile, picking up a sleek mana isolation handband from her desk. "I’ll wear this upgraded model, and I trust the central academy’s public classrooms have regulation arrays. There won’t be major issues."

Her gaze drifted to the night sky beyond the window, her violet eyes shimmering with both anticipation and unease. "Franca, I can’t keep hiding in this tower forever. If there’s even the slightest chance to overcome this mana corruption, I must try."

Franca gazed at the princess she’d raised since childhood, her heart aching. At fourteen, Eve should’ve been carefree like her peers, not confined to this mana isolation tower, battling pain and fear daily.

"Very well, Prince. If this is your decision, I’ll arrange everything", Franca finally conceded, knowing Eve inherited her mother’s unyielding resolve. "But besides me, at least two colossus automaton bodyguards will accompany you. Promise me you’ll leave immediately if you feel any discomfort."

"Deal!" A radiant smile lit Eve’s face, instantly brightening the room. "I also heard he teaches Bloodlineformulationfoundational. Maybe that knowledge will help my condition."

Franca hesitated but ultimately fell silent. She knew how desperately Eve pursued solutions for her medical condition—and how even Crystal Spire’s vast resources had failed to solve the near-intractable mystery of mana corruption.

"Your name has been added to the registration list", Franca said, pulling a delicate crystal handband from her storage bag. "The latest mana isolation device developed in the tower. More effective and lighter than your previous model."

Eve carefully fastened the band around her slender wrist. It melded seamlessly with her skin, emitting a faint blue glow that formed a precise mana isolation field. These specialized devices effectively blocked external mana influences, slowing the progression of her condition.

At the other end of Crystal Spire, Luo En had just returned to his faculty quarters after a meeting with the academic administrators.

"Welcome back, Master", Ai Lan’s voice greeted from the hallway, her jade-green form glowing softly under moonlight. "The school has finalized your new course schedule."

She handed him a meticulously organized timetable. "The trial session enrollment has already exceeded classroom capacity. The administration had to arrange a larger venue."

Luo En scanned the list of names, raising an eyebrow. "So many students?"

"Indeed", Ai Lan replied, her vines swaying gently. "Your reputation and title have caused quite a stir in the academy. Many apprentices want to see the 'Treasure Grade Genius' in person—even some mentors have expressed interest in auditing."

Luo En chuckled.

He understood most were driven by curiosity rather than genuine interest in his teachings. But this was precisely the beginning he needed—draw attention through spectacle, then prove his teaching value during the trial week to retain those with real talent and determination.

Teaching wasn’t merely a source of income but a channel to build influence. In a place like Crystal Spire, where prodigies gathered, shaping the next generation often yielded longer-term benefits than personal cultivation alone.

"There’s an interesting name on this list", Ai Lan said, her voice turning cryptic.

"Eve Saintmane Prince—the Tower Lord’s daughter."

Luo En paused, a flicker of surprise crossing his eyes. "That princess with mana corruption from the Crown Clan?"

"The very one", Ai Lan confirmed. "She registered for trial sessions in both Advanced Potion Theory and Practice and Bloodlineformulationfoundational."

Luo En fell silent for a moment.

He naturally remembered Reynolds’ mention of this prodigious girl—and Archmage Cassandra’s promise that whoever cured Eve could claim three treasures from the Crown Clan’s treasury.

"Interesting", Luo En finally remarked neutrally, his face unreadable.

But his mind was already racing through possibilities.

"This young princess rarely appears publicly", Ai Lan continued, her tone sharp. "Her sudden interest in your courses likely stems from more than casual curiosity. Considering your bloodlineformulation expertise and unique status, she may have specific intentions."

Luo En nodded approvingly at Ai Lan’s analysis. "Regardless, this is a good opportunity to showcase my academic achievements."

He strode toward his study, beginning preparations for the upcoming trial classes.

For Luo En, this wasn’t just a teaching assignment—it was a critical step toward establishing himself at Crystal Spire.

Demonstrating his true value through these courses could attract outstanding students and draw support from higher-ups.

As for the mysterious young princess, whatever her motives, she would undoubtedly become a variable worth watching closely.

"Special emphasis on the cross-interference domains between alchemy and bloodlineformulation in the teaching materials", Luo En instructed, retrieving several archival records from his shelves. "A glimpse of my findings should suffice. Also, prepare some small-scale experiments suitable for public display—something impressive but not revealing core secrets."

His eyes lingered on a crystalline container holding Abyss Mutation body tissue samples, his expression contemplative. "Perhaps start with Abyss Creature adaptability and mana transformation mechanisms. It’s our strength—and shares similarities with mana corruption."

Over the next few days, Luo En focused on course preparation while adapting to Crystal Spire’s high-concentration mana environment.

Each night, he meditated under the stars, continuously expanding his mana pool capacity and quality through the Star Projection trait.

He also continued refining his Simulation Combat Device, experimenting with various mana circulation structures during daily design sessions.

Time passed steadily as the first trial class approached.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end