https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-36-Qualification-Confirmation-Recommendation-Letter/13535274/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-38-Rewards-The-Effect-of-Simple-Stardust-Elixir/13535293/
Chapter 37: Resource Allocation & "Potential" Evaluation
Chapter 37: Resource Allocation & "Potential" Evaluation
Luo En opened his eyes, choosing his words carefully. "I've discovered some clues about the 'rhythm' of spiritual energy. This has allowed me to optimize my meditation efficiency."
"Rhythm?" The on-duty apprentice nodded, her eyes flickering with contemplation. "That's an intriguing perspective. Even high-talent cultivators rarely achieve breakthroughs from this angle."
After a brief pause, she continued, "Beyond meditation, have you cultivated any other skills?"
Luo En calculated his response. Revealing his golden finger was out of the question, but moderately displaying his unique abilities was necessary.
"I've dabbled in alchemy and swordsmanship", he said cautiously. "Especially alchemy—I've been working at Madame Ellen's shop."
"Madame Ellen..." The apprentice's expression shifted subtly. "That explains your rapid breakthrough."
Her tone grew sharper:
"While your innate aptitude is mediocre, advancing from Sixth Class Star to Elementary Apprentice within months mirrors a case I recall from years ago."
"Which case?" Luo En asked, genuine curiosity in his voice.
The apprentice's gaze turned pensive, tinged with unease.
"A candidate apprentice with abysmal spiritual aptitude and a face so grotesque it drew revulsion... Yet within the School's walls, he surged forward relentlessly. Now he stands at the threshold of Full Mage."
Luo En's pulse quickened. Whispers from An Di surfaced in his memory. "You're speaking of Aolifu?"
Her eyes snapped to him, wary. "You know him?"
"Only by reputation", he hastened to clarify. "I've heard he's made significant contributions to curse research."
The apprentice nodded but maintained her guarded posture.
"Aolifu is indeed a rare genius, but his path..." She hesitated, then steered the conversation back.
"Since you've passed the spiritual energy assessment, I'll record your basic information before processing your resource allocation."
The process proceeded methodically. She meticulously documented Luo En's capabilities and aspirations.
"Which specialization do you plan to pursue?" she asked. "This determines your mission assignments and resource access."
Luo En considered his multifaceted professions. Given his public achievements, caution was warranted.
"I enjoy both alchemy and spell research", he finally answered. "But currently, I'll prioritize alchemy."
The apprentice nodded, scratching down the choice. "Madame Ellen's instincts are rarely wrong. If she selected you as her assistant, she must've seen your innate potential."
She produced a thick document, flipping to a page. "According to your breakthrough timeline, you qualify as 'lower-tier Potential.' Choose from this list."
Luo En's eyes scanned the page. The offerings were disappointingly foundational—mediocre supernatural materials, common potions he could brew blindfolded, and beginner magecraft manuals identical to his Basic Alchemy Manual.
The "Meditation Technique" section caught his eye. Several gem-grade advanced techniques were listed, but their acquisition requirements were draconian—fifty-year service contracts with the School. Even then, they only elevated cultivators to High Apprentice status. Zero-ring spell models carried similarly stringent clauses.
"These conditions..." Luo En's brow furrowed.
"Consider yourself fortunate", the apprentice interjected. "This is already better than most lower-tier potentials receive. Resources are finite."
He handed her Madame Ellen's sealed letter. "Madame Ellen asked me to deliver this."
The apprentice's eyebrows lifted as she inspected the seal. Only after verifying its authenticity did she open the letter.
Her expression shifted as she read—progressively more astonished. Even flipping the parchment to scrutinize the signature and emblem.
"Madame Ellen rarely writes recommendations", she muttered, her gaze sharpening on Luo En.
Stepping to a secluded corner, she activated a talisman stone, whispering into its glow. Moments later, a resonant male voice crackled through—a presence Luo En immediately recognized as far superior to the apprentice.
When she returned, she held a different document.
"Madame Ellen's recommendation and subsequent confirmation from the School's mage have elevated your status to 'mid-tier Potential.'"
She handed him the new list. The contrast was staggering. The expanded inventory included rare supernatural knowledge requiring far shorter service terms, and foundational items were now accessible without additional obligations.
"Additionally", she continued, "given your alchemical prowess, you're assigned to potion production. Monthly quotas apply, but your schedule remains flexible. External missions will be infrequent compared to standard apprentices."
Luo En's mind raced. This allocation perfectly suited his needs—structured yet accommodating.
"Choose wisely", she warned. "These selections shape your cultivation trajectory."
He focused, his decision crystallizing. A complete potion-brewing set and a close-fitting protective inner armor.
(End of Chapter)
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