Chapter 219: Chief

Luo En looked at the high tower plated with a layer of pale gold by the morning light.

As one of the top ten candidate wizards, he had a certain priority to consult any mentor, but he didn't use this kind of opportunity to consult actively very often.

Although he always comforted himself that relying too much on the mentor's teaching was not as solid as relying on his own exploration.

Every inch of knowledge gained from self-exploration is always more deeply rooted in the bones than the teaching of ear-to-ear instruction.

But in reality, it was because the things he studied before were always too unconventional, and they were all directions that only he could attempt.

And for "Flowing Barrier," although its plasticity and potential far exceeded his expectations,

it was a mature spell model with examples for reference, so he naturally couldn't waste the opportunity to consult the pioneers.

"Take it one step at a time." Luo En sighed slightly and walked toward the tower.

The duty apprentice guarding the entrance saw the badge on his chest, a flash of awe in his eyes, and hurriedly bowed respectfully:

"Lord Ralph, are you here to see the Vice Dean?"

"Yes, please report it."

Luo En nodded, his tone peaceful yet carrying a bit of majesty.

Unknowingly, he had become accustomed to this kind of superior tone and posture.

"No need, I already know." A low voice came from above.

Luo En looked up and saw Hayek standing on the second-floor corridor, holding a thick book in his hand, his gaze carrying a bit of surprise and... joy?

"Come up, young man, I happen to have a bit of free time."

Luo En bowed slightly and went up to the second floor along the spiral staircase.

"Follow me." Hayek didn't say much and led Luo En straight through a long corridor decorated with various ancient tapestries to a spacious reception room.

The interior was simple but stylish, with a black wood long table and several carved chairs.

Several landscape paintings hung on the walls, which looked like exotic scenery that did not belong to this world:

Under the pale sky, countless huge stones were suspended, each with peculiar vegetation growing on it, and a blood-red sun was slowly setting in the distance.

Luo En's gaze lingered on the painting for a moment, then withdrew, his attention refocusing on Hayek.

"Sit."

Hayek signaled Luo En to sit on one side of the long table, while he sat opposite:

"You didn't have time to participate in the last sequence assessment meeting, how come you have time to find me now?"

Hayek was actually quite pleasantly surprised in his heart.

Recently, because of the restrictions of the "Equal Cultivation System," he could not give Luo En special care, which made him a bit distressed.

After all, a genius like Luo En could not be found in the history of the Black Mist School at all.

If not for the restrictions, he would even be willing to take Luo En as a closed-door disciple and cultivate him with all his might.

Not only for the future of the school but also for that precious "Grace"...

Since the last brief contact, he clearly felt that the spiritual pollution accumulated in his body for many years had decreased a lot.

Grace of this purity is extremely rare even in the Crystal Spire.

And now, Luo En took the initiative to come to ask for advice, which is undoubtedly a win-win opportunity.

It neither violates the regulations of the "Equal Cultivation System" nor allows him to have the opportunity to get close to this young genius and obtain more Grace.

"Vice Dean, I want to ask for advice on the advanced application of 'Flowing Barrier'."

Luo En went straight to the point, his voice calm and respectful:

"Recently, in actual combat drills, I found that the potential of this spell far exceeds my imagination, but it seems there are many application directions I haven't touched."

Hayek's eyes lit up; this is the field he is best at.

"'Flowing Barrier' is indeed an underestimated spell."

He nodded slightly, a flash of approval in his eyes:

"Most wizards only regard it as a simple defensive means, but in reality, its application range and depth are far more than this."

He stood up and walked to the empty space in the center of the room: "Since you came to ask for advice, let me demonstrate it for you."

Hayek's movements were calm, without any fancy posture, just gently lifting his right hand, palm up.

A cluster of silver powder appeared out of thin air in his palm, then scattered in the air, forming a semi-transparent barrier about two meters in diameter.

This barrier is different from any "Flowing Barrier" Luo En had seen before.

Its surface is not a simple uniform texture but presents a texture similar to water waves, constantly flowing and changing, giving people a strong sense of life.

"First application, combination of multiple media."

Hayek explained:

"This barrier fuses silver powder, quartz sand, and trace amounts of crystal powder, each medium responsible for specific defensive functions. Silver powder resists energy erosion, quartz sand provides physical defense, and crystal powder is responsible for energy conversion and redistribution."

Luo En focused his attention while quietly activating the recording ability of "Thousand-Change Phantom."

He could feel that this barrier combined with multiple media was much stronger than a single medium, and the energy flow was more harmonious and stable.

Hayek did not notice Luo En's small movements and continued his demonstration:

"Observe this."

He flicked his finger lightly, and complex energy patterns immediately appeared on the surface of the barrier, like a precise network.

"Second application, structural differentiation. The interior of the barrier is no longer homogeneous but forms a multi-layer defense system.

The outer layer is responsible for absorbing impact, the middle layer performs energy conversion, and the inner layer is the final defensive line.

In this way, even if the outer layer is broken, the inner layer can still provide protection."

Luo En nodded to indicate understanding, but his heart was quickly analyzing the construction method of this structure.

This layered defense is not just a simple superposition but more like an organic collaborative system, where each layer supports and supplements each other through specific energy channels.

"Third application, active counterattack."

A flash of sharpness flashed in Hayek's eyes, and dozens of spikes suddenly extended from the surface of the barrier, like the defensive mechanism of some dangerous creature.

"The barrier shouldn't just be passive defense; it can also be used as an attack means.

When the enemy contacts the barrier, these spikes will immediately pierce into the opponent's body, injecting specific energy and causing internal damage."

Following his explanation, those spikes retracted slowly and merged back into the barrier body.

"Fourth application—spatial distortion, this is the advanced part, but since you are here, I will show it to you first."

Hayek hid his inner impatience; he couldn't wait to teach everything he had learned.

As he moved again, peculiar fluctuations immediately appeared on the surface of the barrier, just like a mirror being distorted.

The entire barrier seemed to become more three-dimensional, even giving people the illusion that it was larger than its actual size.

"This application requires a deep understanding of spatial studies. Through specific energy distribution, a weak spatial distortion field is formed around the barrier. In this way, the enemy's attacks will be partially guided to other spaces, reducing the pressure on the barrier itself."

Luo En's eyes narrowed slightly; this had already far exceeded the application scope of ordinary "Flowing Barrier," almost transforming it into a small spatial spell.

He tried to record this energy structure but found that its complexity was already approaching the limit of "Thousand-Change Phantom."

Hayek didn't seem to know that Luo En was attempting to record it and continued his demonstration:

"Fifth application, perception extension."

Countless tiny light spots appeared on the surface of the barrier, flickering like a starry sky.

"These light spots are actually the perception nodes of the barrier, capable of capturing changes in the surrounding environment and the enemy's movements. Through this way, you can not only defend passively but also actively predict the enemy's attack route."

He waved his hand gently, and the barrier immediately contracted, re-condensing into a ball of silver powder, falling back into his palm.

"Of course, these are just basic applications."

Hayek sat back in his seat, staring at Luo En with burning eyes:

"True masters can develop more unique variants of 'Flowing Barrier,' or even form a defensive system that is completely their own."

Luo En nodded respectfully, his eyes flickering with thoughtful light:

"The Vice Dean's demonstration has benefited me a lot. I am particularly interested in the two applications of 'structural differentiation' and 'perception extension'; they seem to be able to perfectly compensate for the defects in my current barrier construction."

Hayek nodded in satisfaction; Luo En's learning attitude and keenness indeed left a deep impression on him.

"Then, let me explain the key points of these two applications in detail."

In the next two hours, Hayek explained in detail the advanced construction methods and theoretical basis of "Flowing Barrier."

From the principles of energy distribution to the selection and proportion of different media, and then to how to adjust the structure and function of the barrier according to actual combat needs, everything was full of dry goods.

Luo En listened with full attention, occasionally asking some sharp and in-depth questions, showing insight far beyond his peers.

Just as the explanation was coming to an end, Hayek suddenly changed the subject:

"By the way, I have some good news to tell you."

Luo En raised his eyebrows slightly, waiting for the following.

"Considering your outstanding performance in all aspects recently, plus Master Valen's high evaluation, the school has decided to promote your sequence ranking to the top."

Luo En was slightly startled; although he had long had a premonition that he would eventually obtain this position, he didn't expect it to come so quickly.

"This is my honor." He responded cautiously.

Hayek chuckled, recalling the scene of that sequence assessment meeting not long ago.

………………

At the sequence meeting, when he proposed the suggestion to promote Luo En to the top, the entire meeting room suddenly fell into silence.

Holt sat at the head of the table, his face as usual, but those eyes flashed with a hint of undisguised sadness.

As a genius who had maintained the top position in the sequence for several years, being suddenly surpassed by a newcomer who had only joined for a few months, the blow was self-evident.

"Ralph has indeed shown amazing talent and progress speed."

Yuni said calmly on the side, her purple eyes flickering with approval:

"His progress in elemental studies recently is remarkable, especially his control over light elements is almost at the level of a Morning Star level wizard."

Solon also nodded in agreement:

"The speed of spiritual power improvement is also far beyond ordinary people, and his spell construction precision is perfect, which is extremely rare among young apprentices."

"I have no objections."

To everyone's surprise, Holt himself spoke calmly, his voice containing no dissatisfaction or jealousy, only a kind of detached open-mindedness:

"Ralph is indeed worthy of the name."

Hayek looked at this young high-level apprentice, and a bit of regret could not help but arise in his heart.

Holt's talent in the Black Mist School was already top-notch, and his diligence was unmatched.

If it were normal times, with his aptitude and efforts, he would absolutely be a star attracting everyone's attention.

It's just a pity that he met a monster like Luo En.

That is a peerless genius who has never appeared since the establishment of the Black Mist School, as if born to fit the extraordinary path, every step like walking on flat ground, without any stagnation.

Facing such a monster, even a genius like Holt could only be overshadowed.

However, what Hayek admired was that Holt did not become depressed or hateful because of this but chose to accept this fact and draw motivation from it to continue moving forward.

This kind of temperament might be more precious than talent itself.

"Then, it's decided."

Hayek announced, his gaze sweeping over everyone present: "Luo En Ralph will officially become the top of the candidate wizard sequence."

………………

"No need to be too humble."

Hayek withdrew his thoughts and looked at the young man in front of him:

"You are fully worthy of this position. In fact, with your talent and progress speed, many mentors believe that you will likely reach the formal wizard level in the future, or even higher."

Luo En nodded slightly, neither overly humble nor appearing arrogant: "I will continue to work hard and not live up to the school's expectations."

"Alright, back to business."

Hayek stood up, walked to the cabinet on the other side of the room, and took out a metal box flickering with faint light:

"These are some special media materials I prepared for you, which can be used for the practice and experiments of 'Flowing Barrier.' Including some rare metal powders and crystal fragments, each with its unique energy traits."

He handed the box to Luo En: "Use them well, I look forward to seeing your unique interpretation of 'Flowing Barrier'."

Luo En took the box, his heart moved; these rare materials could not be purchased in the ordinary market at all:

"Thank you, Vice Dean, then along with these materials, how much fee do I need to pay for this consultation?"

"Two magic stones will do, no need to be so polite, we are all taking what we need."

The old man casually reported a number without caring.

Consultation plus material fees only cost two magic stones; Luo En was not someone who didn't understand the market. He knew that what the other party gave him was absolutely a rock-bottom price.

Hayek took the magic stones, then seemed to remember something:

"By the way, there is one more special application of 'Flowing Barrier' that I didn't mention."

Luo En looked up, a flash of anticipation in his eyes.

"If you can find suitable abyssal matter as a medium..."

Hayek's voice suddenly became low and mysterious:

"The barrier will obtain brand-new traits—activation. It will no longer be a simple defensive tool but a kind of semi-living body, capable of autonomous defense and flow, and even possessing simple erosion capabilities."

Luo En's eyes widened slightly: "Abyssal matter... as a medium?"

Hayek nodded, suddenly extending his right hand, and a peculiar energy fluctuation surged from his sleeve, forming a micro-vortex in his palm.

In the center of the vortex was a mass of ink-black matter, emitting an unsettling aura.

Following his control, this black matter expanded rapidly, forming a thin barrier around him.

This barrier was completely different from the previous ones—it seemed to possess its own will, constantly changing forms, with eerie patterns flowing on the surface, just like the skin of some alien creature.

Luo En held his breath; the aura emitted by this barrier made him feel a trace of unease, but at the same time, he was attracted by the terrifying power contained within it.

"What is this?"

"Secretions of the 'Gazing Giant Frog' from the fifth layer of the abyss."

Hayek explained calmly while deactivating the barrier.

Just at this moment, Luo En saw obvious signs of alienation on the Vice Dean's right arm.

The skin presented an unnatural blue-gray color, covered with tiny scale-like protrusions.

These scales seemed to be alive, constantly trembling slightly, as if breathing.

"Is the Vice Dean also an abyssal explorer?"

"That's right." Hayek admitted frankly, seemingly not minding showing his distortion marks in front of Luo En:

"In fact, most wizards who have reached the Moon-Sun level and above have explored the abyss. There is knowledge and power there that cannot be obtained through conventional routes, tempting every practitioner who pursues the ultimate."

He pulled down his sleeve again, covering the distortion marks:

"Of course, the price is equally high. Many wizards have paid a heavy price for this, some even completely lost in the abyss, never able to return."

Luo En listened quietly, his thoughts swirling.

For wizards, the abyss is both a source of power and a dangerous quagmire.

"You seem very interested in the abyss." Hayek observed Luo En's reaction carefully, a flash of probing in his eyes:

"The gains from the bloodline altar trip should be quite good, right?"

Luo En was slightly startled but quickly returned to calm: "Some small gains, but still far from enough."

"Don't be anxious, with your talent, there will be plenty of opportunities to explore deeply in the future." Hayek said meaningfully:

"Valen also thinks highly of you, do you know, we used to be in the same team."

"Master Valen?" Luo En was slightly surprised, not expecting this layer of relationship between the two.

"Yes, back in the Crystal Spire, we formed a team together, specifically responsible for abyssal exploration missions."

A flash of nostalgia passed through Hayek's eyes:

"At that time, Valen was a few years younger than me, but his talent was amazing, and fortunately, he married his mentor's grand-niece, obtaining more resources and guidance."

Speaking of this, Hayek's voice carried a hint of imperceptible complex emotion:

"In the end, he successfully broke through to the Dark Sun level, while I stayed at the peak of the Moon-Sun level."

Luo En did not pick up the conversation, just listened quietly; he was not stupid enough to dare to express his own views on these things.

"It's getting late." Hayek glanced at the sky outside the window and ended the topic:

"I hope today's exchange is helpful to you."

"Benefited a lot."

Luo En stood up and bowed deeply to Hayek: "Thank you for the Vice Dean's guidance and generosity."

Hayek nodded slightly and watched Luo En leave.

When the door closed, he immediately took a deep breath, feeling the pure power of "Grace" in his body.

This power was far more powerful and lasting than he expected, almost instantly purifying the spiritual pollution he had accumulated recently.

"As expected of a Great Wizard seed with Primordial Wizard potential..."

Hayek whispered to himself, a flash of anticipation in his eyes:

"If he can really successfully promote to a Primordial Wizard, then the Black Mist School will usher in an unprecedented glorious era."

He walked to the window, looking at the Black Mist Jungle gradually swallowed by darkness in the distance, praying silently in his heart:

"I hope history will not repeat itself. I hope this time, that dangerous path can really bring success, instead of... another tragedy."

………………

Leaving Hayek's office, Luo En's mind was still echoing with those advanced theories and application methods about "Flowing Barrier."

He looked down at the metal box in his hand, which contained those precious media materials Hayek traded to him, and couldn't help but feel moved.

These rare materials will provide enough material for his experiments, especially for the advanced research of "Flowing Barrier."

But what made him even more excited was that through "Thousand-Change Phantom," he successfully recorded several variants of "Flowing Barrier" demonstrated by Hayek.

Although limited by the complexity of the spell, he could only record the first three applications:

"Combination of multiple media," "structural differentiation," and "active counterattack," but this was already enough to be pleasantly surprised.

(End of chapter) ===== CHAPTER 220 =====