19 Professions

After a couple of hours, Zatiel and Ezequiel returned to the Magic Tower, both carrying enormous bags. Their entrance to the first floor drew the attention of most apprentices present, who couldn't help but gaze at the bags with envy and greed. However, they knew better than to challenge the duo, aware of their formidable power.

Zatiel deliberately chose not to use his spatial sack to transport the items, as he wanted to keep it concealed for the time being. While the apprentices' stares lingered on them, Zatiel and Ezequiel approached Old Hal, who greeted them upon their arrival.

"So, you've returned already, and with such a bountiful harvest. You two certainly stand out among the apprentices," remarked Old Hal, observing Zatiel's approach with the bags.

Zatiel replied, "You could say that. We've come to deliver the mission materials and inquire if you can handle the magical equipment we wish to sell."

Old Hal nodded and said, "I can handle the mission materials right away, but are you certain you want to sell them directly to the tower? You may obtain a higher price by trading with other apprentices."

"Trading would be a waste of time. I'd rather dispose of them all at once," Zatiel responded, prioritizing efficiency over maximizing profit.

"Very well, I'll begin immediately," Old Hal agreed.

As Old Hal assessed the mission materials and the equipment from the bags, Zatiel discussed their next course of action with Ezequiel.

"Little EZ, for the time being, I'll be focusing all my time on rune crafting. You should find something that interests you and try to learn it. While professions like alchemy and crafting may not be of significant use to us due to our exceptional physical abilities, they become increasingly important in the future," Zatiel advised.

Ezequiel recognized the wisdom in Zatiel's words and wasted no time exploring the courses available at the tower, seeking out one that captivated his interest.

After reviewing all the options, he finally settled on his choice. "I would like to learn to create magical equipment."

Zatiel raised an eyebrow, expressing both surprise and caution. "Are you sure? I must warn you, creating magical equipment is not only highly useful but also incredibly complex. In fact, its difficulty is surpassed only by rune crafting."

Zatiel wanted to ensure Ezequiel's commitment, as he didn't want him to invest time and effort into something he might ultimately struggle to advance in. While Zatiel's own abilities in rune crafting were aided by the chip, Ezequiel lacked such assistance.

Ezequiel remained resolute in his decision, undeterred by the challenges ahead. "I'm sure," he affirmed, displaying unwavering determination.

Zatiel couldn't help but smile at the boy's unwavering determination, a sense of pride swelling within him. He playfully teased, "You're quite headstrong, aren't you?" as he gently patted Ezequiel's head.

Though Ezequiel felt slightly awkward being treated like a child, it didn't bother him. "I don't know much about magical crafting, but if you ever need help, just ask," Zatiel offered.

Ezequiel nodded, acknowledging the offer, while they both awaited Old Hal's completion of the assessment.

Old Hal, being well-versed in his role, swiftly finished the task. "I have finished checking everything. Your merit points have been deposited into your respective tower accounts. Regarding the magic crystals from the mission's reward and the sale of the magical equipment, they amount to 2160 magic crystals. You can choose to take them with you or deposit them into the tower," he informed them.

Zatiel considered the options and replied, "How convenient. Please deposit them into an account accessible to both me and Ezequiel."

Old Hal's face contorted in an odd expression upon hearing the request. It was unusual for two individuals to grant each other access to their accounts, even within a team. While it would be understandable if one member was using the other and they couldn't resist, that clearly wasn't the case here.

"You truly are an odd pair. Nonetheless, it's none of my business. Consider it done," Old Hal conceded, using his crystal momentarily, causing a brief flash from the crystals possessed by Zatiel and Ezequiel.

"You can use that crystal to monitor your account and also use it for payments within the tower," Old Hal informed them.

"Thank you. Now, I'd like to know where in the tower I can acquire rune crafting instruments and some Rank 0 Rune Diagrams," Zatiel inquired.

Rune crafting necessitated tools such as devices for material processing and mixing, as well as rune pencils for inscription. While Zatiel had previously inscribed runes using his own blood without space limitations, creating runes to be inscribed on a person's body required more precise tools.

Old Hal displayed surprise at the request. "Previously, you would've had to try your luck with other apprentices. However, with an account boasting over 1500 magic crystals, you can access the storage on the third floor. You can exchange your crystals and merit points there for the items you seek. Utilize the same portal you used to reach the second floor, and simply state your desire to proceed to the third floor," he explained.

"Alright, thanks for the assistance. See you soon," Zatiel bid Old Hal farewell as he and Ezequiel made their way toward the portal leading to the upper floors.

"Ezequiel, check the schedules for magical crafting courses and enroll in some that catch your interest. Don't worry about the cost. Once I've acquired the materials I need, you can use the remaining crystals as you please. If anything happens, contact me through the core," Zatiel instructed.

"Yes, Master," Ezequiel acknowledged, proceeding to the area displaying the missions and course information.