Chapter 477: Kirk Weilen's Advice

Perhaps a mage specializing in divination spells always possesses certain indescribable qualities. No matter the situation, Kirk Weilen exuded an elusive sense of mystery. Even though Punk had now reached the same spellcasting level of 19 as Kirk Weilen, standing before this branch director of the Thought of Truth still evoked a faint sense of danger within him.

Before Punk could question anything, Kirk Weilen—who seemed to have already prepared his words—spoke first:

“Truly, heroes emerge from the young… I never agreed with this saying before, as the young often lack experience and temperament, especially a kind heart… Both are crucial for advancement on the path of a mage. However…”

At this point, Kirk Weilen shook his head with a smile, then adopted a meaningful expression as he said to Punk:

“…What a pity. Times have changed after all, and I’ve grown too old. It’s only natural for a soon-to-be-buried old man to fall behind the times. Look at you, Cyan—so young, yet you’ve reached a level many mages never achieve in their entire lives. When I think back to what I was doing at over five hundred years old… Haha, I was still pursuing a pretty girl back then!”

Recalling his youthful days, Kirk Weilen laughed heartily without a care for his image. If any other mages had remained in the Mission Hall at that moment, they would have been astounded, as “Master” Kirk Weilen displayed none of his usual dignified demeanor. The typically poised old man was now laughing so vigorously he resembled an uninhibited old rascal.

But currently, only Kirk Weilen’s laughter echoed through the Mission Hall. Punk, standing before him, didn’t crack a smile, and the Magical Raven Vector—having received Punk’s warning—remained silent on his shoulder.

Punk could tell there was no genuine amusement in Kirk Weilen’s laughter. Instead, his demeanor was filled with the admonishment of an elder toward a child, giving the distinct impression of a parent lecturing a misbehaving youngster.

However, out of respect for Punk’s power—which was in no way inferior to his own—Kirk Weilen refrained from shouting or roaring during his “education,” opting instead for this more subtle method to express his profound dissatisfaction.

There was no need for doubt—Punk could absolutely discern Kirk Weilen’s state of mind. He knew the aged spellcaster before him belonged to the Lawful Good alignment, and he could clearly see the disappointment, anger, and sorrow flooding Kirk Weilen’s eyes.

After all, Kirk Weilen was no rigid golem. As a divination specialist, he didn’t require so-called evidence to judge certain matters. Often, a divination mage’s conclusions needed only a hint of mysterious intuition, and Kirk Weilen was clearly one who could make accurate judgments based on intuition alone.As the well-informed head of the Thought of Truth Branch, Kirk Weilen had not only heard about the terrifying volcanic eruption in the Hoth Mountains but also learned of the sudden demonic traces appearing in the Raging Wave Desert. Now, just as Punk approached the counter to hand over his mission, this perceptive mage received explicit confirmation of Benlajie Nokani’s death—both unexpected and yet somehow anticipated.

There was no need to search for so-called evidence. Watching Punk, who had advanced to level 19, acquired a new staff, and possessed an unfathomable Magic Raven, Kirk Weilen could almost instantly conclude—these events were undeniably linked to this cold, sinister mage. Even without a shred of proof, Kirk remained confident in the accuracy of his intuition.

But… what could he do with this so-called intuition?

After all, Kirk Weilen was merely the head of a small branch of the Thought of Truth. He had no authority to convict a Senior Mentor based solely on “intuition.” Even if he intended to “punish evil and uphold justice” privately, in his personal capacity…

Feeling the terrifying, spine-chilling aura emanating from Punk just by standing there, Master Kirk Weilen’s lips curled into a bitter, obscure smile.

Truth be told, this “branch head” was already over four thousand years old. Though he remained a bona fide level 19 mage, Kirk knew all too well—his strength was rapidly declining. Relying on a few tricks of divination magic to intimidate newly advanced Master-Level mages was one thing, but trying to bluff a rising star like Punk with such hollow posturing? That was nothing short of a joke.

Thus, despite his profound fury at Punk’s actions, Kirk could not muster any semblance of firmness. He could only tentatively and tactfully offer advice, even if such efforts were doomed to be futile…

Regardless of Kirk’s inner turmoil, to Punk, the old mage’s demeanor was simply grating. Perhaps Kirk himself was unaware, but his condescending, instructive tone—meant as paternal concern for junior apprentices—carried a hint of insult when directed at an equal.

Confident in his own power, Punk felt no need for courtesy.

Did he really have to play along with this old man Kirk Weilen? Preposterous! The fact that this branch head held no real authority went without saying. Even if they were to clash openly… with the Magical Raven Vector by his side, Punk was confident he stood unbeatable in a one-on-one duel against any Master-Level opponent.

Bolstered by unwavering self-assurance, Punk met the old mage’s gaze fearlessly.

Then, in an icy tone, he spoke to Kirk Weilen with detached solemnity:”The era has never taken a step forward; it’s merely that some mages failed to recognize which era they were in from the very beginning. For a spellcaster, knowledge is the sole highest pursuit. As for temperament… no one’s path requires the meddling of tedious individuals.”

By this point, the meaning behind Punk’s words had become abundantly clear to Kirk Weilen.

Punk could see Kirk Weilen’s intention to educate him toward righteousness, and his response thoroughly shut down Kirk Weilen’s nonsensical ramblings. In plain terms, Punk’s message was unequivocal:

“Naive fool, keep being foolish if you wish, but don’t try to brainwash others into becoming fools like you—because you’re the only fool in this world!”

There’s a class reunion this afternoon, so today’s evening update will be delayed by half an hour until 18:00. Thank you for your understanding~

(End of Chapter)