Wizard: Unlimited Profession Slots

Chapter 1295: Chapter 517: Good Endings and Bad Endings (Part 4)

"Or just work as a hired assistant, earn a fixed salary, and not take any risks."

"A partner can learn the complete recipe but must bear the risk of losing everything;

A hired assistant learns limited things but can ensure basic compensation and experience."

The story pauses here, and a question mark appears on the page.

"So what is the end of the story?" Ron asked.

"That’s the cleverest part of this fable—the ending entirely depends on the apprentice’s choice."

The page reveals two branching endings:

"If he chooses to become a partner, there are three possibilities:

1. Bad ending:

The chef succeeds, the apprentice gains some benefits, but is tied to this kitchen forever, losing freedom;

2. Ordinary ending:

The chef fails, the apprentice suffers heavy losses but learns complete experience and lessons;

3. Absurd ending:

Both the chef and apprentice succeed, but find that no one wants to eat the dishes they’ve made."

Ron sighed inwardly, finding no good ending among them.

"Don’t be so quick to sigh, I haven’t finished with the other choice yet.

If he chooses to be a hired assistant, there are also three possibilities:

1. Bad ending:

The chef succeeds but breaks his promise, and the apprentice doesn’t get the promised compensation, watching great wealth slip by;

2. Ordinary ending:

The chef fails, the apprentice loses little and gains valuable experience;

3. Absurd ending:

The clever apprentice secretly learns the recipe while assisting, eventually opening a successful restaurant himself."

After reading this story, Ron remained silent for a long time.

"So, you mean there’s an absurd possibility no matter what choice is made?"

"Smart!" A smiley face appears on the page:

"The core of absurdity is not about the goodness or badness of the result, but that:

When you think you’ve made the most rational choice, reality often gives you unexpected ’surprises.’"

"But this doesn’t mean that choices are meaningless.

On the contrary, it’s precisely because the outcomes are uncontrollable that the values and judgment displayed during the decision-making process become even more important."

"If the apprentice chooses to partner, it shows he’s willing to take risks for greater possibilities;

If he chooses to be hired, it shows he values stability and autonomy more.

Neither choice is right or wrong, they just reflect different life philosophies."

The page finally shows a line of words:

"Remember, little one, you’re not choosing a result, but a way to become yourself."

.........

The next morning, when Vinard waited for Ron’s response in the academy hall, he saw a composed young man with clear eyes.

"Professor Vinard, I’ve thought it over."

Ron said directly:

"Regarding the teaching job, I’m willing to accept it.

It’s indeed a rare opportunity, and I’m also interested in the education of these mixed-blood children."

Vinard nodded, but his expression showed he was waiting for a more important answer.

"As for the in-depth development plan of Stoker Star..."

Ron’s tone became cautious:

"I hope to observe for a while first.

It’s not because I don’t trust your judgment, but I think it’s unwise to make a major commitment without fully understanding the situation."

This answer made Vinard frown slightly, but he didn’t show any dissatisfaction.

"Alright, I understand your thoughts."

The electronic voice maintained a calm tone:

"After all, you’re still young, having many choices, there’s no need to hang yourself on a single tree."

Upon hearing this, Ron asked with some unease:

"But I want to confirm—this wait-and-see attitude won’t affect our agreed teaching cooperation, right?"

"Of course not." Vinard replied without hesitation:

"The teaching job itself is valuable enough, and all the resources and guidance I promised you will be delivered as scheduled."

"The base treatment for qualifying grades, personal guidance for good grades, and even part of the advanced permissions for excellent grades.

None of these will change because of your reservation on the Stoker Star project."

This generous attitude dispelled the last bit of worry in Ron’s heart.

Vinard is indeed a worthwhile partner.

With sufficient sincerity, he also maintains a reasonable sense of boundary.

"Then, Lecturer Ron Ralph."

Vinard extended a mechanical hand:

"Welcome to the ’Green Ring No.2’ project.

Are you ready to face this challenge?"

Ron grasped the cold metal hand, feeling the firm resolve it conveyed:

"I’m honored to be part of such a great experiment, Professor Vinard."

"But I have a small request."

His eyes gleamed with a mischievous light:

"Since I’m going to be these children’s mentor, I hope to fully understand their backgrounds and talents.

Only then can I formulate the most suitable teaching plan."

Vinard smiled with satisfaction:

"Of course, that’s a requirement becoming of an excellent teacher.

Starting tomorrow, you’ll have access to the files of all the students."