“Ahem… but I’ve heard that the Red Tower Master’s heart is as broad and as deep as the sea,” Trempel flattered the absent Lovellian. “Rather than being offended, I’m sure he would be pleased that you’re seeking guidance from a senior scholar.”

“If that’s the case, allow me to ask Master Lovellian for permission directly.”

“Hey now… why do you need to do that? Instead, let’s just do this. You and me, why don’t we just keep it a secret between us. You won’t have to feel any stress from confronting your master, and the Red Tower Master won’t lose any face either. As for me…. I’m just happy to be contributing to your research—”

“Please excuse me,” Eugene quickly slipped past Trempel without listening any further.

Trempel reached out to Eugene with a face full of regret, but in the end, he sighed and shook his head.

Trempel silently cursed to himself, ‘Darn it.’

“Fucking Hell,” Eugene had also spat out a curse as soon as he got some distance away from Trempel.

If he said that he didn’t want to do it, then Trempel should just accept it. Why continue to pester him like this?

‘Since he doesn’t...