Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 181 Flowing Protective Wall
The crystal ball Hayek took out from inside his robe emitted a strange glow in the dimly lit room.

The complex structure of the internal spell model resembled an exquisite three-dimensional maze, causing Ron to hold his breath and stare intently.

"These are two fairly mature spell models, both of which are the results of my research when I was young."

Hayek spoke softly, his tone devoid of any emotion, as if he were merely stating a simple fact:

"As a rapidly growing advanced apprentice, you need a more diverse spell system."

He pointed to the spell model on the left side of the crystal ball, a complex structure woven from various elemental energies, which looked like a constantly rotating vortex:

"Hybrid Element Missile - a highly malleable advanced attack spell. Each time an elemental attribute is fused, its power and penetrating power will increase significantly, but the difficulty of control will also increase exponentially."

Hayek's fingers lightly brushed across the surface of the crystal ball, and the model immediately responded, displaying the effects of different combinations of elements:

"The most basic combination of two elements, such as fire and wind, can produce a high-temperature cutting effect; fire and earth can create an explosive impact."

More complex multi-element fusions can even create composite attacks with various special states.

In these demonstrations, Ron could clearly see the subtle relationships of mutual catalysis and counteraction between elements.

This perfectly aligns with the theory he learned in "Elements Guided Basics," but its practical application is far more intricate and complex than the theory suggests.

"With your current level of mental control precision, you can manipulate a maximum of two elements at the same time, which is sufficient to deal with most situations."

Hayek assessed calmly.

He then pointed to the spell model on the right, which was a more intricate and complex energy grid structure with a semi-transparent barrier-like surface:
"Flowing Barrier - Unlike ordinary shields, it requires a specific medium to cast the spell, and the strength of the barrier directly depends on the properties of the medium."

The model within the crystal ball transforms, showcasing the effects of using different media:

"The retaining wall formed by ordinary water sources has strong flexibility and can absorb impact;

Metal powder provides greater physical defense;

Certain special materials, such as crystal powder, can even endow the protective barrier with the ability to resist specific energy attacks.

Ron noticed that the energy structure of this spell model appeared more precise and flexible.

There are dozens of energy distribution points, each of which can be adjusted independently, making the entire spell incredibly adaptable.

"When the precision of mental manipulation is high enough, it can shape the protective barrier, making it a semi-solid tool that can not only defend but also trap enemies or create temporary passages and platforms."

Hayek's tone was filled with pride:

"I once used this spell to fend off an attack by a swarm of migratory insects in the fifth layer of the abyss, the 'Sea of ​​Eternal Night.' At that time, I used a special metal as a medium to form a completely sealed protective sphere, which successfully protected the entire exploration team."

Ron carefully weighed the two options.

He already possesses quite a few offensive spells, from the initial Sonic Wave to the Ring of Radiance, and with the Corruption Melody currently under research, he has formed a relatively complete offensive system.

However, his defensive capabilities are clearly insufficient, especially in the face of the upcoming trip to the Bloodline Altar.

Moreover, when it comes to rare materials, he now possesses a treasure like Soul Steel, whose amazing plasticity is undoubtedly a perfect match for "flowing protective walls".

After weighing his options, he made his decision: "I choose the Flowing Wall, sir."

Hayek nodded slightly, seemingly unsurprised by the choice:

"The importance of defense often becomes apparent at critical moments. Especially in environments like the Bloodline Altar, which are full of unknown variables, an extra line of defense means an extra chance of survival."

The spell model on the right side of the crystal ball has been magnified and is now clearer, with the various energy nodes and flow paths more prominent:
"The basic construction of fluid barriers is relatively simple, but the essence lies in the precise distribution of energy and interaction with the medium. At first, you may only be able to maintain a planar barrier, but as your proficiency increases, you will be able to shape more complex forms."

Ron memorized every detail of the spell model.

This directly taught spell model is invaluable to any apprentice, allowing them to bypass the arduous process of self-exploration and greatly shortening the time required to master the spell.

Moreover, the other party did not explicitly state that he could only obtain one spell model. Perhaps in the future, there might be an opportunity to pay other rewards and exchange them with Hayek for the "Hybrid Element Missile" that he also coveted.

"Speaking of the bloodline altar..." Hayek's voice suddenly became lower, and his eyes deepened:
"Since you've chosen the 'Abyssal Creatures Compendium,' you've already embarked on a path to explore the nature of the abyss. That's good, because the connection between the Bloodline Altar and the abyss is much closer than most people imagine."

Ron instantly grasped the deeper meaning in the vice-dean's words, and his breathing unconsciously slowed down, like an explorer standing at the entrance of an unknown cave.

"Most people think that the Bloodline Altar is just a special trial ground, but in reality, its nature is far more complex than that."

Hayek's voice lowered, and a deep light appeared in his eyes:
"The Bloodline Altar is actually a remnant of an ancient witch king's conquest of the world."

Ron frowned slightly: "Remnants of world conquest?"

"To be precise, it is the afterimage of the collision when that Witch King forcibly pulled the world he conquered into our world."

Hayek explained:
"Dimensional fusion is by no means easy. At the moment the two worlds collided, dimensional turbulence tore apart the spatial structure, causing only a part of the conquered world to successfully integrate. The debris scattered from the collision is what we now know as the Bloodline Altar."

A rare hint of worry flashed in Hayek's eyes:

"What's worse is that, over time, this afterimage has resonated with the abyss, and some areas have been tainted by the power of the abyss, taking on obvious abyssal characteristics."

A thought flashed through Ron's mind:
"So the trial at the Bloodline Altar is actually a rehearsal for an exploration of the Abyss?"

“You’re right,” Hayek confirmed without any attempt to hide his opinion.

"In fact, all wizards who aspire to a higher realm, whether they are from the Crystal Spire in the Central Lands or the Black Mist School on the Edge, ultimately cannot avoid the challenge of exploring the Abyss. Because only there can they find the key to breaking through the limitations of the existing rules."

Ron's thoughts flashed back to the terrifying silver scales Maxim had displayed some time ago, a permanent mark and warning left by the abyss.

However, even in the face of such risks, wizards still seem unable to resist the allure of the abyss—which in itself speaks volumes about its temptation.

"In the Bloodline Altar, you will face three challenges."

Hayek continued, his voice carrying a warning:

"The corruption and curse of the abyss, the vengeful spirits of conquered worlds, and the anomalous phenomena of dimensional turbulence itself. These three often intertwine to create unpredictable and dangerous situations."

Ron's brain was racing, trying to integrate this new information with known theories of the abyss.

Maxim's reminder, along with the seemingly mysterious descriptions in the "Abyssal Creatures Compendium," are now beginning to form a clearer picture in his mind.

"I still have many questions, sir."

Ron couldn't help but press, "About the connection between the Abyss and the wizarding path, and why—"

“Since you have chosen the *Illustrated Compendium of Abyssal Creatures*,” Hayek interrupted him, his tone carrying an unquestionable authority.

"Then many answers should naturally be found there. Selwyn Aldrich is one of the few wizards who truly understands the nature of the abyss and has managed to escape unscathed. His writings are far more valuable than the few words of a halfway novice like myself."

The vice dean gave Ron a meaningful look:
"When you can truly understand the entire contents of that book, your understanding of the wizarding path will rise to a whole new level."

As the meeting was drawing to a close, Hayek added a sentence, his tone revealing a peculiar and complex emotion:

"Remember, in the Bloodline Altar, teamwork is not a fancy concept that can be dispensable. The allocation of those five spots is by no means arbitrary; each person bears a specific responsibility and significance."

Ron stepped out of the room, his heart pounding with excitement. The joy he felt at seeing the spell model was almost overwhelmed by the bombshell information about the Bloodline Altar.

A strong thirst for knowledge burned within him, but it was also accompanied by caution and vigilance.

He had learned from Maxim's painful experience that exploring the abyss was no child's play, and every step had to be carefully verified and taken steadily.

In the hall, the other high-sequence individuals who had obtained their spots were still talking, but gradually quieted down when they saw Ron approaching.

Holt stepped forward, a rare softening on his usually stern face:
"When I met you at the herbal medicine shop a year ago, I never imagined you would occupy the sixth position in the sequence. It's quite an amazing achievement."

This statement is both a compliment and a subtle reminder—any suddenly rising star will attract more attention and vigilance.

"Hehe, this is all thanks to the guidance of my seniors, especially your help and that of Mentor Soren, and of course, my special talent."

Ron was neither overly humble to the point of seeming pretentious, nor rashly overconfident to the point of being off-putting.

Holt nodded slightly, indicating his approval of the answer:
"Speaking of which, I have successfully used the 'Heart of the Earth' to reshape the Earth Elemental Colossus, increasing its overall combat power by at least 30%."

As he said this, a barely perceptible hint of pride flashed in his eyes, a natural expression of a sense of accomplishment:
"In this way, our combat strength at the Bloodline Altar will be more reliable."

Ron's heart skipped a beat. Holt's initiative to mention teamwork coincided with Hayek's earlier hints.

Clearly, the school of thought prefers participants to work together as a cohesive whole rather than going it alone.

"Your earth elemental colossus is one of the most powerful elemental constructs I've ever seen," Ron said, in his habitual business compliment.

"Having such combat support is truly reassuring."

After a brief conversation, Ron politely took his leave of Holt, noticing Trish standing not far away. "Looks like we'll be companions again," Trish said as she approached.

His voice carried a subtle, complex emotion—a mixture of joy at securing a spot and a slight unease about Ron's rapid advancement as a "competitor."

Those brown eyes shimmered with an amber luster under the magic light, as if trying to see through Ron's calm exterior to his thoughts.

"Yes, I hope we can support each other."

Ron responded calmly, then, as if remembering something, took out a carefully sealed crystal bottle from his pocket:
"This is the last batch of Nature Affinity Potions, made according to the previously agreed formula. It's crafted entirely with the finest materials, so the effects should be significantly stronger than the regular version."

Trish took the box, carefully opened it, and glanced inside. A satisfied smile spread across her face. "Thank you. The quality looks quite good."

She carefully put away the medicine, but didn't leave immediately. After a slight hesitation, she spoke again:
"Actually, I have another request... about Tanuki Moon."

Ron raised an eyebrow slightly, somewhat surprised by the change in topic:

"Your leopard woman?"

He recalled the taciturn alien guard, who always stood behind Trish, following her like a shadow but rarely speaking.

“Yes.” Trish nodded, lowering her voice slightly:

“During the Bloody Gladiator Tournament, Li Yue was exposed to the Lion Scorpion's venom. She survived and seems to have developed some kind of resistance to that venom. I tried to perform preliminary bloodline modulation on her to enhance this property, but the results were not ideal.”

She took a step closer and said softly:

“I hope to ask you—a true bloodline modifier—for help. I suspect that Li Yue has some kind of special latent bloodline that needs more professional guidance to be activated.”

Such vivid cases involving the activation of special bloodlines are exactly the practical materials that Ron urgently needs at this time.

"This is indeed an interesting topic."

Ron nodded, a hint of interest flashing in his eyes:
“I’m happy to offer my help, as it will also allow me to gain more practical experience for my research.”

"That's wonderful!" Trish exclaimed, her joy evident.

"Do you have time to go now? I live with my advisor, and she has already given permission. We can go directly to her residence."

When her mentor was mentioned, Trish's expression became subtle:

"Speaking of which, my relationship with Mentor Corinna is perhaps somewhat similar to your relationship with Lilia... a mentor-apprentice dynamic."

When she mentioned Lilia's name, her brow furrowed almost imperceptibly, and then vanished in an instant.

If Ron hadn't been extremely sensitive to micro-expressions, he would hardly have noticed this subtle change.

“It’s just that our relationship is perhaps a bit more…formal. After all, she is my officially recognized mentor, while Lilia is just your apprentice.”

Trish's tone carried a deliberate understatement, as if she were emphasizing a certain distinction.

"I need to go back to the workshop to prepare some necessary tools and materials, and also to look up relevant information to make some preparations. Is tomorrow okay?"

Ron said, already conceiving a plan for modifying the leopard woman's bloodline.

He has conducted in-depth research on the characteristics of the lion scorpion's venom glands, and how to integrate them with special bloodlines is an extremely challenging topic.

Trish gave him an address: "Tomorrow... I'll be waiting for you in advance. To avoid unnecessary trouble, please don't mention this address to anyone else."

Before parting, she seemed to want to say something, but in the end she just smiled slightly, turned and left, leaving a faint fragrance lingering in the air.

………………

Ron stepped out of the central tower, took a deep breath, and felt the subtle expansion of his lungs.

His conversation with Trish lingered in his mind for a moment, but was quickly replaced by more pressing matters.

Modulating the bloodline of the leopard woman, Li Yue, is indeed an interesting research topic, and it may provide valuable practical material for his academic accumulation, but there are more important things waiting for him right now.

"The final stage of meditation prepared by Mrs. Allen..."

This thought stirred a tremor of anticipation and unease within him.

The first stage of "The Star Eater's Whispers" has already given him an unprecedented boost in power, and the second and final stages will inevitably lead him into a deeper realm of mystery.

However, the other party's unusually cautious attitude also made him pay more attention to the potential risks involved.

And then there was the "Illustrated Compendium of Abyssal Creatures"... With Hayek's prompting, he began to realize that the value of this book far exceeded his imagination.

If it truly contains Selwyn Aldrich's insight into the nature of the Abyss, then it will undoubtedly be a crucial preparation for the upcoming journey to the Bloodline Altar.

Thinking of this, Ron quickened his pace.

When they returned to the workshop, it was already close to dusk.

The distant clouds were dyed a vivid orange-red by the setting sun, burning like flames on the horizon, bringing a brief moment of warmth to the shadowy jungle.

Pushing open the workshop door, a familiar and reassuring atmosphere greets you.

The aroma of herbs, the warmth of wood, and the subtle scent of Ailan's special desserts are all faintly discernible.

"Teacher, you're back!" Lilia's voice came from the side; she seemed to have been waiting in the hall.

Ron turned his head and saw the girl's face filled with undisguised surprise, and she was holding a box in her hand with great care—the very same exquisite black sealed box that Mrs. Allen had given her.

“I have completed your request, teacher.”

She quickly stepped forward and respectfully handed over the sealed box and letter with both hands:

"Mrs. Allen instructed me to personally deliver this to you."

Ron nodded, took the two items, and sensed the peculiar energy fluctuations emanating from the black sealed box.

Even through the carefully designed seal, he could still sense the profound power contained within—a mysterious aura related to the essence of the starry sky.

"Does Mrs. Allen have anything else to say?" Ron asked while checking the integrity of the seal.

Lilia nodded, her expression turning serious:
"The lady specifically instructed that the final stage of 'The Star Eater's Whispers' is extremely dangerous, and one should not attempt it lightly without sufficient preparation."

She paused, as if recalling Mrs. Allen's exact words:
"And... she said that she hoped you could successfully walk to the end of the road that she couldn't finish back then."

Ron was slightly taken aback upon hearing this, and then fell into deep thought.

The hidden meaning behind those words reminded him of the complex emotions that flashed in the old woman's eyes when he asked Mrs. Allen the last time.

It seems that Mrs. Allen had tried it before, but stopped halfway for some reason. Perhaps... this is related to her special condition.
"How does she look...?" Ron asked suddenly, his voice tinged with a rare hint of concern.

Lilia was slightly taken aback, but then she understood what the teacher was asking:
"Madam looks the same as always, even more energetic. Also, there's a special...pride in her eyes when she talks about you."

She spoke the last word very softly, but Ron heard it clearly.

He nodded slightly and carefully put away the sealed box and letter:
"I understand. By the way, is everything alright at the workshop?"

Lilia quickly switched to her assistant role and reported concisely and systematically:
"Everything is proceeding according to plan, teacher. Dale's daily training has continued without interruption, and she has already mastered 70% of the new water element techniques; Sister Ailan's condition is also stable, and she is currently tending to the rare medicinal herbs in the courtyard; as for the workshop's orders..."

She took out a carefully organized ledger from her bosom:

"All the records are here, including every single income and expense. Recently, several senior apprentices have shown particular interest in your improved 'Awakening' potion and have inquired about purchasing it in bulk."

Ron took the ledger, quickly glanced through it, and was satisfied with Lilia's management skills:
“Well done. Orders for the ‘Clarity’ potion can be accepted, but production must be strictly controlled, with a limit of three bottles per customer.”

He casually put the ledger aside: "I have important research to conduct next, so please don't disturb me unless it's something extremely urgent."

Lilia nodded respectfully: "Understood, teacher. I will arrange everything to ensure you are not disturbed."

Ron watched Lilia's departing figure, silently assessing the apprentice's growth.

In just a few months, she has grown from a timid apprentice to a capable assistant who can work independently.

It's not just about improving potion-making skills, but more importantly, about developing a holistic understanding and execution ability.

If Dale represents the breakthrough in combat power, and Ailan is the guardian of the workshop, then Lilia is the core gear that makes the entire system run perfectly.

After a moment's thought, Ron turned and walked toward his secret chamber.

In the most secluded corner of this workshop, there is a special room that only he can enter.

(End of this chapter)