Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 585 The Story of Materials

Ron didn't sit idle for the next few days.

Since the review process would take time, he decided to do something more meaningful first—to teach his students his new theories.

In the reception room of the Emerald Building, the four students had already arrived.

Lilia sat by the window, holding a sophisticated silver instrument in her hands, carefully adjusting something.

She looked focused, occasionally jotting down a few numbers in her notebook.

Liz was standing next to her, where various experimental equipment had already been set up.

The small magic detector, the standard thermometer, and several test tubes containing different colored liquids were arranged neatly.

Herman sat at the lab bench, grinding some medicinal herbs.

His movements were skilled and rhythmic, clearly those of a practitioner.

There was also a thick notebook next to me, filled with detailed notes on various attempts to improve the recipes.

Eve arrived last, wearing a simple white dress, her hair casually tied back, and her little feet barefoot.

When he pushed the door open, he had a piece of pastry in his mouth.

After Cassandra went missing, the dark-haired princess seemed to have been freed from some kind of restriction, becoming increasingly carefree.

"I'm sorry, Professor, I'm late."

She said it casually, then sat down in the empty seat:
"I was looking up information and lost track of time."

“It’s alright.” Ron gestured for her to sit down.

Herman looked up, smiled, and said:
"Did our mentor call us here to teach us something new?"
I've noticed you've been in the lab a lot lately; you must have made some new discoveries.

"Senior Herman, could you please stop doing this every time..."

Eve frowned, then rephrased, "So direct?"

“What’s wrong with it?” Herman shrugged.

“Mentors never mind us expressing our thoughts directly. Right, mentor?”

Lilia put down the instrument in her hand:

“Senior Herman is right, but Princess Eve’s reminder is also reasonable.”
In formal settings, one does indeed need to be more careful with their wording.

"All right."

Ron timely interrupted the potential discussion:
"I am indeed going to teach you some new things today."

But before we begin, I'd like to ask you a question.

He placed an ordinary moonflower on the table.

What comes to mind when you see this plant?

Liz answered almost immediately:
Moonlight Grass, a low-level basic material.

Its main ingredients are moon essence and trace amounts of star crystals, and it is often used in medicines to stabilize the mind.

The market price is approximately three to five magic stone fragments, depending on their quality.

Her answer was precise and comprehensive, as if she were reciting a textbook.

Lilia then added:

"From a structural perspective, the cell walls of moonflower contain a special silvery substance that can absorb and store the energy of moonlight."

This is the physical basis for its calming effect.

As she spoke, she pointed to the instrument she had just been adjusting:
“The spectrum analyzer can detect that the frequency of the magical fluctuations emitted by the moonflower is between 4.2 and 4.8 kilomoms, which overlaps with the basic mental frequency of humans.”

Hermann thought for a moment and said:
"I remember that the timing of collection is very important. Moonflower collected on the night of a full moon will have about 20% higher silver content than usual."

Furthermore, the concentration of magic in the soil also affects quality; for every standard unit increase in magic concentration, the number of leaves increases by one or two.

Eve spoke last, her voice gentle:

"I have noticed that even if the various indicators of moonflower are similar, the actual effects can vary slightly from moonflowers from different regions."

For example, moonflowers growing near cemeteries seem to have a stronger calming effect, although the test data doesn't show a significant difference..."

“Very good.” Ron nodded in satisfaction.

“What you said is all correct, and very professional. But…”

He paused deliberately, letting the "but" linger in the air for a moment.

What you're saying is all about understanding materials from a 'material' perspective.

Ingredient analysis, frequency detection, and the influence of origin... these are the core elements of traditional potion-making.

"But today, I'm going to teach you to look at materials from a different perspective."

Ron held the moongrass in his hand and closed his eyes.

A moment later, he reopened his eyes and began to narrate:
"This Moonflower grows on the edge of an ancient cemetery, where a potion master and her apprentice are buried."

Every full moon night, people come to pay their respects, lighting candles at the grave and whispering their thoughts of remembrance.

"The moonflower witnessed thirty-seven such worships."

It absorbs not only the energy of the moonlight, but also the sorrow, longing, and reluctance to part with the deceased.

"Therefore, its 'soothing the mind' effect carries a hint of 'soothing grief' quality."

This cannot be explained by silver light, nor can it be encompassed by frequency overlap.

All four students were stunned.

Liz asked cautiously:

"Mentor... how did you know?"

"Because I 'listened' to it."

Ron placed the moongrass back on the table:

"But this 'listening' is not purely metaphysics; it is a perceptual skill that can be trained."

He walked to the blackboard and began to write:
The theoretical basis of traditional potion science is based on the idea that "matter determines effect".

What ingredients produce what effects, and what frequency corresponds to what results.

That's not wrong, but it's not complete.

"My proposed supplementary theory can be called 'materials and acoustics'."

In short:
Materials are subject to continuous environmental influences during their growth and existence.

These effects not only alter the structure of matter, but also leave a 'harmonious imprint' on the energy level.

"And these 'marks' will subtly affect the material's performance in potions."

Lilia frowned:
"But supervisor, if this 'mark' cannot be detected by instruments, how can we confirm its existence? How can we verify its impact?"

“Good question.” Ron looked at her approvingly.
"This is exactly what I've been focusing on during this period of research."

He took out a more sophisticated-looking instrument from his storage bag than the one Lilia was holding.

"This is my improved 'deep spectrum analyzer'."

Traditional instruments can only detect surface magical fluctuations, with frequencies ranging from 0.1 to 10 kilomomes.

"But the 'harmonic imprint' of materials usually exists at a deeper energy level, in the frequency range of 0.001 to 0.01 kilomomes—the so-called 'very low frequency' band."

He aimed the instrument at the moonflower and adjusted the parameters.

On the instrument's display screen, a slowly fluctuating curve began to appear.

“Look, this is the ‘harmonic imprint’ spectrum of Moongrass.”

The four students gathered around and carefully observed the curve.

"The shape of this curve is highly correlated with the 'growth environment' I described."

Ron pointed to several key features:
"The low point here corresponds to the emotional imprint of 'sadness'—with a frequency of approximately 0.003 kilomoms;
The wave peaks here correspond to the emotional imprint of 'longing'—with a frequency of approximately 0.007 kilomoms;
The overall fluctuations reflect the cyclical nature of the worship—a cycle of approximately 29.5 days, which coincides with the lunar cycle.

Herman's eyes widened:
"So...materials really 'remember' what they've been through?"

“That’s one way to understand it,” Ron nodded.
"Just as tree rings record the growth history of a tree, imprints record the energy history of a material."

Liz raised her hand and asked:

"So, can the effect of these marks on the potion's effects be quantified?"

“Of course.” Ron wrote a set of data on the blackboard:
"I've conducted a comparative experiment. The same quality moonflower, when used in 'sedative potions':"

From the graveyard: Base effect 100%, additional soothing effect +15%;

From the Garden: Base effect 100%, but duration reduced by approximately 8%;

From the greenhouse: the basic effect is only 92%, due to the lack of natural moonlight.

"These data were obtained through rigorous double-blind testing."

The sample size exceeded 200 cases, and the statistical significance P-value was less than 0.01.

Lilia's eyes lit up:

"If this theory holds true... then we can predict the hidden properties of materials by detecting environmental imprints?"

“That’s right,” Ron said with a slight smile.

"And that's not all. We can even actively influence these imprints."

For the next two hours, Ron explained in detail how to use the deep spectrum analyzer, how to identify different types of environmental imprints, and how to utilize this information in formulations.

He also presented an "imprint database".

It records the imprinting characteristics of common materials under different environments, as well as the corresponding changes in effects.

“This database currently includes 127 common materials and over 500 environmental imprinting patterns,” Ron said.
"Although it is not perfect yet, it can already cover most basic applications."

Finally, he gave a practical task:

"This is a standard 'mental restoration potion' formula, which requires Star Grass as the core ingredient."

Ron wrote the recipe and cost on the blackboard:
"The market price for a Star Grass is about fifty Magic Stone Fragments, and it is often out of stock."

"Now, using the theory I just taught, let's try to find a combination of materials that can replace Star Grass."

The four students exchanged glances, their faces revealing barely suppressed excitement.

Eve couldn't help but say:

"If this theory were widely adopted, could many expensive formulas find affordable alternatives?"

“Theoretically yes.” Ron nodded:
"But not all materials can be replaced."

Some materials possess a uniqueness inherent in their material structure, which cannot be compensated for by any external markings.

"However, for a considerable number of formulations, this method can indeed significantly reduce costs."

Hermann suddenly thought of something:
"Professor, if this theory is made public... won't it offend a lot of people?"

The atmosphere froze subtly for a moment.

Ron glanced at the students:
"Will do.

Merchants who profit from monopolizing rare materials, and ancient clans who treat formulas as family secrets, will not appreciate this theory.

"But so what?"

"The value of knowledge lies not in its monopoly by a few, but in its ability to be used by more people."

"If you hide away useful theories for fear of offending people... what's the difference between you and those misers who lock their books in secret rooms?"

The four fell silent.

Finally, Eve spoke up:
"If my mentor needs it, I can use the privileges of the Crown Clan to support the promotion of this theory."

"Although I don't have any special background, I'm willing to conduct experiments, collect data, and prove the feasibility of this theory."

Hermann clenched his fist.

The other two students exchanged a glance: "We will study hard and then pass on this knowledge to more people."

Ron looked at the four students and felt a surge of warmth in his heart.

This is the true meaning of education.

To cultivate successors who possess independent thinking abilities, a sense of responsibility, and a willingness to strive for their ideals.

"Very good." He nodded.
"Then in the next few days, you will continue to refine this alternative formula."

I want you to conduct at least twenty repeated experiments, record detailed data, and analyze the impact of each variable.

"Only theories that can withstand repeated verification are worth promoting."

........................

During those few days when Ron was focused on teaching.

On the stoker planet, "Karen," controlled by "Ink," is also making her own preparations.

The atmosphere in the Walker family's forge was so oppressive it was almost suffocating.

There are less than ten days left until the one-month deadline stipulated by the oracle.

Anxiety and fear were written all over everyone's face.

The clan chief was extremely haggard, with sunken eyes and prominent cheekbones.

He stood guard outside the forge day and night, like an old wolf protecting its cubs, vigilantly watching for any possible threat.

The other members of the family also took great care of "Karen".

Send the best food and prepare the finest ingredients;
They even walked quietly, afraid of disturbing the "savior's" creative process.

This kind of unhealthy expectation and pressure is enough to crush any normal person.

However, "Karen" is not a normal person.

Or rather, the "ink" that controls this body is completely unaffected by these emotions.

It simply carried out Ron's instructions calmly, advancing the plan step by step.

The core area of ​​the forging workshop has an astonishingly high temperature.

Inside the enormous furnace, molten metal churned like lava.

Karen stood in front of the furnace, her hands resting on a special metal plate.

That's "resentment money".

The metal, after being specially treated, contains countless painful "memories" sealed inside.

But at this moment, what "Karen" is doing is to further activate, reorganize, and guide these "memories"...

He is giving life to the metal.

It is not life in the true sense, but a "semi-life" state that lies between inanimate and living.

Metal in this state can respond to the wearer's will and can even "autonomously" deform, strengthen, and repair itself to a certain extent.

This is the core concept of Ron's design—living armor.

Using the principles of "narrative potion science," the narrative of "pain" is rewritten into a narrative of "protection."

Transforming metal from a "shackle" into "armor".

From a "cage" to a "fortress".

The tentacles of "Ink" wriggled beneath "Karen's" skin.

It can sense the complex "story frequencies" inside the metal.

Every trace of pain, every thread of resentment, every drop of despair...

They are all telling their own stories.

What "Ink" does is listen to these stories and then reweave them.

Just like Ron taught it.

"Don't suppress conflicts by force; guide them to find a new point of harmony."

"Don't try to erase the past; let it become a driving force for progress."

"Pain can be transformed into resilience."

“Resentment can be transformed into protection.”

"Despair can be transformed into hope."

Under the control of the "ink," the "resentful gold" began to undergo strange changes.

The metal, which was originally heavy, oppressive, and full of negative energy, gradually began to exude a completely new aura.

That is... the breath of life.

Chief Walker stood outside the forge, and through the heavy metal door, he could feel the energy fluctuations emanating from within.

He didn't understand technology and didn't understand what "Karen" was doing.

But he could sense that the energy was completely different from the traditional gold-burning technique.

It's more...active, more...warmer?
"Clan leader."

An elder approached, his voice hoarse:
"News has come from the Ruger family that their 'Bourne' is also making its final push."

It is said that an ancient, secret technique treasured by the family was used.

The clan leader clenched his fists so tightly that his nails almost dug into his palms:

"No matter what methods they use, we can only trust Karen."

"He... will definitely win."

"Must win."

"We must win..."

His voice grew softer and softer until it was almost a prayer.

Inside the forging workshop.

Karen slowly raised her hand, holding a piece of metal the size of a fist in her palm.

The "ink" could sense that the originally chaotic frequency of stories inside this piece of metal had been rewoven into a complete "movement".

Although there are still some discordant notes, the main melody has been established.

Next, all that's needed is to shape it into its final form...

The prototype of "living armor" is about to be born.

This will be an unprecedented creation in the history of the Furnace Star.

This will also be the "answer sheet" for the character "Karen" in the trial of divine judgment.

Ron's consciousness, through the bloodline connection, was "watching" all of this from afar.

He could sense the progress of the "ink".

Stable, but not impatient.

Precise, yet with room for maneuver.

"very good……"

He whispered to himself:

"That's it, take it slow."

"We have plenty of time in this game."

"Ten days from now, let's see... what kind of expressions will appear on the faces of those 'gods'."

........................

Day .

Ron received a reply from Master Merlin.

"Instructor Ralph, preliminary review approved."

In the crystal projection, Master Merlin's expression was complex:
"Your theoretical framework... is more complete than I imagined."

Following your method, I attempted to concoct three different potions, and the success rate of all of them exceeded that of the traditional method.

"But for this reason, the review committee decided to hold a full meeting to conduct a more rigorous evaluation of your work."

"Please come to the review committee headquarters the day after tomorrow morning for an on-site defense and demonstration."

"At that time, at least twenty senior potion masters will participate in the evaluation."

Ron nodded: "I'll be ready."

"There's one more thing," Master Merlin hesitated for a moment.
“Your framework… I’ve shown it to a few colleagues privately. Their reaction… was quite strong.”

"Some people think this opens up a new research direction, but others question the reliability of the basic data, arguing that the sample size is not large enough."

“Some people have raised many questions, thinking that you are ‘attention-seeking’ and that this theory cannot withstand in-depth scrutiny.”

“There were even people…”

Her voice was very low:

"They've already started contacting you, trying to create obstacles for you at the review meeting."

Ron smiled calmly:
"Academic debates are normal. If my theory is untenable, it is only right that it be overturned."

"But if it is true... then we are not afraid of being questioned."

Master Merlin looked at the young man with some hesitation.

She has seen too many geniuses, and too many geniuses who have fallen from grace for various reasons.

Which one will Ron be?
"Take care," she said finally.
"All I can do is ensure the fairness of the review process."

"The rest... is up to you."

Communication is interrupted.

Ron put away the crystal and began the final preparations.

He wanted to ensure that every piece of data could withstand scrutiny and that every experiment could be replicated and verified.

But just then, another communication came through.

This time, the communication did not come from the main world.

Instead... Nari.

Ron had an idea and immediately answered the call.

In the projection, Narena's enormous figure appeared in the deep-sea palace.

Countless eyes blinked excitedly.

"Baby! Baby!"

Her voice was filled with childlike joy:
"Mom has learned a new potion!"

Ron smiled faintly.

Although Nari was terrifyingly powerful, he always acted like a child yearning for praise in front of him.

"Really? What did Mom learn?"

"Uh-huh!"

Nari's tentacles waved excitedly in the water:
"Mom discovered something interesting by following the 'listening to materials' method you taught me!"

"Those abyssal crystals, they are actually 'crying'!"

"They said they were originally fragments of stars, but were corrupted by chaos, becoming ugly and terrifying..."

"So Mom wondered, could we help them 'remember' what they used to look like?"

"Then……"

She proudly displayed a bottle of medicine:
"Mom made this! 'Returning Star Dew'!"

Ron examined the bottle of medicine carefully.

Countless tiny specks of light float in the pale blue liquid, as beautiful as a galaxy.

He activated his enhanced material analysis abilities after acquiring expert-level skills.

A moment later, a look of surprise appeared in his eyes.

The effect of this potion is to "purify the pollution of the abyss"!
Moreover, its purity is extremely high!
"Mom, this..."

Ron couldn't believe it:

"How did you do it? The purification of the Abyss's corruption has always been a difficult problem in the field of potions!"

"It's about listening to their stories!"

Nari said matter-of-factly:

"When Mom heard them crying, she wanted to wipe their tears."

"Then Mom found some 'gentle' materials to comfort the 'crying' crystals..."

"Gradually, the crystals stopped crying and even became shiny!"

Her explanation was as simple as telling a fairy tale.

Ron knew that this contained the most essential understanding of "narrative potion science".

Nari didn't think about it from a technical perspective, such as "attributes," "elements," or "magic reactions."

She skipped all the complex theories and found a solution using the purest form of "empathy".

"Mom is amazing!" Ron exclaimed sincerely.
"This discovery could change the way we explore the abyss."

"Really?!"

Nari's eyes lit up:
"Then, baby, does that mean Mommy is also a 'Potions Professor'?"

Ron paused for a moment, then smiled and shook his head:

"Mom is much better than the professor."

“You are… the ‘Potion Sage’.”

This title made Nari so happy that she spun around in the palace.

Its enormous body churned the seawater, creating a huge whirlpool.

"Hehe, Mom is a sage! Mom is a sage!"

She was as excited as a child who had received a reward.

Ron felt a surge of warmth as he watched this scene.

His interactions with Nari always allowed him to temporarily forget those complex calculations and games.

In her presence, he only needed to be himself.

"By the way, baby."

Nari suddenly remembered something:
"That little mare, Mom thinks there's something wrong with her."

"Something's not right?" Ron frowned.
"What happened to Euphemia?"

"It's not that anything happened..."

Nari said somewhat uncertainly:
"That's right, she's been secretly hiding away these past few days, staring blankly at herself in the mirror."

"Mom peeked at her and noticed that her eyes were red, as if she had been crying."

"But when Mom asked her, she said it was nothing..."

Ron's heart sank slightly upon hearing this.

Euphemia... a vampire created by Aiden as a tool.

The experience during this period has probably had a greater impact on her than it appears on the surface.

"Mom, could you keep an eye on her for me?"

Ron said seriously, "If she does anything unusual, let me know immediately."

"Uh-huh!"

Nari immediately agreed:

"Mom will keep a close eye on her!"

"but……"

She asked hesitantly:
"Honey, are you very concerned about that little mare?"

Ron was silent for a moment:
"She is someone who deserves help."

"Moreover, her fate was arranged by others from the very beginning, which is hardly fair."

Nari nodded, seemingly understanding but not quite.

Although she didn't quite understand the concept of "fairness," she could sense the will in Ron's words.

"Then Mommy will take extra care of her for you!"

After ending his communication with Nari, Ron fell into deep thought.

He had to keep an eye on Euphemia's condition.

After all, I had promised the King of Illusions.

However… King of Illusions, he thought of Acelia, who had only briefly appeared when the King of Records last time, and had been sleeping the rest of the time.

This relationship is really difficult to handle...

........................

The next morning.

Ron got up early to make final preparations for his upcoming defense.

He compiled all the samples of the Echoing Dew, detailed refining records, and the complete document of the "Materials and Acoustic Spectrum Analysis Framework".

We also prepared some supplementary demonstration materials so that we could present them on-site during the defense.

Just as he was checking the last piece of preparation.

Ailan floated out of the kitchen, carrying a carefully prepared breakfast.

"Master, you're attending an important review today, right?"

The tree spirit said gently:

“I have specially prepared ‘Refreshing Tea’ to help you stay in top condition.”

Ron took the breakfast, a warm feeling welling up inside him:
"Thank you, Ailan."

"This is what I should do."

The tree spirit said earnestly:

"Master is working hard on the path of wizardry. We can't help you in this regard, but all we can do is not hold you back."

Worry flashed in her eyes:

"However, Master... will those who oppose you make things difficult for you during the judging process?"

“Yes, I will.” Ron nodded.
"But that's not important."

"Truth does not need to be recognized by everyone."

"It only needs to be proven in practice."

After breakfast, Ron changed into his formal wizard robes.

On the dark gray fabric, there was an exquisite potion-making emblem—a combination of a cauldron and stars.

This is the traditional attire of potion masters, representing the philosophy of "refining all things with wisdom".

………………

The judging hall was more solemn than Ron had imagined.

This is a semi-circular, stepped building with countless tiny magical crystals suspended on its dome.

They twinkled like stars, spontaneously arranging themselves into an array of runes in mid-air, providing constant magical illumination for the entire hall.

The most eye-catching feature is the "Pool of Truth" in the center of the hall.

It was a circular pool with a diameter of about three meters.

The liquid in the pool is a special alchemical solution called "manifestation liquid".

When someone demonstrates potion-making by the pool, this liquid can project the energy fluctuations, material reactions, and even the mental state of the potion maker throughout the entire refining process into the air in the form of light and shadow.

In this way, all the judges can clearly see every detail.

There is no possibility of cheating, and no room for concealment.

The moment Ron stepped into the hall, all eyes were on him.

Twenty-three judges were seated in a semi-circular seating area.

Each of them is at least a senior potion master, and some are even at the level of a prospective potion professor.

Master Merlin, seated in the central chairman's seat, nodded to Ron as a greeting.

To her right sat a tall, thin middle-aged man with neatly combed hair.

He wore a dark blue robe and an elaborate gold badge on his chest—the symbol of the "Ancient Formula Association".

The man's eyes were sharp as an eagle's, fixed intently on Ron, his gaze filled with undisguised scrutiny and suspicion.

"This is Kenneth Kraft."

Master Merlin's voice rang in his ears, transmitted through telepathy:

"The vice president of the 'Ancient Formula Association,' a scholar who specializes in researching and preserving ancient potion recipes."

"He represents the position of the traditionalists."

“We are extremely opposed to any attempt to ‘modify’ the classic formula.”

Ron understood.

No wonder this person's eyes were so unfriendly.

His own "narrative potionology" is essentially a challenge to those "unalterable" classics.

To the left of Master Merlin sat a kind-looking old woman.

Her robe was embroidered with various plant patterns and exuded a faint herbal fragrance.

"The other one is Agnes Greenwood."

Master Merlin continued:

"An elder of the 'Tree of Life' branch of the school, specializing in herbalism and natural potions."

"She is open to new theories, but at the same time very rigorous and will not be easily swayed by fancy theories."

Agnes noticed Ron's gaze and smiled and nodded at him.

At the edge of the judging panel sat a middle-aged wizard.

He looked to be in his early forties, which made him appear exceptionally young among the judges, whose average age was over 100.

He had short chestnut hair, which was casually draped over his shoulders, and a half-smile on his face.

"Ronald Ortega."

Master Merlin's tone carried a hint of probing:
"A representative of the new generation of potion masters, he became a professional potion master at the age of fifteen."

She's considered comparable to Mrs. Ronald back in the day... Hmm, I heard Mrs. Allen was your mentor, Lecturer Ralph?

“He dismisses traditional theories, but is also skeptical of any ‘new theory’.”

"He's a difficult guy to deal with."

Ron looked at Ronald and found that the other was looking at him with great interest.

That look in his eyes was like looking at an interesting experimental subject.

Besides these three, the other judges also have their own unique characteristics:
Some had serious expressions, seemingly skeptical of all new things;

Some, on the other hand, seemed curious, their eyes sparkling with a thirst for knowledge;
Several others were whispering amongst themselves, glancing at Ron every now and then with inscrutable expressions.

"Everyone."

Master Merlin struck the small bell on the table, its clear sound echoing through the hall.

The hall immediately fell silent.

"Today's review panel consists of lecturer Ron Ralph."

Her voice was authoritative and impartial:
"He submitted an original potion recipe—[Echoing Dew], as well as a brand-new theoretical framework—[Materials and Acoustic Spectrum Analysis Framework]."

"According to the review process, the applicant first gives a theoretical explanation, then gives a live demonstration, and finally has a Q&A session."

She looked at Ron: "Instructor Ralph, you may begin."

Ron nodded and walked to the "Pool of Truth" in the center of the hall.

He took a deep breath, looked around, and first layered a protective shield on himself:
"First, let me make one thing clear:"
This is not intended to overturn traditional potion-making, but merely to extend and supplement traditional theories.

He used magic to draw a chart in the air:
"The core of traditional potion science is that 'the composition of the substance determines the main effect'."

What ingredients produce what effects, and what frequency corresponds to what results.

That's not wrong, but it's not complete.

"But in long-term practice, we have all encountered this kind of confusion:"

Materials of the same variety and quality will produce subtle differences in results when collected under different environments;

The same formula can sometimes have a high success rate, and sometimes it can inexplicably fail.
"Some 'secret recipes' recorded in ancient books, when copied directly, have significantly reduced effectiveness..."

These examples drew slight nods of approval from many of the review committee members.

These are indeed long-standing problems in the field of potions.

Traditional theories attribute these phenomena to 'mysterious individual differences' or 'the influence of environmental factors,' but fail to provide specific explanations and predictive methods.

Ron continued, "And my research is an attempt to explain these phenomena."

He took out the improved deep-layer spectrum analyzer:
"This is my improved detection equipment, capable of detecting magical fluctuations in the extremely low frequency band (0.001-0.01 kilomoms)."

“In this frequency band, I discovered a previously overlooked signal pattern, which I call ‘harmonic imprint’.”

As he spoke, he took out two Moonflowers, which looked almost identical.

"These two Moonflower plants, after standard testing, have identical indicators in all aspects:"

The silver fluorescein content is 38.2%, the magic concentration is 4.4 kilomomes, and each plant has seven leaves.

"According to traditional theory, they should have the same medicinal effect."

He used instruments to test them separately, and two almost overlapping conventional spectrum curves were displayed on the large screen.

"However, if we switch to the extremely low frequency band..."

Ron adjusts the parameters.

The image on the screen has changed. The two curves now show a clear difference.

"The moonflower on the left has an almost flat extremely low frequency band, indicating that the environmental imprint is very weak. It was cultivated in a greenhouse."

"The one on the right shows obvious fluctuations in the extremely low frequency band. It was a wild specimen collected near a cemetery."

He pointed to several features on the curve:

"The low-frequency oscillations here have a period of about 29.5 days, which corresponds to the lunar phase cycle."

These tiny peaks have a frequency of approximately 0.003-0.007 kilomomes.

I found in a large sample that these characteristics are often associated with 'emotional lingering'.

Kenneth Crawford said coldly:
"The so-called 'emotional residue'? That sounds like metaphysics, not potion science."

“I understand your concerns,” Ron responded.
"I thought so at first too. But..."

He pulled up a set of data:
“I conducted systematic spectral analysis and effect testing on 127 common materials, each collected from at least 5 different environments, totaling more than 600 samples.”

"The results showed that the correlation coefficient between extremely low frequency features and drug efficacy reached 0.78, with a statistical significance of P<0.001."

"This means that this 'environmental imprint' is not metaphysics, but an objective phenomenon that can be quantified and predicted."

On the large screen, densely packed data tables and statistical charts began to scroll.

"It is important to emphasize that all my experiments are reproducible."

Ron emphasized:

"As long as the same testing equipment is used, anyone can get the same test results with an error of no more than ±5%."

"I will also explain the modification plan for this equipment in detail in the paper. Any qualified alchemy workshop can make it."

Agnes raises her hand:

"Ralph, you mentioned that environmental imprinting can affect drug efficacy."

Can this impact be quantified specifically?

“Of course.” Ron pulled up another set of data:
"Taking moonflower as an example, I conducted 200 double-blind controlled experiments."

Subjects were randomly assigned to receive a standardized 'sedative' formula.

The results show:
1. Use greenhouse moongrass:
Basic calming effect 100%
(Control group) Using wild moonflower (normal environment): sedative effect 103-108%
2. Use Moonlight Grass from the graveyard:
The calming effect reached 115%, and the score improved by 27% on the specific test item of 'relieving sadness'.

"All data have undergone rigorous statistical testing to rule out the placebo effect."

Agnes nodded:

"So, the role of environmental imprinting is mainly reflected in 'subtle enhancement of effects' and 'bias in a specific direction'?"

“To be precise, that’s right.” Ron nodded:
"It does not change the basic properties of the material, but it will affect the intensity of the effect within a range of 10-30%, and give it certain special 'tendencies'."

Ronald, who was standing to the side, suddenly raised his hand lazily:
"That sounds interesting."

But I have a question—even if your theory is correct, what is its practical application value?

"After all, a 10-30% increase in effectiveness might be meaningful for high-level potions, but for basic applications... it doesn't seem to make much difference?"

“Good question.” Ron smiled.

"The practical value is mainly reflected in three aspects."

He listed three points in the air:

"First, material substitution."

By identifying markings, we can find combinations of common materials that can substitute for certain rare materials.

"Second, formula optimization."

Understanding the mechanism of imprinting will explain those 'mysterious failures,' thereby improving the stability of the formula.

Third, targeted training.

We can actively create specific environments to allow materials to grow the imprint characteristics we need.

"I will show specific examples during the demonstration."

Master Merlin checked the time:
"The theoretical explanation is now complete. Instructor Ralph, please begin your live demonstration."

Ron walked to the Pool of Truth and began to prepare.

"I'm going to demonstrate three experiments today."

"Firstly, it proves the detectability and repeatability of environmental imprints;"

"Secondly, it demonstrates the practical application of material substitution;"

"Thirdly, to refine my original potion, [Echoing Dew]."

He took out several standardized material samples:
"These moonflower samples were purchased from the market this morning. Each of you may randomly select a few for testing."

Kenneth immediately said, "I'll do it."

He walked up to the samples, examined them carefully, and then randomly selected three plants.

"Use your equipment and standard equipment to perform tests simultaneously, and we will compare the results."

"no problem."

Ron used improved equipment to perform the tests, and the data was displayed in real time on a large screen.

Meanwhile, the technical staff of the review committee conducted routine tests using standard equipment.

A few minutes later, the two sets of data were presented.

Routine testing:
The three Moonflower plants had almost identical indicators, all of which were qualified standard products.

Extremely low frequency detection:
The three Moonflower plants showed significant differences in their environmental imprints.

"Sample 1, with an imprint intensity of 0.23 and a characteristic frequency concentrated at 0.004 kilomomes, is judged to be from a normal wild environment;"

"Sample No. 2, with an imprint intensity of 0.09 and a nearly flat spectrum, is judged to be artificially bred."

“Sample No. 3 has an imprint intensity of 0.41 and a double peak of 0.003 and 0.007 kM, indicating an emotional residual environment.”

Agnes asked curiously, "Can this judgment be verified?"

“Okay,” Ron said.

"The review committee purchased a batch of samples from different channels three days in advance, and the origin information has been sealed. Now it can be revealed."

Master Merlin opened the sealed document and read aloud:
"Number 1, purchased from a suburban farm, ordinary growing environment - meets the requirements."

"Number 2, purchased from the Potions Academy greenhouse, standard cultivation - meets the requirements."

“Number 3, purchased from…” She paused:
"A wild gathering site next to an ancient site - basically fits the description."

This verification elicited expressions of approval from many of the review committee members.

At least, this testing method is genuine and effective.

"The second experiment is material substitution."

Ron took out the prepared materials:

"A standard 'Mental Restoration Potion' requires Star Grass, which costs about fifty Magic Stone Fragments."

"After studying environmental imprinting theory, my students developed an alternative:"
Moonlight Grass + Cloud Mist Grass + Silver Mist Flower, total cost: sixteen Magic Stone Fragments.

"We are now refining two doses of the medicine at the same time, which are randomly numbered by the review committee and then sent to an independent third-party organization for blind testing."

Kenneth couldn't find fault with this suggestion.

All the judges watched the entire refining process that followed.

Ron's technique was standard and fluid, without any fancy skills; it was a textbook operation.

Similarly, using the standard recipe for Star Grass, he also refined it according to the most classic method.

After the two doses were completed, Master Merlin personally numbered and sealed them before handing them over to a waiting third-party testing agency.

"The test results will be sent back in twenty minutes," Master Merlin said.

"While waiting, Instructor Ralph can conduct a third presentation."

Ron nodded and began refining the [Echoing Dew].

This is his original magic potion; the formula had been submitted in advance.

The key materials are "Void Flower Stamen" and "Order Crystal", two materials with nearly opposing properties.

“Traditional methods of dealing with this conflict require the use of powerful neutralizing agents, such as rare materials like ‘Sands of Time’.”

"But applying my theory..."

Ron took out a very common material:

"All that's needed is the 'resonance liquid' extracted from star grass, which has a very low market price."

He explained each step in detail:
"The Void Flower's fundamental frequency is 6.2 kilomomes, while the environmental imprint shows a strong sense of 'emptiness'—frequency 0.002 kilomomes."

"The fundamental frequency of the Order Crystal is 6.8 kilomomes, and the environmental imprint shows a strict 'order'—a frequency of 0.009 kilomomes."

"These two imprints are inherently contradictory. However, the resonant fluid's properties allow it to resonate across the entire frequency range of 0.001-0.01 kilomomes..."

His movements were precise and elegant.

The addition of the resonating fluid acts as a mediator, allowing the two opposing imprints to find a delicate balance.

On the display screen of the Pool of Truth, the spectrum of the three materials can be clearly seen gradually converging.

Finally, a bottle of potion emitting a pale golden light was formed.

"This is the [Echoing Dew]."

Ron showed it to everyone:

"The effect is to reduce mental pollution."

Compared to the traditional "Dew of the Soul," the effects are comparable, but the cost is only one-tenth.

Just then, the results from the third-party testing agency came back.

Master Merlin reads:

Sample A (Star Grass Formula): Mental recovery effect score 92 points;

"Sample B (alternative formula): Mental recovery effect score 86 points."

"The difference in effectiveness is 6.5%, which is within an acceptable range."

Considering the cost gap of 68%, the assessment concludes that the alternative has significant economic value.

The demonstration ends.

A brief silence fell over the hall.

Ron's performance was flawless.

All data is authentic, all experiments are repeatable, and all conclusions have been rigorously verified.

"Let's move on to the questioning session," Master Merlin's voice broke the silence.

Kenneth immediately stood up:

"Instructor Ralph, I admit that your experiments are very solid."

However, I must point out that your theory has fundamental limitations.

"please say."

"Your approach is essentially a 'downgraded replacement'."

Kenneth said coldly:
"Use a combination of various low-grade materials to simulate the effects of high-grade materials."

"This may have economic value, but academically... what kind of innovation is this? It's nothing more than a shrewd business strategy!"

"And!" he emphasized.

"This practice encourages the overuse of cheap materials, which may lead to decreased efficacy and increased side effects in the long run."

This is a desecration of traditional recipes!

　The second long chapter will be updated at midnight sharp.

　　
　
(End of this chapter)