Chapter 253: The Abyss Observation Station

"Hehe, it is you instead, young Wizard Ralph. Your bloodline modulation theory demonstrates a depth that transcends your age."

Lei Nuozi did not respond, merely gently swirling the wine in his glass; the ice cubes clinked against the glass, emitting a crisp sound.

The captain nodded along as if he understood, though he could not quite grasp these professional discussions, yet he maintained a polite smile.

A moment later, he tactfully added some wine for the two wizards, then quietly retreated to the side, leaving them space for private conversation.

"Especially your insights into the conflict of consciousness during multiple bloodline fusion,"

He tapped the tabletop with his fingertips, imperceptibly casting a sound-insulation spell to ensure their conversation would not be overheard by outsiders:

"I must admit, this is a critical point I had previously overlooked.

I had been focusing too much attention on the physical repulsion reactions, while ignoring the mutual struggle at the level of consciousness."

Luo En nodded slightly:

"Physical repulsion is usually more intuitive and can be measured and observed through instruments, whereas consciousness conflict is hidden much deeper.

In my experiments, I noticed that even after successfully resolving the tissue rejection problem, the experimental subject could still fall into a fragmented state due to conflicts at the consciousness level."

His explanation possessed both theoretical height and the grounded feel of practical experience, something many young wizards struggle to master.

Lei Nuozi nodded in agreement:

"Exactly so. That experimental subject of mine has already shown significant signs of stability under your suggestion.

Especially the method of adding 'Grey Mist Lizard' bloodline as a reconciling agent—this line of thinking is very unique.

Its innate adaptability truly provides a perfect buffer zone for the entire bloodline system."

Luo En sipped his wine, his gaze cast toward the gradient nightscape outside the window:

"'Grey Mist Lizard,' as an adapter to marginal ecosystems, has evolved a special physiological structure that allows it to remain stable during drastic environmental changes.

Once this characteristic is transformed into a bloodline medium, it can likewise smooth out the intense conflicts between different bloodlines."

"Your understanding in this regard far surpasses mine."

Lei Nuozi' tone carried a bit more affirmation of his professional ability:

"To be honest, encountering a peer in such a remote area with such a profound understanding of bloodline studies is truly an unexpected joy."

He set down his wine glass, his gaze cast toward the twilight fading outside the window.

The first batch of stars had already emerged in the deep purple sky; at this special location—the edge of the abyss—they appeared brighter and more mysterious than usual.

"Actually, I have my own goals in returning from the abyss exploration and rushing toward the Central Land."

Lei Nuozi' tone became low and steady.

His gaze became profound, as if piercing through the night outside the window, looking toward some incomparably distant place.

Luo En's spirit immediately became focused; he did not rush to press for details, but quietly waited for the other to continue.

"I wonder if you have heard of the institution called the 'Abyss Observation Station'?"

Lei Nuozi turned his gaze back to the young wizard opposite him, his tone carrying a hint of probing.

Luo En's heart stirred; this was precisely what he had learned about on the bulletin board earlier.

He raised his eyebrows slightly:

"I have heard a little; it is said to be an abyss observation network being expanded by the Crystal Spire, presided over by a Great Wizard? But I know very little about the specific situation."

"That is exactly it." Lei Nuozi nodded:

"The 'Abyss Observation Station' is an academic research institution on the surface, but in reality, it bears the heavy responsibility of monitoring and controlling the expansion of the abyss."

His voice was low; although he had already set up a sound-insulation spell, discussing such sensitive topics still made him instinctively maintain caution:

"Recently, the observation station has detected abnormal activity at the abyss boundary, especially the energy fluctuations in the seventh layer, the 'Soul Abyss,' which have become extremely unstable.

This fluctuation pattern is completely different from the periodic ups and downs of the past, showing a certain regular trend of enhancement."

A trace of rare worry flashed in Lei Nuozi' eyes:

"To cope with this potential crisis, the observation station is urgently recruiting formal wizards with specific professional skills to form a special research team."

Luo En's gaze was as indifferent as water, but his mind was spinning rapidly like a storm:

"So, is your trip this time to apply for this position?"

"Yes." Lei Nuozi admitted frankly:

"I have some insights into abyss biology and bloodline modulation, and I hope to provide some professional support to the observation station.

Especially regarding the adaptability and evolutionary mechanisms of those abyss creatures, I have some unique insights."

He leaned forward slightly, his eyes burning as he stared at Luo En:

"In fact, Wizard Ralph, considering the extraordinary talent you have shown in the field of bloodline modulation.

Especially your precise grasp of abyss creature bloodlines, I think you are also very suitable for this position."

Lei Nuozi' voice carried sincerity:

"It is truly rare to find a talent like you who can reach the formal wizard realm at such a young age and demonstrate such profound academic insight.

The observation station is in need of fresh blood that possesses both theoretical height and practical ability."

Luo En remained calm on the surface, but in his heart, he had already begun to rapidly evaluate the value and potential risks of this opportunity, responding cautiously:

"This is indeed an interesting suggestion; I do have sufficient interest in the study of abyss ecology."

Lei Nuozi smiled slightly and added:

"That is even better; perhaps in the near future, we might have the opportunity to become colleagues."

Luo En weighed various possibilities in his heart.

The "Abyss Observation Station" is a branch institution of the Crystal Spire presided over by a Great Wizard.

Not only could he acquire more knowledge from it, but he could also come into contact with various rare abyss materials and technologies, providing more possibilities for his "Crucible Concept."

"If there is an opportunity, I would be very happy to learn more."

Luo En expressed his interest cautiously while maintaining a certain distance:

"However, for the moment, I still have some private research that needs to be completed, regarding an improvement concept for a special alchemical device."

"Of course, every wizard has their own research direction and plan."

Lei Nuozi nodded in understanding:

"Once we arrive at the Central Land, if you are interested, I can introduce you to some relevant personnel at the observation station.

Regardless of whether you eventually join, such exchanges will be beneficial to your research."

"Then thank you in advance." Luo En nodded slightly, a trace of sincerity flashing in his eyes.

The academic exchange between the two lasted for a long time.

From bloodline theory to abyss exploration experience, from cultivation insights to news of the Central Land, it covered everything.

Deeply communicating with an experienced abyss explorer allowed Luo En to benefit greatly.

Especially those first-hand experiences regarding the actual investigation of various layers of the abyss; these were precious knowledge that could not be acquired from books.

Before leaving, the two incidentally exchanged their communication badges.

When Luo En returned to his suite, the moonlight had already bathed the entire cabin.

He stood in front of the window, looking at the boundless night sky and the twinkling stars in the distance.

The "Star Projection" characteristic was automatically activated.

A continuous stream of starlight energy poured into his body through that invisible bridge, nourishing his spiritual power and magic core.

"Abyss Observation Station," a light of contemplation flickered in Luo En's eyes: "Perhaps that is where I will settle next."

He turned around and began to continue researching the design plan for the simulated combat device until the first ray of dawn sunlight pierced through the clouds.

………………

In the days that followed, the airship sailed steadily toward the Central Land.

Luo En spent most of his time in the suite researching the materials obtained from Town 69 and the organs of the Sand Sea Hunters.

Occasionally, he would also discuss and explore with Lei Nuozi on the deck or in the restaurant.

Besides this, Luo En also took the time to perfect the design plan for the simulated combat device.

With the special materials obtained from Town 69, especially those precious crystals that stabilize soul fragments, the core problem of the device had been easily solved.

It only needed to be equipped with a suitable energy circulation system to realize a miniaturized but fully functional personal training ground.

Days passed like this, and the airship traversed most of the areas around the abyss, gradually approaching the Glazed Archipelago on the Endless Sea—the last stop before the Central Land.

………………

The "Dawn Walker" sliced through the high-altitude clouds, its hull shimmering in the sunlight like an elegant sky giant whale.

The runes on both sides of the hull rhythmically pulsed with the airship's propulsion, emitting a soft blue light, providing stable buoyancy and forward power for this giant airship.

After several days of sailing, the airship had moved far away from the gray and oppressive area at the edge of the abyss; ahead was a sea area as blue as if washed—the Endless Sea.

On the horizon where the sea and sky met, a blurred land outline could be vaguely seen; that was the Glazed Archipelago—the last stop before the Central Land.

The Glazed Archipelago was named for its unique translucent rocks, which would present colorful halos under sunlight, looking like gems scattered on the sea surface from afar.

The climate on the islands was pleasant, the ecology diverse, and the residents were mainly Murlocs and various aquatic extraordinary tribes.

They maintained close trade relations with the Central Land, transporting rare products of the Endless Sea to the inland, and bringing back exquisite handicrafts from the Central Land to the islands.

On the stargazing deck, Luo En leaned against the railing alone, his gaze cast toward the gradually clearing outline of the islands in the distance.

The morning breeze brushed across his cheeks, carrying the unique moist and salty taste of the sea, making one's spirit feel refreshed.

The magic fluctuations over the Endless Sea were much more stable than at the edge of the abyss, yet much richer than in the Black Mist Jungle.

Especially when the "Star Projection" characteristic was activated at night.

He could feel the extra bonus brought to him by the starlight reflected on the sea surface; this feeling was both strange and wonderful.

"According to the sailing log, we will arrive at the mooring tower of the Glazed Main Island in about half a day."

A steady voice came from behind; Luo En turned around and saw Lei Nuozi walking toward him.

This middle-aged wizard was wearing a silver belt embedded with dozens of miniature crystals around his waist; it was an alchemical item capable of enhancing water element spells, showing his background as a veteran wizard.

"Wizard Lei Nuozi."

Luo En nodded slightly, a faint smile in his eyes: "I wonder if you have been to the Glazed Archipelago?"

After getting along for a few days, a harmonious atmosphere of exchange had been established between the two wizards.

Luo En had acquired quite a bit of first-hand data regarding the Central Land and abyss research from it, while Lei Nuozi felt admiration for the young wizard's insights in the field of bloodline studies.

"I have been there a few times."

Lei Nuozi walked to Luo En's side, his gaze also cast toward the islands in the distance:

"The Glazed Archipelago has the richest market for aquatic materials on the Endless Sea; almost all deep-sea treasures can be found there—from the fin bones of Storm Whales to the glowing algae of the abyss trenches, everything is available."

He paused, a trace of reminiscence flashing in his eyes:

"Especially the 'Coral Bazaar' on the main island, which has the most complete collection of treasures in the entire Endless Sea region; many antiques can even be traced back to the Second Era.

If you are interested in these, it is absolutely not to be missed."

"That sounds truly tempting."

Luo En responded softly, while in his heart he had already begun to calculate.

Through his observation of Daier recently, he found that although the little Siren had already acquired a fairly pure Golden Ring Siren bloodline, there was still room for further improvement.

Especially the affinity for the wind element she occasionally displayed; this was a direction worth studying in depth.

If he could find suitable amplification materials, perhaps he could build a more perfect bloodline system for her.

Just as the two were talking, a subtle energy fluctuation suddenly came from the air.

It was a pulse of extremely primitive and wild life force.

Like the breathing of an untamed beast, it formed invisible ripples in the high altitude.

The two wizards stopped talking almost simultaneously, their expressions becoming alert.

Luo En narrowed his eyes slightly, his spiritual power extending to the surroundings like invisible tentacles, quickly capturing the source of the energy fluctuation.

It was a group of flying creatures coming from the southeast, their energy characteristics carrying strong bestiality and abnormally intense lust.

"Did you perceive it?"

Lei Nuozi asked in a low voice, his blue eyes becoming as sharp as an eagle's in an instant, his fingers already sliding silently into his sleeves, ready to draw his wand at any time:

"That kind of chaotic energy fluctuation"

"Harpies, it should be their estrus period now."

Luo En's gaze was cast toward the distant horizon, where some black dots could be vaguely seen approaching rapidly:

"And, the number is not small, at least thirty or forty."

The wind circulated between the two, bringing a hint of sweet and greasy scent.

That was the unique hormone pheromone of Harpies, which would become abnormally intense during the estrus period.

He pondered for a moment, recalling the records about Harpies in the "Extraordinary Creature Illustrated Guide":

"Harpies in estrus will secrete a special pheromone, which can strongly stimulate their desires.

At the same time, it will also cause them to lose basic reason and launch indiscriminate courtship at any male creature."

His gaze swept across the entire deck, where many male passengers were enjoying the scenery:

"The scent of so many male passengers on the airship mixed together is no different from the most effective attractant for Harpies in estrus."

Lei Nuozi' expression became solemn:

"If left unchecked, they are very likely to tear through the outer defense of the airship."

The two exchanged a look, and a silent tacit understanding was reached in an instant.

"I'll be responsible for capturing, you be responsible for binding?"

Luo En suggested softly, his thoughts already turning to the bloodline essence of those Harpies.

It just so happened that he was short of materials on hand.

A trace of surprise flashed in Lei Nuozi' eyes:

"You have a way to subdue them without harming their lives? Harpies in estrus are known for their madness and fearlessness of death."

"I happen to have a set of suitable spell systems; let's act first, time is a bit tight."

Luo En looked through a small porthole at the black dots approaching rapidly.

Now he could clearly see their forms—the upper body was the posture of a human female, with smooth skin and full breasts;

The lower body was the wings and sharp claws of a giant eagle, with the key parts covered in glossy chestnut feathers.

The most striking thing was their eyes, without reason, without thought, only endless desire, red as burning lava.

Lei Nuozi drew a wand with a simple and ancient style from his sleeve.

The wand was made entirely of some kind of silver-white metal, with blue crystals embedded on the surface, shimmering in the sunlight.

At the same time, a trace of focus flashed in Luo En's eyes, and his spiritual power poured toward his fingertips like a tide.

(End of chapter)