Opportunities for paid consultations are rare.

In the Black Mist Jungle, this kind of one-on-one high-level guidance is usually an exclusive privilege for students with outstanding achievements or special contributions.

Thompson pondered for a moment, took an ancient tome from the shelf, and carefully turned to a page.

The edges of the page were yellowed and curled due to age, and the ink was somewhat blurred, obviously having been read countless times.

"Some advanced extraordinary materials have 'memory' traits that can indeed be enhanced, but this requires a special 'marking ceremony', the most typical example being Soul Steel."

The old man knowingly smiled, not revealing anything, as he pointed to the yellowed pages with his finger, which were adorned with complex diagrams and runes:

"This is a ritual used by ancient alchemists to strengthen the connection between Soul Steel and the user. By inputting energy in a specific sequence, a unique 'energy circuit' can be established within the Soul Steel, making it easier to accept the user's will."

Ron focused intently on the diagram, committing every detail to memory.

The arrangement of the runes, the trajectory of the energy flow, and even the subtle energy balance points were all being recorded by him one by one.

This was precisely the key information he needed, invaluable knowledge that he couldn't acquire from ordinary tomes.

He solemnly took a complete Magic Stone from his pocket and handed it to Thompson.

The other party would naturally not provide such precious ancient books for free.

However, even a regular apprentice, although possessing a complete Magic Stone, rarely had the chance to share in such valuable knowledge, let alone receive accompanying guidance services.

"Of course, although this book looks quite old, it is a duplicated edition that has passed through countless hands. You can take it back to refer to the ritual, but by no means copy it verbatim..."

After handing the book to him, Thompson deftly received the Magic Stone and then continued to explain:

"Another point to note is the caster's state of mind, which must remain highly focused and calm. Any emotional fluctuation could lead to the ritual's failure."

Ron nodded, already beginning to plan the specifics of the implementation in his mind.

"As for the isolation layer..."

Thompson closed the book, his expression becoming more serious:

"This is an extremely complex and dangerous area. Isolating different energy fields is an advanced application in alchemy, and even the slightest mistake could lead to an energy leak or even an explosion."

A trace of warning flashed in the old man's eyes:

"I noticed your research direction... is very special. If you intend to combine Soul Steel with isolation technology for energy division and storage, then I must warn you that such experiments are extremely dangerous."

Ron's heart clenched, but he maintained a calm exterior.

"I understand the risks, Master. My research is still in the theoretical stage and I will not rashly proceed with actual operations. I will repeatedly verify every step to ensure absolute safety before proceeding."

As the consultation drew to a close, Thompson elaborated on several key alchemy techniques, particularly on advanced theories of energy conversion and material fusion.

This knowledge is absent from ordinary tomes, passed down from generation to generation of alchemists as esoteric mantras and mindsets.

After the paid consultation ended, Ron left the tower, setting off on the path back to his workshop.

The night had fallen, and the Black Mist Jungle remained eerie and frightening.

In the distance, strange howls could be heard occasionally, with tree shadows swaying in the moonlight as if countless eyes were watching in the dark.

Starlight sprinkled, illuminating the path ahead.

Ron's thoughts returned to today's gains.

As the research deepened, he grew increasingly confident that his direction was correct.

After all, predecessors had succeeded before. Even though transforming into an "apostle" left an infamous legacy, it still marked a significant presence in wizard history.

And those thirteen Supreme Apostles could rival top-tier Great Wizards...

Approaching the workshop, Ron saw the warm light streaming from the windows from a distance.

He heightened his magic power perception, already sensing the familiar presence inside the workshop—Lilia and Dale had already returned.

Pushing open the door, a small silver-haired figure quickly darted toward him.

"Master!"

Dale exclaimed excitedly, her eyes gleaming with the joy of victory:

"I won! That big guy didn't even see half of my strength!"

Her eyes shone brightly, and her entire body radiated a satisfied aura, like a predator that had just feasted.

Ron smiled and patted her head:

"Well done, Dale. I knew you wouldn't disappoint me."

He immediately noticed the changes in Dale, particularly her increasingly bright violet-red eyes.

This was a sign of successfully devouring spoils, indicating that her bloodline was evolving to a higher level.

"Next time, try to swallow two at once," he jokingly said.

"Lilia, how did it go?" Ron turned to the girl standing to the side.

Lilia slightly bowed, her face bearin a restrained yet pleased smile:

"Everything went smoothly, Teacher. Dale excelled in the elimination rounds, advancing easily. I have also completed my Elementary Apprentice certification, rated as 'Middle Potential'."

Ron noted the brand-new badge pinned on her chest, nodding in approval:

"Well done, reaching a fifth-class star qualification within half a year is already a rare achievement."

"I've recorded all of Dale's combat."

Lilia carefully handed Ron the Crystal Ball:

"Based on observations, she successfully absorbed part of the merman's abilities, particularly in deep-sea adaptability and strength, which have significantly improved."

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