Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 257 Strange Eye Soup

Only then did a sharp alarm sound from the front of the airship.

"All passengers, please return to your cabins immediately! Repeat, all passengers, please return to your cabins immediately!"

A tense male voice echoed across the deck through the airship's public address system:
"A large number of harpies have been detected approaching. This is not a drill! All passengers must evacuate the deck area immediately!"

Chaos erupted on the deck. Passengers who had been leisurely enjoying the scenery were suddenly awakened and looked around in panic.

When they saw the group of dark figures rapidly approaching in the distance, fear instantly spread.

"My God! There are at least dozens of them!" a middle-aged businessman exclaimed in horror, dropping his binoculars in fright.

"Run! These damned beasts will drain men dry during their heat cycle!"

Another passenger, who clearly knew something about harpies, shouted a warning and pulled his friend toward the cabin.

Chaos erupted on the deck as men scrambled to escape, some even falling to the ground in the panic and being trampled by those behind them.

The airship crew tried to maintain order, but were quickly overwhelmed by the panicked crowd.

"Defense Force! Defence Force, assemble immediately!"

The airship's security chief—a tall, middle-aged man—shouted loudly and waved for the uniformed defense team members to assemble.

More than ten defense team members quickly assembled from various locations, each holding an energy spear.

This specially designed weapon can fire charged energy beams, specifically designed to repel flying creatures like harpies.

But judging from their pale faces and trembling fingers, they didn't have much confidence in facing such a large number of harpies.

"Captain, there are at least forty of them!"

A young defense member reported nervously, his voice trembling slightly: "With our equipment, we can only handle about ten at most!"

"There are two certified wizards on the airship!"

The security supervisor said loudly:

"Send people to them immediately! Only wizards can handle an attack of this scale!"

"Execute immediately!"

An older member of the team immediately responded, turning to the others: "Split up and find those two wizards! Quickly!"

The defense team members quickly dispersed and began searching for the two wizards throughout the airship.

At the same time, the harpies had approached to within a hundred meters of the airship, their aggressive shrieks piercing the sky and sending chills down one's spine.

The first few had already extended their sharp claws, their eyes gleaming with a scarlet light, ready to tear apart any prey in their path.

"Prepare emergency defenses! All crew members capable of using energy weapons, immediately enter combat readiness!"

The energy cannons on the airship began to adjust their angles, aiming at the rapidly approaching harpies.

However, everyone knows that these weapons are unlikely to be very effective against such a large number of targets.

"They're going to crash!" someone screamed, their voice filled with despair.

Just as the harpy was less than fifty meters from the airship, the situation on the field suddenly changed.

A peculiar melody suddenly arose, like some ancient instrument being gently plucked in the void.

The sound was neither high-pitched nor shrill, yet it penetrated the entire space in an incomprehensible way.

The sound seemed to come from all directions, yet also seemed to originate from the same point, spreading through the air in a way that defied the conventional laws of sound wave propagation.

Suddenly, countless translucent chains appeared in the void, spreading out like ripples in water, and rapidly extending towards the approaching harpies.

These chains, though seemingly as light as a veil, contain incredible power.

They swiftly coiled around the harpies' bodies, binding the raging creatures firmly in mid-air.

No matter how much they struggled, they could not break free from this strange bondage.

"So... the wizards have already made their move?"

A seasoned and experienced defense member breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing this.

As the first batch of harpies were restrained, a sharp, slight vibration suddenly came through the air, like someone scratching glass with their fingernails.

This faint vibration spreads rapidly through the air, creating a unique echo effect.

Each echo is stronger and more penetrating than the last, creating a disturbing geometric progression effect.

The bound harpy let out a sharp scream, a sound filled with pain and despair.

Their bodies trembled under the impact of invisible sound waves, feathers fell like rain, and some even began to bleed from their mouths and noses.

Even more bizarrely, while these sound waves were powerful enough to destroy the internal organs of these supernatural creatures, they were precisely controlled to cause stun rather than death.

Each sonic vibration perfectly avoided vital points, yet was enough to completely deprive the target of their combat ability.

The entire process lasted less than half a minute. The once-aggressive harpy horde was almost completely wiped out, falling from the sky like kites with broken strings.

Strangely, although they had lost the ability to move, they all maintained weak vital signs, but were in a coma.

"What kind of magic is this? Why didn't we notice it at all?"

The young defense member stammered, his eyes filled with confusion.

"Of course you can't feel it, and they don't want us to feel it either," the veteran player said, his voice trembling.

In that small corner at the stern, Ron and Reynolds stood side by side, looking completely at ease.

Reynolds looked at the young wizard beside him with astonishment in his eyes: "Wizard Ralph, your 'Sonic Oscillation' is truly amazing."

A faint smile appeared on Ron's lips:

“You flatter me, Wizard Reynolds. Your binding spell was just right. It was because of your precise control that I was able to apply the sonic shock so accurately.”

Reynolds' outward modesty could not conceal the shock he felt inside.

As a Morning Star wizard who has been promoted for many years, he is very familiar with the application of various variations of magic.

But the "sonic oscillation" that Ron had just demonstrated was beyond his comprehension.

That's not just ordinary sound wave impact, but a brilliant application of the "echo effect".

By creating resonance at a specific frequency within the target's body, a geometric increase in power can be achieved with minimal magical input.

Such refined energy conversion efficiency is rare even among veteran Dawn Star wizards.

He subtly adjusted his position and attitude.

Subconsciously, he still regarded Ron as a "junior" who needed guidance.

But now it seems that this young wizard's expertise in certain areas is probably no less than his own.

Just as Reynolds was pondering, Ron had already taken out a small crystal bottle from his spatial bag.

The bottle is octagonal, crystal clear, and has a complex network of runes engraved inside, which shimmers brilliantly in the sunlight.

"The essence of the harpy's bloodline is quite precious."

An interested glint flashed in Ron's eyes:

"In particular, the energy activity of these individuals in estrus is nearly twice as high as usual, which is perfect for one of my studies."

He looked up at Reynolds: "I wonder if Wizard Reynolds also needs some samples collected?"

Reynolds shook his head slightly, a smile appearing on his face:
"I'm not really interested in harpies, so you can have them all."

“Then I shall respectfully accept your offer.” Ron nodded his thanks and then activated the crystal bottle.

The runes on the top of the bottle began to glow, releasing a faint blue energy fluctuation.

This energy, like fine threads, extended towards the fallen harpies, precisely connecting to specific acupoints on each unconscious creature.

As the connection was established, a brilliantly colored liquid began to be drawn from the harpy's body, flowing along energy threads towards the crystal bottle.

This liquid looks exceptionally precious, exhibiting an iridescent sheen, sometimes flowing like mercury, and sometimes swirling like smoke.

Reynolds looked at Ron's alchemical equipment with great interest and was about to say something when he was interrupted by the arrival of the airship captain and a team of guards.

"Honorable wizards."

The captain bowed deeply, his voice filled with gratitude:

"Thank you for your timely help, adults! If it weren't for your quick control of the situation, the consequences would have been unimaginable."

“It was nothing,” Ron replied calmly, his tone neither boastful nor overly modest.

"The Airship Guild has a rule that wizards who successfully protect the airship are entitled to additional rewards."

The captain said eagerly, "What requests do you two wizards have? We will do our best to fulfill them."

Reynolds and Ron exchanged a glance, then Reynolds gently shook his head:
"No need, we're just doing our duty. However..."

He turned to Ron: "These harpy samples are helpful to your research, aren't they?"

Ron nodded:
“That’s true. If possible, please arrange for people to move these unconscious harpies to a designated location. I need to extract further research material.”

"of course can!"

The captain immediately agreed and began arranging for the defense team to carry out the mission: "It is our honor!"

The crystal bottle had completed the initial extraction of bloodline essence, containing about half a bottle of brilliantly colored liquid that shimmered with a subtle luster, its energy fluctuations stable and pure. Ron carefully stored the crystal bottle in his spatial bag, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes.

These essences were enough for him to conduct subsequent experiments, especially for further modulating the bloodline of Dale.

Preliminary assessments suggest that the Harpy's genetic lineage originates from the ancient Sirens.

Perhaps it can produce some unexpected effects after fusing with Dale's siren bloodline.

The rest of the voyage was smooth sailing.

Through the porthole, Ron could see the outline of the Glass Islands becoming clearer and clearer, with lush green vegetation covering the blue-gray rocks.

Under sunlight, it displays a rainbow-like halo, truly living up to its name of "glass".

The airship slowly descended, passing through wisps of thin clouds, and headed towards the towering docking tower in the center of the main island.

As the distance closed, the scenery on the island became clearer.

The main island is crescent-shaped, with a bustling town in the center. The buildings are mostly blue and white, blending seamlessly with the azure sea and sky.

The streets were bustling with people, including human merchants, fishmen, and other aquatic creatures.

The harbor is filled with ships of all sizes, including traditional wooden sailboats and airships powered by special energy.

The "Dawn Walker" finally came to a smooth stop on the platform at the top of the mooring tower.

Since we're almost at the central region, the spaceship will refuel here briefly before leaving early tomorrow morning.

The gangway was lowered, and passengers began to disembark in an orderly manner.

“Ralph the Wizard.” Reynolds stopped Ron at the gangway:
"Is this your first time visiting the Glass Islands? Would you like to have dinner with me? I know there's a very famous monster cuisine restaurant on the island; their 'Monster Eye Soup' is renowned throughout the Endless Sea region."

Ron thought for a moment and nodded in agreement:

“It would be an honor. I would indeed like to learn more about the Middle Lands, and Wizard Reynolds is undoubtedly one of the best guides.”

“Very good!” Reynolds smiled.
"How about we meet at the lighthouse square on the main island at 6 PM?"

After agreeing to meet, the two parted ways. Ron returned to his cabin and briefly explained the arrangements for Ailan and Dyer's brief visit to the island.

He then left the airship with some necessary items and set foot on the land of the Crystal Islands.

The air on Liuli Island was more humid than on the airship, carrying a strong smell of sea salt and a hint of tropical fruit fragrance.

The sunlight was warm but not glaring, and the sea breeze gently caressed my face, invigorating my spirit.

The island's residents will bow in respect when they see the wizard's emblem, and some will even offer to guide them or recommend local specialties.

As the sun set, the entire sea was dyed golden red, and the lighthouse lit up with a warm yellow light, illuminating the pedestrians coming and going in the square.

Reynolds was already waiting there, having changed into a dark blue casual robe, looking more relaxed and at ease than he had on the airship.

“You’ve come at just the right time!” Reynolds greeted him with a smile.
"The restaurant I booked is not far away, just a five-minute walk from here."

The two walked along a path paved with colorful pebbles. On both sides of the path were shops of various unique styles, some selling coral ornaments, some providing special spices, and others specializing in purchasing deep-sea materials.

Each shop exudes a strong local flavor, attracting passing tourists and merchants.

"This is it, 'Deep Blue Bay'."

Reynolds pointed to a three-story building ahead.

The restaurant looks quite grand, with its exterior walls made of some kind of translucent blue stone that emits a soft glow under the lights.

Two fish-man waiters in elegant uniforms stood at the door, politely greeting customers.

Stepping into the restaurant, the interior decoration is even more stunning.

In the center is a huge aquarium, filled with all sorts of rare and exotic marine creatures. Some of them glow, some have bizarre shapes, and others seem to be able to change color at will.

The ceiling is made of countless small crystal pieces, simulating the light and shadow effects of the underwater world, making people feel as if they are in the deep sea.

"Wizard Reynolds!" A murloc manager with a large belly hurried forward and bowed with some difficulty.
"Huff huff... Welcome back! Your private room is ready."

"Thank you, Arnold."

Reynolds smiled and nodded, then turned to Ron:

"This is Ralph the Wizard, and also a highly talented expert in bloodline studies."

"Welcome, Wizard Ralph!"

The fishman manager quickly bowed again, his expression full of awe:

"It is our honor to receive two distinguished wizards. Please follow me."

He led the two through the main hall to a relatively secluded corner.

There was a semi-transparent shell door; gently pushing it open revealed a beautifully furnished private room.

The private room wasn't large, but it was exquisitely designed.

In the center is a round dining table with a tabletop made of some rare deep-sea wood that emits a faint blue light.

The walls are inlaid with luminous coral, providing soft lighting for the entire space.

The most eye-catching feature is the floor-to-ceiling window on one side of the private room, which overlooks the bay directly.

The sea reflects countless stars in the night sky, like a flowing sea of ​​stars.

"Please have a seat." The fishman manager respectfully pulled out a chair and then handed over the menu:

“We just received a batch of fresh ‘eyefoot octopus’, and the ‘sparkler’ that arrived the day before yesterday is also extremely fresh. I recommend you two try them…”

Reynolds nodded to Ron:
"The restaurant's signature dishes are all worth trying, especially the 'Strange Eye Soup,' which is said to enhance the diners' spiritual perception."

Ron flipped through the menu, which listed an extremely wide variety of monster dishes.

From common wild-caught fish to rare lightning fish, from ordinary sea ferns to precious soul algae, everything is available.

Each ingredient is accompanied by a brief description of its origin, cooking method, and possible unusual effects.

“Let’s order according to your recommendation.” Ron closed the menu. “It’s clear that Wizard Reynolds knows this place very well.”

Reynolds smiled and nodded, then gave the manager a series of instructions, including several main courses and several side dishes.

After the manager left, the two began to talk.

"How does it feel to be a first-time visitor to the Crystal Islands?"

"Reynolds asked, as he poured Ron a glass of clear blue liquid."

This is a specialty drink on the island, made from a certain deep-sea plant.

“Quite unique.”

Ron took a sip of the blue liquid, feeling a cool, slightly salty sensation spread across his tongue:
"Compared to the oppressive and dull atmosphere of the Black Mist Forest, the magical fluctuations in the air here are more active, yet not as chaotic as I had imagined."

“That’s precisely what makes the Glass Islands unique,” ​​Reynolds explained.
"This sea area is located at the confluence of three main magical flows, forming a special state of equilibrium. Combined with the moderating effect of the surrounding seawater, this makes it a rare region with stable and abundant magical energy."

As we were talking, the first dish was served.

It was a bowl of soup that looked ordinary but radiated a peculiar glow.

Several thin slices of fish float on the surface of the soup, with a complete octopus eyeball in the center, crystal clear, and seemingly containing some kind of energy.

“Strange Eye Soup.” Reynolds gestured for Ron to taste it first: “Remember to eat the eyeballs too, that’s where the essence is.”

Ron picked up a spoon and scooped some soup.

The moment it touches the tongue, an unprecedentedly delicious flavor bursts forth in the mouth, accompanied by subtle energy fluctuations, as if tiny electric currents are flowing through the blood vessels.

This is not just a sensory pleasure, but also an experience on an energy level.

As he chewed up the octopus eyeball and swallowed it, a sense of mental relief and relaxation arose spontaneously.

At the same time, his mind became clearer, and the panel showed a slight increase in his mental attributes.

"You felt it, didn't you?" Reynolds smiled, noticing Ron's slightly surprised expression.
"This enhanced perception is only effective the first time; after that, you don't feel much of a sensation."

The following dishes were equally tempting.

The main dish features grilled flounder, where the residual electrical energy in the fish meat blends perfectly with the special seasonings.

Each bite is accompanied by a subtle electrical stimulation, which enhances the taste experience and slightly improves nerve response speed.

There is also a dish called "Starry Seaweed with Stem Grass", which is a cold dish made with rare bioluminescent plants from the deep sea. It can enhance the efficiency of magic circulation in the body of the eater to a certain extent.

The two enjoyed their meal while exchanging their experiences and insights.

"Speaking of the central region."

After tasting a special dish of sea monster meat, Reynolds wiped his mouth:

“I don’t know what you know about that place, but one thing is for sure, it’s definitely not like anywhere else you’ve ever seen before.”

He recalled that he had obviously experienced the same thing:

"The greatest shock to those who step into the Central Land for the first time is the highly concentrated magic that is everywhere there."

The air, the rocks, the flowing water, and even the dust are filled with pure magic.

Newcomers often experience headaches, dizziness, and other discomfort due to the sudden 'overload' of magical power.

(End of this chapter)