Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 277, First Achievement

The table was piled high with draft paper, detailed alchemical drawings, and all sorts of calculation data, as well as several ancient reference books laid out open.

One of the books was flipped to the chapter on spatial construction, with a page next to it filled with Ron's dense annotations.

Ron rubbed his eyes; he hadn't slept for several days.

Since arriving at the Crystal Spire, he has devoted almost all his spare time to improving the simulation combat device.

"I knew Master hadn't rested yet."

Ailan's voice came from behind, as she held a cup of light tea that emitted a faint, natural aroma.
"Perhaps you can take a break for a while."

Ron took the teacup, took a sip, and felt the warmth flow through his body, dispelling some of his fatigue.

"Time waits for no one, Ailan."

He answered softly:
"Especially when you're just one step away from achieving your goal."

His gaze fell on a gemstone on the table.

That was the "Void Gem" obtained from the jade shop in Town 69.

Its surface is a deep indigo blue, and there seems to be starlight flowing inside.

Next to the "Void Gem" is another equally precious concretion—the "Heart Eater Stone".
At this moment, the gemstone was displaying an eerie dark green color, pulsating faintly, as if it were the heart of some kind of creature.

These two gems have become key materials in the process of improving the simulated combat device.

Ron's thoughts drifted back to the time a few months ago when he received the blueprints for the simulated combat device from Sauron.

At that time, he was filled with hope for improvement and innovation.

"It's much more difficult than I imagined."

During the month or so he spent on the airship, he tried countless possible improvement plans, but repeatedly ran into obstacles.

The biggest problems are energy supply and space constraints.

Traditional simulation warfare devices require a space the size of an entire room, as well as a complex energy network maintained by multiple alchemists.

How to shrink it to a portable size while maintaining its functionality is an unprecedented challenge.

"Do you remember back then, Ailan?" Ron looked at the scattered blueprints and chuckled self-deprecatingly.
"I thought I had finally found a breakthrough."

Ailan nodded:
"As a result, the energy structure collapsed during the test, almost triggering the magic fluctuation alarm on the airship."

That was an experiment that almost caused a major disaster.

Ron designed a compressed energy structure in an attempt to maintain a stable energy supply while reducing its size.

However, during the test, the compressed energy structure suddenly went out of control.

If he hadn't reacted quickly, the consequences would have been unimaginable.

"Precisely because all traditional methods fail."

Ron stood up and walked towards the prototype of the device being built in the corner of the room:

"That's why I need to rethink the entire energy architecture."

The initial design at that time was already much smaller than traditional simulated combat devices, but still much larger than his envisioned portable design.

Its core is a fist-sized transparent crystal ball, inside which Aksa's soul fragments float, with other slots left to be filled with other soul fragments.

The fragment is surrounded by twelve precise energy nodes, forming a complete cyclic system.

“The design logic of traditional simulated combat devices is linear energy flow. Energy flows from the source to various functional modules, and then most of it is dissipated.”

As Ron inspected the device, he pondered the paper he was about to write:

"They are extremely inefficient, which is why they consume so much energy."

"Only multi-level nested loop systems can be used."

His eyes sparkled with inspiration:

"Energy is no longer a one-way flow, but is recycled after completing its main task and enters the next cycle to continue to play its role."

This inspiration initially came from Ron's deep understanding of the "Flowing Barrier" skill.

In that spell, energy also flows in a cyclical manner, which makes the sustained defensive effect far exceed that of ordinary spells.

Ron extended this principle to the energy architecture of the entire device, creating a rather innovative system.

“But even with this small breakthrough, I still face two core problems,” he sighed softly:

"The stability of soul fragments and spatial compression."

After securing a faculty position at the Crystal Spire, he finally had the opportunity to access more materials, including some ancient studies on the stability of the soul.

This valuable knowledge, combined with his multiple skill characteristics such as "conception", "extensive knowledge", "three-in-one" and "essential insight", is enhanced.

The combination of this and the refined mental control techniques taught by Eve gave him crucial inspiration.

Ultimately, this helped him design a completely new stability mechanism.

He began filling in his thoughts on the manuscript paper:

"Precise control down to the microscopic level allows for more precise regulation of energy flow."

Combining the spatial properties provided by the 'Void Gem' and the emotional feedback energy supply from the 'Heart-Eating Stone,' this system is at least twice as efficient as traditional devices.

Ron's expression turned slightly complicated when he thought of the "Heart-Eating Stone".

This mineral can sense the user's emotional fluctuations and magical power, and transform them into a continuous energy supply.

In theory, this is the perfect energy source, but it also carries risks.

When emotions are too intense, the stone may excessively absorb the user's life energy, causing irreversible damage.

"This serves as a warning, and also adds some difficulty to the simulated combat. If death comes without consequences, it's hard to make a real breakthrough."

Ron kept writing a series of algorithms and formulas:
"And through this energy conversion method, the psychological damage caused by simulated death is limited to a range that can be recovered on its own."

However, these alone are not enough.

Even with a groundbreaking design, a large amount of rare materials are still needed to actually construct the device.

In recent weeks, he has almost exhausted all his savings, exchanging various rare materials at the Crystal Spire's exchange.

In particular, the materials related to space construction are prohibitively expensive.

But for Ron, these investments were worthwhile.

He is building not only a mobile simulation warfare device, but also a complete, portable workshop.

"The construction of the mobile workshop should be almost complete, right?"

Ron asked the tree spirit assistant beside him, his gaze shifting to another corner of the room.

There was a detailed architectural model there, a miniature version of his planned mobile workshop.

"The basic structure and the construction of the first floor have been completed."

Ailan replied that, as a natural being, she also provided some key "materials" in the process of building the workshop:
"The steady-state array in the alchemy lab is in place, and the ventilation system in the potion room has been installed. Only the training ground and storage room are still under construction."

Unlike simulated combat devices, mobile workshops are relatively simple to build.

Because Ron only needs to build according to the established blueprint, he doesn't need to innovate on his own.

He designed the workshop as a familiar two-story brick building.

It was similar to the one he rented in the Black Mist School, but more advanced and complete in function.

"With the spatial properties of the 'Void Gem,' this workshop will be able to be scaled down proportionally and carried around."

Ron's voice was filled with barely concealed anticipation:
"Like the lady's herbal medicine shop, but more stable and lasting."

This means that wherever he goes, he can take his complete research environment with him.

When he goes to the abyss exploration station or goes out to explore in the future, he will not need to abandon any equipment or research results.

This is a once-and-for-all investment, perfectly in line with his style of pursuing efficiency and maximizing returns.

“Now we need to compile these findings into an academic paper.” Ron returned to his desk, picked up his quill pen, and said, “We need to strive for formal recognition from the school of thought and additional resource support.”

He lowered his head and began to draft the outline of his thesis.

The topic has been determined:

"Mobile combat simulation devices: a new way to break through spatial limitations in combat training."

He needs to construct a clear and rigorous argumentation framework.

It is necessary to demonstrate the innovativeness and practical value of the research, while also appropriately retaining some core technical details, especially those involving deep-sea materials.

"Let's start with the introduction."

Ron's quill glided smoothly across the parchment:
"It highlights the limitations of existing simulated combat devices, explains why miniaturization and mobility are necessary, and outlines the practical applications this innovation might bring."

His writing is sharp and precise, without superfluous embellishment or flowery language; every word cuts to the heart and gets straight to the heart of the matter.

This is his consistent style—practical, direct, and efficient.

"Since its invention in the mid-Third Era, the combat simulation device has always been an important tool in combat training systems."

However, its enormous size, complex maintenance requirements, and astonishing energy consumption have limited this training method to major schools and relatively wealthy wizarding clans.

However, it is precisely those explorers who spend most of their time outdoors who most need this high-intensity training method, yet they often cannot obtain it. This study aims to resolve this contradiction.

Ron recalled his initial experimental attempts, the arduous process of redesigning and retesting after repeated failures.

Every failure brings new insights, and every mistake points to a better solution.

It was this spirit of continuous experimentation that ultimately led to groundbreaking discoveries.

"The theoretical part requires a detailed explanation of the principles of multi-layered nested energy cycle systems."

Ron pondered:

"It needs to demonstrate its innovation, but it cannot reveal too many implementation details, especially those involving the 'Heart-Eating Stone'."

"The technology for stabilizing soul fragments also needs to be handled with caution."

He continued writing while thinking about all sorts of details:
"It only mentions the improved rune sequences and crystal composite materials, without going into specific applications of abyssal elements."

The application of deep-sea materials is the most sensitive part of the research.

He paused his pen again, pondering how to fully demonstrate the academic value and application prospects of his research without revealing too many secrets.

It's a delicate balance that requires careful consideration of how each sentence and each concept is expressed.

"The application scenarios section needs to be highlighted." He's very good at this:
"That's the key to attracting the attention of the review committee."

As the last period fell, Ron put down his quill and stretched his stiff shoulders.

Outside the window, night had already enveloped the Crystal Spire.

One by one, the magic lamps in the city lit up, like stars falling to earth, decorating the entire city like a dream.

"finished."

Ron said softly, looking at the stack of parchment filled with writing in front of him:
"Submit it to the review office first thing tomorrow morning."

The tree spirit approached and asked softly:

Do you think the review committee will accept this study?

Ron smiled slightly, a confident glint in his eyes:
"This is not just a theoretical study, but an achievement with practical application value."

Even if they have reservations about certain technical details, their potential value cannot be denied.

He walked to the window, gazing at the night view of the spire adorned with various magical crystal lights, and pondered his next plan.

"Once the paper is recognized, it will not only help me build academic reputation, but also provide me with more resources."

Ron pondered, "This is crucial for the subsequent construction of mobile workshops and for more in-depth research."

“Then comes the Rainbow Ring competition.” He continued, calculating:

"That precious 'Lance Experiment Notes' might bring a new breakthrough to my bloodline research."

"Knowledge, resources, power..." Ron recited in his mind the sequence of pursuits he consistently followed:

"Every step must be taken steadily and surely."

The next morning, Ron changed into a simple and appropriate dark robe.

Pack the well-organized paper and related materials into the scroll case and head to the academic review office at the Crystal Spire.

The review office is located in a separate building in the central area of ​​the school.

Its appearance is simple yet dignified, and it is constructed entirely of a rare white stone.

The surface is engraved with ancient wisdom inscriptions, symbolizing the spirit of seeking knowledge and reason.

As he entered the hall, a solemn and dignified atmosphere immediately enveloped him.

The air was filled with the distinctive smells of parchment, ink, and old books.

Mixed with a faint, almost imperceptible magical fluctuation, it created a unique "academic atmosphere".

Dozens of wizards were waiting or talking in hushed tones in the hall, each with a different expression.

Some of them looked expectant; they must have come to submit their papers.

Some looked nervous, perhaps waiting for the review results;

Some looked gloomy, perhaps because they had just received unsatisfactory feedback.

Ron stood in the crowd, observing the surrounding environment and people.

“Ralph the Wizard! What a surprise to see you.” A gentle voice came from behind.

He turned around and saw a middle-aged man in a dark blue robe walking towards him with a kind smile on his face.

This is Associate Professor William West, head of the Alchemy Department at the Crystal Spire, and one of the assessment experts Ron encountered when he first arrived in the Middle-earth.

"Good morning, Director West." Ron nodded slightly, maintaining a polite distance.

"You were so busy with academic research when you first arrived at the Crystal Spire that the committee's assessment of you as a 'gem' was truly well-deserved."

William's tone carried a hint of admiration:
"Are you here to submit a paper? What field is your research in?"

"Regarding the miniaturization and mobile improvements to the simulated combat device," Ron replied briefly, showing basic respect while retaining some reservations.

"A combat simulation device?"

William's eyebrows rose slightly, first showing obvious surprise, then turning into deep interest:
"That's an extremely challenging topic. The energy requirements and space limitations of traditional devices have always been bottlenecks for many researchers. If there can be a substantial breakthrough..."

He didn't finish speaking, but the light in his eyes revealed his profound understanding and curiosity about this field.

"My research is specifically targeting these bottlenecks."

Ron nodded in confirmation, his tone radiating confidence.

"Looking forward to seeing your results, Wizard Ralph."

William's smile became even more genuine:
"With the talent and ability you have demonstrated, I believe you will surprise the judging committee. I hope to have the opportunity to discuss this in detail in the future."

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, William took his leave, while Ron continued to wait in line to submit his paper.

When it was his turn, the receptionist—an elderly woman with gray hair and a serious face—took his documents and began recording his basic information.

"Ron Ralph. The intersection of mobile simulated combat devices, alchemical devices, and soul fragment stabilization technology."

The old woman muttered to herself, her fingers nimbly writing on a thick register.

Ron noticed that when she wrote down "soul fragment stabilization technology", her pen paused almost imperceptibly.

After completing the registration, she looked up, her voice returning to its usual businesslike flatness:
"The paper has been officially accepted, and the review process will take approximately seven to ten days. The review results will be communicated to you directly through the Magic Message Board. We will contact you separately in case of any special circumstances."

“Thank you,” Ron replied simply, then left the judging area.

(End of this chapter)