Wizard: My career panel has no upper limit

Chapter 320 Bloodstained Shores

In the laboratory of the Materials Analysis Department of the observation station, there was a faint smell of disinfectant mixed with some indescribable corrosive odor.

Wearing a specially designed protective suit, Ron stood in front of the analysis table, carefully observing the sample in front of him.

It was a "food-eating bacterium" brought back from the fourth layer of the abyss. Its surface was covered with fine textures and appeared an eerie deep red under the illumination of a special light source.

"Newbie, be careful, that thing is no ordinary item."

Martin, the researcher sitting at the opposite workbench, offered a reminder.

This middle-aged man, who looked to be in his forties, had three fingers on his right hand that had become completely keratinized, turning into a hard, carapace-like structure.

He was processing a batch of digestive fluid samples from "corrosive insects," his movements skilled but unusually cautious.

“The phagocytic bacteria are extremely corrosive,” Martin continued, glancing with some concern at the instrument Ron was operating.

“We once had a researcher here who, due to operational error, directly came into contact with an untreated sample. As a result, within three hours, his entire forearm began to rot. In the end, he had to have his arm amputated to save his life.”

Ron nodded in understanding, but his hands did not stop moving at all.

He activated his "superhuman recognition" skill, carefully observing the internal structure of the live bacteria frozen block through a special field of vision.

In his eyes, this seemingly completely frozen block was actually full of vitality.

Countless tiny energy threads intertwine and entwine within it, forming a complex three-dimensional network.

Even more surprisingly, these energy threads were pulsating slowly but regularly, like the vascular system of some kind of organism.

"This kind of activity... the abyssal samples are indeed most valuable when they are collected fresh from the ground."

Ron quickly jotted down his observations on the whiteboard.

His analytical speed and accuracy drew the attention of several of his colleagues.

Typically, it takes a newcomer at least several days to grasp the basic characteristics of phages.

Ron, in less than an hour, reached a conclusion that was more insightful than many formal researchers.

Are you sure it exhibits characteristics of a highly active life form?

Another researcher, Mary, came closer. Her left eye, replaced by some kind of glowing artificial organ, was flashing a curious blue light.
“We have been studying this new sample for six months and have never found any signs of life activity in the frozen state.”

"Please look here."

Ron pointed to the analyzer's screen, which displayed a graph of energy flow inside the frozen block:

"If you look closely at the energy distribution patterns, you will find that they follow a specific periodic change."

This change occurs at a frequency of approximately 72 times per minute, very close to the human heart rate.

Mary stared wide-eyed at the data on the screen.

Indeed, there was a subtle regularity hidden in those seemingly chaotic energy fluctuations, which would have been difficult to detect without Ron's reminder.

"Actually, the most important thing is this reaction pattern."

Ron adjusted the instrument parameters, and another set of data immediately appeared on the screen:
“When we apply external stimuli to a crystal, its internal activity changes accordingly.”

When the temperature rises, the pulse quickens;

When subjected to stress, the flow of energy adjusts. This adaptive response is a typical characteristic of life.

The other researchers in the lab also stopped what they were doing and gathered around to see the discovery.

Wayne, who was in charge of managing the laboratory, also came over. His petrified half-face looked particularly eerie under the light.

“Researcher Ralph, your observation skills are indeed outstanding.”

Wayne carefully reviewed Ron's analysis report, a look of approval in his eyes.

However, while everyone was watching and discussing, Ron noticed a subtle detail.

Although his colleagues' praise was sincere, he could detect a subtle, twisted emotion deep within those mutated eyes.

It wasn't just simple jealousy, but a deeper kind of unease.

Martin unconsciously tapped the table with his calloused fingers, making a harsh scraping sound.

Mary's artificial eyes blinked more rapidly, revealing her inner turmoil.

Even the usually composed Wayne's petrified half of his face twitched slightly.

“The people who work here,” Ron thought to himself, analyzing the subtle atmosphere.
"They all bear the consequences of the abyss's corruption to varying degrees, and my outstanding performance as a newcomer may remind them of what they have lost."

This realization made Ron even more cautious.

He began to deliberately downplay his performance.

Instead of showcasing overly impressive analytical skills, they opted to work at a more "normal" pace.

Over the next few days, Ron gradually adapted to the work rhythm of the observatory.

Every morning at eight o'clock, he would come to the lab to process the samples accumulated the previous day.

I ate lunch in the cafeteria. Although the food treated with "purifying insects" tasted strange, it did provide sufficient nutrition.

In the afternoon, I continued with the analysis work and occasionally participated in discussions on small research projects.

They rest in their own sleep pods at night.

While those rune stickers might seem a bit depressing, they do offer basic mental protection.

What impressed Ron the most was the mandatory testing every three days.

Inside the testing room, dozens of sophisticated instruments operate simultaneously, performing a comprehensive scan on each subject.

When it was Ron's turn to be tested, the technician in charge of the test clearly showed surprise.

"Erosion rate... 0.01%?"

The technician repeatedly checked the test results, as if he couldn't believe his eyes:
"Are you sure you worked at the observatory for a full three days?"

“Yes, is there a problem?” Ron asked calmly.

"No problem, it's just..."

The technician looked at the other people's test results, his tone filled with disbelief:

“Normally, after three days of working at the observation station, the erosion level will reach around 0.05%. In my 30 years of experience, I have only seen two cases like yours where there is almost no change.”

This result caused a small stir within the research group.

Ron's colleagues looked at him with a more complex expression, a mixture of envy, confusion, and an indescribable unease.

"What an enviable physique."

Mary's tone was bitter; her infection rate had reached 12.3%, getting closer and closer to the threshold for mandatory treatment.
"Some people are born with resistance to the abyss, while others... can only watch helplessly as they are changed little by little."

Martin nodded in agreement; his keratinized fingers had a few more marks, clearly indicating that the erosion was continuing to worsen.
"That's the reality. In this place, talent is more important than hard work."

Despite the complex emotions of his colleagues, Ron maintained a calm exterior, but was pondering deeper questions in his mind.

His resistance to erosion is indeed extraordinary.

This may be related to his original identity as a wizard, or it may be the extra protection brought about by his various characteristics.

However, this "specialness" also means greater risks.

In an environment where everyone is suffering, those who stand out as "lucky" often become the target of everyone's criticism.

………………

Five days later, Wayne called Ron into his office in the morning.

“Researcher Ralph, I am very impressed with your performance.”

The senior manager sat behind his desk, his petrified half-face appearing particularly eerie in the shadows.
“It’s not just your analytical skills, but more importantly, your resistance to the erosion of the abyss. This gives me a glimpse of a possibility.”

Ron remained cautious: "You mean?"

"Field collection."

Wayne retrieved a detailed mission report:

"We plan to organize a short-term collection operation on the second level of the Abyss, targeting new biological samples from the Crimson Shoal area. This mission requires a researcher with high erosion resistance, and you are the most suitable candidate."

He handed the report to Ron: "Of course, this is a voluntary mission. Although Abyssal data collection is dangerous, it is the only way to obtain firsthand information. For a scholar aspiring to study the Abyss, this is a rare opportunity."

Ron took the report and quickly skimmed through its details.

Crimson Shoals, a special area on the second layer of the Abyss, is known for its unstable spatial structure and rich biodiversity.

This area is home to many rare abyssal creatures, but it is also a dangerous zone with extremely high erosion.

"What is the composition of the gathering team?" Ron asked.

"Three researchers, two exploration team guards, and one automated guard golem."

Wayne explained in detail:
"Researchers are responsible for sample collection and preliminary analysis, guards are responsible for security, and golems are responsible for environmental monitoring and early warning. The entire trip is expected to take 7 hours, with at least 5 hours spent in the abyss environment."

This is truly a rare opportunity.

Not only can they obtain valuable research materials, but they can also observe the abyss environment in person, providing first-hand information for their various research projects.

Moreover, this was the perfect opportunity for him to arrange for the "substitute puppet" to enter the abyss.

“I accept this mission,” Ron answered without hesitation.

Wayne nodded in satisfaction:

"Very good. You have two days to prepare. I will send you the detailed equipment list and precautions. Remember, this is your first trip to the Abyss, so safety must be the top priority."

………………

Early in the morning, in the equipment room of the observation station, a small data collection team was making final preparations.

Ron wore a specially made Abyss Protective Suit, which was made of multi-layered composite materials and could effectively block most corrosive substances.

The inner layer of the protective suit is made of soft "purifying fibers" that can neutralize low-intensity abyssal energy.

The middle layer is a tough "barrier fabric" that can withstand physical attacks and corrosive liquids.

The outermost layer is a shimmering "reflective coating," specifically designed to counter certain abyssal creatures with optical attack capabilities.

"Check the respiratory system."

Captain Miller is a Silver Ring-level explorer; his left arm is fully mechanized, gleaming with a metallic sheen.

"At Bloodstains, the concentration of corrosive particles in the air is dozens of times higher than at ground level. Without a proper filtration system, an ordinary person's lungs would ulcerate after breathing there for just ten minutes."

Ron checked the mask's seal to make sure the filtration system was working properly.

The display screen inside the mask shows various environmental parameters in real time, including oxygen concentration, toxin content, corrosiveness, and so on.

"Sample collection equipment".

Another researcher, Alice, was responsible for introducing this aspect.

She was a woman who appeared to be in her thirties; the right half of her body was translucent, and her internal organs were vaguely visible.

"These are specially designed collection containers that maintain the viability and stability of the samples. Each container can only be used once, so they must be used with utmost care."

The third researcher, Falco, was responsible for checking the analytical equipment.

The young man's hair had turned silver-white, making him look ten years older than his actual age.

"Portable analyzers can only perform basic tests; detailed analysis still needs to be done back in the lab. But they can help us determine the basic value of a sample and avoid wasting valuable collection opportunities."

The other guard was James, a bronze-ring explorer whose eyes had transformed into reptilian vertical pupils, enabling him to see clearly in the dark.

The Automated Vigilant Golem "Watchman-7" is a mechanical construct about two meters tall, covered in sensors and weaponry.

Its function is to monitor the surrounding environment in real time and issue an alarm immediately once a threat is detected.

"Prepare for descent."

Miller gave everyone's equipment a final check, and after confirming everything was in order, he gave the order to depart:

"Remember, in the abyss, anything unusual can mean death. Report any problems immediately, and never act alone."

The observatory's descent system is an engineering marvel.

The massive mechanical lifting platform, suspended by dozens of thick steel cables, slowly descended to different levels of the abyss.

The platform is equipped with powerful lighting and protective barriers around its perimeter, providing basic safety for passengers.

As the platform descended, the surrounding environment began to change noticeably.

The sunlight on the ground gradually disappeared, replaced by an eerie, deep red glow.

The air became thick and humid, and with each breath, one could smell a strange odor.

"1000 meters deep, the entrance to the first level of the abyss."

The platform's broadcast system is broadcasting real-time data:

"Environmental erosion: slight. Air quality: acceptable. Estimated time to reach level 2: 15 minutes."

Through the railing at the edge of the platform, Ron saw the view of the first level of the abyss.

It looks like a huge cave system, with glowing moss covering the stone walls and providing dim lighting.

Occasionally, you can see some small abyssal creatures moving through the crevices of the rocks. Although their shapes are strange, they have not completely escaped the realm of biology.

"3000 meters deep, entering the second layer of the abyss."

The broadcast came on again, but this time the tone was noticeably more serious:
"Environmental erosion level: moderate. Air quality: protection required. All personnel should put on respiratory equipment immediately."

As the depth increased, Ron could clearly feel the abyss erosion intensifying.

Even through the protective suit, my skin started to feel a slight stinging sensation.

Even more terrifying is the psychological oppression, like countless voices whispering in his ear, trying to erode his sanity.

"This is the Abyss's 'welcome ceremony'."

Miller noticed Ron's expression;
"Everyone experiences this feeling when they first encounter the abyss. The key is to stay rational and clear-headed, not to listen to those voices, and not to try to understand what they are saying."

But Ron's adaptability surprised everyone.

Although he did feel unwell at first, he quickly adjusted and was even able to actively analyze the various features of his surroundings.

"The experience at the Bloodline Altar was indeed a great help."

He secretly rejoiced.

In addition, the abyssal aura leak incident he experienced at the Black Mist School gave him a certain degree of resistance and adaptability to this corrosive environment.

"3500 meters deep, reaching the edge of the collection area."

The platform slowly came to a stop descending, and a breathtaking view appeared ahead.

The iconic blood-red shallows of the first and second layers of the abyss, as the name suggests, are vast areas covered by a deep red liquid.

But this is not an ordinary body of water; it is some kind of mysterious substance with life-giving properties.

Ripples constantly surged on the surface of the liquid, as if countless lives were swimming within it.

Even more surprising are the space bubbles floating above the "shallows".

Each bubble appears to be only the size of a normal room, but its interior presents completely different environmental characteristics.

Some bubbles contain icy worlds, some desert landscapes, and others indescribable distorted spaces.

"These space bubbles are a hallmark phenomenon of the first and second layers of the abyss."

Alice explained that her translucent body looked particularly eerie under the crimson light:

“Each bubble is an independent space with its own ecosystem. They appear and disappear randomly, some lasting only a few minutes, while others can last for years.”

Falco added;

"The most valuable samples often come from these space bubbles. But entering them is extremely dangerous because no one knows what rules govern the interior of the bubble."

Miller, the team leader, began to deploy the action plan:
"Our goal is to identify three relatively stable space bubbles. Based on observational data, they have existed for over two months and should be relatively safe."

James was in charge of perimeter security, Watcher-7 was responsible for environmental monitoring, and the rest were divided into two groups to collect data.

(End of this chapter)