Chapter 578: Chapter 288: New Profession After his "pocket workshop" was officially set up, he moved from the previous temporary suite to the current two-story building. It must be said that the residence he meticulously constructed exudes a heartfelt sense of thoroughness and familiarity in every inch, enhancing both his work and cultivation efficiency significantly. By the time Ron completed his routine magic training and various chores, the afternoon had arrived. The Tree Spirit had already collected the relevant information Ron needed through the badge of permission he provided. "Master, the Crystal Tower does indeed offer a mentor channel to purchase rare materials, but the prices are somewhat uneconomical..." Ailan spoke softly, rolling a sheet of crystal film towards Ron. "This is the list of materials and procurement channels I’ve compiled, based on the latest quotes from the internal resources network." Ron scanned the floating information on the film, his brows slightly furrowed. The crystal film detailed over a dozen basic materials and three core catalysts needed to cultivate the autophagic slime monster, with each item’s annotated price being astonishing. "Six hundred magic stone fragments per standard unit... Even the basic materials are so expensive." He murmured softly, fingers tapping the film highlighting a few special materials: "These abyssal materials are even more outrageously priced, just ’Void Mucus’ alone costs two to three hundred pieces." Comparing to when he bought the mass-produced model of basic slime monsters from the slave merchant, it was like day and night. But upon closer thought, it becomes understandable; after all, those were the lowest-end mass-produced products, merely sufficient for single-use. Moreover, these privately cultivated slime monsters are more conducive to experimental modulation. In terms of lifespan, as long as there isn’t an excessively absurd hybrid modulation leading to a catastrophic explosion, a slime monster should last one to two years without major issues. "Price-wise, it exceeds the budget you previously set for me." Ailan nodded: "However, I found an alternative channel. The Abyssal Observation Station’s quarterly material exchange will begin next week, where numerous explorers bring back original samples that might be priced 30% lower. You may be able to acquire some through Wizard Reynolds’ channel." Ron nodded thoughtfully, continuing to browse through the list. Breeding an autophagic slime monster is a necessary step towards becoming a Master of Modulation, yet the current funds are indeed tight. Although contribution points from the school have arrived, he does not wish to exchange these precious contribution points for such basic experimental resources. "Let’s wait until the review meeting concludes to make a decision." He finally said, while picking up a bottle of prepared nutrient solution, handing it to Dale who was eagerly looking at him as dinner: "I plan to perfect the simulation battle device today, keep the material list for now." "Has your device already entered the final debugging phase?" Ailan asked softly, as his capable assistant, she had been closely following every step of progress on this important project. "Yes, the core has reached over 95% stability." Ron’s face showed anticipation: "Today I can attempt the first complete experience." After sending Ailan off to work, Ron headed straight for the laboratory upstairs. This was his carefully arranged private workspace. Compared to the rudimentary workshop from the Black Mist School days, the equipment here was of a remarkably higher caliber. In the center of the lab, the device standing half-man high was emitting a soft blue glow. Its appearance had noticeably transformed — more compact and refined, losing the roughness of early prototypes. Its surface was densely engraved with precise runes; every mark was carefully calculated to create a complete and efficient energy recycling system. The core of the device remained the transparent crystal ball, with Aksa’s soul fragment suspended within. But now, that fragment was no longer a vague energy blob; it formed a miniature tiger-man silhouette, only the size of a fist, yet lifelike. Ron walked slowly around the device, carefully inspecting every energy node and connection circuit. "Energy flow is stable, nodes show no signs of overheating, the core soul fragment’s activity level is up to standard..." He murmured inwardly while using spiritual power to probe the subtle energy changes inside the device. After so many days of nurture and improvement, the device had surpassed the first version plan. Applying advanced alchemy theories from the Crystal Tower, he redesigned the energy collection and utilization system, effectively doubling the device’s energy efficiency. "Preparing to attempt the first connection." Ron took a deep breath, activating the auxiliary seat beside the device. This was a specially designed meditation chair, with a thin layer of magnetic stone skin on top. It automatically adjusted temperature and blood circulation when the user entered a deep meditative state, preventing discomfort from prolonged meditation. He sat on the chair, gently placing his hands in the specially designed grooves of the armrests, closing his eyes, and began to regulate his breathing rhythm. As spiritual power slowly flowed into the device, a strange pulling sensation emerged. It was as if something was gently drawing his consciousness, separating it from the confines of his body. Unlike typical meditation experiences, this feeling was more direct, more real. It felt like the soul had truly left the shell, stepping into another dimension. The darkness before his eyes gradually dissipated, replaced by a blurry yet increasingly clear scene: A spacious circular arena, almost identical to what he experienced in the Black Mist School, but with finer details and a more realistic atmosphere.