Chapter 169: The "Insight" Trait

Chapter 169: The "Insight" Trait

[Rare Relic: Puppet Substitute (Pending Activation)]

[Current Mana: 0/100%]

[Effect: Creates a perfect duplicate sharing the user's abilities, capable of absorbing part of the user's soul.

(Users possessing the Special Innate Talent "Dual Soul" can unlock additional hidden effects)]

[Maximum Distance: Initial 100 meters, extendable through Charging]

[Note: Additional functions unlock after Charging]

A surge of barely-contained excitement rose within Luo En, though his face remained calm. He even deliberately allowed a hint of subtle disappointment to flicker across his features.

The Full Mages failed to recognize this treasure's true value because none could combine it with the "Dual Soul" innate talent. Without this key, they could never activate its full potential.

To ordinary mages, this was merely a restrictive auxiliary tool with significant limitations.

But to Luo En, it was a treasure crafted specifically for him.

Not only could he completely transfer his second soul into the puppet, enabling genuine combat splitting, but this relic also provided the perfect medium to test his gradually forming "Furnace Conceptualization."

"Thank you, Sir Fuyuanzhang, for the detailed explanation", Luo En replied evenly, his tone carefully measured. "I shall utilize this treasure wisely."

Hayaek handed eight complete Mana Stones to Luo En, then passed him a specially crafted badge.

"This grants special privileges to the School Library. With this badge, you may select one book from the Treasures Collection within the next month. Choose carefully - once decided, your selection cannot be changed."

Luo En accepted the badge solemnly. A faint energy fluctuation tingled against his palm as he touched it.

"Grateful for the School's generous reward", he said with a polite nod, already calculating how to maximize this rare opportunity in his mind.

After distributing all the rewards, Hayaek spoke again.

"Next, I'll demonstrate a dissection of yesterday's experimental subject. Those interested may stay - this is an exceptional learning opportunity."

"This is it - the part I've been waiting for", Luo En thought excitedly.

This dissection promised not only precious firsthand Transcendent Biology knowledge but also the potential breakthrough he needed to overcome his "Transcendent Biology" entry-level bottleneck.

Naturally, he wasn't alone in this thinking. Except for one competitor with a head injury, everyone else chose to remain.

Witnessing a Moonlight Rank mage's dissection techniques was an opportunity most could only dream of, and even those ranking at the forefront of the sequence wouldn't miss it.

Especially since the experimental subject was a rare Abyssal Creature - the Lion Scorpion. Its internal structure and mana systems offered invaluable insights into abyssal environment adaptation.

Luo En deliberately took the frontmost position, less than two meters from the dissection table, ensuring he could observe every detail.

Fuyuanzhang gestured, and several elemental servants wheeled in a massive dissection platform. Lying upon it was the Lion Scorpion corpse from yesterday.

Even in death, the monster radiated an oppressive aura, as if its ferocity couldn't be extinguished by death itself.

"Lion Scorpion - a unique species from the Abyss's Third Layer, the 'Black Sand Wastes.' Explorers call them 'Desert Kings.'"

Hayaek began his explanation, his voice calm and professional. "They're chimera constructs of lions and giant scorpions, possessing traits from both progenitors yet developing unique mana structures that allow survival in the Black Sand Wastes' harsh environment."

Suddenly, a glowing mana scalpel materialized in Fuyuanzhang's hand - an advanced mana application capable of precisely cutting any substance without damaging surrounding structures.

"Observe its skin structure carefully", Hayaek instructed, making a perfect incision along the Lion Scorpion's flank. "What appears to be ordinary fur is actually each hair serving as a microscopic mana conduit, absorbing and storing environmental mana. This adaptation enables survival in harsh environments."

Luo En activated both his Transcendent Perception and Tracing Mark ability, meticulously observing every detail.

The Lion Scorpion's internal structure proved far more complex than its exterior suggested. Organ arrangements followed an unusual mana pattern entirely distinct from ordinary creatures.

He could see the invisible mana flow pathways, the intricate interplay between organs.

"This is the first heart - responsible for ordinary blood circulation", Hayaek explained, expertly extracting a deep red organ larger than a human head. "This second heart manages Mana Circulation - the core of its mana system."

"Double heart structure", Luo En mentally recorded. "This design enables simultaneous maintenance of two completely different circulatory systems - one for basic physiology, another exclusively for mana. A critical evolutionary adaptation for abyssal environments."

As the dissection progressed, Luo En felt an extraordinary epiphany stirring within.

Scattered Transcendent Biology knowledge previously acquired now connected into an exceptionally clear network before this complete specimen's physical demonstration.

Each organ's function, every mana pathway's trajectory, all tissue traits were forming a three-dimensional, systematic framework in his cognition.

"The venom gland structure is remarkably sophisticated", Hayaek continued, pointing to a green sac-like organ within the scorpion's tail. "It can simultaneously produce three different toxins, adjusting ratios based on prey traits. Observe closely - you'll find tissue resembling a 'memory body' storing prey resistance information."

This revelation astonished Luo En. He instinctively raised his hand to ask a question, an unconventional move that drew sideways glances from other competitors.

Under the School's strict rank system, apprentices typically shouldn't interrupt mentors' explanations.

"You have a question, Apprentice Lalf?" Hayaek didn't seem annoyed, his curiosity piqued instead.

"Sir", Luo En asked cautiously, his eyes shining with intellectual hunger, "does this 'memory body' relate to their feeding behavior? I noticed Lion Scorpions prefer targeting weaker prey first - could this be because they extract prey information to form biological memory banks?"

Hayaek's eyes gleamed with appreciation. "Excellent observation! Abyssal Creatures indeed possess the ability to obtain information through predation. When Lion Scorpions consume prey, they not only digest flesh but also absorb partial life information, storing it within this special tissue."

Fuyuanzhang began a more detailed dissection of the venom gland, demonstrating its internal structure to the apprentices.

"This explains why many Abyssal Creatures perform poorly during initial encounters with unfamiliar prey but quickly identify optimal attack methods upon second encounters. They 'learn' prey weaknesses and resistances, continuously refining their attack strategies."

As the dissection continued, Hayaek revealed more of the Lion Scorpion's extraordinary organs.

"The Lion Scorpion's skeletal structure incorporates multiple minerals, directly related to special elements within the abyssal environment."

"Their nervous system forms a distributed network rather than concentrating in the head - an adaptation enhancing battlefield survival rates."

Luo En's occasional questions struck at crucial points, demonstrating astounding comprehension of transcendent anatomy.

"The mana nodes where the scorpion tail connects to the lion body exhibit a unique balance structure. This appears to be the key bridge for dual bloodline fusion. Does this suggest Lion Scorpions aren't natural evolutions but rather products of ancient bloodline formulations?"

This question made Hayaek pause, clearly impressed. Luo En's understanding had already transcended ordinary apprentice levels, displaying characteristics of a mature bloodline modifier.

The other competitors' attitudes shifted from initial surprise to admiration. Even the usually composed Holt nodded occasionally in acknowledgment of Luo En's insights.

"Your understanding of transcendent organisms surpasses all your peers, Apprentice Lalf", Hayaek remarked near the dissection's end, his tone unconsciously carrying appreciation. "This isn't merely surface knowledge - you possess an intuitive grasp of fundamental principles. Your bloodline formulation proficiency must be exceptionally high?"

"Thank you for your kind words, sir", Luo En replied humbly, outwardly calm but internally feeling the breakthrough moment approaching.

His Transcendent Biology skill had finally reached its critical threshold.

An unprecedented surge of comprehension erupted within him, as if dissipating fog revealing sunlight.

The scattered fragments of knowledge interconnected seamlessly in this moment, forming a complete, systematic cognitive network.

This understanding wasn't mere memorization or imitation – it was an inward-out perception.

It felt like suddenly mastering a new language, effortlessly reading codes that had previously been utterly indecipherable.

【Transcendent Biology Experience Points +1】

【Breakthrough! Transcendent Biology (Entry-Level 50/50) → Transcendent Biology (Proficient 1/100)】

【Acquired Additional Trait: Insight (Enables intuitive comprehension of transcendental beings' internal structures and mana flow patterns)】

This trait allowed him to clearly understand transcendental creatures' anatomical principles, mana circulation mechanisms, and adaptability-transformation patterns, even including bloodline fusion traits between different species.

Luo En's heartbeat involuntarily quickened, but his facial expression remained one of calm contemplation, concealing his transformation from everyone's notice.

He immediately activated this newly-acquired trait, focusing his attention on the Lion Scorpion corpse.

The Lion Scorpion's internal structure appeared in his mind as a complete three-dimensional model.

Every detail was rendered with crystalline clarity – including mana channels and microscopic structures invisible to the naked eye.

He could even "see" the stagnant mana flow traces, comprehending their living operational methods and interrelationships.

Even more astonishingly, this "Insight" trait formed a perfect complement with "Tracing Mark."

Tracing Mark allowed him to identify a creature's bloodline origins and evolutionary pathways, while Insight let him understand their internal anatomy and mana operation mechanisms.

Combined, they could construct an almost-complete transcendental being atlas – an immeasurable asset for his bloodline formulation research!

"This is the final and most valuable part."

Carefully extracting a purplish-black crystal embedded deep within the Lion Scorpion's thorax, Hayaek revealed its intricate surface patterns resembling lightning bolts, with faint luminescence flickering inside:

"This is the Lion Scorpion's mana core – containing its complete life information and mana essence. Among Abyssal Creatures, this core is usually their most precious component, holding immense value for bloodline research."

Luo En stared at the crystal and various transcendental organs before him with keen interest. He could sense these Abyssal Creature tissues would provide tremendous contributions to his bloodline research.

As the dissection demonstration concluded, Fuyuanzhang addressed the competitors:

"The School will conduct further research on these tissues. Any apprentice wishing to study specific parts may apply following procedures, paying the required Mana Stone amount for small sample allocations."

Hayaek's announcement arrived like timely rain – the School permitted competitors to apply for purchasing partial samples.

For Luo En, this was an invaluable opportunity.

Not for uncovering secrets, but purely academic research.

After all, bloodline formulation had always been one of his key research areas, and Abyssal Creature tissue samples were practically unattainable in the Black Mist Jungle.

Especially now that this Lion Scorpion had been professionally dissected with clear functional annotations for each part – their research value was immeasurable.

The acquisition of the Insight trait had also granted him comprehension of the Lion Scorpion's bloodline structure.

If he could take some samples back to his Workshop for study, it might provide ideal filling options for Chimera's second consciousness core.

Even if their potential proved insufficient for integration, they would still serve as valuable data references.

"Master Hayaek."

Taking a step forward, Luo En spoke calmly:

"I have research interests in several Lion Scorpion parts and would like to apply for sample acquisition."

Hayaek's eyebrows lifted slightly, clearly surprised but not displeased by the proactive request.

"Oh? Which parts interest you?"

A thought flashed through Luo En's mind – he mustn't appear overly greedy.

Those most precious tissues would certainly be prioritized for the School's own research.

"Primarily the secondary heart, some venom glands, and small blood/tissue samples."

He replied calmly, keeping his tone neutral – merely stating normal academic research requirements:

"These parts would provide valuable references for my ongoing bloodline research projects."

Hayaek pondered briefly, his gaze lingering on Luo En for several seconds as if evaluating something.

"The secondary heart is the Lion Scorpion's mana system core organ – quite valuable."

He stated seriously, his voice devoid of emotional coloring – merely stating facts:

"Even as an Arena Champion, acquiring it would require paying a substantial amount of Mana Shard Fragments."

"I understand, Master."

Luo En nodded: "For research purposes, I'm willing to pay the necessary price. Knowledge's value far surpasses material wealth."

Hayaek glanced at Soren beside him, who gave a slight nod of approval.

The two Mentors seemed to exchange private voice transmissions through spiritual energy.

"As an Arena Champion, you do enjoy priority application rights."

Hayaek's tone softened slightly, taking on a more instructive quality:

"We must retain the mana core for research, but the secondary heart can be allocated to you."

He paused, unconsciously rubbing his sleeve cuff before adding:

"However, it requires twenty-five Mana Shard Fragments. The venom gland and other tissue samples would add another fifteen."

Forty Mana Shard Fragments – Luo En quickly calculated the transaction's cost-benefit ratio in his mind.

This wasn't cheap, but for Abyssal Creature organs, it was already a generous discount.

After all, on the Black Market, such samples often sold for over one hundred fragments – and their purity and completeness couldn't be guaranteed.

"I accept this price."

Without hesitation, Luo En retrieved the prepared Mana Shard Fragments from his robe.

As an Arena Champion, he'd just received eight complete Mana Stones as rewards – exchangeable for eight hundred or more Mana Shard Fragments. This payment was easily manageable.

Hayaek accepted the fragments, lightly testing them with his fingertips before nodding:

"I hope you find meaningful discoveries. These Abyssal Creature tissues usually possess tremendous vitality – preservation and research both require specialized methods."

He signaled an assistant to pack the designated tissue samples into preservation containers.

The containers were semi-transparent milky-white spheres, engraved with runes specifically designed to suppress mana leakage – effectively maintaining sample vitality while preventing rapid decay.

"I'll arrange delivery of the samples to your Workshop."

Hayaek added formally: "Remember, these samples are strictly for personal research use only. Do not transfer them or use for other purposes."

"Of course, Master."

Luo En respectfully replied: "I'll strictly adhere to the School's regulations."

This wasn't an empty promise – he truly had no intention of reselling these precious samples.

Every cell of these abyssal tissues represented invaluable research materials and potential power sources.

As the transaction concluded, Luo En noticed other competitors beginning to submit applications.

Unlike him, most applicants focused on lower-value peripheral tissues – seemingly seeking mere souvenirs.

Only Cui Xi applied for a small venom gland portion, his eyes glinting with an unusual light that hinted at his own research plans.

Holt, meanwhile, showed strong interest in skeletal structures – fitting for his earth-element spell specialization.

What caught Luo En's attention more were several unfamiliar apprentices in the corner, selecting specific tissues with unsettlingly eager gazes that betrayed unmistakable transformation desires.

One even impatiently touched his acquired muscle tissue with his fingers, his eyes betraying a fanatical gleam as he handled it.

"It seems many competitors have strong interests in this rare one-time biological transformation opportunity."

Luo En inwardly mused: "Their slaves will suffer greatly."

However, everyone had the right to choose their own path – whatever destination awaited them, it concerned him not. He would only focus on his research and goals.

As the dissection demonstration formally concluded, apprentices began departing gradually.

Luo En finalized the sample delivery arrangements.

This harvest exceeded expectations – acquiring not only the precious Abyssal Treasure "Puppet Substitute", but successfully purchasing rare Lion Scorpion tissue samples, plus achieving a skill breakthrough during the dissection process.

Just as he turned to leave, he suddenly sensed a faint gaze settling on his back.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end