Chapter 181: Flowing Barrier

Chapter 181: Flowing Barrier

Hayaek retrieved a crystal orb from the inner folds of his robe, its glow casting strange, shifting patterns across the dimly lit room.

The spell matrix within resembled an intricate three-dimensional labyrinth, its complex structure so mesmerizing that Luo En instinctively held his breath.

"These are two fully developed spell matrices", Hayaek murmured, his tone as emotionless as if reciting a mundane fact. "Both were concepts I developed in my youth. As a High Apprentice undergoing rapid growth, your spell system requires greater diversity."

He gestured toward the left-hand spell matrix inside the orb—a composite structure of interwoven elemental mana that spun like a vortex.

"Chimera Elemental Missile", he explained. "This advanced attack spell is highly adaptable. Each elemental attribute fused into it significantly boosts its power and penetration, but control difficulty increases exponentially."

His finger brushed the orb's surface, and the model shifted, demonstrating various elemental combinations.

"The foundational dual-element pairings—fire and wind create a scorching cutting effect, while fire and earth produce explosive shockwaves. More complex multielement fusions can generate compound attacks with specialized effects."

Luo En observed the delicate interplay of catalyzation and counteraction between elements, concepts that perfectly aligned with what he'd learned in Elemental Guidance Foundational. Yet the practical application here was exponentially more sophisticated.

"With your current Spiritual Energy Control precision, you can manipulate two elements simultaneously—more than sufficient for most scenarios." Hayaek evaluated calmly.

Shifting his focus to the right-hand spell matrix, he revealed a dense mana grid resembling a semi-transparent barrier.

"Flowing Barrier", Hayaek continued. "Unlike ordinary shields, this requires a specific medium. The barrier's strength directly reflects the medium's properties."

The orb's model transformed, displaying effects from various mediums.

"Water creates a flexible barrier that absorbs impacts. Metal powder grants superior physical defense. Certain rare materials, like powdered Crystal Stone, can even grant resistance to specific mana attacks."

Luo En noted the spell matrix's refined complexity—dozens of mana allocation points, each independently adjustable. The spell's adaptability was breathtaking.

"When spiritual energy precision is high enough", Hayaek's voice carried subtle pride, "you can shape the barrier into semi-solid tools—not just defense, but entrapment or temporary platforms. I once used this during a fifth-layer Abyssal Sea swarm attack, forming a complete protective sphere with a special metal medium. It saved my entire expedition team."

Luo En weighed his options. He already possessed formidable attacks—from Sound Wave Oscillation to Radiant Halo, with Erosive Chorus in development. But his defenses were lacking, especially for the impending Bloodline Altar journey. And with Soul Steel in his possession—a material of unparalleled malleability—he saw perfect synergy.

"I'll choose Flowing Barrier, sir", he decided.

Hayaek nodded as if unsurprised. "Defensive importance reveals itself only in critical moments. Especially in an unpredictable environment like the Bloodline Altar, an extra layer of protection means an extra chance at survival."

The right-hand spell matrix expanded within the orb, mana pathways glowing more vividly.

"The foundational structure is simple", Hayaek explained. "The true mastery lies in precise mana allocation and medium interaction. You'll start with flat shields, but as proficiency increases, so will your ability to shape complex forms."

Luo En memorized every detail. Directly transmitted spell matrices were priceless treasures for any apprentice, bypassing years of trial-and-error. And though Hayaek hadn't specified that only one matrix could be taken, Luo En mentally noted that future interactions might allow acquiring Chimera Elemental Missile through other means.

Hayaek's voice deepened. "Speaking of the Bloodline Altar… Since you've chosen Abyssal Life Compendium, you've already embarked on a path to uncover the Abyss's essence. This aligns well—its connection to the Abyss runs deeper than most realize."

Luo En felt the weight of those words, his breath slowing like an explorer approaching an uncharted cavern's mouth.

"Most view the Bloodline Altar as merely a trial site", Hayaek continued, eyes gleaming. "In truth, it's a remnant of an ancient Lich King's conquest."

Luo En's brows furrowed. "A conquest remnant?"

"When that Lich King forcibly dragged his conquered world into ours", Hayaek explained, "the collision left dimensional maelstroms tearing through space. Only fragments merged successfully—those scattered remnants became the Bloodline Altar."

A rare flicker of unease crossed Hayaek's face. "Worse still, over time these remnants have resonated with the Abyss. Certain areas now bear unmistakable Abyssal traits."

Luo En's mind raced. "So the Altar's trials are essentially a prelude to Abyss exploration?"

"Exactly", Hayaek confirmed. "Every mage striving for higher realms—whether from the Crystal Spire of the Central Lands or the Black Mist Schools of the periphery—must eventually confront the Abyss. Only there can one find the key to transcend existing magical limitations."

Images of Maxim's horrifying silver-scaled Abyssal infection flashed through Luo En's mind—permanent scars of Abyssal exposure. Yet the lure remained irresistible, even for mages like Hayaek.

"You'll face three challenges within the Altar", Hayaek warned. "Abyssal corruption and curses, vengeful spirits from the conquered world, and the unpredictable anomalies of dimensional chaos—interwoven into a lethal tapestry."

Luo En's mind raced, connecting these revelations with Maxim's warnings and the cryptic passages of Abyssal Life Compendium.

"I have more questions, sir—"

Hayaek raised a hand. "The answers you seek lie within Abyssal Life Compendium. Serwain Odric is among the rare few who've glimpsed the Abyss's true nature and returned. His writings surpass my fragmented insights."

Their gazes met. "When you fully grasp that tome, your understanding of the mage's path will elevate to an entirely new plane."

As the meeting concluded, Hayaek added, "Remember—teamwork in the Bloodline Altar isn't trivial embellishment. Those five positions were carefully allocated. Each member carries irreplaceable significance."

Stepping outside, Luo En's heart pounded. His excitement over the Flowing Barrier paled beside the staggering revelations about the Bloodline Altar. A burning thirst for knowledge warred with cautious resolve.

He'd witnessed Maxim's harrowing ordeal—the Abyss was no playground. Every step required meticulous calculation, every move executed with ironclad caution.

In the hall, other high-sequence candidates fell silent as Luo En approached. Holt stepped forward, his usually stern face softened by rare approval.

"A year ago in the Herbal Medicine Shop, I never imagined you'd rise to the Sixth Seat. Remarkable achievement."

The words carried both praise and subtle warning—sudden prominence invites scrutiny.

"Heartfelt thanks to seniors' guidance", Luo En replied smoothly, "especially your and Mentor Soren's support, not to mention my Special Innate Talent."

Holt nodded, acknowledging the graceful humility. "Incidentally, I've successfully used the Earth Core to reconstruct my Earth Elemental Golem. Its combat effectiveness has increased by at least thirty percent."

As he spoke, a flicker of pride, almost imperceptible, flashed in his eyes—a natural expression of achievement.

"With this, our combat effectiveness in the Bloodline Altar will be more reliable", he said confidently.

Luo En's heart stirred. Holt's initiative in mentioning teamwork coincided with Hayaek's earlier implication. Clearly, the School preferred participants to form a coordinated unit rather than fight alone.

"Your Earth Elemental Golem is one of the most powerful elemental constructs I've ever seen", Luo En habitually returned the compliment. "Having such strong support certainly brings peace of mind."

After a brief conversation, Luo En politely excused himself from Holt and noticed Cui Xi standing nearby.

"It seems we'll become partners once again", Cui Xi said as she approached. Her voice carried subtle complexity—joy at securing her position, mixed with quiet unease about Luo En's rapidly ascending strength as a "competitor."

Under the Mana Crystal Lamp, her brown eyes shimmered with an amber glow, as if trying to penetrate Luo En's calm exterior.

"Yes, I hope we can support each other", Luo En replied calmly before retrieving a carefully sealed crystal bottle from his robe. "These are the final batches of Natural Affinity Potion, made according to our agreed formulas with only the best ingredients. Their effects should be significantly stronger than standard versions."

Cui Xi opened the box for inspection, her face lighting with satisfaction. "Thank you. The quality looks excellent." After storing the vials, she hesitated briefly before continuing. "Actually, there's another request... concerning Li Yue."

Luo En raised his eyebrows slightly at the unexpected topic shift. "Your Panther Girl?"

He recalled the reserved exotic race guardian who always stood silently behind Cui Xi, rarely speaking.

"Yes." Cui Xi nodded, lowering her voice. "During the Bloody Arena, Li Yue was exposed to Lion Scorpion venom. She survived, seemingly developing resistance to that toxin. I've tried helping her with preliminary bloodline formulation to strengthen this trait, but the results have been disappointing."

Stepping closer, she continued softly, "I'd like to ask—a true bloodlinemodifier—for assistance. I suspect Li Yue possesses some special recessive bloodline that requires professional guidance to activate."

Such a living case of special bloodline activation was exactly the practical material Luo En desperately needed for research.

"This does sound like an intriguing research topic", Luo En said, his eyes lighting with interest. "I'd gladly help. It would also provide valuable hands-on experience for my studies."

"Fantastic!" Cui Xi's face brightened noticeably. "Do you have time to come now? I live with my Mentor, who has already given permission. We can go directly to my residence."

Mentioning her Mentor, her expression turned subtly complex. "Speaking of which, our mentor-apprentice relationship might resemble yours with Liliya... though perhaps more formal."

At the mention of Liliya's name, her eyebrows twitched almost imperceptibly—a fleeting change Luo En noticed only through his acute sensitivity to micro-expressions.

"Ours is more... official. After all, she's my officially recognized Mentor, while Liliya is just your apprentice", Cui Xi explained with deliberate nonchalance, emphasizing the distinction.

"I need to return to my Workshop first to prepare tools and materials, and review relevant references. Tomorrow work for you?"

Cui Xi handed him an address card. "Tomorrow... I'll wait for you in advance. To avoid unnecessary trouble, please don't share this address with anyone."

Before parting, she seemed to want to say more, but finally just smiled and left, her faint fragrance lingering in the air.

...

Luo En exited the Central Tower, taking a deep breath that expanded his chest with subtle satisfaction. Cui Xi's words lingered briefly in his mind before being displaced by more pressing matters.

The Panther Girl Li Yue's bloodline formulation was indeed an intriguing research topic—potentially providing valuable practical material for his academic pursuits. But more urgent matters awaited.

"Madame Ellen's final meditation technique..."

This thought stirred anticipation and trepidation within him. The first stage of The Murmuring of the Star Devourer had already granted unprecedented power enhancements. The second stage and final phase would undoubtedly lead him into deeper mysteries.

Yet Madame Ellen's unusual caution reminded him to carefully consider the hidden risks.

And then there was the Abyssal Life Compendium... Hayaek's hints had made him realize this archival records' value far exceeded his initial estimation. If it truly contained Selwyn Odric's insights into the abyss's essence, it would be crucial preparation for his upcoming Bloodline Altar journey.

With these thoughts, Luo En quickened his pace.

Returning to the Workshop, the sky had already turned to dusk. The distant clouds blazed with sunset orange-red hues, like flames burning on the horizon—briefly warming the shadow-shrouded jungle.

Pushing open the Workshop door, a familiar comforting scent enveloped him. The herbal fragrance, the warmth of wooden materials, and Ai Lan's signature dessert aromas blended subtly.

"Teacher, you're back!" Liliya's voice came from the hall where she'd obviously been waiting.

Luo En turned to see the girl's face lit with unrestrained joy, her hands reverently holding the sleek black sealed box Madame Ellen had entrusted to her.

"I've completed your commission, Teacher", she said, stepping forward to present the sealed box and letter with both hands. "Madame Ellen specifically instructed me to deliver these to you personally."

Nodding, Luo En accepted the items, immediately sensing the unusual energy fluctuations through the intricate seal. Even through the elaborate containment measures, he could feel the profound power inside—mysterious energies connected to the very essence of Star.

"Did Madame Ellen give any other messages?" He asked while inspecting the seal's integrity.

Liliya nodded, her expression growing serious. "Madame specifically warned that the final stage of The Murmuring of the Star Devourer is particularly dangerous. She instructed not to attempt it without sufficient preparation."

She paused, recalling exact words. "Also... she said that the path she couldn't finish herself, she hopes you can successfully complete."

Luo En froze momentarily, then fell into contemplation. The hidden meaning behind these words made him recall his previous inquiry about Madame Ellen's complex expression when mentioning this very topic.

So Madame Ellen had attempted this path before but abandoned it midway for unknown reasons. Perhaps... this was connected to her current unusual state?

"Did she seem..." Luo En suddenly asked, his voice carrying rare concern. "How was she?"

Understanding her teacher's concern, Liliya replied gently. "Madame appeared as usual—perhaps even in better spirits. And when mentioning you... there was a particular glimmer of pride in her eyes."

The last words were spoken softly, but Luo En heard them clearly. He nodded slightly, carefully storing the sealed box and letter.

"I see. How has the Workshop been?"

Switching to assistant mode, Liliya efficiently reported. "Everything proceeds as planned. Daire's daily training continues without interruption—he's mastered about seventy percent of the new Water Element techniques. Ai Lan's condition remains stable; she's tending the rare medicinal plants in the courtyard. As for Workshop orders..."

She retrieved a neatly organized ledger from her robe. "All records are here—including every income and expense. Several High Apprentices have expressed strong interest in your improved 'Clarity' potion, inquiring about bulk purchases."

Leafing through the ledger briefly, Luo En felt satisfied with Liliya's management skills. "Well done. Accept the 'Clarity' potion orders, but strictly control production—limit each customer to three vials maximum."

After placing the ledger aside, he said, "I have important research to conduct. Unless absolutely urgent, please don't disturb me."

"Understood, Teacher. I'll ensure everything runs smoothly." Liliya bowed respectfully before departing.

Watching her leave, Luo En silently evaluated his apprentice's growth. In just a few months, she'd transformed from a nervous candidate apprentice into a capable right-hand assistant.

Beyond alchemy skills, her most valuable growth lay in comprehensive management and execution abilities. If Daire represented combat breakthroughs and Ai Lan the Workshop's guardian, then Liliya was the core gear ensuring the entire operation functioned perfectly.

After a moment's reflection, Luo En turned toward his private study—the most secret corner of the Workshop, accessible only to him.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end