Reynolds’ face showed a look of approval:
"Very keen observation, indeed, the Abyss can periodically attract matter.
Generally speaking, only when you stand near the mouth of the Abyss do you feel it clearly, but some extraordinarily perceptive individuals can sense it even from this distance."
"Back in Town 69, I also felt some impact of the Abyssal tides’ cycle, but now, being closer to the mouth of the Abyss, it indeed feels completely different..."
Ron paused before asking, "The observation station should have specific studies on this ’breathing,’ right?"
"That’s actually one of the core research topics at the Abyssal Observation Station."
Reynolds’ eyes sparkled with fervor:
"The current mainstream view suggests that the ’breathing’ of the Abyss is related to some higher-dimensional energy flow, possibly a natural adjustment mechanism where dimensional barriers are weak."
He lowered his voice, as if sharing a secret:
"Some scholars have even proposed a bold hypothesis that there might be a connection between Abyssal tides and the activity cycles of certain existences.
However, this is still just a theoretical discussion, with no concrete evidence."
Ron nodded in understanding, silently recording these insights in his mind.
Any detail about the Abyss is crucial for future exploration phases.
"We’ve arrived," Reynolds pointed ahead, interrupting his thoughts.
The airship started descending, revealing a vast area surrounded by high walls below.
The walls were dark gray, embedded with countless silver runes that shimmered subtly in the sunlight.
As the airship began its descent, Ron used "Extraordinary Recognition" to sense the near-perfect energy isolation field surrounding the entire outpost.
"This is the newly built Outpost No. 137, established since Cassandra Tower Master began expanding the Abyssal observation network decades ago.
Though it’s not as fully equipped as Town 69, it is the largest newly constructed outpost so far."
Reynolds introduced, with a tone full of pride from personally being involved in its construction:
"These newly established outposts are closer to the mouth of the Abyss, so there are practically no indigenous inhabitants.
Yet in other respects, like most outposts, it serves not only as a research site but also as a complete trade hub."
The airship finally landed on a specially designed platform.
As soon as the hatch opened, a mix of rusty metal, some unique herbal fragrance, and a sulfurous odor greeted them.
Stepping out, Ron immediately sensed the utterly different atmosphere here compared to the Central Lands.
The interior of the outpost was divided into several distinct areas:
The center was a massive trading square, with temporary stalls sprawling everywhere;
On the right, there were rows of warehouses and laboratories, likely the work area for researchers;
On the left was a rest and supply zone, including a few simple inns and food stalls;
At the farthest point, a heavier inner wall separated these areas from the closest part to the Abyss, which should be the core area of the observation station.
Near the square, an elder with a scarred face was fiercely bargaining with someone, his eyes seemingly bulging from a condition, while his arm was covered with hardened tissue;
A few female explorers passed by Ron, one had a spine that was unnaturally twisted, while another had a disturbingly distorted face...
"Mutation?" Ron asked quietly, his gaze sweeping over the crowd showing conspicuous abnormal traits.
"This is the norm for Abyssal explorers."
Reynolds nodded:
"No matter how cautious one is, prolonged activities within the Abyss inevitably lead to different degrees of alteration.
Mild superficial changes are the most common; some experience deeper ability mutations, while some go on to complete abnormalities."
He pointed to his eyes:
"I’m pretty well protected, with only slight changes in my pupil shape."
"Let’s not dwell on that; let me take you to the core of the trading area first." He shook his head and then pointed towards the center of the square:
"The materials you’re looking for are mostly there. But before going, I need to report to the office and get a temporary pass for you."
Navigating through the bustling crowd, they arrived at a dome-shaped gray building.
The building’s surface was covered with a shimmering energy barrier, with two brawny guards at its entrance.
The guards allowed Reynolds to pass immediately, but cast a scrutinizing look at Ron.
"Security Management Office of Outpost No. 137." Reynolds explained while walking:
"To ensure the stability of the newly constructed outposts, all visitors must obtain a temporary pass.
As an Official Wizard, your review process will be simpler, though some basic records are still required."
The procedure was surprisingly efficient, likely due to Reynolds’ internal connections.
In less than half an hour, Ron obtained a silver hexagonal badge, engraved with his name and access rights.
"This is not just proof of identity; it’s also a basic protective device."
Reynolds explained:
"The badge’s built-in Rune Array can weaken low-intensity Abyssal contamination and can also send out alerts in special situations."
Leaving the Security Management Office, they headed straight to the trading area.
As they passed through one last barrier, a vast and chaotic market unfolded before them.
Unlike the Central Lands’ shops and stalls that are refined and orderly, the trading zone here resembles more a temporary built maze.