He carefully recalled recent experiences but still couldn’t grasp that vague memory fragment.
No matter how hard he tried, the feeling always floated like a reflection in water, shattering and dispersing as he got close.
Ultimately, he could only temporarily put aside this trouble and refocus on the task at hand.
"It feels like it involves someone, but I can’t remember exactly who it is.
Moreover, it seems that deep within my consciousness, the priority of this matter is ranked very low. It’s really strange..."
"Reynolds, let’s go take a look at ’Wise Collection’ first."
Ending his thoughts, Ron said to Reynolds, who was still a little reserved beside him.
Reynolds seemed relieved, happy to resume his role as a guide: "Gladly, follow me."
Standing at the busiest corner of the trading area, Ron’s gaze swept through the bustling crowd around.
Here is the converging point for Abyssal Explorers and external Wizards.
Raw materials here transform into wealth and knowledge, influencing the operation of the entire Extraordinary World.
"Wise Collection" is a nondescript little shop, located in a secluded spot at the southeast corner of the trading area.
The shop is small, with a sign made of Starlight Crystal hanging at the entrance, engraved with the shop name, each letter emitting a faint blue light.
Pushing the door to enter, a smell mixed with old books and Insect-Repelling Spice assailed the senses.
Inside the shop, it was much more spacious than its exterior, evidently using Space Expansion Magic.
Various peculiar items were displayed on wooden shelves, ranging from ordinary Abyssal Ore to mysterious biological specimens, with a wide array of types.
The shop owner was an elderly man, whose left eye was covered by a black patch, and his right arm was covered with fine scales, evidently traces of abyssal mutation.
He was sorting some documents behind the counter, and upon hearing the doorbell, he raised his head, his sharp gaze locking onto Ron immediately.
"Welcome, Wizard."
The old man’s voice was deep and hoarse, bearing the marks of many years spent in the abyssal exploration:
"I am Morgan. Is there anything I can do for you?"
Ron straightforwardly stated his purpose:
"I need two Memory Crystals suitable for beginners’ practice. Professor Yutel recommended your shop."
Upon hearing Yutel’s name, Morgan’s demeanor became noticeably more enthusiastic:
"Ah, a guest recommended by the professor! I must bring out the genuine good stuff."
He took out an exquisite wooden box from under the counter and carefully opened it.
The box was lined with deep purple velvet, neatly arranged with more than a dozen Memory Crystals of varying shapes.
"These are all low-risk samples, initially selected, suitable for beginners in Historical Research."
Morgan introduced:
"Each comes with a basic Energy Stability Seal, assuring no sudden release of harmful energy during regular analysis."
Ron scrutinized these crystals, activating "Extraordinary Recognition" and "Hunting Evil" Skills, attempting to sense their Energy Fluctuations and potential risks.
In his special vision, each crystal presented a unique energy pattern, some calm as still water, others jumping like flames.
After several minutes of careful selection, he finally chose two Memory Crystals that appeared safest, with relatively clear energy patterns.
One was light green, shaped like a leaf; the other was pale blue, resembling a drop of water.
"Quite a discerning choice," Morgan praised:
"These two are sourced from the upper regions of the fourth layer, their Energy Fluctuations are relatively mild, quite suitable for beginners."
"Price?" Ron inquired.
"Considering Professor Yutel’s recommendation, how about both for one and a half Magic Stones?"
Morgan offered a relatively reasonable quote.
Upon transaction completion, Ron carefully placed the two Memory Crystals into a specially crafted isolation box and stored them in the Spatial Bag.
The harvest this time exceeded expectations.
Not only did he obtain all the necessary materials to cultivate Autophagic Slime Monster, but he also gained a high-grade Energy Crystal and two Memory Crystals, laying a foundation for future research.
Preparing to leave the Outpost, Reynolds led Ron to a modest restaurant at the edge of the trading area.
This shop appeared ordinary, but the customers were almost all explorers, each carrying various markers of mutation.
"The dishes at ’Embers’ are somewhat... special," Reynolds warned as they sat down:
"They incorporate some harmless Abyssal Materials, the taste is peculiar but greatly beneficial for Spiritual Power restoration. Those returning from abyssal exploration usually choose to dine here to alleviate fatigue."
The shopkeeper was a kind-looking middle-aged man.
His left hand had completely transformed into a crystal structure, refracting peculiar rainbow effects when light passed through.
He deftly used his right hand to serve drinks to the two, which emitted a faint fluorescence.
"The shopkeeper’s signature ’Glimmering Tea,’ reportedly made from ’Light Algae’ from the first and second layers, capable of temporarily enhancing spiritual sensitivity."
Reynolds explained, first taking a sip.
Ron cautiously tasted it, a peculiar spicy flavor blossoming on his tongue.
Then it transformed to a subtle tanginess and sweetness, finally leaving a refreshing aftertaste in his throat.
Besides, he felt a gentle energy slowly spreading along his esophagus, making his entire Spiritual World unusually clear.
"Quite a unique experience," Ron commented, showing great interest in this spiritual nourishment:
"This Energy Conversion method bears similarity to some theories I am researching."
His food arrived quickly.
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