As the spell was chanted, the crystal gradually lit up, shooting six rays of light that penetrated the container and converged into a complex three-dimensional structure within the slime.
Under this guidance, the slime began to reorganize, forming a preliminary energy recycling system inside, which is one of the core traits that distinguishes the Autophagic Slime Monster from ordinary slime.
"Energy cycle initiated, core stability is good."
Ron nodded with satisfaction: "We can now proceed to the Third Stage: trait implantation."
This was the most critical step in the entire cultivation process and also where Ron truly displayed his creativity.
He selected several samples with distinct traits from those Abyssal Materials.
Including several pieces of Abyss Crystal Fragments with different characteristics brought back from the fourth layer, he ground them into powder and mixed them with his own blood.
Blood is the best medium, capable of perfectly merging the caster’s will with the materials to form a stable and lasting bond.
"According to my design, this Autophagic Slime Monster should have three core functions..."
Ron calculated in his mind while making the hybrid mixture:
"First is ’Bloodline Analysis’, which can quickly identify and decompose any biological tissue it comes into contact with, extracting its energy traits and genetic information.
This is crucial for bloodline modulation research."
He injected the first hybrid mixture into the upper region of the slime, which was immediately absorbed, forming a micro-analysis array inside.
"The second is ’Energy Conversion’, converting excess or harmful energy into a usable form, which is especially important for handling Abyss samples or unstable experimental products."
The second hybrid mixture was injected into the middle layer of the slime, quickly forming an energy network similar to a digestive system inside.
"Lastly, ’Form Plasticity’, allowing it to rapidly change its form as needed.
Whether splitting into multiple small units or transforming into a specific tool shape, it can achieve this effortlessly."
The third hybrid mixture was injected into the bottom layer, and the slime immediately exhibited astonishing flexibility, flowing and morphing inside the container as if testing its newly acquired ability.
"Perfect." Ron was somewhat excited.
He continued with more precise adjustments and reinforcements over the next few hours, ensuring that these three core functions could coexist harmoniously without interference.
When the eastern sky turned pale, he finally completed all the work for the day.
The slime in the container had completely transformed into a deep black, its surface covered in fine silver lines.
Some faintly glowing points could also be seen inside, those were the implanted energy cores.
"First stage complete, it now needs to rest for three days to stabilize and adapt on its own, and to gradually form consciousness during this process."
He carefully placed the container into a specially-made incubation box:
"In three days, I will proceed with the fourth stage of imprint implantation."
The tree spirit, who had been silently accompanying him, nodded and recorded the last data:
"Master’s technique has become more refined, with energy efficiency improved by at least fifteen percent."
"Thanks to the multidimensional transformation theory provided by Herman."
While washing his hands, Ron replied:
"That kid indeed has astounding talent in theoretical research, his paper mentioned some energy node control methods that inspired me."
After washing his hands, he glanced at the time and turned to Ailan:
"Is there anything else to do today?"
"There’s an Elite Team lecture in the afternoon, and in the evening a batch of order Magic Potions needs to be prepared."
Ailan replied: "Also, Dale said her scales feel a bit itchy and she may need your help adjusting the energy cycle."
"She must be starting to grow again and needs to shed her scales.
Adjust her Crystal Vat to low temperature mode and add some ’Calm Blue Algae’, this should alleviate the symptoms."
After pondering for a moment, Ron said: "After I finish the tasks at hand, I’ll give her a thorough check-up."
Before leaving the laboratory, he took one last look at the incubation box.
The future Autophagic Slime Monster was quietly growing inside, marking another important milestone in his path of bloodline modulation.
"The next plans will have to be put on hold for now, prioritize the energy extraction work for the Stand-In Puppet."
Ron’s gaze turned to a sealed chamber on the other side of the laboratory.
It was a specially designated workspace he had prepared for the Stand-In Puppet.