Although the ranking isn’t very high, for an Apprentice from a common family, this is already a remarkable achievement.
The steady progress of several other students also contributed small rewards.
Although each amount was not large, it added up to 200 points.
After all, the members of the Elite Team were selected by him as the absolute elites from hundreds of ordinary Apprentices.
"Total available Contribution Points: 5200 points."
Ron looked at this number with satisfaction, silently comparing it to himself from half a year ago.
Back then, he still had to run around for a paper’s publication, but now he had accumulated enough Contribution Points to exchange for rare resources.
He opened the thick contribution exchange list, each page of the parchment recording coveted precious items.
Among them, several specific entries kept his gaze locked:
[Magic Amplification Crystal Blueprint] — 1000 Contribution Points
"A highly complex alchemical construct that can temporarily boost the Caster’s Magic Power output. Requires precise Energy Circuit design and special conduction materials..."
Ron carefully read each technical detail, already starting to conceive in his mind how to integrate this amplification device into his "Active Magic Sword" project.
The plasticity of Soul Steel and its magic conducting Traits provided a perfect foundation for this integration.
If successful, he could create a truly "transformative weapon"—a sharp Sword Blade in melee combat, and a powerful Magic Wand during Casting.
His vast Magic Pool at this moment was without a setting to put it to use, elevating his Magic Power output dovetailed perfectly with his biggest current advantage.
[Mind Expansion Potion Formula] — 2000 Contribution Points
The value of this formula was not to be underestimated either.
"Through specific herb ratios and alchemical craftsmanship, it can drastically expand the user’s mental capacity for a certain period.
After use, capable of handling multiple complex tasks simultaneously, with an effect duration of about 4-6 hours.
Side effects: Mild headache and Spirit fatigue..."
To an all-round researcher like him, who had to juggle Magic Potion Making, Bloodline Modulation, Alchemy, Enchantment, Historical Research, and Astrology, this was practically a tailored divine artifact.
Whenever he was flustered by numerous complex calculations and analyses in the laboratory, he imagined how great it would be to handle multiple thought threads simultaneously.
And now, that dream had a chance of realization.
[Potential Awakening Stone] — 10000 Contribution Points
Although the price of this item was jaw-droppingly high, its value was immeasurable.
"A very rare Abyss produced item, containing mysterious powers to awaken latent talents.
After use, there is a 60% chance to awaken a Third Tier talent, a 10% chance to awaken a Second Tier talent, and a 5% chance to awaken a Special Ability of an unknown level, with a minimal possibility for a Tier One talent.
Warning: The process carries certain risks, potentially causing mental trauma or bloodline mutation..."
A 10% chance to awaken a Second Tier talent, such an opportunity was virtually impossible to obtain through conventional channels.
Even the geniuses from ancient Wizard Clans seldom had the chance to come into contact with treasures of this level.
Furthermore, the tiny chance of awakening a Tier One talent was truly enticing.
But the enormous 10000 Contribution Point cost was still quite distant from his current accumulation.
"Currently, my Contribution Points are only sufficient to exchange for the first two items, but that is already enough to support the next stage of development."
Ron carefully weighed the priorities in his heart, as each choice could affect his future development trajectory.
[Magic Amplification Crystal Blueprint] was almost necessary for the "Active Magic Sword" project, and the [Mind Expansion Potion Formula] could directly enhance his research efficiency.
The combination of the two would provide strong support for his work at the Abyssal Observation Station.
He picked up a quill pen and wrote a detailed procurement plan at the bottom of the list:
"First Priority: Exchange for [Magic Amplification Crystal Blueprint] and [Mind Expansion Potion Formula]
Total Cost: 3000 Contribution Points, Remaining Points: 2200, to be kept as an emergency reserve and for future development funds
Expected Completion Time: Within this week
Expected Benefits: Increased research efficiency, enhanced combat ability"
At the other end of the laboratory, "Ink" was curled up in the specially designed recovery tank, quiet like a sleeping infant in a cradle.
The recovery tank was a life-support device Ron had specially designed for it, filled with a nutrient-rich solution of Abyssal Essence.
The pale purple liquid slowly flowed under the influence of the Magic Power circulation pump, providing continuous nourishment to this injured life.
But even with such meticulous care, "Ink’s" condition remained concerning.
Its once Obsidian-like deep body had now become nearly transparent.
The previously shimmering silver patterns had dimmed, as if about to extinguish like a fading Star.
"You’ve indeed endured too much recently, have a good rest..."
Ron gently stroked the crystal wall of the recovery tank, his voice carrying rare gentleness.
This life he had created with his own hands deeply moved him by its performance in facing such critical moments.
The Slime Monster seemed to feel its master’s care, its body wriggled slightly, the surface patterns flickering with faint light.
Though it couldn’t speak, it was undoubtedly trying hard to respond.
"Rest well, once you’re fully recovered, we have many important tasks to do." Ron softly comforted.
This painful experience wasn’t without its gains, of course.