The speaker was naturally an acquaintance—Miller Blake, the captain of that exploration team at the time.
He had typical explorer features:
A muscular build, skin slightly roughened from prolonged exposure to the Abyssal environment, and noticeable scaling marks on his right arm.
In stark contrast to the cautious detachment of the researchers, his demeanor was much more direct.
"Wizard Ralph!" Miller strode over with a radiant smile:
"I heard you’re now the deputy of the New Star Plan? My god, that’s incredible!"
His enthusiasm drew the glances of the nearby researchers, but Miller clearly didn’t care about those looks.
"I’ve always said, a genius like you would eventually be acknowledged by those above!"
Miller’s tone was full of flattery:
"Now look, you’ve directly become one of Cassandra Tower Master’s people!"
This statement made Ron a bit uncomfortable, but he did not voice any objections.
Behind Miller were a few of his team members, each wearing similar flattering smiles.
These explorers might not have minds as complex as the researchers’, but their intuition for power was exceptionally sharp.
"Speaking of which." Miller lowered his voice, his eyes filled with anticipation:
"With your current status, you should be able to access some... higher-level information, right? Like plans for the interdimensional expedition?"
This question instantly made the surrounding atmosphere turn subtle.
Even those who were busy with their own tasks couldn’t help but prick up their ears.
"I’ve heard Lord Tower Master recently conquered several worlds, harvesting rich rewards."
One of Miller’s team members, a middle-aged man with noticeable burn scars on his left cheek, interjected:
"Do we Silver Ring Level folks have any chance to participate? Even if it’s just logistics!"
"Exactly!" Another team member agreed:
"Although we’re not top-tier in strength, we’re experienced and absolutely obedient! If Wizard Ralph could put in a good word for us with the Tower Master..."
Ron looked at the explorers’ eyes full of longing and understood their feelings.
These explorers had been struggling at the edge of the Abyss for too long, their bodies and spirits nearing their limits.
If they couldn’t obtain more power and resources, they would eventually become fodder for the Abyss.
Interdimensional conquest not only means great risks but also represents unprecedented opportunities.
The precious resources of those Otherworlds are enough to allow any participant to achieve a qualitative leap.
"I’m afraid I have to disappoint you." Ron’s tone was calm and direct:
"The minimum requirement for interdimensional expeditions is Moon Level, otherwise it’s impossible to withstand the energy impact of cross-realm passage."
This answer visibly disappointed the explorers, but he promptly added:
"However, I heard the Conquest Faction is currently developing new technology, attempting to enable Morning Star Level to safely conduct cross-realm teleportation.
If successful, you might all have a chance."
This news immediately rekindled hope in the explorers.
Miller’s eyes lit up: "Really? How long might that take?"
"I’m unclear on the specific time, but it shouldn’t be too long." Ron replied:
"After all, expanding the scale of conquest requires more manpower."
"That’s great!" Miller exclaimed excitedly, clenching his fist:
"Wizard Ralph, you’re truly our benefactor! With this news, we can prepare in advance!"
The other explorers quickly expressed their gratitude, their appreciation was genuinely heartfelt.
In this world of information asymmetry, timely and accurate intelligence is often more valuable than money.
"By the way." Miller suddenly remembered something:
"If you need to go to the Abyss for field research in the future, make sure to find us!
I guarantee you the best price and top-class service!"
"Absolutely!" The other team members echoed:
"We’re willing to give you a thirty percent discount! No, fifty percent! As long as you’re willing to hire us!"
This straightforward flattery drew complex glances from the nearby researchers.
Perhaps deep down they harbored similar thoughts, but the researchers’ reserve prevented them from expressing it so openly.
"I’ll consider it." Ron nodded in response, without making any specific commitment.
This brief exchange clearly revealed the interpersonal ecology within the observatory.
Power is like a mirror.
It can clearly reflect everyone’s real intentions, whether distanced by fear or drawn by interests.
A young assistant researcher approached, his voice tinged with noticeable nervousness:
"Wizard Ralph, your independent laboratory is ready.
Located on the Seventh Floor of Zone C, where the security level is higher and the equipment more advanced."
"Thank you." Ron responded briefly, picked up his briefcase, and headed toward the laboratory.
After he left, the researchers whispered among themselves:
"I never expected his status to change so quickly..."
"Being the deputy of the New Star Plan is a direct path to the Tower Master..."
"We need to be more cautious when speaking to him in the future; who knows which words might be reported..."
"I’ve heard he doesn’t even need our department’s project recommendation anymore; he directly has independent authority..."
"Miller and his team were wise; they know how to curry favor..."
.........
The elevator slowly ascended, and through the transparent wall, Ron could see the complex biological pipeline systems inside the observatory.
The pipes flowed with liquids of various colors.
Some were nutrients, some waste materials, and others were special hormones used to sustain the "life" of the building.