"The Abyss never wastes anything, including pain and despair, and this emotional energy is one of the reasons the crystal is so powerful."
The second rune is the "Conversion Matrix," conceived from Otherworld technology.
Unlike traditional planar runes, this rune presents a four-dimensional spiral structure, requiring simultaneous engraving on multiple different layers inside the crystal.
Ron immerses his consciousness into the crystal’s internal structure.
In that state, he is able to "see" the arrangement of each microscopic structure within the crystal, sensing the trajectory of every trace of energy flow:
"Each layer of runes must perfectly coordinate with the others, forming an organic whole..."
The most dangerous part of the crafting process is the risk of energy runaway.
The energy density of the Magic Power Amplification Crystal is extremely high, and a small mistake during the crafting process can trigger a catastrophic chain reaction.
"Ailan, monitor the energy output." Ron’s tone remains calm, but fine beads of sweat are already forming on his forehead:
"Immediately activate all protective measures at any sign of abnormality."
The Tree Spirit’s branches are connected to various monitoring devices, allowing her to sense the energy fluctuations around the workbench in real time.
But at this moment, she sensed not just energy fluctuations but also an indescribable malice.
"Temperature is stable for now, Master."
Ailan’s voice also regained its usual gentleness: "Your technique is very precise, with almost no excess energy loss."
After three hours of precise inscription, all the basic runes were finally completed.
The surface of the crystal was densely covered with web-like intricate patterns, each emitting a faint silver glow.
These runes formed a complete Energy Recycling System, capable of automatically regulating the internal energy flow.
But this was only the first step; the real challenge lay ahead.
Next came the most critical fusion stage.
Ron carefully dripped the "Tears of the Stars" onto the center of the crystal; the silver liquid was instantly absorbed by the rune network, forming a ribbon of light like a galaxy inside.
But these bands of light were not stable, violently roiling inside the crystal, like a storm trapped in a bottle.
"Now it’s time to introduce stabilization technology."
He retrieved a specially made container filled with green gas, a stabilizing gas concocted according to the "Mechanical Federation" formula.
"This gas can neutralize the repulsion between different energy sources... like injecting hallucinogens into a dying patient, making the pain bearable."
When the green gas was injected into the crystal, the entire laboratory’s air began to tremble slightly.
Two fundamentally different energy systems were engaged in a fierce struggle inside the crystal, producing a strong energy conflict.
Hairline cracks began to appear on the crystal’s surface, and the internal luminescence became extremely unstable, sometimes as bright as a star, sometimes as dim as ash.
"A reaction as expected." Ron maintained the composure of a researcher.
He began to use the Astrologer profession bonus to achieve balance through specific stellar energy guidance.
The stellar alignment tonight was particularly special, with the Hermit Star, Scholar Star, and Observer Star forming a triangle.
This was an astrological configuration known by ancient Astrologers as the "Wisdom Triangle."
Ron initiated the "Star Eater’s Ravings," allowing his consciousness to establish a connection with the stars.
As the Meditation Technique operated, ancient powers from the depths of the Starry Sky began to pour into the crystal, carrying the cold Rhythm of the universe itself.
The energy conflict within the crystal began to subside, with the forces from three different origins gradually forming a stable resonance structure under the enforced harmony of the Star Energy.
At that moment, Ron felt a violent tremor in the depths of his consciousness.
Countless alchemical secrets rushed into his mind like a tide of darkness:
An intuitive understanding of material Death, a deep Insight into energy cycles, a precise grasp of balance points...
[Alchemy (Proficient 99/100) → Alchemy (Mastery 1/300)]
[Trait "Conceptualization" → "Extraordinary Creativity"]
[Extraordinary Creativity: Able to intuitively perceive the deep traits and potential possibilities of any material, with a chance to produce effects beyond the design when crafting Alchemy Items]
The prompt from the Professional Panel emerged clearly in the depths of his consciousness, but Ron’s focus was entirely on the crystal in his hands.
The completed Magic Power Amplification Crystal exhibited a perfect octahedral structure, with each face as smooth as a mirror.
Inside, it contained energy bands flowing like a starry river, yet the movement pathways of these bands were full of unpredictability, like some kind of living vascular system.
"Not only can it amplify magic output..." Ron sensed the true traits of the crystal through "Extraordinary Recognition":
"It can also perform a certain conversion between different energy sources, transforming Abyssal Energy into Star Energy, Life Energy into Power of Death..."
With this capability, the Stand-In Puppet will be able to adapt to more complex energy environments.
It can even absorb power from enemy attacks, transforming damage into nourishment for itself.
"This is the power of Master Level Alchemy." Ron gazed at his masterpiece in his hands:
"No longer limited to known formulas and recipes, but able to create items that conform to one’s own vision."
Dale and Ailan were also shaken by the eerie "beauty" emanating from the crystal.
In their perception, it was more like something alive, emitting a special aura that was as captivating as it was terrifying.
"Master..." Ailan’s voice trembled slightly:
"I can feel its... hunger. This crystal, it is alive, and it is hungry."