Fortunately, today Yukesh was on time and in a good mood as he arrived at the academy. The bell rang, signaling the start of the class, and Professor Kal entered the room, adjusting some papers on his desk. "Good morning, class. How are you all today?" he greeted with a smile.
The students responded with various levels of enthusiasm, knowing that today's test would be the last, and they would soon be graduating. Professor Kal acknowledged their anticipation, "I hope you all are in your full energy for today's test since this will be the last of my tests, and you all will soon be stepping into your chosen paths."
He went on to explain that the current academy was vastly different from the old one. In the past, graduating from the academy was a challenging task, but now, with advancements and better understanding of awakening abilities, students could pass their exams more easily. Awakeners typically discovered their abilities between the ages of 18 and 22, making it easier for them to graduate from the academy at a young age.
However, the difficulty increased for those who wished to pursue the path of scholars and researchers. To become scholars, they had to conduct in-depth research, theorize phenomena and technologies with firm evidence, and present groundbreaking findings. This path was particularly challenging, and students were required to prove the legitimacy of their research before securing funding and support.
Yukesh, with his above-average intelligence, found the test relatively simple. He quickly finished and handed in his paper, and the professor permitted him to leave the class early. As he walked out of the academy, Yukesh decided to visit his friend, Lyne.
Lyne lived in an old house situated in a secluded area, away from the bustling city crowd. The house had a traditional pagoda-style roof, and intricate dragon drawings adorned its walls. Yukesh entered the house, finding the front door open. He ascended the stairs to the second floor, where Lyne's room was located.
Pushing open the door, Yukesh found Lyne engrossed in his work. The room was filled with various chemicals and inks, and Lyne's research coat was covered in stains. It was evident that Lyne had been working tirelessly, his appearance reflecting the sleepless nights he had spent conducting experiments.
"Hey, Lyne, seems like you're busy," Yukesh said.
Lyne jumped at the sound of Yukesh's voice, turning around with sleepy eyes and a pale face. "Oh, it's you. How did you get in?" he asked, startled.
"The main door wasn't locked," Yukesh replied nonchalantly.
"Ah, I seem to have forgotten to lock it. Anyway, why are you here during class time? Is Professor Kal absent?" Lyne inquired.
"No, I left early since today was the final day of my main subject test," Yukesh explained.
"Ah, I see. Well, it's good you're here. Come and help with some stuff," Lyne said, returning to his work.
Yukesh hesitated for a moment. "Actually, I'm not here for that," he admitted.
Lyne turned to face him, finally acknowledging Yukesh's presence. "Then, what are you here for?" he asked.
"My graduation day is approaching, and today was the final test for my main subject. I came to talk to you about something related to my awakening ceremony," Yukesh explained.
Lyne's interest was piqued. "Ah, I see. Your awakening ceremony is coming up. What kind of crystal attribute do you think you'll use?" he asked.
Yukesh shrugged. "I don't know. My father kept it a secret from me. He wants to surprise me," he replied.
"Your father is an awakener too, and a support type at that. I'm sure he has something special in mind for you," Lyne said with a knowing smile.
"Yeah, maybe," Yukesh agreed. "But that's not why I'm here."
Lyne raised an eyebrow, curious. "Then, why are you here?" he asked.
"I want to learn more about attributes and mystical energy. I thought you, with all your knowledge, would be the best person to ask," Yukesh said.
Lyne considered this for a moment. "I won't mind helping you with that. We can also work on some tasks together during the process," he suggested.
Yukesh nodded eagerly. "Sure, that works for me. And what are you experimenting with right now?" he asked.
Lyne pointed to the various chemicals and inks in his room. "I'm trying to create a scroll with a mystical structure that contains two or more attributes together and releases them simultaneously," he explained.
"Isn't that already available in the market?" Yukesh asked.
Lyne nodded. "Yes, they are, but they are expensive and only affordable for secondary experts and above. They are made from the blood of orc generals, which makes them difficult to produce. I'm attempting to make a similar scroll, but using goblin blood instead. The essence of a general is present in impure form within goblin blood, making it a challenge to extract."
"That's quite complex stuff you're working on," Yukesh remarked.
"It is, and I'm not making much progress," Lyne confessed with a sigh.
Yukesh tried to lighten the mood. "Well, let's try again. Maybe I'm the lucky charm you needed," he said playfully.
Lyne chuckled. "Yeah, maybe a bit of Guinness can help with the breakthrough," he said, mimicking Yukesh's playful tone.
As they delved into their research and discussions, Yukesh realized how fortunate he was to have a friend like Lyne, who was not only knowledgeable but also willing to share his expertise. In the days that followed, they would work together, exchanging ideas and discoveries.