Magic Academy's Bastard Instructor

Chapter 114: Autumn [4]

Chapter 114: Autumn [4]

It had to be said, all professors were scholars and part of the Scholars Institute, but not all scholars were professors.

It was rare for professors, researchers, and elders to gather in one place. Moreover, similar gatherings were happening in several locations across the empire to disseminate the facts regarding the Red Moon of Autumn.

"Oh? So this is Professor Vanitas Astrea?"

"Yes, this is him." Elder Tristan nodded and gestured for Vanitas to take a seat.

The scholar before him seemed to be close with Elder Tristan but hadn't been present during Vanitas' thesis defense.

"Professor Astrea, this is Scholar Zane Yro."

"...."

Vanitas' eyebrows rose at the name.

"Zane Yro…?" He recognized it immediately.

"Oh? It seems you've heard of me."

"Of course. The mage who developed and introduced the Intermediate Spell—Windfall over two decades ago. It's an honor to meet you," Vanitas said.

"Haha~" Zane Yro chuckled, waving a hand dismissively. "It's been years since anyone's brought that up. You must have done your research."

Vanitas shook his head. "Hardly. Your work on spell optimization was a mandatory study in advanced elemental magic courses. Any mage studying the Zephyr essence would know your name."

Elder Tristan smiled at their exchange. "Zane has been deeply involved in the Institute's research division. He recently returned from an extended study abroad."

"Is that so?" Vanitas turned to Zane. "Then I suppose I'm fortunate to have been sent to Amesticross."

Zane smirked. "In that case, I could say the same about meeting the rising genius himself. Vanitas Astrea, your thesis has stolen the spotlight, you know?"

Several theses had been published after Vanitas's, yet none had gained significant attention. 

The lack of recognition had resulted in substantial losses for those who had invested in their research. As a result, many scholars had begun advising against publishing new theses until the Astrea Magic Worldview hype died down.

As the conversation continued, the topic gradually shifted.

"Now, about the Red Moon," Elder Tristan said, his tone turning serious. "Have you heard? There seems to be a connection to the Araxys."

"Araxys?" Zane asked. "Are you referring to the catacomb? Or the Black Dragon itself?"

"No, the other one."

"Ah."

The name Araxys carried multiple meanings, which often led to confusion.