Chapter 26 Just thinking about it

But this is quite normal. It must be because my junior brother has hit a bottleneck in his rune studies and is looking at other books to find new insights. For a true genius, this is indeed the best choice. The fact that he's come to class today suggests he's accumulated some knowledge and is seeking tranquility and enlightenment.

It seems he's already begun to gain some understanding of Second Order Runes. How long has it been? Truly, he lives up to being favored by both the teacher and Principal Karida.

"Junior Brother Wang Feng, the path of runes is about steady progress; there's no need to rush," Li Sitan said with a smile. A good drummer doesn't need heavy strikes; a genius like my junior brother only needs a gentle nudge: "Everything will fall into place naturally. When you have time, come listen to more classes. Reviewing the basics can often bring many inspirations."

"Yes, Senior Brother, everything you say is right." Old Wang was already counting money under the table. This wasn't an issue of trust; he just enjoyed counting money. The feel of silver lire was different from ordinary lire, and the faces on them seemed a bit cooler.

Li Sitan placed his textbook on the podium, feeling he had entered his state particularly quickly today: "In the previous lessons, we covered the theoretical aspects of the five fundamental runes. I assume everyone has practiced them since then. However, theory is just theory; practical application is key. Today, we'll focus on the practical operations and applications of runes."

Practical operations? No theory today?

Mo Tong felt a bit frustrated. He had finally memorized several theoretical texts, hoping to impress Li Sitan and join the elite ranks. But now they were switching to practical operations.

"The development of rune engraving has led to a vast variety of runes. From the broadest perspective, we can categorize them into 'temporary' and 'permanent.' Most runes today are temporary, lasting at most ten days, while permanent ones were more common when runes first emerged. Of course, there are still proponents of permanent runes, but my approach is to start with temporary ones and eventually settle on permanence."

Li Sitan is indeed one of the top rune masters at Rose College. Frankly, before, the Rune Academy didn't need him to teach; it would waste his precious time. This time, he was called upon by the dean due to the presence of two members of the Eight Great Houses. Having the dean teach personally might seem too much, but having another instructor might appear disrespectful. After all, Yin Fu is a potential successor to Gandharva.

Yin Fu listened intently, entranced. Li Sitan's engravings were basic runes, and these techniques were familiar to her. But Li Sitan's demonstration and explanation, from a master's perspective, reinterpreted and showcased the rune engraving tools in a simple yet profound manner, naturally integrating many branch knowledge points not typically covered in rune classes. His breadth of knowledge not only deepened impressions but also made understanding natural and effortless, truly the mark of a master.

Even Mo Tong, who was initially annoyed, found himself engrossed. After days of studying, he had gained some knowledge and could grasp the essentials.

Old Wang, however, was lost in thought again.

The potion sold for 2400 lire, but after deducting Fantasia's share, he only earned 800 lire. Yet he needed half a million lire... the gap seemed insurmountable.

And what about the Nine Gods Empire? Are they planning to abandon this small pawn?

I risked my life for you; I don't expect rescue, as that place probably isn't much better than the old witch. But at least send some funds! The Nine Gods Empire is said to be rich!

Mo Tong kept staring at Wang Feng, noticing his distraction. With Li Sitan teaching, it wasn't appropriate to interrupt, so Mo Tong held back until Li Sitan finished a section and allowed a break. Mo Tong immediately raised his hand: "Senior Brother Li Sitan, Wang Feng isn't listening to your lecture. This is disrespectful!"

Old Wang rolled his eyes. This guy loves tattling; how does he survive? "I'm just thinking!" Old Wang replied calmly.

"Thinking about what..." Mo Tong swallowed his retort.

"Oh, Junior Brother Wang Feng, what do you think about the Beast Fang rune?" Li Sitan had just finished discussing the "Beast Fang," the only rune suitable for the Beast race, which compensates for their soul power deficiency.

"The Beast Fang rune, as we know, the Beast race has poor compatibility with human runes, hence the creation of this specialized rune. Senior Brother explained its characteristics thoroughly. What I've been thinking about is something else. In reality, all beings have souls, just with different soul power characteristics. Runes, I believe, can be described as 'waves.' Human souls have one frequency, the Eight Great Houses another, and sea races yet another. Each race has its own frequency. Humans, the Eight Great Houses, and sea races are relatively close, allowing for shared use. But the Beast race's soul frequency is unique. I think it's not that runes don't suit the Beast race or that they are uncivilized; rather, all current runes are not designed for their frequency."

Old Wang spoke confidently. Mo Tong remained silent this time, mainly because this wasn't covered in the foundational texts he had memorized recently. Had this guy memorized new books?

Li Sitan, on the podium, listened intently, patiently waiting for Wang Feng to finish: "Junior Brother, did you come up with all this yourself?"

These insights aren't in textbooks, Li Sitan was sure. Many rune insights are passed down through human rune masters, not written down.

"All of this is just my own musings."

"Musings..." Li Sitan didn't know what to say. If not for Dean Hawkland guiding him, he wouldn't have delved into such deep questions or questioned authority.

The old principal once said that only those who question authority can create; otherwise, they merely continue tradition.

"Senior Brother, Wang Feng's team includes two Beastmen, which may have inspired him," Yin Fu gently added. She couldn't help herself; Wang Feng was great, but too kind. Even if she understood, she couldn't let two Beastmen join her team.

"Only after striving hard do you realize the importance of talent. I used to not understand, but now I truly admire you," Li Sitan sighed deeply, sincerely saying: "Junior Brother Wang Feng, it took me two years to grasp this principle. No wonder the teacher values you so highly. You have talent, work hard, and have better character and insight than me. The teacher always says learning never stops. I've been narrow-minded. Senior Brother should learn more from you."

Seeing Li Sitan's sincere gaze, Old Wang felt reassured.

Li Sitan has some influence at Rose College. While it might not affect Principal Karida, having him on his side provides some security. What does he lack most besides money? Security!

(Do you ever imagine a bedtime scene before falling asleep?)