After the induction ceremony, Sir Langlangs accompanied Luc back to his inn. Along the way, Sir Langlangs informed Luc that he needed to visit the Academy of Magic and Science the following day.
Back at the inn, Luc reflected on the events of the day. The weight of responsibility filled his thoughts, making it difficult for him to fall asleep. Eventually, fatigue overcame him, and he drifted off into slumber.
The next morning, Luc checked out of the inn and hailed a passing coach. He informed the coachman of his destination, the Academy of Magic and Science. The coachman, taken aback, asked, "Are you a freshman?" Luc confirmed, prompting the coachman to continue, "The Academy of Magic and Science is located in a remote part of the city. It's quite a distance from here. This year, the academy has recruited a significant number of freshmen. Compared to previous years, I have encountered and transported twice as many newcomers. Many of my fellow coachmen have had the same experience. It seems that this year, Victoria has produced an abundance of brilliant individuals."
Luc was astonished by the coachman's revelation. Considering the talent he had observed in his hometown, which was several levels behind Victoria, he realized that the caliber of awakened individuals in more prominent towns must be even higher. With larger populations, the likelihood of encountering exceptional individuals increased exponentially. Unbeknownst to Luc, this train of thought would unknowingly bring him closer to unraveling an elusive theory in mathematics.
The journey to the academy was lengthy, and the coachman took the opportunity to provide Luc with an introduction to the town of Victoria. Curious, the coachman asked, "So, what do you know about the town of Victoria?"
Luc pondered for a moment before responding, "The town of Victoria is the capital of the kingdom of Victoria. It was the site of Victor the First's coronation, marking the end of an era of conquest. Victoria serves as the symbol of governance, where significant decisions for the kingdom are made. I've heard there is a transcontinental spatial array here."
The coachman, visibly surprised by Luc's knowledge, continued, "Your understanding of the city is quite accurate. There are numerous ministries and bureaus here. Do you see that building shaped like a reversed 'T'? That's the Office of Communication. They oversee the infrastructure for long-distance communication."
Observing the building's shape, Luc's passion for geometry was reignited, as he envisioned imaginary lines connecting its various points.
After some time, the coachman pointed to another building and explained, "Do you see that box-like building? That is the Court of Nobles, where the nobility convene periodically to make laws. There are two types of nobles in our country. The first type are inheritors, who are descendants of Victor the First's entourage. They hold half the number of seats. The second type are Mandatees, who are appointed directly by the king. Their seats last for five years before the king renews them."
History being one of Luc's strengths, he began reciting the names of many famous individuals: "Ruben the Great, Hassan the Savant, Marie the Enchanteress, Merydil the Tenacious."
The coachman was astonished and remarked, "You are well-informed about these matters. Ruben the Great was the patriarch of the Um family. Hassan the Savant was the patriarch of the Almorades family. Marie the Enchanteress became the matriarch of the Curiad family."
During the journey, the coachman pointed out some well-known architectural landmarks and recommended notable restaurants. One restaurant was famous for its chicken-based meals, while another was renowned for its bread.
Taking the opportunity, the coachman also highlighted some dangerous areas that most people avoided. These spots were notorious for crime, despite the efforts of the cavalry to maintain order.
The coach came to a stop in front of a gate that appeared old yet well-maintained. Above the gate, an arch displayed the words "Academy of Magic and Science," while beneath it were the three words: "Passion, Values, Hardwork."
The coachman remarked, "We have arrived at your destination. I hope you enjoyed the journey. That will be one silver vitria. I hope we have the chance to meet again soon." After receiving payment, the coachman departed from the academy's premises. Luc approached the gate, and as he neared it, the gates opened, revealing a small room by the entrance. Inside, an elderly man awaited him. Luc went over to greet him, and the old man inquired about his purpose. When Luc presented his admission letter, the old man nodded approvingly and proceeded to use a communication scroll.
Soon enough, a younger man wearing a long blouse approached Luc, ready to assist him further.
Draven Um, a member of the school committee and a representative responsible for welcoming new freshmen, introduced himself to Luc. When Luc heard Draven's last name, he couldn't help but be curious. He asked, "Are you a member of the renowned Um family?"
Draven seemed unfazed by the question and replied, "Yes, I am. It's quite common for members of my family to be involved in the student council. Have you introduced yourself?"
Luc, taken aback, responded, "I'm sorry, I go by the name Luc Walters. I am a specially recruited student from the town of Primea."
Now it was Draven's turn to be surprised. He exclaimed, "Ah, so you are the new student representative! Welcome to the Academy of Magic and Science."
"Huh, student representative?" Luc was puzzled and didn't fully grasp the meaning behind Draven's words.
"The student representative is chosen based on the highest awakened grade and performance in the UMIEE. Your affinity grade placed you at the top of your batch. But what set you apart was that your result was the best among students with similar affinity grades. That's why you were selected to be the representative of the freshmen," Draven explained.
Luc's surprise turned into a sense of pride and accomplishment. He realized that his hard work and dedication had earned him this esteemed position. With gratitude, Luc replied, "Thank you, Draven. I am honored to be chosen as the student representative. Please lead the way to the registration office."
Draven nodded with a smile and gestured for Luc to follow him. Together, they walked through the gates of the Academy of Magic and Science, embarking on a new chapter of Luc's academic journey.