Chapter 17: Research And Learning (1)

Next day.

Caleb woke up early in the morning to prepare for the day. Last night at dinner, he had learned a lot about his family. He has two siblings, both females. But they were out of the domain carrying out various duties for their domain. He also learnt he was a dotting and protective elder brother. That comment made him smile as he imagined he would have been like that if he had other siblings. 

On earth, his uncle's only child was already old enough and living independently, so there wasn't enough opportunity to get to know him that well. 'Well, that's in the past now. Let's focus on my new life.'

Today was the day he began his learning and research. His father had already assured him of the lab he requested. 'I also need to learn about the nobility and the ruling of domains; stuff like that.' Caleb powdered as he moved to the closet to find something to wear. He picked a blue shirt and black pants. The blue shirt was form-fitting and had a modern feel to it.

'The dressing style in this world isn't much different from the one on earth.' He then picked a pair of boots to complete his make-up and made his way out. 

He made his way to the dining hall to have his breakfast. Food was still as important as ever. His eating habits had scared his mother a bit, but Caleb defused the situation by indicating his new appreciation for cuisine. 

In the dining hall, a servant came to him for his order. After giving his order, Caleb planned his schedule in his head while waiting.

'The genomic research should not be my entire focus. Learning magic should also take the same priority. But then again, do I want to unlock the genes for doing pure magic?'

Caleb had a feeling that the changes he would make to himself would be more than enough to make up for any weaknesses. He had always fancied having superpowers; as every nerd has imagined at least once in their lives.

'Healing magic can be covered by increasing my healing factor, and magic used by pure mages can also be covered by unlocking the other attributes of combat mages.' As he thought of different scenarios and what he wanted to do, the food arrived.

"Thank you." He said to the servant. The servant nodded and left to carry out her duties. Not long after he began eating, Alex made his way to the hall. 

"Greetings, Lord Caleb." Alex greeted me with a small bow. "Is the lab I requested already prepared with everything?" He asked Alex. 

Alex affirmed and continued, "I have also prepared a serving boy who would act as your assistant to show you around to regain your familiarity. He is currently waiting for you at the entrance of your lab." 

Caleb nodded and responded, "Come back within half an hour and you can lead me there."

'This is good. With an assistant, I can also study their genome and draw some comparisons.' Caleb mused. I also have to go see the knight commanders and plan for my training sessions.'

Caleb thought as he enjoyed his breakfast. He had already made up his mind to keep busy. As someone who had read hundreds of novels, he knew seeking strength doesn't come easy and requires dedication and effort.

....

Alex led Caleb to the designated area that would serve as his lab. Making their way through the various hallways and stairs, Caleb took notice of the pathways and where they led. He asked questions of Alex from time to time.

At the entrance of the lab stood a young man not more than 20 years old. As soon as they arrived, he bowed and greeted them. Alex went ahead and introduced him to Caleb, "Caleb, this is John Olsen. He will be your assistant until you say otherwise." 

Caleb acknowledged the boy and said, "How do you do?" He had nothing really to the boy as of now.

"I'm fine my lord and it's an honour to serve as your assistant." John replied with a professional demeanour that didn't fit with his age. 'Must be well trained if he can keep his composure like that.'

Opening the door, Alex led Caleb and John inside the room. Looking around, the room was like the others Caleb had seen. It had polished floors with a chandelier lunging up the tall ceiling. The windows were also high with curtains to regulate the amount of natural light. Bookshelves lined the walls and a sitting area with couches was positioned in the centre of the office. Close to the window at the end of the room was a desk.

"This section of the office carries all the books you would need for relearning. We took the liberty to move the books from the library. And the door on the left leads to the inner area that will serve as your lab."

Alex gave a brief introduction to the space. Caleb appreciated the information and moved to look at the actual lab. Opening the door, Caleb entered and was impressed. The room had a large bench at the centre with stools. At the left and far end of the bench were large chalkboards he could use. A shelf with other books and papers and its accessories could also be spotted on the sides. 

He moved to the shelf and took one of the books to open. As he expected, the book was empty. 'This should be serving as my notebook for recording data.' Caleb thought. 

He then turned to return to the office. "I like it very much. Thank you, Alex." Caleb showed his appreciation.

"I only carried out my duties, sir." Alex replied with a smile. He then turned around and left. 

Caleb looked at John and said, "You can wait in here. I'll be in the lab and if you have anything to say, you knock to draw my attention and I will come out.

In the meantime, you can keep busy by reading a book or something." Caleb instructed his assistant before making his way back to the lab.

Inside the lab, Caleb retrieved his lab coat and placed a few of the empty books on the central bench. 

"Okay! Let's start..."