Avatar - Conquering the Elements-Chapter 178. The Student

135 years after the genocide of the Air Nomads.

Near the city of Tienhai. Tienhai University of Technology and Business. Yo.

Updat𝓮d from freewēbnoveℓ.com.

"Don't forget to double-check your data. You have only twenty minutes left—your final grade depends on today's lab results!" reminded the lively old man, a distinguished professor of the course: "The Influence of Energy on the Material World and Its Laws."

"It all seems correct," I thought, quickly reviewing my notebook.

Glancing around the class, I saw I wasn't the only one finished—many students slumped in their chairs, looking exhausted. I understood them perfectly at that moment. Even with my perfect memory, this was challenging. Mastering the theory is one thing, but applying it in practice is another entirely.

Why am I here, in this university? Honestly, I've long wanted to fill gaps in my knowledge. Finally, I got the chance for a full education—one that not only matches but even surpasses what I had in my previous world. Take the subject I'm currently studying, for example. For two hundred hours, we've been exploring how life and spiritual energy affect the laws of physics we know. These effects vary greatly—every detail matters: the type of energy, its quantity and quality, even the phase of the moon and the position of the sun, which are among nature's primary energy sources. It's a new but fascinating subject. We're entering an era where magic isn't just martial arts but a scientifically grounded field, with results proven in practice.

Beyond compulsory schooling, there are three advanced academic degrees. No one bothered to get creative with names, so they're simply called the First, Second, and Third Stages. The First Stage is equivalent to a bachelor's degree, while the Second and Third are akin to master's and doctoral programs.

"Hand in your work!" The professor's voice echoed with the bell. His assistants swiftly collected our notebooks.

Stepping from the classroom into the corridors, you're immediately immersed in the student atmosphere. Some walked mechanically, noses buried in books; others debated passionate topics; and plenty were there simply because their parents insisted.

The 130 hectares around me are steeped in learning and science. In just a couple of years, a sizable university town has emerged. Besides my institution, there's the Institute of Medicine and Healing, where two student groups study different approaches. One focuses purely on theory, learning about diseases, infections, and treatments through medicine and surgery—no interaction with life energy. The other faculty delves entirely into the mysteries of life energy. Interestingly, it's not just water mages, who find healing magic easier, but anyone diligent enough who studies there.

The third and final institution here is the University of Synergy of Technology and Magic. Our universities share similarities, but our research focuses differ. While we explore the intangible, like the world's laws, they lean toward the material, though not excluding the former.

A year ago, thanks to collaboration between the two universities, a groundbreaking device was created—at least, it was a breakthrough for me. Specially designed semiconductor panels collect sunlight, specifically the spiritual energy emitted by the sun. The technology resembles the solar panels of my past world. The accumulated energy can then be converted into electricity or... spiritual energy, infused with all four elements! Simply put, people have not only harnessed wild cosmic energy but transformed it into something usable and indistinguishable from Earth's spiritual energy.

Spiritual particle converters are still being refined and don't yield much energy yet. Most "wild" particles are deflected by the second protective layer, right after the ozone layer. With my help, there's a good chance we'll launch a couple of orbital stations within a decade, sending "purified" and converted particles back to Earth. Energy is never in excess: the population is growing rapidly, and more people are training. The average lifespan has increased by years, and all these people draw magic throughout their lives. Of course, upon death, most particles return to the world, but a small percentage—literally a few—vanish into nothingness. This must be considered too.

Beyond the three universities, there are several parks, a dozen restaurants and cafes, dormitories, and clothing stores—everything needed so no one has to travel to the city.

Right now, I have a free hour, so I'll spend it at my favorite tea house.

After placing my order, I settled comfortably on a sofa, only to hear a loud motorcycle engine. A sleek atomotorcycle zoomed past and stopped dramatically. Its owner was a stunning beauty—Asami Sato, the most attractive woman across all three institutions and a highly desirable match. She's also my only acquaintance here. Yes, in two years, I haven't formed any real friendships. Maybe I'm too old for that...

"I knew I'd find you here, Bigo!" she declared, dramatically removing her helmet, revealing her lovely face. The girl clearly takes after her mother—those piercing green eyes, luxurious black hair, and an hourglass figure.

Let me introduce myself—Bigo, an orphan and a second-year student. To fully immerse myself in science, I created a new, clean identity. Of course, I could've taken private lessons from professors, but they're busy with their own projects. I didn't want to distract them.

"Hi, Asami," I waved weakly, immediately feeling dozens of burning glares. The male students resented her spending so much time with me. Perhaps that's why I haven't made friends, though... I haven't tried very hard.

While she resembles her mother in looks, her personality and intellect are all her father's. She's determined enough to juggle two faculties—one in science, the other in business and management. Asami is already preparing to take over her father's position, giving him time for his own projects.

How did I become friends with Asami Sato? Don't ask—I can't explain it precisely. After some joint lectures, she started using me as a shield against unwanted attention. I didn't like it, but how could I refuse a girl I've known since infancy? Even if she doesn't know the guy sitting next to her is her father's fifty-three-year-old close friend. With me, it's always calm and quiet—I only attend classes and extra lessons with professors.

Days passed, and what began as a convenient arrangement turned into an interesting conversation, then friendship. Likely, it helped that I didn't ogle her like other men. Honestly, I enjoyed her beauty, but it felt more like admiring a masterpiece.

"Why so glum?" she plopped down beside me, snatching my tea and downing it in one gulp. Her actions raised the tension—from the back tables came a grumble: "Indirect kiss!"

"I'd like to live just one day without negativity from other students," I muttered, scanning the room with a stern gaze. It silenced most of them. I won't be a punching bag, so in the first months, I had to prove I'm not someone to mess with. Even Asami fell under my glare.

"Hey! It's not just my fault!" she pouted, punching my arm. "Let me tell you a secret—many are just annoyed by your look!"

"What's wrong with it?"

"You look at everyone like they're clueless kids. Sometimes there's a hint of condescension. You even look at me like that! And I'm three months older than you!" I must admit, any emotion she shows is captivating...

"I'll keep that in mind," I mumbled thoughtfully, analyzing my behavior and admitting such moments existed.

"Don't overthink it. The main thing is—your look doesn't bother me anymore," she said proudly. "By the way, today's last lecture is canceled. The professor got injured."

That's another issue with the staff here—overly enthusiastic individuals often forget basic safety, so at least one class is canceled monthly.

"There's another piece of news," she whispered, leaning closer. "My parents are away for a couple of days, so the house is all mine. How about a swim in the pool? Tempting, huh?" She bit her lip, her tongue nearly touching my ear.

"I don't have swim trunks," I replied dryly, cursing myself for not stopping this friendship when it turned more intimate.

"Nonsense! It's not a public pool—you can swim naked!" She finally touched my ear...

"Sorry, Asami, but you've been talking to your father's peer all this time..." Even saying it sounds awful.

"No objections!" she added, seeing my resistance. Without another word, she led me outside to a motorcycle resembling a Harley.

"Alright!" I thought, steeling myself. Once we arrive, I'll confess, and she can decide if she wants to continue this friendship. I'd be lying if I said I don't see Asami as a beautiful woman I wouldn't mind marrying. If she agrees to be part of my family, great; if not, so be it.

"Hop on and hold me tight! Let's ride with the wind!" A couple of times when we've sped like this, I've had to subtly use my powers—otherwise, an accident would've been certain.

Sitting behind Asami, I wrapped my arms around her waist. Her atomotorcycle model isn't designed for two, so she's practically sitting on me.

"I don't want to break her heart..." Even through her clothes, I felt Asami's excitement. Apparently, she's not the only one wanting to confess today. "This is complicated..."

The journey wasn't short. The Sato family's private home is on the city's wealthy outskirts. Weaving through traffic, I noticed how quickly the city has changed. Just a couple of years ago, we battled traffic jams, but now those problems are gone. An elevated train roared overhead, subway tracks ran below, and a quirky tram passed on our left. Massive investments in public transport solved the issue—now every resident can reach any destination for mere pennies.

After forty minutes, we entered a guarded area. Behind the trees stood a whimsical estate blending futuristic and conservative elements.

"You can leave your things in the guest room," Asami waved. "You know where everything is. Meet me at the pool."