Chapter 100: The Quest for the Dual-Direction Stone

Li Yang, having immersed himself in the annals of teleportation array history, turned to his trusted jade pendant. "Lysar, what's your opinion? Is there any chance to mend the teleportation array, and perhaps even modify it from a one-way to a two-way passage?"

After a brief moment, Lysar's voice, calm and collected, resonated, "It's feasible, but it requires a Dual-Direction Stone, which is exceedingly rare. Additionally, you must possess the skills to manipulate its properties."

Determined, Li Yang responded, "Then let's first secure this stone. I plan to check the Treasure Hall. Perhaps they might have it."

Upon arriving at the Treasure Hall, its grandeur always managed to take Li Yang's breath away. Golden beams interwoven with intricate carvings, floors of polished marble, and innumerable artifacts of untold power were neatly displayed in transparent enclosures.

He approached the head curator, a wise-looking elder with a flowing white beard, and inquired about the Dual-Direction Stone. To his astonishment, they had one! But the price tag was a staggering 50,000 academic credits.

Li Yang's heart sank. Earning that many credits would take a significant amount of time and effort. Dejected but not defeated, he decided to consult Feng Xuan. Perhaps his friend could provide some insights or even an alternative solution.

Taking out his student card, he initiated contact with Feng Xuan. These cards, gifted to every student upon their enrollment, functioned similar to telephones back on Earth, facilitating voice communication. But for the connection to be established, two cards had to touch each other once, marking them as "friends".

"Feng Xuan, where are you? Over," Li Yang inquired, using a phrase familiar to his homeland.

A few moments later, Feng Xuan's voice echoed, amusement evident, "Why are you using 'over'? Meet me at the tavern. And by the way, what does 'over' mean?"

Li Yang chuckled, "It's a term from my homeland. On my way now."

As he made his way to the tavern, Li Yang reflected on his journey. The complexities of this world often reminded him of home, and yet, the challenges he faced were so very different. He hoped that with the help of Feng Xuan and his newfound knowledge, they would soon be able to mend the teleportation array and perhaps even make it more versatile.

Reaching the tavern, he spotted Feng Xuan seated at their usual spot, a glass of frothy ale in hand. As Li Yang approached, he could see the playful glint in Feng Xuan's eyes.

"So," Feng Xuan began, "What brings the renowned alchemist to this humble tavern today? And also, what's this 'over' business?"

Li Yang smiled, preparing to delve into a lengthy explanation, knowing well that his quest for the Dual-Direction Stone was only just beginning.