Chapter 24: The Scientist's Calculations
Chapter 24: The Scientist's Calculations
The following morning, Ron gazed at Bicky, who lay in his arms with an emotionless expression. He pondered the reasons behind her advances the previous night. Bicky's favorable impression of him, her nonchalance about the upcoming potion-making contest, her prior experiences, and the looming bloodbath all played a part in her actions.
However, Ron saw an opportunity in helping her, not out of malice, but out of necessity. He knew she wouldn't heed his warnings. Love had a peculiar way of making people act irrationally, like moths drawn to a flame. True love was eternal, making both parties better, but illusions often clouded people's judgment.
Ron, who had never truly loved anyone, couldn't help but find irony in his understanding of love compared to those love-struck couples.
Suddenly, Bicky stirred and sat up, realizing it was already 7 o'clock. She rushed to get dressed and gave Ron a peck on the cheek before hurrying to her mentor's experiment lab, leaving Ron behind, slightly amused.
The impending secret plane bloodbath drew nearer, and all the fifth-grade acolytes with their potential were prime targets for rival academies. Ron, however, kept a low profile, focusing on preparing for the upcoming challenges.
He immersed himself in his experiment lab, delving into the 'Sentient Force' theory and using the A.I. Chip to analyze spell models, particularly rank 0 spells with high attack potential to complement his attack potions.
The skies were overcast, and acolytes in grey robes gathered in a field, their expressions solemn, some filled with anticipation, others with fear. Official Magi, dressed in black and white robes, stood before them. Ron kept to the periphery, monitoring the professors, particularly the formidable Chairman Siley, a rank 2 Dark Magus.
Chairman Siley's energy wave discouraged any scans from the A.I. Chip. Ron observed his surroundings, spotting familiar faces like Bicky, Merlin, Nyssa, and Jayden. Jayden appeared troubled and exhausted, likely due to some ailment. Nyssa remained inconspicuous in her grey robes, and Bicky and Merlin engaged in hushed conversation.
As the tension grew, Ron anticipated the impending bloodbath and reflected on his decision to maintain a low profile. His limited talents in Potioneering and the presence of his senior, Merlin, kept him from the spotlight.
His primary reason for concealing his abilities was to avoid unwanted attention. He spent his time in the lab, deepening his knowledge and preparing for the challenges ahead.
A sudden commotion stirred the acolytes as a colossal beetle approached. It had eight sturdy legs and an intimidating presence. Ron was intrigued, but the A.I. Chip warned him about the target's defensive barrier and suggested maintaining distance.
The beetle's saliva corroded the ground, and the acolytes, initially frightened, regained their composure under the professors' control. White-Brows Guru, an opponent's chairman, taunted Chairman Siley, prompting a silent power struggle between them.
Ron noticed the level 3 acolytes among the opponents, aware of the unfavorable rules in the bloodbath. Abyssal Bone Forest Academy was disadvantaged with two against one and no exclusion of level 1 acolytes. They would serve as cannon fodder, but Ron had other priorities.
He focused on his A.I. Chip's enhanced abilities and recorded the opponents' magic artifacts. As the Magi set up a complex formation, Ron recognized the runes and their purpose, thanks to his previous studies in Dylan Gardens.
The three chairmen each produced three crimson scrolls, signifying the start of the confrontation, as the acolytes braced for the impending bloodbath.