After lunch, there were many things that Lucian explained and many that he hinted at, before leaving me with plenty to ponder and even more to plan. It helped to solidify my strategy for the upcoming weeks.

First on my list was Skills. The Nexus Repository was my next destination—the library, which also housed an assortment of Skills books you could obtain with contribution points.

The Nexus Repository was near the heart of the Academy. As I walked, I noticed a scattering few students going their ways. Some wore what I assumed was the Academy’s uniform— an elegant ensemble of deep navy and silver, tailored to fit each student impeccably. The crisp white shirts contrasted sharply with the dark jackets, and the silver embroidery on the lapels and cuffs glinted subtly in the sunlight.

Most, however, strolled in casual attire, their individuality on display through an array of colors and styles. The casual clothing ranged from simple tunics and trousers to more elaborate ensembles, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of the student body.

At least I was not the odd one out. Now that I have some money, maybe spending it on clothes would be a good idea.

Upon reaching my destination, I breathed out a sigh of relief. Even this body was beginning to feel fatigued from walking for so long.

Even though the Sapphire Academy was the best in the Kingdom, the Nexus Repository was on a whole different level. Four spires made from ancient stones were around the central marble building. The gleaming white marble central building was carved with intricate designs of scrolls and mythical creatures. The grandeur of the place was almost intimidating, making me feel small.

Wasn't that too much for a simple library?

I crossed the entrance, feeling my pulse quicken with anticipation. As soon as I stepped into the building, the sounds of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves vanished.

Was this some kind of noise-canceling enchantment?

I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the books and the thick scent of old parchment.

Endless rows of shelves stretched before me, filled with books that whispered promises of knowledge and power. I felt he could sit here forever and read until old age.

Especially about all the sordid stories that might have happened in real life. Ah, the twist and tragedy should be on another level in this world of magic. The thought alone sent a thrill down my spine.

The only other people in the room were the librarian and a fit young man with a red armband reading with a bored expression at the reception. He turned at my entrance but returned to his book after giving me a once over.

Maybe it is more interesting than me?

Without hesitation, I dashed to the nearest bookshelf like a child on Christmas morning. The first section I found was on geography. I eagerly picked up a book, the worn cover giving off the comforting smell of old paper and ink.

The Blackwater Lake is contested as the most mysterious source of the dark attuned stone—

I hit a hurdle on the very first page. The location was inviting, but the terms were all foreign to me. Instead of wasting my time, I decided to read after completing my task.

However, my excitement soon turned to confusion. There were numerous shelves of books available, but I had no one marked for skill books.

Feeling a bit lost, I approached the man.

[ Human Lvl. 22 ]

Relatively high for working in the library. Clearing my throat, I attempted to mask my uncertainty. "Hello, can you tell me where the skill books are?"

His eyes flicked up from the book, studying me briefly before responding in a gruff voice. "Skills? Those are on the third floor. The books down here are for basic knowledge. We have all sorts of auxiliary subjects on the first floor, but the skill books are regulated. What kind are you looking for?"

Of course, there are different types. I hesitated, trying to gather my thoughts. "What are the types?"

"We classify them by requirements—physical and mana skills. There are also Professional grade skills available."

"Can I choose anything?" I asked, my excitement bubbling up again. Those professional grades sounded expensive.

He smirked, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "First year, right? You can access physical skill books with contribution points. For anything more advanced, you need special permission."

So much for diving right into the deep end, I thought, feeling my enthusiasm wane a bit.

"What are the prices?" I asked, trying to hide my disappointment.

"Fifty for physical skills. Mana skills start at two hundred. Combat-related skills are from two hundred fifty, and professional skills can go up to twelve hundred fifty."

The numbers swirled in my mind. That's quite a range. "What's the difference between them?"

If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

The young man leaned back, his previous amusement giving way to boredom again. "I could explain, but honestly, I'm just a receptionist. Here's a question for you— can you even sense your mana?"

His words hit me like a splash of cold water. "No," I admitted, feeling a pang of embarrassment. Of course, I’m getting ahead of myself here.

"You couldn't even sense mana, why are you asking about skills? Learn about it first. You should check out the Lecture Hall. There are lectures conducted by senior students. With the start of the semester in two months, most teachers are absent. Begin with the basic lectures, and go from there."

I nodded, absorbing his advice. I guess I had to walk before I ran.

—

The academy's Lecture Hall was a grand, sprawling complex build with ancient stones. The sheer scale of the place made me feel small yet eager, like a tiny cog in a vast, ancient machine.

I could already imagine it easily having big amphitheater-style rooms designed to accommodate large classes with hundreds of students.

The main reception area was empty except for a single girl standing before the enormous bulletin board that dominated one half of the space. Her auburn hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her eyes focused intently on a particular notice.

Ignoring the girl, I scanned the bulletin board quickly, eyes darting from one note to the next, each offering a glimpse into different realms of knowledge.

Lecture 2101: Essence of Spirit Flames - Marcus Lee, 3rd Year. Green Pillar - Alchemist

Time - 1 Hr. Cost - 120 Credits. Requirements - 2nd Year.

Lecture 3205: Advanced Elemental Control - Elena Martinez, 4th Year. Red Pillar - Valorians

Time - 1.5 Hrs. Cost - 435 Credits.

Requirements - 3rd Year.

Private Tutoring Session 005: Basic Alchem—

Potions, spells, ancient runes, and mysterious creatures—most of which I had no idea about. Yet, each word ignited a spark of curiosity within me.

After skimming through the various options for lectures available, it became clear that they ranged widely in both content and price. From basics to advance, from normal subject that I would expect to some odd topics that give me goosebumps.

So many options, but my modest stash of a thousand contribution points felt suddenly paltry against my burgeoning curiosity.

Purchasing a seat to a lecture from the second years was going for anywhere between 50 and 100 contribution points. The cost differences seemed to be from the size of the class and the person teaching it. Each lecture would be on a defined topic regarding specific subject, with the students giving their personal insights.

The lectures didn’t interest me too much. Despite the structured learning environment these lectures promised, I felt a sense of déjà vu; the university days weren’t that far behind me, and I remembered well how limited such sessions could be, especially when the topics were cherry-picked by the lecturers themselves.

Instead, I turned my attention to the personal tutoring sessions. It seemed a more tailored approach might be beneficial, and the costs were surprisingly varied. While some tutors asked for exorbitant fees reaching into the hundreds, others seemed almost too generous, offering their expertise for as little as fifty points.

Amid the array of postings, there was also one odd little lessons at the cheapest price.

Private Tutoring Session X104: Basics of Mana - Lena Wilson, 2nd Year. Blue Pillar - Merchants

Time - 1 Hr. Cost - 10 Credits.

Requirements - Obsidian.

Curiosity piqued, I decided to take a chance on the cheapest option. Even if it turned out to be a waste, it would cost me just 10 credits and an hour of my time.

I approached the reception desk, where an older woman with graying hair presided. She appeared as though she might be part of the establishment for decades. It was easy to imagine her still sitting behind this desk years from now, possibly even advising my future children should they choose to walk these halls.

I almost activated my [Identity] skill to probe deeper into her background, but stopped myself at the last moment. There was a sense of hidden expertise screaming from the old lady, so it was better to not poke into her secrets.

"Excuse me," I began, giving a polite nod. "Could you shed some light on the wide pricing range for these one-on-one lessons? What do I get for paying so much?

Her smile was slow but warm, crinkling the corners of her eyes. "No problem! Mostly it just comes down to who the teacher is. If someone is asking for hundreds of points for a lesson, they are probably an second year that is trying to earn a little extra. The ones asking for thousands are usually third and forth years.”

“I’ll tell you a little secret. Those expensive lessons aren’t about learning. If you take them, don’t expect a diligent teacher. Those are really about making connections. If you are looking to move up in life, gifting a future graduate a few thousand points is a way to establish yourself there,” she said with a wink.

I nodded, absorbing her words. The concept of paying for potential doors to be opened was intriguing yet fraught with uncertainty. Is knowledge not enough? I wondered silently, maybe Earth was similar during the medieval ages. It was all about the connection.

“Now, the cheapest options are different. Fifty points is the lowest we allow them to go. Some would give you an hour of their time for even less. These are mostly second year students. Above a hundred points, you will probably find people who are teaching as a side hustle, so they are no longer in dire straits. Though, after they can do so consistently, you won’t find them giving lessons anymore. They will be working on their main business, so scheduling them is hard.”

"Could you tell me more about this session? It seems... unusually affordable," I ventured, placing the note on the table.

As the receptionist’s gaze sharpened, a flicker of surprise crossed her features. "You're in Obsidian?"

Opting for simplicity, I nodded. "Yes."

Her eyes lingered on my right arm. "Wearing your armband inside the shirt. Smart choice. And who is your sponsor? You don’t have to tell if you’re not comfortable,"

I thought, my mind racing with potential consequences. What if they have a rivalry going on? Deciding to trust in the virtue of transparency, I responded, "It's the Vice Chancellor."

"That old man? Wh—" She muttered the rest in a low voice that I couldn't understand.

"Well, that's quite the endorsement," she continued, her voice returning to its normal volume as she shifted the topic back to the matter at hand. "But let’s focus on your lecture. Lena is an excellent choice for the topic, and as for the reason behind the low price, you’d have to inquire with her directly. However, you shouldn't be overly concerned about it. Would you like me to schedule the session for you?"

I nodded eagerly. "Yes, when would she be available?"

A smile flickered across the old lady's face, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Right now, if you want," she offered.

The spontaneity of the offer took me by surprise. "Yes, let's do that."

But why do I feel like the old lady is waiting for a show?