You were right about what you said earlier. The academy had truly been thriving lately.
Several research projects had borne fruit, and everyone had become more accepting of the detours taken during exploration... Of course, the most striking thing was the steady stream of high-tier ascensions.
Perhaps the academy still fell far short of its former glory, but it was beginning to show signs of a revival—just as he was about to set off for the Sea of Ashes to explore, repeating the journey made back when the academy had reached its peak and begun to decline.
From that angle, it seemed a little ominous after all.
"Thanks again. If we make any discoveries, I'll be sure to keep you updated, Professor Fu."
As Fu Qian reflected on things, A Kai had finally put his mind somewhat at ease. He didn't want to take up any more of Fu Qian's time, so he promptly took his leave.
For one thing, Professor Fu was busy with his duties. For another, A Kai's own process of assimilating everything had been rather rushed, and he clearly needed to go back and consolidate his gains.
That went for his emotions, too.
After all, for Professor A Kai, what had happened over the course of that "day" had been far too eventful.
"Congratulations."
Fu Qian could fully understand how he felt, so he didn't try to make him stay. He gave a slight nod and offered his congratulations.
"Heh heh!"
Now that he'd been deemed safe, the man in question finally relaxed and shared in the joy of his advancement.
The academy's work was more or less done, and the expedition had become all the more exciting to anticipate.
So what exactly was the Crystalline Blessing that Kalaodola and the others had encountered back