saiki

50.1

Ch. 50.1 - Academic Conference (2)
Alterisha patiently waited.

She waited until every alchemist in the room understood and accepted her words.

Finally, the silence was broken by a renowned university professor.

"... Are you joking even after knowing the significance of this occasion? Yes, I apologize for the disregard. I suppose you wanted to attract attention. However, there is a limit even to that kind of behavior!"

His passionate words lacked any distortion. If Alterisha had simply intended to gain attention, his words would have been true.

As people began to sympathize, Alterisha revealed a smile.

"I also know the significance of this occasion very well. It is an esteemed and extraordinary chance for someone like me to stand here. Therefore, I have no intention of joking around. I don't want to miss this precious opportunity."

"Well then, how should we interpret what you said?"

"Please interpret it in the manner of an alchemist."

“Those who believe that every phenomenon in this world can be scientifically proven. They analyze, uncover, and interpret the existence of everything, always seeking to uncover the 'truth' in order to satisfy their conscience. They are the alchemists.”

"But the Delta Augmentation Formula doesn't make sense. Principle-wise, the disciplines of magic and alchemy are structured in a way that they cannot combine!"

"Yes. Even countless genius alchemists who lived centuries before you failed precisely because of it!"

"It has been over 100 years since it was proven that the solution of the formula is impossible. What's all this commotion about now?"

Amidst all the negative reactions, Alterisha didn't feel discouraged. On the contrary, she felt exhilarated.

Even the lofty mountains, the sky, the ocean, and the sun itself would declare it impossible. But, the thought of proving it herself in that very moment sent a thrilling shiver down her entire body.

And then, she recognized the expression filled with joy.

Master Beaurock Stoneforge raised the corner of his mouth and spoke.

"Everyone, silence!"

With his words, the entire room fell quiet in an instant.

"Just because we've had quite a few failures doesn’t mean that we should deem certain things impossible. How can you even confidently call yourselves alchemists if you do that?"

His words struck at the weakness of the current alchemist academic community. While they believed that there was truth in everything, they only tinkered with what was already known, and never attempted to explore things that were deemed impossible.

"Nowadays, there is no progress. At best, she makes minor modifications to what we presented last time."

Upon hearing his words, some alchemists blushed and lowered their heads.

"So, I'm actually looking forward to it. The little alchemist who dared to seek truth even in the laws deemed impossible by everyone."

"Go ahead and present the truth you have discovered."

In response to Beaurock Stoneforge’s words, Alterisha nodded vigorously, and was about to reply.

Tang!

Someone slammed their palm on the desk and stood up from their seat.

All the alchemists' gazes immediately focused on him. It was none other than Professor Maizen Tyren from Stella Academy.