The Unknown God at First High

Chapter 13: Philosopher Stone

Ryuga was sitting down with Tatsuya, in one of the school computer rooms, when Miyuki walked in. Miyuki asked Tatsuya about what he was looking at, and he answered with the Philosopher Stone. A Philosopher Stone is an artifact said to convert base metals, like lead, into precious metals, like gold. However, since an ancient magic had to be used to convert it, the catalyst, the stone, has the potential to store magical sequences. The problem is, Philosopher Stones are incredibly rare, and would take many years and materials to craft one. 

One of Tatsuya's goals is to create nuclear power off of magical sequences, but it would be pointless if a magician would have to keep casting. That's where the Philosopher Stone would come in. Miyuki grabbed her head in confusion; so Tatsuya simplified it, whilst rubbing her hair.

Having enough of the boring and repetitive conversation, Ryuga headed out into the hallway. As he was walking, he met Suzune Ichihara, who looked slightly concerned.

Ryuga: "Is everything all right, Ms. Ichihara?"

Suzune: "Not really. I need a replacement in the Thesis Competition, since ours had to drop out of it due to unforeseen circumstances."

Ryuga: "What's the topic about?"

Suzune: "The theme I have in mind is 'the technical feasibility of a Gravity-Control-type Magic thermonuclear fusion reactor.'"

Ryuga's mind: "Gravity!?"

Suzune: "We only have three weeks left until the competition. Thus, we need another skilled sub-writer. Do you happen to know anything about gravity?"

Ryuga: "I know about as much as the standard, reasonable person does. Sorry, but if you're looking for a scientist, you should ask Tatsuya."

Suzune: "Even though I find those words suspicious, I understand. I'll go ask Mr. Shiba then. Have a good day, Mr. Shinsokai."

Ryuga: "Yeah, you too."

She walked past him, trying to hurriedly get to Tatsuya. Ryuga sighed it off and walked away towards the gate.

-Timeskip-

When Tatsuya and Miyuki got home, after school, they noticed a car parked in the driveway. Once they got closer to the door, they found two sets of shoes, one male's and one female's. As Tatsuya opened the door, leading into the living room, he and Miyuki were both surprised to find Ryuga laughing and chatting with their step-mother. They've never seen their step-mother laugh, or even smile before, and thus, were surprised. With that, Tatsuya made an audible sound, causing the two to stop chatting and look at them.

Sayuri: "You're finally home. Good thing your friend here was willing to keep me company until you arrived. I didn't know you two were so close with someone."

Ryuga: "Well, we are best friends, right?"

He gave a threatening smile at Tatsuya and Miyuki, to which they nodded quickly.

Sayuri: "How wonderful!"

Tatsuya: "To what do we owe this pleasure?"

The good mood surrounding the room vanished, and Sayuri looked serious. Ryuga, deciding that it was about to go down, also gained a serious look. After Miyuki left to cook dinner, Tatsuya sat down across from them both, and ask the same question.

Tatsuya: "Now then, to what do we owe this pleasure?"

Sayuri: "Very well, I'll get to the chase."

Ryuga's mind: "It's about to go down."

Sayuri: "I want you to help out again at the head office, in the research lab."

Ryuga's mind: "Nevermind, guess not."