Chapter 413 I think highly of him
The research on Void Realm No. 178 continued into the night. With the efforts of Corinta researchers, the time behind the Void Realm has been pushed forward by a full fifty years.
However, the progress of the research was not smooth.
As time goes by, nothing else happens except that the virtual channel itself that maintains the two worlds weakens.
The Gray civilization behind the virtual realm seems to have no new insights to share with their "Creator".
The latest advances they have made in technology are no longer understandable to Xue Bang researchers. Even the omniscient new god "Colin" gradually began to be unable to understand the sight that greeted his eyes.
This is inevitable.
Any father will have a day when he gradually cannot understand what his children are thinking and doing.
For the researchers of Corinta, the only obsession is probably the blue world. They want to know the follow-up of the "Cosmic Spirit Foundation", and even more want to know whether those suspected human beings still believe in "Corin", and... whether they can cross the 178th virtual realm to contact them.
This is not only the obsession of the researchers, but also a thought that Luo Yan does have in his heart even though he has not stated it explicitly.
Although he knew that it might not be his hometown, he was still curious about what the earth was like in another timeline, and how he lived in that world...if there was any.
However, it is regrettable that in the past fifty years, the Gray civilization has not conducted new explorations of the virtual realm.
And the azure world disappeared from the sight of Corinta's researchers.
All signs indicate that the two worlds are drifting apart. Whether it is the blue world and the world of gray people, or the world of gray people and the world where Xuebang is located.
All the magicians had a "bad" premonition in their hearts——
The scene they saw in front of them at this moment was probably the final "final outcome".
The history of the Grays continues to move forward, and the exploration of the virtual realm is just an episode in their blossoming memories.
They were not obsessed with exploring the void like the Solipsi people, but became "ordinary people" like their father, continuing to walk in the universe made of matter with awe of the spirit, soul and void.
In this new chapter, "Colin" is no longer the protagonist of their story, but has become a symbol together with Jon, as a page in the teachings of the "Cosmic Spirit Sect".
Like all fathers who are reluctant to leave their children, the "gods" of Corinta are also reluctant to say goodbye to the grays in No. 178 Void Realm.
At this time, an assistant teacher suddenly suggested.
"Sooner or later they will forget us if this continues, why don't we choose another divine envoy from among them while we can still exert influence on them?"
This suggestion has been recognized by many researchers.
However, some researchers believe that the failure of the "Cosmic Spirit Foundation" has foreshadowed the future of this choice.
For example, Miller.
With a longing for the incredible unity and cohesion of the Gray civilization, he clearly stated his opposing views.
.
But compared to the illusory longing and the satisfaction of the "children's" current happiness, this practical reason is easier for other "gods" to accept.
The debate in the Corinth Tower lasted for a long time, but no one could convince anyone.
In the end, everyone turned their attention to Prince Colin, waiting for the true "Creator" to make a ruling on the fate of the Grays.
Facing those expectant eyes, Luo Yan thought for a long time, but gave an answer that made most "fathers" feel disappointed.
"That's enough."
Looking at the faces that couldn't let go, he said in a gentle tone.
"No matter how new the gods are, they will one day become the ancient gods of the past."
"Our 'children' have become their own gods, and we have entered an era where everyone is like a god. It would be too unreasonable for us to continue to hold their hands and not let go."
"Jon is dead."
"Let 'Colin' go with him."
As the research on Virtual Realm No. 178 comes to an end, Corinta’s researchers’ research on this virtual realm has also shifted from the original theoretical exploration to the development of existing resources.
They no longer use source power to accelerate the passage of time behind the virtual realm and rush to the distant future. Instead, they let time flow naturally, cherish the last moment of sharing insights between the two worlds, and strive to gain more enlightenment from the present of virtual realm No. 178.
Just like what they are doing in Void Realm No. 440.
Because there was no work that required personal command, Luo Yan temporarily left Corinta during this period and focused his main energy on arranging "future affairs".
For example, the preparation of the Virtual Realm Resource Reorganization Committee, the arrangement of the magic science laboratory, and the curriculum arrangement of science classes, etc.
The office of the Virtual Realm Resource Reorganization Committee.
Compared to a traditional scholar’s study, this place is more like an organized archive. The towering bookshelf reaches to the ceiling, with dossiers marked with different virtual realm numbers neatly stacked on them.
Behind the rows of desks, the clerical staff working at the desks were meticulously transcribing the reports submitted from various mage towers and filing them one by one.
· Teaching assistants and tutors shuttled between them, walking in a hurry, occasionally stopping in front of a certain project bulletin board and discussing something in a low voice.
The air is filled with the dry smell of old parchment mixed with ink.
Because of the clear division of labor and clear attribution of responsibilities, everyone here can focus on the work in front of them without having to worry about trivial matters outside of work.
At least for the time being.
Luo Yan is very satisfied with everything here, and this is another valuable "legacy" he left for Xuebang after his "scientific" thinking -
He referred to modern academic project management experience and designed a more "scientific" resource allocation management system for Xuebang's virtual realm research!
Here, each virtual realm exploration is managed as an independent project.
Some people are responsible for early risk assessment and resource review, and others are responsible for following up on project progress and material allocation. All projects that enter the approval resource need to undergo strict registration and value assessment, and then be transferred to the seminar for review and interview procedures.
Any scholar who has objections to the distribution of resources can apply to observe the seminar and raise questions during the question session.
This system has, to a certain extent, put an end to the chaotic era in the past when resources were monopolized by a small number of scholars, and research results and risks depended entirely on the individual conscience of the scholars.
Of course, it depends on Xuebang itself whether it should continue to be used.
The rules of any game are just rules. The factor that truly determines whether a game is a quality game or an entertainment game is ultimately the "player" himself.
If the dear "Alister II" replaced all the cleaners in this office with his own the day after he left, then even if he introduced the management skills of the Solipsi people, it would be just a show-off.
Of course.
If that guy really did this, it might not be a bad thing. After all, any beautiful thing needs a shadow to set it off.
Sitting behind the desk in the deepest part of the office, Luo Yan sipped tea leisurely and admired the work completed by his own hands.
At the same time, Miller, who had just completed the filing of virtual reality research data No. 178, was reporting the progress of his paper to him with excitement.
"Your Highness! Our harvest far exceeded expectations! Although it is a pity that we could not see the story of the "Grey Man" civilization to the end, our output in Virtual Realm No. 178 has completely exceeded that of Virtual Realm No. 440!"
“Not only have we found a more efficient and stable mining method than Mentor Merck’s crude “harvest” method, we have also consolidated the passage to No. 178 Virtual Realm more firmly than ever before! Although we haven’t thought about getting anything from the Grays yet, but that The huge resources accumulated in the virtual realm are enough to turn the virtual realm into a long-term and high-quality meal ticket!" He took a deep breath and his excitement calmed down slightly, but the admiration in his tone did not diminish at all.
"... As for the progress in theory, it is even more amazing. Whether it is the "psionic network" of the Grays or the "virtual realm within the virtual realm" phenomenon we discovered during our exploration, any one of them alone is a major research discovery that is enough to appear on the front page of "The Sage"!"
"Salvaging virtual realm resources is Xuebang's specialty.
Although it is impossible to directly salvage "technology" that does not exist in Osland, the treasures that can be used to condense the soul and the rare materials for making powerful magic tools are temptations that the sages cannot refuse.
Luo Yan was pleased that Miller and his team could quickly get back on their feet, but looking at the other person's eagerness to publish the paper immediately, he still gave a kind reminder.
"Well done. But... you should not embarrass the editor of "The Sage" recently. It's okay to write the paper slower."
"Why?" Miller looked at the instructor who suddenly poured cold water on himself and said in surprise, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! We will redefine the model of virtual reality research, and no one can doubt that we are doing a useless thing anymore - "
"You will understand after I leave." Luo Yan looked at the young man and smiled, his tone calm, as if he was talking about a small matter that had nothing to do with him.
Miller was stunned for a moment, and then he realized the astonishing information behind this sentence, and the excitement on his face froze instantly.
He lowered his voice and asked tentatively.
"You...you're leaving?!"
"Yes." Luo Yan nodded calmly.
Miller stared blankly at the respectful Highness in front of him, and was speechless for a moment.
Even though there were thousands of words in his heart that he wanted to save, those words were stuck in his throat, and in the end he only squeezed out a bitter and hoarse word.
…
He is a smart man.
Although he usually does not show enthusiasm for the power struggle in the tower, it does not mean that he cannot see anything.
All recent signs indicate that the great sages thousands of miles away are deliberately supporting Professor Uriere of the Holy Power School to check and balance the scientific school advocated by His Highness Colin. Many scholars who were originally close to His Highness the Prince have begun to align themselves again.
Downplaying Colin's positive role in the "Maze Trial Incident" is a typical sign.
Although the three thousand apprentices and hundreds of teaching assistants who experienced that incident all knew that it was His Highness Colin who put an end to Professor Alister who was corrupted by Chaos, "The Sage" pointed the honor at Orphea and others who blew up the core of the maze by avoiding the important and taking the easy.
This is the second method on the upper level of the tower.
They not only want to support a new faction to replace the Thorne Society and fight against the "scientific" school, but also support another faction within the scientific school, thus dividing Colin's personal influence and provoking conflicts between the two factions.
This may not be an order personally issued by the great sage himself.
But the people who live in this tower are all top-notch smart people. They only need a look or a cough from the great sage to understand the hidden meaning in the spittle.
Then, the layout of all this will be completed automatically under the collective unconscious behavior.
The Grays in the Void Realm No. 178 use a psychic network to connect each other's hearts. The sages of the school can easily do this without resorting to the power of magic.
Miller originally thought that the prince would be an exception. If he were an undisputed noble person, he would not have to go through this. However, it turned out that he thought too much.
It is the same no matter who comes here.
"Why did you leave...I can tell you there are many reasons for this question."
Luo Yan put down the teacup, stood up, walked to the window overlooking the entire snowfield, and continued with a smile.
"But if I had to tell it personally, I would rather tell you the most poetic one... Some birds are destined to belong to the broader sky."
"Don't be so depressed. We are not separated by an insurmountable void, and we all live under the same starry sky. If you miss me any day, just write me a letter, or... you can come to Janna to find me."
A strong impulse surged into Miller's heart.
He even wanted to leave everything in the school at this moment, leave this cold snowfield where countless geniuses were imprisoned, and follow in the footsteps of His Highness the Prince to see the broader sky.
However, there are too many things that are difficult to let go of.
He thought of the colleagues who worked with him, of the young apprentices who were eager for knowledge in the magic science laboratory, and of the countless research projects on the wall that had just been started and were still waiting for them to be completed.
Some things can never be done again once they leave the school.
Perhaps, one day in the future he will make a choice.
But now, he wants to stay here even more and inherit the "scientific" fire brought by His Highness like a sudden glimpse.
Perhaps this tower will change one day in the future because of his trivial efforts.
If not...
It is not too late to make other choices by then.
After thinking about this, Miller took a deep breath, raised his head, and looked at Luo Yan with an unprecedented firm gaze.
"Your Highness, I will not beg you to stay, but I ask you to please inform me on the day you leave. At least please allow us to stand by the window to see you off and not leave quietly..."
"That is certain."
Luo Yan smiled, with a narrow smile in his deep eyes, and said in a gentle tone.
"When I came here, I flew from the sky, and when I left, I would naturally fly away from this snowfield."
"When that day comes, it will be difficult for you not to see me."
…
In addition to a scientific virtual resource management system, Luo Yan also prepared another "gift" for his young apprentices.
That is neither a powerful magical device nor a magic book with obscure spells written on it, but something more valuable than both of them.
The next day, he summoned his students in the Magical Science Laboratory and announced a seemingly unremarkable decision.
"Sages have their own journals, and we are going to create an academic journal of our own." Luo Yan announced with a smile, "Its name will be "Science.""
Speaking, Luo Yan turned his attention to James Walli.
"Can I entrust you with the work of this editor-in-chief?"
“It’s no problem, Your Highness, but...can I really do it?” Hearing this surprising decision, James’s face was full of flattery, but there was also a trace of hesitation in his eyes.
He believed that His Highness Colin chose him out of trust, but he was doubtful about his qualifications and authority.
Can a silver-level mentor really shoulder such a heavy burden?
Looking at the unconfident Mr. James Walli, Luo Yan smiled and dispelled his concerns in a gentle tone.
"Of course, it's better to say... you are the most suitable candidate."
After a pause, he continued.
"Our journal is different from "Sage". You don't have to consider the interests of the Tower of the Great Sage, or even the interests of the academic country. Your attention only focuses on the academic itself. As long as it is a groundbreaking paper, regardless of whether it is a preparatory student or a sage, you should give it a necessary review, and after confirming that it has certain academic value, find the most outstanding scholar in the field to conduct a double-blind review of the manuscript."
Ophelia said doubtfully.
���Double-blind?"
Luo Yan said with a smile.
"To put it simply, the names of the contributors and reviewers are obscured. Until the manuscript is published, only the editor-in-chief knows whose manuscript is on whose desk."
Ophia's eyes lit up.
“This is a great idea!”
Not just Ophia, everyone also nodded and praised this groundbreaking idea.
Although with the development of technology and the increase in subdivisions, double-blindness will gradually lose its anonymous function, and knowledgeable people can guess who wrote the paper at a glance at the beginning of the paper, but at least this idea is still groundbreaking in this era.
The content of the first issue of the journal was determined after discussion. Everyone agreed that Ilana's "Path Optimization Equation", which was ruthlessly rejected by "The Sage", was the most suitable choice.
Not only because of its own academic value, but also because of the almost rude rejection reason of "Sage"——
They want to highlight the difference between "Science" and "Sage"!
Bain and Harder plan to write a conceptual paper on "explosive thermobaric bombs" as the journal's first "Applied Science" article.
As for the printing of periodicals, Luo Yan left it to Alberto, the reliable shopkeeper in Artisan Street, who occasionally took over the printing of books.
With the efforts of many apprentices and teaching assistants in the Magical Science Laboratory, they quickly printed the first batch of publications.
This "Science", which has a simple appearance and does not have any official background, was born in an ordinary afternoon.
Subscribing to this journal does not require Xuebang's establishment. Even shopkeepers in Artisan Street can subscribe as long as they have an address.
Just send a letter to the Magic Science Laboratory and include the subscription fee of 1 silver coin and the subscription address. The editorial department will send the latest issue of the publication to the subscriber's dormitory, office or mage tower at the beginning of each month.
The emergence of the journal "Science" did not shake the authority of the sages, but it triggered an unprecedented fierce debate between the young apprentices and teaching assistants.
"This is simply whimsical! Magic is the art of communicating with the source of power, and it is a sacred talent! How can it be defined by cold mathematical formulas?" An older teaching assistant was in the lounge, dismissively looking at the journal in his hand.
He would never admit it because he couldn't understand it.
"But it can explain the "conservation of magic energy"!"
Hearing the dismissive slur, another young assistant coach immediately retorted.
His eyes flashed with excitement, looking at his astonished colleagues, he continued speaking excitedly.
"Especially the path optimization equation! In the presence of Saint Sith, I discovered for the first time that the design of magic circles and spells can be so streamlined and beautiful! Isn't the pursuit of higher and more powerful truth our ultimate goal as magicians?"
"This is a blasphemy to tradition! It is a blatant challenge to the sages!"
"No! This is the original intention of the establishment of the Academy - to explore the unknown!"
A fierce debate about "traditional magic" and "mathematical axioms" has quietly ignited in every corner of the Academy.
No one knows where this spark of thought will lead this tower, but it does bring a possibility to this unchanging icy snowfield that no one has ever imagined——
Mortal wisdom is not useless.
…
It is completely different from the calm situation around Prince Colin, Professor Uriel Ackley of the Tower of the Holy Energy School has had a prosperous career recently.
With the fall of Alister Thorne, as another "Great Sage Candidate" strongly promoted by the conservatives of the Council of Sages, he almost naturally took over most of the political legacy left by Alister.
· Driven by thoughtful people, everyone regarded him as another rising academic star after Ariste.
Uriyel was very proud of this glory that fell from the sky, and countless praises and surrenders greatly satisfied his vanity. However, beneath his gentle and compassionate mask of a scholar, there is also a trace of unnoticeable worry.
He knew very well that he was just a pawn pushed to the stage by the great sage to check and balance the imperial prince.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but it also comes with fatal danger.
He must make every move carefully!
On this day, he was in his private laboratory, admiring a treasure that he had just obtained from the virtual world. It is a green crystal that exudes extremely pure power. Just by staring at it, you can feel the nourishment from the depths of your soul.
Uriyel had an intoxicated expression on his face, and he was thinking about going to the meditation room to try the effect of this thing.
However, at this moment, an apprentice knocked on the door and reported to him in a panic that the journal called "Science" was circulating among the students.
This is Uriel's instruction.
Any matter concerning His Highness Colin must be reported to him in detail.
"A privately founded journal?"
Uriel stopped what he was doing, and his gray-blue eyes narrowed slightly, "The paper that was rejected by the "Sage" was published?"
The apprentice nodded and added.
"Yes, mentor! The apprentices in the entire Mage Tower are discussing this matter now! You know, that prince is very popular among the young apprentices and teaching assistants..."
He did not dare to mention Prince Colin's name in front of Professor Uriere, so he could only use "that prince" instead.
Uriel's heart sank suddenly, and a feeling of nervousness gripped him, but his face remained calm as he looked at the apprentice and said.
"You should step down first."
"Yes..."
The apprentice respectfully retired.
As the door of the laboratory closed, Uriel's expression immediately darkened. He paced back and forth in the room alone, alarm bells blaring in his head.
What does Prince Colin want to do?
He subconsciously connected this matter with Prince Colin's conspiracy, and suspiciously guessed the other party's motives.
Is this knocking the mountain and shaking the tiger?
Or are you declaring war on the faction behind him?
Or... the sword is pointed at him?
Uriyel became more and more anxious as he thought about it, and there was even a thin layer of sweat on his forehead.
After all, my past is not entirely clean, especially the taboo research on "Soul Weaving Technique" involves too many things that are inconvenient to explain clearly.
What should we do if Colin uses the influence of "Science" to reveal his old black materials?
After all, he was not Professor Alister, who was used to seeing big waves. He was the "prince of the prince" until a month ago. He never thought that the position of "the successor to the wise man" would one day be his turn.
Humbling not to neglect, Uriere immediately used his network to get a copy of the first issue of "Science" from another junior apprentice.
He locked himself in the study, carefully opened the ordinary-looking journal, and read it word for word, trying to find hidden traps or vicious insinuations between the lines.
However——
He was disappointed.
It seems that it is really just an ordinary academic journal?
Apart from Ilana’s genius paper, the remaining articles are just interesting ideas and not offensive in any way.
It is even cleaner than "Sage". After all, "Sage" often publishes some news or official opinions, but this journal is really just a journal.
Uriere was stunned.
He leaned back on the chair and felt that his punch, which was full of strength, hit a ball of cotton firmly.
The nervous feeling of facing a powerful enemy seemed extremely funny at this moment.
"Could it be... I'm overthinking it?"
He muttered to himself, feeling confused and annoyed that he had wasted so much inner drama, but soon the emotion turned into disdain.
Taking out a handkerchief and wiping the sweat from his forehead, Uriel regained his proud smile on his face and muttered to himself sarcastically.
"It's true that I think highly of him."