I Can Read People's Comments

Chapter 78 Ideas

[Chapter 77 Comment]

[Hunter_Keenan_2132: I wonder, what do you spend your money on Theo? Just saving it up in case it ever comes in handy before you leave this reality?]

…

"Aaahhhh!"

"No more! Help!"

"NOOOOO!"

"Please stop it!"

"Just kill me, please!"

Loud cries echoed in a basement. The basement had been constructed with thick concrete to ensure that the sounds wouldn't escape. Within the basement were numerous prison cells designed to confine offenders. Given that the academy was still relatively new, external threats were a common occurrence.

Victoria stood in the hallway, her expression troubled. Even though she hadn't directly witnessed the scene, she could sense the pain and agony they were going through. In fact, she found it preferable not to directly see it.

Despite the passage of thirty minutes, the screams persisted. As per the agreement, everything was supposed to conclude after this time.

A man opened the door to a specific cell and calmly stepped out.

Victoria offered a wry smile and inquired, "Have you obtained the information you sought?"

"Yeah," Theo nodded. "The old man was a tough nut to crack, but the woman proved to be easier. I've extracted all the information I needed."

Victoria approached him, her gaze briefly darting towards the cell's interior.

The woman's body bore no visible bruises, but her appearance was disheveled. Her hair was haphazardly tied, as if she hadn't bathed in a year. Her eyes seemed vacant, as though her very soul had abandoned her. Seated on the cold stone floor, she appeared lifeless. Despite her heart still beating, she resembled a corpse.

Victoria couldn't help but wonder what Theo had done to reduce her to such a state. Yet, she instinctively understood that she shouldn't pose that question.

Though Theo's expression seemed mild, his actions had been unrelenting and cold.

"In any case, you require my authorization to conduct interrogations," Victoria stated. "While it's true this pertains to your daughter, remember that the academy also bears responsibility for all its students and faculty."

"I'm aware," Theo shrugged. He was acutely aware of the potential repercussions, particularly if this facility's existence came to light. Thus, only with Victoria's consent could one enter this place.

Theo had also noticed a few additional individuals within, indicating that Victoria had been neutralizing various threats encroaching upon the town.

"However, would you mind hearing a suggestion?" Victoria inquired.

"Is there an issue with my current teaching method?"

"No. Undertaking missions and facing life-and-death battles indeed accelerates growth. Nonetheless, a significant problem arises: endangering the students. Those students are sent here to grow in a relatively secure environment."

"But you're aware that danger lurks everywhere," Theo responded.

"Yes, I am. As such, after dealing with those behind these incidents, an agreement has been reached. Mission intervals will be extended. Instead of exposing them to perilous missions, we're considering the creation of a virtual arena."

"A virtual arena?" Theo furrowed his brow.

"Yeah, the concept is quite simple. We're transporting students' consciousness into a virtual world where they can confront monsters. With the assistance of the apocalyptic world, we should be capable of generating authentic monsters endowed with their physical capabilities, as well as their aggression and such."

"Hoh? That's intriguing. I could achieve something similar using my illusions, but if it's solely dependent on one teacher's efforts, its sustainability within the academy might be short-lived."

"Exactly. That's why this serves as a long-term solution."

"Nonetheless, if students are aware that they won't face actual consequences even if they die, it might limit the effectiveness of the method."

"Indeed. That's why while the number of missions will decrease, they won't be eliminated entirely. We can view the virtual world as a training ground, while the missions solidify their growth."

"The concept seems solid," Theo concurred. "However, the execution will provide the final verdict. If I had to offer an opinion, there's one aspect I'd like to emphasize."

"What's that?"

"Inscriptions. Are you familiar with that power?"

"Ah, it originates from the Sword and Magic Realm."

"Given that you're establishing a virtual world, it'd be advantageous to include facilities that enhance both physical and mental strength. Additionally, does the virtual world induce the sensation of pain akin to the real world?"

"Hmm…" Victoria pondered deeply. "I'll strive to incorporate a certain degree of pain. Perhaps enabling students to adjust it according to their comfort level, gradually acclimating them to pain. But when you mentioned 'other places,' what were you referring to?"

"We can utilize the gymnasiums and fields for physical training, correct? So, what do you think about introducing more specialized options?"

"More specialized options?" Victoria sought clarification.

"Yes. How about utilizing Inscriptions to craft a gravity room? Scientifically, bones strengthen when exposed to higher gravity, correct? Naturally, this is a preliminary concept. It needs consultation with numerous experts. In essence, I'm contemplating four room types: Gravity, Essence, Elemental, and Physical Test."

"I can grasp the concept of a Gravity Room, but how would the Essence Room function?"

"Well, individuals from the Cultivation World attain strength through absorbing essence, correct? Additionally, individuals from my world can enhance their assimilation rates in rooms with abundant amount of essence. This could also benefit individuals from the Witch, Sword and Magic, Exorcism, Spirit, and Mythical Realms."

"I understand. That's a commendable suggestion. Although, it's apparent that this would incur substantial costs." Victoria contemplated briefly before inquiring further, "So, the Elemental Room follows a similar principle, focusing on elements?"

"Exactly. Even individuals from the Apocalyptic Realm could find utility in such a room."

"As for the last one, the Physical Test Room… am I correct in assuming you aim to create further competition between different classes?"

"Absolutely. Intense competition tends to fuel accelerated growth. We're talking about students here, and those youngsters will undoubtedly be eager to showcase their strength, particularly boys vying for attention from the girls they fancy," Theo chuckled.

"I see," Victoria concurred. "Creating these rooms shouldn't pose a challenge, but I must consult with multiple experts. Each world has its own power system; what works favorably in one might prove detrimental in another."

"Indeed, that's accurate. You're the authority here, so execute the necessary steps."

"Well… with over three months remaining until the midterm exams, I believe I can secure sponsors and finalize the design with the experts. If you don't object, I'd recommend abstaining from further missions for the time being. Some people harbor reservations regarding your high-risk teaching method. Hence, I propose staying put for a month before resuming missions."

"Agreed," Theo nodded.

"In that case, I'll take my leave here. I need to start working on that project," Victoria nodded at him before departing.

As he walked, Theo recalled the comments he had read. The current topic had sparked his interest, especially given his recent conversation about projects demanding substantial funding.

"My money, huh?" Theo gazed out of the window, observing students from other classes engaged in training on the field. "I admit that I receive a rather handsome salary as a teacher, given the abundance of talented and prominent students here. However, the bonus is provided in the form of contribution points. As for my expenses..."

Theo chuckled. He hadn't expended much of his earnings, deeming it unnecessary. Moreover, his wife's family held significant wealth, rendering it unnecessary for him to return money he earned from this establishment unless it exceeded a particular threshold.

"I suppose I've only used my earnings for everyday essentials?" Theo mused. "The academy generally covers the rest of my expenses. Should I utilize it for something more fun? Then again, I'm not planning to stay here for too long."

Nevertheless, the fact remained that he was prohibited from embarking on missions for a month, thwarting his intent to include the twins and Jayden this time around to conclude their initial training.

Ultimately, Theo decided on another approach.

"Perhaps I should utilize my funds to..." Theo recollected what he had obtained from the Sword and Magic World.

With a smile tracing his lips, Theo meticulously formulated his plan before proceeding to the classroom.

The students couldn't help but observe Theo's energetic expression, which led them to surmise that he must have got yet another outlandish scheme.

Theo announced, "I have both disappointing and heartening news. Which one do you prefer to hear first? Ah, never mind that. I'll tell you about the bad news first."

The students' eyebrows twitched, a sentiment echoing in their minds: 'Why are you even asking?'

Theo raised a finger. "For one month, the principal has imposed a restriction on me bringing you all on a mission. Regrettably, there won't be any expeditions for a while."

"What?!" The students were aghast; embarking on a mission with him was the highlight of their anticipation. To think the principal would intervene to prevent it.

"I ought to wield my influence to coerce the principal," Aurora declared, cracking her knuckles, ready for a battle.

"No need to act like that. I've prepared another engaging lesson for the upcoming month," Theo declared, pointing towards the window. "Accompany me to the field."

Upon reaching the field, Theo took out a sizable black stone that abruptly expanded into a colossal chamber. This was the tower Lemin had bestowed upon Theo. He could finally utilize it.

"This shall serve as our quiz. I'll design a challenge for each of you and evaluate your performance. Those who successfully pass will earn a bonus point, alongside... a special reward personally granted by me." Theo's smile radiated.

The students appeared flabbergasted. The allure of attaining a bonus point certainly motivated them, yet the prospect of a 'special reward' seized their intrigue even further.