One-Eyed Monster

Perkins looked out through the carriage window and, without realizing it, they were already at the entrance of Yonder Travel Academy. The debates along the way had never stopped, making the journey quite fulfilling and rich.

Igor had seen the gate of Yonder Travel Academy from afar and felt an unparalleled sense of familiarity; this was his home, and he’s finally returned.

Yonder Travel Academy did not appear grand, as it was located on the outskirts of Luona, backed by a large mountain. Although Alph Mountain wasn’t considered majestic, it was a rather lengthy mountain range within the Empire. The reason for establishing the Academy here was due to its special geographic conditions, situated in the center of the mountains, relatively hidden, and safer in case of war, as it’s surrounded by mountains, making entry not so easy. Additionally, the Spirit energy in Alph Mountain was lush, with a rich diversity of species and a distinct seasonal change.

It was now the eve of the Welcome the New Festival, so students were on holiday. Naturally, there were no vendors selling Courage Medals at the gate, nor were there any selling flowers from Clarisse. Igor felt a bit disappointed, as he had wanted to tell Clarisse about his experiences, but now, unfortunately, there was no chance.

The academy seemed somewhat deserted, as without the students, the liveliness dissipated, leaving only a group of old bones.

These old bones were once the elite among the Adventurers with Class within the entire Empire, but in their old age, both the Scholar Commons and the Wizard Alliance excluded them, believing these elders could no longer contribute to the organizations. However, to simply let them go felt heartless, so when Governor Rostov established the Academy, it naturally became a retirement home for these organizations.

They were once influential figures, so they were not surprised by these occurrences, acknowledging that everyone will age one day, even Wizards who can maintain their youthful appearances through natural techniques eventually bow to the aging of their bodily functions.

These elders felt fortunate to be able to share their knowledge and thoughts in their remaining years, so they naturally spread their knowledge warmly to the vigorous students.

In its early days, Yonder Travel Academy relied mainly on these old folks for support, until the first batch of students graduated and various major organizations recognized the significance of the Academy, leading to collaborations with Rostov which brought the Academy to scale.

Now, the Academy was not only a symbol of Luona but also a cradle recognized by Adventurers across the Empire. Graduates from here each year garnered much attention from major organizations. These organizations would also send talented youths here for further study, given that their usual tasks involve assisting the Empire’s Guardian Army and various departments, leaving little time for nurturing their own talents.

Thus, Yonder Travel Academy benefited as well.

It’s a win-win situation, with Rostov being the biggest winner.

The existence of Yonder Travel Academy allowed him to have more talents, even those old folks nearly forgotten by various organizations and associations, each of whom was a treasure capable of helping them acquire immense wealth.

Dean Hoffman was among these old bones. He was a scholar, and a revered one over a decade ago, admired and praised for every word he said. However, after aging, visitors ceased to come.

Later, a Politician named Rostov sought him, hoping he could help manage affairs at Yonder Travel Academy. At first, Dean Hoffman didn’t care much. Then, one evening, after drinking a bit at a tavern and engaging in a discussion with others, he faced disdain, leaving his old face slightly embarrassed. Fueled by the alcohol, he used Spirit Power to predict the future, which unexpectedly established Rostov and birthed Yonder Travel Academy.

This Academy is filled with many legends, some of which remain unknown.

Originally, Rostov named the Academy as Adventurers University, but Dean Hoffman said the name lacked innovation or poetry, and seemed too presumptuous.

Rostov asked if Hoffman had a better idea, to which Hoffman replied: ”The people who graduate from here will eventually journey afar and travel this world. Why not name it Yonder Travel Academy?”

This name pleased Rostov, and thus the school became Yonder Travel Academy.

Indeed, Yonder Travel Academy changed many lives, just as Rostov promoted.

Previously, most commoners wanting to change their children’s destinies would have them join the Guardian Army. For instance, Qi Liu’s father did so, hoping that by entering the Imperial Guardian Army, they could eventually enter the Imperial Military Academy, which would alter their destinies, given that graduates became either battlefield generals or protectors on the frontlines…

The emergence of Yonder Travel Academy changed this situation. Many children at the crossroads between Adventurers and Non-Adventurers received a clear indication from the Academy. Yonder Travel Academy also showed everyone that Adventurers were not so lofty.

Often, this is how destinies are altered.

Igor himself was very grateful to the Academy, which is why he held great reverence for Governor Rostov.

After all, he was the one who brought change, giving them hope.

Even though Igor now knew Governor Rostov had some personal ambitions and hidden facets, he still revered him.

The existence of Yonder Travel Academy indeed propelled Rostov to the peak of his political career, although it did expend a significant amount of Luona’s funds. Louvkat still complains about how Rostov spends money like water.

The Thunder Army, Yonder Travel Academy brought Rostov great fame, while also consuming much of Luona’s labor and financial resources… This pained Louvkat, but later, as more students enrolled in Yonder Travel Academy, it gradually achieved a financial balance, ending up with a small profit, which finally calmed down the greatly agitated heart of Treasurer Louvkat. Just then, the old bones at Yonder Travel Academy started tinkering with a steam-powered vehicle…

The plan for the steam railroad also emerged consequently…

Hence, Yonder Travel Academy was truly a treasure, a cherished asset of Rostov’s.

Now, Rostov’s convoy had reached the gates of Yonder Travel Academy. Familiar with them, the Academy’s guards opened the gate early and went to inform the Dean…

Perkins got off the carriage; his load needed proper arrangement. Upon seeing Yonder Travel Academy, he felt he had come to the right place; his loaded carriage finally had somewhere to settle.