[TIDK] 135 – Tour

June 17

Scarlett and Pallin strolled through the halls of the school, exploring its various classrooms. Physics, mathematics, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and chemistry—were the five subjects offered. The three professors taught all the subjects without distinction, ensuring a well-rounded education for the students. However, it seemed that mechanical engineering had been given less emphasis compared to the others.

As they continued their tour, Scarlett found herself standing in front of a research lab. It was an impressive facility, generously funded by the Crimson couple as a donation to the school. Etched on the lab's door were the names of its benefactors: Wendy Crimson and Willis Crimson. The inscription above the names caught Scarlett's attention: "Honouring the Greatest Inventors in Salantier's History."

Scarlett noticed a vibrant red lock securing the door. Almost instinctively, she remembered the password her mother had mentioned. Pressing the corresponding numbers, the lock swiftly clicked open, granting them access.

Stepping into the lab, Scarlett's eyes widened in amazement. The walls were adorned with shelves filled to the brim with research materials, each holding the potential for new discoveries. A rush of nostalgia washed over her as she realised that she had visited this very place as a baby, a cherished memory from her early years spent with her parents.

Suddenly, a wave of intense pain surged through Scarlett's head, causing her to stumble. Pallin, ever alert, rushed to her side, supporting her gently. Concern etched on his face, he anxiously inquired, "Are you alright?"

"I'm alright. I'm sorry," Scarlett assured Pallin, causing him to release her hand and lower his head in response.

"I understand," Pallin replied, accepting her reassurance.

Scarlett couldn't help but feel remorse for the trouble they had gone through because of her. "I didn't mean to come all the way here and cause you so much trouble."

Pallin gently brushed her concerns aside and spoke; his voice tinged with sincerity. "I didn't want to burden you, but..."

Interrupting his sentence, Pallin trailed off and absentmindedly rubbed the back of his neck as if grappling with his thoughts.

Scarlett could sense the weight of his words as she stood in the research lab. The walls adorned with coded research materials painted a vivid picture of the significance this place held. It dawned on her that the fate of Salantier seemed to rest upon her.

Confused by the contradiction in Pallin's earlier statement, Scarlett couldn't help but ask, "Why did you say you didn't want to burden me if it would be like this?"

Pallin's response was earnest, his voice filled with genuine concern. "I didn't mean to burden you unintentionally. It was never my intention."

Scarlett's lips curved into a faint smile at his words, appreciating his thoughtfulness. Taking a deep breath, she surveyed the research materials before her. Most of them were encrypted, shrouded in mystery. Though she vaguely recalled her parents discussing codes, the memories remained hazy and elusive.

Scarlett wrapped her arms around herself, cradling her head with her hands, and softly whispered, "If only I could recollect those memories more vividly..."

"..."

Pallin caught a glimpse of Scarlett, and her momentarily despondent expression didn't go unnoticed. Determined to lift her spirits, Scarlett took a deep breath and mustered her energy before turning to Pallin.

"Are you feeling hungry? Let's grab a bite, something simple."

Pallin nodded in agreement, "Yes, that's a good idea. However, I'm not sure if there are any nearby options. I saw some people complaining about the lack of places to eat earlier."

Scarlett replied, "I see."

With that, Scarlett exited the research lab, and Pallin promptly made a phone call to scout for a decent restaurant nearby. Despite Northern cuisine generally being considered less impressive than its Southern counterpart, they managed to find a restaurant with fine and enjoyable food.

Having satisfied their hunger, they returned to the school, warmly greeting the professors and exchanging handshakes. Just as Scarlett was about to make her way back to the research lab, she spotted the Dumfelt family's carriage parked in front of the school. Both professors and students had gathered around, fascinated by the carriage's presence. Excitement filled the air as various items, including a stove, curtains, and blankets, were unloaded and transported into the research lab. Blythe walked out of the carriage with his customary warm smile and addressed Scarlett.

"Ah, it seems all the students have come out as well. Except for you, Miss. If you need anything, feel free to take whatever you like. We've brought some warm wine and cheese as well. Would you care for some?"

The majority of students in the College of Engineering were genuinely passionate about their studies. However, even for those with a strong interest, becoming heirs to their family legacies was not a path they could choose against their parents' objections. As a result, they were not considered heirs themselves.

Even students from affluent families faced opposition when choosing the College of Engineering in Salantier, causing them to stand out as black sheep within their own families. The professors shared the same sentiments, and they all hurriedly gathered their belongings as they flocked towards the carriage.

"We finally have a stove!" exclaimed one student with excitement.

"Does that mean we can finally bake bread and enjoy it?" another student chimed in, hopeful.

Scarlett, who had grown up with great determination and took charge of managing the fire, smiled, knowing she could now secretly indulge in the pleasure of baking bread.

Observing Scarlett's disbelieving expression, Kristin approached her with a reassuring tone. "Scarlett, if you need anything, just let me know. I'm here to help with anything you need."

"Thank you. Oh, and I wanted to..."

Before Scarlett could finish her sentence and attempt to build a closer bond with Kristinn, she heard Pallin grumbling discontentedly.

"With so many scientists gathered here, they couldn't even think of making a simple stove."

The students exchanged glances, their faces reflecting their desire to express something. Kristin, mustering her courage, spoke up boldly.

"Now that we have engineers among us, we can make anything possible!"

"Our Madame did not come here to make a stove, as I previously mentioned. She is a distinguished individual," Pallin interjected firmly.

"Uh...uh!" Kristin’s voice trailed off, and she let out a frustrated exclamation before turning away, unable to continue speaking.