Dark Energy by carlsojos

Chapter 4

...And that is what we currently understand about Adaptive Artificial Intelligence. For those of you officially enrolled in this class, there will be a test tomorrow to prove your comprehension of the concepts discussed today. Dismissed.

The professor took his leave as well as most of the students. I was confused on most of the jargon he used, but I managed to grasp some of the underlying logic. As I pondered on the implications I had understood, Etirn spoke up, Well, I gotta head over to the Technology Lab. I was promised a weapon that uses an explosive charge to throw small pieces of metal and kill a Xanafalgue from at least 30 feet.

Opening my eyes, I responded, Okay. Maybe you could tell me more about this dig when this lecture's done.

You're interested in that ruin, huh? I'll have to keep that in mind. Out of professional curiosity, what are you doing here at Motavia University?

I'm a Sophmore, Major in Biology, and I'm currently specializing in Genetics, since there isn't enough information for a Minor program in the discipline yet.

Why?

I wasn't quite prepared to answer the question, but I also didn't want to lie. I decide to say, Well, I'm looking for answers to a question that nobody seems to know.

And what question would that be? He called my bluff. Before I could come up with a better answer, he simply shrugged. I guess that's a bit personal for you. Alright, Confusion. I'm going. When next we meet...

I watched him walk off. As I sighed over being let off the hook, Professor Hanover walked in. I notice the Principal walking off in the distance before the door closed.

Let's see here... Sophmore Ashley, isn't it? Are you thinking of a second major in Technology, too? Do you believe that you've already exhausted our field of study in a mere 2 years?

No, sir. I didn't know you changed the lecture time today. What did the Principal want from you?

You know about that? Well, there's some conjecture about some ruins near Zema. Word is that it could possibly be a biology laboratory from before the Great Collapse. The dig team there has requested for some specialists or students to assist in the analysis of various artifacts as they sit in the ruins. I told the principal that most of my students are only somewhat studious, and downright inferior workers. I don't have any aides to spare at the moment for this purpose, but I suggested a couple students who I believe could handle this.

Who did you pick?

The professor smiled a little, Actually, I mentioned that, while I can't vouch on previous field work, you are the brightest and most knowledgeable student I have ever had the honor of working with.

I blushed at the unexpected compliment. After all, I was planning on tearing his newest genetic theory to pieces as soon as he announced it in a few minutes. Oh, thank you. I don't know what to say.

Hey, it's true. You are quite likely the only student this year who didn't choose this major simply to slack off. Just then, some guy walked into the lecture hall. I recognized him as a courier, one of the ones that relays messages throughout campus when the PA system doesn't work. It rarely does.

Excuse me, Professor Hanover, but do you know if Sophmore Marika Ashley will attend your lecture today?

I'm right here, sir.

Excellent. The principal has requested you to come to his office, as soon as convenient. With that the man left as fast as he came.

I look back to my professor, and he simply shrugged. I didn't think he took me that seriously. You'd better head that way now. I took my leave, and headed towards the principal's office.

Next chapter

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