Chapter 136 Relaxation
Chapter 136 Relaxation
Walking along the academy path, Leon's pace unconsciously slowed, and his mood seemed to gradually unfold with each light step.
Every brick, every tile, and every patch of lush green grass here seems to possess a magical power to heal the soul.
This had become a habit for Leon; whenever the pressures of life overwhelmed him, he would choose such a quiet afternoon to stroll alone along the academy's paths.
He had no destination; he just wandered around as he pleased.
Sometimes, he would unconsciously come to the riverbank, sit on a bench, and quietly watch the river flow slowly, listening to the water gently lapping against the shore, and his worries seemed to flow away with it.
Sometimes, he would walk to the tree, close his eyes, and feel the rustling of the leaves in the breeze. The sound seemed to tell the story of the years, gradually calming his heart.
The scenery of the academy remains unchanged; the familiar buildings, flowers, and trees seem to have never changed, quietly accompanying Leon through every sad moment.
However, Leon's heart was not as calm as usual today. Some trivial matters, some choices, and some uncertainties about the future surged into his mind like a tide.
He tried to find answers in this familiar scenery, hoping that the tranquility could guide him.
Leon always kept his thoughts to himself; he didn't like to dump his troubles on others like garbage.
In his view, everyone's life is already busy enough, and he doesn't want to add any more burden to others.
He knew that not everyone was willing to be someone else's emotional dumping ground, nor was everyone able or willing to offer help.
He didn't want to be the kind of person who always relied on others, so no matter what problems he encountered, he always chose to face them alone, think about them alone, and process them alone.
His own personality is like that; when others confide in him, he always feels an invisible pressure.
He felt that he was not good at giving advice, nor did he have enough wisdom to solve other people's problems.
This self-doubt made him more inclined to keep his distance and unwilling to get too involved in other people's lives. As a result, his social circle was relatively small, and he didn't have many friends.
Even with his closest friends, Leon rarely reveals all his troubles and worries.
He was afraid that his negative emotions would affect his friends' mood, and he was also afraid that his friends would be troubled by his problems.
He prefers to maintain a relaxed and cheerful demeanor in front of his friends, sharing happiness rather than pain.
Taking walks became Leon's best way to release stress. He liked to stroll along deserted paths, letting his thoughts wander with each step.
This time alone is exceptionally precious to him; it is a valuable moment for him to process his emotions and reflect on problems.
He believes that a simple walk or a short rest is enough to purify his soul and let his hesitations and worries go with the wind.
Leon's gaze swept across the academy, and he noticed that the students had all changed into heavy clothes, no longer the relaxed attire he had worn when he first arrived.
Three months is not a long time, but it is enough for the seasons to change and for the temperature to drop.
He recalled the day he first arrived here, when the sun was shining brightly, but now, a chill had quietly descended.
He hadn't spent a New Year at this college yet, and he felt both curious and somewhat excited about the upcoming holiday. The traditional customs and lively atmosphere here were things he had never experienced before.
With heavy steps, Leon arrived at Professor Polan's residence. It was an inconspicuous place in the academy, but it was Professor Polan's sacred place where he researched his beloved curse magic.
His life was simple and focused; he devoted almost all his energy to his research.
In just three months, Leon had already noticed the changes in Professor Polan.
The wrinkles on his face were deeper, and the crow's feet at the corners of his eyes seemed more pronounced, which was undoubtedly the result of his long hours of staying up late and being exhausted.
A sense of unease welled up in Leon's heart, but Professor Polan seemed oblivious to it, or rather, selectively ignored it.
Professor Polan glanced up and saw Leon's arrival, but only gave him a brief look before burying himself back in his research.
His voice betrayed an undisguised excitement: "You've come at the perfect time, Professor Leon. I've made some new discoveries. Look at this writing; its shape and structure, don't they hint at some bloody meaning?"
Leon leaned closer, his gaze fixed on the symbol that Professor Bolan was pointing to.
A hint of seriousness flashed in his eyes, because he recognized the symbol.
"It seems so." Leon nodded slightly, his voice carrying a hint of certainty.
Upon hearing Leon's approval, Professor Polan visibly relaxed. His research had always been a mystery within the academy; he had studied that thick magic book for most of his life, but many of the spells and symbols within remained unsolved enigmas for him.
Leon's approval at least made him feel that he was on the right track.
"Take care and get some rest, Ms. Polan."
Looking at Professor Polan's exhausted face, Leon couldn't help but speak up to remind him. He knew Professor Polan's dedication to these studies, but he was also worried that such dedication might be harming his health.
Upon hearing this, Ms. Bolan gave a bittersweet yet relieved smile.
"Sigh, I'm already so old, I don't feel like I have much time left to live,"
His voice carried a hint of the vicissitudes of life, "I just want to do some things I like."
His gaze returned to the complex symbols, his eyes sparkling with a thirst for knowledge and a desire to explore the unknown.
"It's been a long time since you last visited. Is there something you need for this sudden visit?"
Professor Polan looked up, his gaze shifting from the complex magical symbols, and gently inquired of Leon. His voice held a hint of concern, suggesting he was somewhat surprised by Leon's unexpected visit.
"Nothing much, I just wanted to come and see you."
Leon answered, his tone revealing sincerity. Indeed, it had been quite some time since he had set foot here, since he had discussed those profound magical knowledge with Professor Polan.
"What's there to visit about an old man like me?"
Mr. Polan smiled gently, a hint of self-deprecation flashing in his eyes, but more so gratitude for Leon's concern.
He knew that his position in the academy was somewhat special, and his research was not understood by everyone, but Leon's arrival always made him feel a sense of warmth.
The two once again engaged in a deep discussion about curse magic. Professor Polan showed Leon his latest discoveries, while Leon, with his keen insight and solid knowledge, offered some unique perspectives. Their discussion was lively and engaging.
Teacher Bolan did not expect that Leon would have such understanding and progress in less than three months of study.
He looked at Leon, his eyes revealing admiration. "I have to admit, youth is truly wonderful."
Leon then continued to stroll through the academy, enjoying the tranquility and freedom.
His thoughts drifted along the cobblestone path as he walked, recalling the bits and pieces of his time at the academy.
Finally, he stopped in front of Lian's residence.
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