Adlet and Niccolo had now spent several days together, almost constantly.
As agreed, Adlet had recounted his first encounter with his beetle, slightly altering details to keep his promise to his master.
He felt a twinge of guilt for lying and had willingly become a test subject. Niccolo put him through various exercises, recording all the results on a sheet, which he later filed in one of his thick registers filled with similar pages.
The researcher, true to his word, was exceptional. He could answer any question Adlet posed and explain the distinctive characteristics of every species in the Dryad Forest, including their main strengths and weaknesses.
Florian, insisting he could manage on his own to demonstrate intellectual superiority to Adlet, had developed a habit of listening to Niccolo's lessons while pretending to read at a nearby table, preserving his pride.
After about ten days, both boys had learned about all the creatures in the region: their ranks, measurements, hunting techniques, traits, appearance, and of course, their names.
In short, everything a Protector might need in the field. Niccolo often let his passion take over, providing his students with additional, less essential information—today was no exception.
"...you now understand that the higher an individual's Aura rank, the harder it will be for their next evolution due to the exponentially greater life energy required. The same applies to Protectors with each increase in their Aura rank.
Imagine a new high-rank species appears. Initially, there is only one individual of that species, right, Adlet?" Niccolo asked, eyes sparkling.
"Yes, logically," Adlet replied.
"How will this new species expand its population later?" Niccolo continued.
"Well… Apex evolution is closely tied to the environment, so when new individuals from the same species evolve, they will develop similar traits in response to their surroundings and belong to the same species," Adlet explained, summarizing what he had learned.
"Exactly. Before a new species emerges, it already exists among its predecessors in the evolutionary chain. This explains why each region has a limited number of Apex from the same species. But what happens if an individual never finds companions after evolving?"
Adlet recalled his Academy admission day. Other candidates had spoken of 'ephemerals' when referring to his beetle, believing it would die before reproducing.
"The species will end with the death of its sole member, but may reappear if others reach the same stage," Adlet said.
"You're partly correct. Usually, that's what happens if the individual dies quickly. But Apex have adapted to this challenge. At a certain level, an Apex can even give birth to its descendants independently. Incredible, isn't it?" Niccolo said, eyes shining.
"It is impressive—it's as if they adapt even to nature's laws," Adlet commented.
"But for humanity, there's an even more crucial evolution in Apex. One that ensures our survival. Any idea what that might be?" Niccolo asked with a knowing smile.
Adlet thought briefly. "Their reproduction rate?"
"Exactly! Higher-rank species reproduce less frequently, reducing population despite longer lifespans. For example, the rank 4 'lumber ant' species—imagine if they reproduced as fast as their ancestors. Thousands of devastatingly powerful individuals would emerge…"
"We wouldn't stand a chance," Adlet murmured.
"Luckily, they only produce a few offspring at a time, ensuring sufficient life energy for each. Birth rates are also linked to species size, though I can't explain that fully. Anyway, it's late, and you must be hungry. That's it for today," Niccolo said, glancing at Florian, whose stomach growled.
—
The two-week preparation period given by Baryon was ending. Adlet and Florian had memorized all necessary knowledge and even had some free time. They met Niccolo one last time to thank him.
"Thank you for all your help," the boys said in unison.
"It's nothing, children. I merely upheld my end of a fair bargain," Niccolo replied, a little embarrassed.
Adlet knew the bargain was far from fair—he had received vital help while giving only partial truths and some exercise assistance.
"Count on me to share my Apex observations next time I visit the guild," Adlet said.
"I expect it… but my stay here will end soon. I'll return to Atlantis. You're welcome at my home if you ever pass through," Niccolo said.
"Atlantis?" Adlet asked.
"The largest city in the Neraid region, north of the main island," Florian explained.
"Exactly. Just give my name at the local Protector guild. I may even introduce you to my son!" Niccolo added.
"We won't miss it. Take care," the boys said, shaking Niccolo's hand.
The young Protectors went to the guild entrance, where their group had split two weeks prior, waiting for Baryon.
He arrived shortly, accompanied by Daven and his usual arrogant expression.
"I feared I'd have to wait, but at least you're punctual," the bearded man said.
"Punctual, perhaps. Efficient, we'll see…" Daven commented.
"What's next on the schedule?" Florian asked, ignoring Daven.
"We head out on a mission immediately. We've already delayed enough… Follow me!" Baryon ordered.
With each stride toward the unknown, Adlet could feel the pulse of danger growing—this mission would push him to the very limits of his abilities.