【 ☆ 】Known by the university faculty as somewhat of an up-and-coming authority in the field of Alchemy, there was no question of Noctus’ talents. Though, perhaps, what he’d truly become known for in actuality was his passion and drive. Having earned himself several esteemed scholarships throughout his academic career thus far. The grants funding, not just his research, but his run at the prestigious institution as well.
One which otherwise would’ve been well beyond the alchemist’s reach.
It hadn’t been easy, the climb. Where the stones of Noctus’ circumstances weighed heavily upon his shoulders, being the middle child in a family shadowed by loss and raised by a single mother. But Noctus had pulled himself up by the bootstraps without complaint. He’d marched forward, however slowly at times, towards the future he hoped to better. Determined to squeeze every inch of give out of the opportunities afforded by his efforts.
Perhaps then that had been why Noctus had been so excited upon receiving an unexpected message to his student email. A reach out, by a fellow academic. One that had recently learned of the niche field that Noctus had dedicated himself to so thoroughly. They’d wanted to know more so, over the course of about a fortnight, Noctus had shared the basic principles during their back-and-forth correspondence.
It had proven to be quite the engaging exchange, once it quickly became apparent his fellow academic was no stranger to Chaos Energy. With their knowledge either already having a substantial grasp on some of the constituents of Chaos Energy, or quickly filling the gaps from the basics Noctus provided. Since email wouldn’t allow for much more than that, the basics.
So... ever eager to promote the merits of Alchemy, Noctus had invited them to come visit the campus and look over his shoulder one afternoon. After having learned that the other wasn’t actually located too far for a day trip via the regional train. Noctus had offered to meet them at the station, but the other reassured him that they’d be fine to meet on campus. So as arranged Noctus sat on the short brick fence outside the laboratory building beside an outdoor art piece. An easy enough landmark.
Noctus glanced down to his phone occasionally, checking for any notifications for any potential delays. By the time he looked up, he spotted what he could only assume was his invited company. Noctus smiled warmly. ❝ Afternoon. ❞ He greeted, subconsciously slipping into formalities as he pocketed his phone to slide off the wall. ❝ I hope you had an alright time finding you’re way? The campus is quite easy to get lost in, with how similar the buildings look with their age. Anyway. It’s nice to be able to put a face to the name. ❞
The Alchemist politely offered his hand in a shake.