It was obvious that Scar was still blaming himself for what happened a few years ago. Du Lin did not explain much but just silently took the notebook from the other party, opened it, and hurriedly flipped through the last few pages.
"Alchemy array? Magic formula? These..."
Although he had guessed it long ago, Du Lin still couldn't help but feel shocked after seeing what was recorded in the notes.
After all, as a magician, Durin had only studied magical alchemy for a few years. Although he had a high talent in elemental magic, magical alchemy did not require any talent for elemental sensing. It was more about accumulation, experimentation, and calculation!
Therefore, no matter how talented he is, without the accumulation of his predecessors, it would be impossible for the magic alchemy technology to achieve epoch-making growth. It is like in another world, if Kepler had not summarized the laws of planetary motion, Newton would not have been able to deduce the law of universal gravitation.
And now, looking at the precious experimental records, technical ideas, and the few possible magic alchemy techniques marked with red marks in this thin notebook, when he saw these things, Durin immediately realized that what he needed most had appeared.
"Hasn't this been shown to other magicians?"
In response to Durin's question, Scar just said slowly, "Originally, it cannot be shown to anyone outside the Alchemy Tower, but my brother once disregarded the rules and gave this notebook to Dean Hohenheim, trying to use it to prove the value of magical alchemy. But obviously, he failed. 'Theory alone is worthless. Only by bringing results can everything change.' These are Dean Hohenheim's original words at the time."
After hearing Scar's words, Du Lin, who had roughly understood the situation, carefully closed the notebook and put it in his pocket as if he was afraid that it would be torn by a slight tug. Then he said, "I understand. It's just right. I just happen to have something to talk to you about. Let's go to your laboratory to talk."
"???"
Unexpectedly, the other party also wanted to talk to him. After a moment of hesitation, Scar finally turned around and took Du Lin to the direction of the Alchemy Tower. Thinking back, the last time the two of them walked on this road together while discussing was several years ago...
... ... .
On the top floor of the Alchemy Tower, as the light of the teleportation array slowly lit up, Durin and Scar arrived at this laboratory which was in an unusual chaos because no one had been there for a long time.
"It seems that you are in a very bad condition recently."
In response to Durin's complaints, Scar just smiled bitterly and made room for Durin to sit down. He said helplessly, "There's nothing I can do. Ever since you were kicked out of the Mage Tower, most of the magicians actually think that the original incident was almost all my fault. That's why the Alchemy Tower has had less and less funding over the years. If you come back later, you might not be able to see me anymore."
"Why?"
"Because the money I owe is enough to sell me as a sword slave."
"... ..."
Knowing that they had not had an easy time these years, Du Lin sighed and said, "How much money do you owe? After all, I am now the dean of the Mage Alchemy Branch, so this matter still needs to be resolved."
In response to this, after hearing what Du Lin said, Scar was surprised at when the other party became so wealthy and powerful, and at the same time, he also reported the bill unceremoniously. After all, he really couldn't pay the debt by himself... ...
"Okay, I'll find someone to help you solve it later. Now let's talk about my problem first."
As he spoke, Durin repeated to Scar what he had just said to Hohenheim on the top of the Mage Tower.
After listening to his description, Scar quickly replied: "So, Dean Hohenheim asked you to present a birthday gift to the king on behalf of the Mage Tower in a month, and you don't know what kind of gift would be best, so you need my help?"
Seeing that Scar had figured out what he meant so quickly, Du Lin nodded and said, "Yes, the dean asked me to send the movie I invented before as a birthday present, but to be honest, I can't make a movie that can be shown to everyone in the palace without any problems within a month, so I want to discuss with you whether to make something else to send. After all, the object is the king after all, and his requirements will definitely not be low."
"Well, I do have some ideas about this, but it will take some time... You said it's impossible to shoot it within a month? Does that mean you already have plans for your next movie?"
Obviously, Scar had also watched the movie directed by Du Lin at the previous meeting, so even he couldn't help but look forward to Du Lin's new movie at this moment.
In response, Du Lin just smiled and said, "I already have an idea. I'll show it to you once I finish writing the script."
"Well, it's okay even if you don't show it to me..."
Seeing that Scarna was still a little hesitant, Du Lin just smiled and said, "Why are you being so strange to me? I plan to use this new movie to get the next batch of freshmen to learn the ropes of our Alchemy School. As the master of the Alchemy Tower, how can you not help and give me some advice?"
"What pit?"
Seeing that Scar hadn't reacted yet, Du Lin explained helplessly, "To put it simply, it's about making a promotional film to promote our magic alchemy department. I've already thought of the story, but in order to make it closer to reality and more attractive to these magic freshmen, I need you to help make some modifications when the time comes."
"Can I ask what the story is?"
In the end, Scar, whose appetite was completely whetted by Du Lin, instinctively asked.
In response, Du Lin just smiled and said: "It's too troublesome to explain the specific setting. To summarize it in words you can understand, it's a story about seven magicians summoning heroes from history to fight for a cup that can fulfill any wish."
Listing comments
Alas, thinking back to the first time I wrote a thank you note for a book, it was already two years ago.
I have been with Shuke for two years without realizing it. I watched the website change its name to Hedgehog Cat, and then I found myself still standing still. I am still a "newcomer" who is hesitant to write even the thank you remarks for the listing, for fear of writing or saying the wrong thing.
Of course, I have changed a lot compared to before. For example, I write slower and slower, I write more and more carefully, I am less willing to read readers' reviews, and every time I click into the book review area, I take ten deep breaths to prevent myself from getting upset when I am criticized... ... .
Gradually, I no longer say "never quit" like I did when I first started writing novels, nor do I write down a good idea immediately.
Because I also understand that writing a book is not one's own business. An author who only squeezes out his own ideas cannot write what readers want. At the same time, writing a book is not someone else's business. Only by constantly studying and polishing your own story can you write the good story you want.
Of course, writing a book will not always be smooth sailing. I am not a typing machine. If I occasionally write a bad story, it will naturally be difficult to continue.
It can be said that the only thing that has remained unchanged until now is probably my desire to write good stories.
Therefore, all I can do now is to keep writing good stories and more interesting stories, until one day, when I can guarantee that the stories I write are good stories and interesting stories, then I may no longer be a 'newcomer'.
Well, let's stop here. According to Shuke's practice, this book will be officially on the shelves from today, and the chapters will be released at noon. At that time, please place the first order as much as possible to support this book, and you can also cast more recommendation votes.
Chapter 71: Recruitment of actors for "Fate Zero"
Chapter 71
Regarding the birthday gift for His Majesty the King in a month, because the knowledge of magical alchemy left over from this alchemy tower was quite messy and unorganized, Scar finally discussed with Durin that after he spent a few days organizing the knowledge, they would discuss together what gift would be best for His Majesty the King's birthday party in a month.
After agreeing to this, Durin quickly returned to Northrick. Since he had decided to start filming the promotional video for the enrollment of the School of Magic Alchemy, he was too lazy to waste any time. After returning to Northrick as soon as possible, he found Barnil who was working hard at the Northrick Cinema to open up the film market in the North.
When Du Lin walked into the room, Vanir was entertaining Daphne who was temporarily staying here. It seemed that this girl was too lazy to travel since she filmed the movie. She stayed in Northrick all day and no one knew what she wanted to do.
When he saw him come in, Vanir came forward to greet him immediately.
Seeing that Barnil was getting more and more energetic, Du Lin couldn't help but smile and said, "Barnil, you have received many theater groups before, right? Is there any theater group that you can contact? I need actors to star in the new movie. The more people who come to audition, the better!"
Banier was stunned for a moment at Du Lin's sudden request, then he immediately stood up and said excitedly: "Actors in a movie? Director Du Lin, are you going to make a new movie?!!!"
"Yes, this is a big production, so the shooting period may be a bit long, but at least the first chapter must be completed before the summer enrollment of the Mage Tower."
"I understand. Leave it to me!"
Seeing Vanir's hardworking appearance, Du Lin just nodded and sat down at the table beside him. He ignored Daphne's curious gaze and began to quickly describe the contents of the new script with the paper and pen he had prepared in advance.
As for this, Vanir, who was far away, also understood that he should not be disturbed at this time. After suppressing his desire for the content of the new movie, he ran out immediately to find a way to contact the people from his former troupe.
Although the theater troupes in the South are not doing well these days, and a large number of them have even left their hometowns and moved to other places due to the impact of the movie, there are still a number of troupes that are unwilling to leave and are still staying here.
Of course, judging by the current rate of decline in the number of musical audiences, their persistence will soon lead to a situation where they cannot even afford to eat. Therefore, most people would probably not refuse Banir's invitation at this time.
On the other hand, after Vanir left, Du Lin has already started writing a new movie script, and the new movie he decided this time is none other than the anime "Fate Zero" from another world that has influenced the entire animation circle.
The reason for choosing "Fate Zero" is very simple, that is, the world view of "Fate Zero" is very consistent with Durin's imagination of magical alchemy. Although there is no doubt that it is definitely not a normal magical world view, but at least it meets Durin's requirements in terms of the promotion of magical alchemy.
Whether it's the summoning circle inside, or the various magic props and magic weapons used by magicians, or even the ultimate goal, the Holy Grail, as long as Du Lin makes some nonsense, they can all become reasonable products of magical alchemy.
As for why he did not choose another more orthodox alchemy-related anime "Fullmetal Alchemist", the reason is naturally very simple. That is, Du Lin is still unable to restore the world view of "Fullmetal Alchemist". Even if he can film it, its core will definitely be completely lost.
In contrast, although the story of "Fate Zero" takes place in modern times, the core of the story will not change with the changes of the times.
To put it simply, the story of "Fate Zero" is essentially about seven magicians fighting for the Holy Grail, and conflicts arise during the fight due to their different philosophies. As long as the story highlights this point, no matter what era or place the story is set in, it can bring the audience the experience of "Fate Zero".
This experience was particularly evident when Du Lin was writing the script, because he was able to find substitutes for most of the things that were not in this world. Even if he could not find a substitute, deleting that part would not have much impact on the story.
What is the difference between magic and sorcery? The more secretive a mystery is, the stronger it is. Ultimately, if we are not going to construct the entire Type-Moon worldview, these issues do not need to be discussed.
The evidence is that another world is where viewers who are new to the Fate series can still enjoy watching "Fate Zero" even if they have almost no knowledge of Type-Moon's settings.
The main reason why "Fate Zero" is "Fate Zero" is that its story itself is exciting enough.
Of course, making so many modifications will actually have some impact, but as long as Du Lincoln spends time processing it, it will not be a big deal for the audience of this world.
As for the embarrassing problem of most comic-adapted movies, that is, the special effects of the movie, in fact, this problem really does not cause any problem at all in this world.
After all, the Noble Phantasm of the Heroic Spirits that consumes the most special effects is really not something that cannot be dealt with in this world. Even the unreasonable throw of Gilgamesh can be solved by space magic. The only problem is probably the sea monster summoned by C-rank Gildred. After all, it is hard to say whether there is such a big monster in this world... ...
In short, although it is impossible for Du Lin to make an authentic "Fate Zero" in such an era, he can at least make a different world version of "Fate Zero" while retaining the essential core of "Fate Zero".
He also believed that the revised "Fate Zero" would live up to his expectations and sow the seeds of magical alchemy among the new students of the Mage's Tower during the next enrollment.
Soon, as Du Lin wrote furiously, the script for "Fate Zero" that was already in his mind began to emerge on paper.
At the same time, a young lady who had been quietly moving towards this side in the distance, wanting to see what the new movie script was about, finally couldn't help but ask, "Du Lin, what story are you going to write this time?"
"A story about a magician."
"Magician?"
Daphne, who didn't know she had no magical talent and had never thought about becoming a magician, showed a curious expression. Seeing her natural look, Du Lin couldn't help but smile and said, "Haven't you ever measured your magical talent?"
"No, because my brothers are all so outstanding, my father doesn't seem to have too many expectations of me."
"Well... ... "
Realizing the other party's situation, Du Lin couldn't help but reveal a subtle expression. After all, Daphne's condition was not very normal.
You have to know that this is a world where supernatural powers exist. Therefore, even though the nobles in this world are mostly hereditary and the class is relatively fixed, due to the existence of supernatural powers, this fixed class will be difficult to sustain permanently if you don't find a way to maintain it.
Therefore, most nobles would test their children's magical talent as soon as they were born, to ensure that their children could also enjoy extraordinary powers. A child like Durin who was tested to be extremely talented would be sent to the Tower of Mage for further study even if his family spent all their money.
As for those civilians with magical talents, they will be doubly cared for. Even if they cannot achieve high achievements due to limited resources, they can at least become an apprentice magician. For ordinary civilians, even an apprentice magician means a lifetime of worry-free work. After all, the salary of an apprentice magician is much higher than that of a so-called civil servant.
Therefore, for the people in this world, magic can be said to be both the most unfair and the most fair talent. To say it is the most unfair is that some people have it, and those who don't have it will never be able to practice it no matter how hard they try. To say it is fair is that no matter whether you are a noble or a commoner, as long as you have the talent for magic, you will have the opportunity to be superior to others.
It can be said that in a world dominated by hereditary aristocrats with fixed classes, magicians have become almost the only profession that promotes class mobility.
As for becoming a swordsman or a knight? Just like in another world, the poor read books while the rich practice martial arts. This world is also like this. Even if a commoner has a certain talent in swordsmanship, the best he can do is to become an adventurer. But if he wants to climb up in the army, the difficulty is almost as difficult as becoming a great sage.
This is why there are many Sword Souls and Sword Saints among the adventurers in the North, but the Imperial Army is basically composed of second- and third-level swordsmen. Simply put, the ability and benefits are not balanced. For these people, they would rather be mercenaries like adventurers to earn extra money than join the army to eat the meager salary.
Of course, in a Western fantasy world like this, fixed classes are the norm, so most nobles don’t actually care whether they can climb up or not, as long as they can survive and inherit the title, it is enough.
But for a duke's daughter, it was obviously abnormal not to pursue extraordinary powers, because even if Daphne only had the lowest level of magical talent, if it was tested that she had a certain talent, she would be able to obtain huge resources that other magicians could not even imagine.
In the end, Du Lin, who was unable to understand the Grand Duke's thoughts, just slowly said after finishing the first chapter of the "Fate Zero" script: "So, Daphne, do you want to see if you have a talent for magic?"
Yes, Du Lin, like most magicians, has an occupational disease, which is that he will almost instinctively test the magical talent of people around him.
The little girl, who was stunned for a moment, seemed a little overwhelmed by his words, but after she reacted, she immediately nodded excitedly. After all, she knew clearly that the boy in front of her was the one with the highest magical talent in the history of this empire!
... ... ...
Northrick Cinema, front entrance.
"Hello, this is the movie ticket for Goblin Slayer. Please keep it."
Taking his movie ticket from the receptionist, Chase slowly walked into the lobby of the cinema, and then walked straight towards the viewing room. He did it in one go, as if he had done something similar countless times.
In fact, this was not the first time that Chase had walked into the Northrick Cinema. Ever since his troupe had been taking on fewer and fewer jobs, he had come here almost every day to watch movies. The frequency was so high that it was almost exaggerated, and he himself was not unaware of it. However, as the saying went, he could not control himself at all now!
He knew clearly that movies were the culprit that caused the decline of his own theater troupe's industry, and that the existence of movies would make stage plays a sunset industry and cause them to continue to decline, but he seemed to be obsessed with it and would come to the Northrick Cinema on time every day to watch movies.
When he heard that a new movie was being released, he rushed to the theater without stopping, intending to be the first to watch the new movie that might bring him a brand new experience. However, there were so many people scrambling for tickets that he had to wait in line very late before he successfully got his own movie ticket.
Surprisingly, Chase did not feel disgusted by his humble appearance, because at this moment his heart was completely occupied by the art of film that transcended his time, and he did not even have time to feel disgusted with himself.
I still remember that just a month ago, the stage play troupe Snow Flower under Chase was a famous troupe in the South Territory, performing in all the towns in the South Territory, but since the movie appeared, all this has become a thing of the past...
Because of the emergence of film as a new form of performance, all theater troupes and art industry personnel in the entire South Territory have been severely impacted. Chase still remembers that when the film was thoroughly promoted throughout the South Territory a month ago, the number of people who showed up at the last performance he organized was only in the single digits.
Just thinking about that kind of scene made him feel unspeakably sad, and in fact, this situation was not unique to his troupe. Most other troupes in the southern region were in a similar situation.
Almost everyone can clearly see that in the southern territory, the performance form of stage plays is declining at a rate visible to the naked eye.
Therefore, most of the managers of the theater troupes left the southern land with their troupes after making up their minds, and only a few speculators like Chase stayed.
The reason why Chase made this choice was definitely not his love for the land or his love for movies, but simply because he saw more clearly than those who escaped, that is, short-term escape is nothing but slow death. If he does not want to be abandoned by the times, he can only try his best to keep up with the pace of the times.
That was why he stayed in Northrick, watching the 'culprit' that caused all this over and over again. In the end, while he was deeply impressed by the new technology of film, a hint of anticipation unconsciously arose in his heart.
After two hours of watching, today's newly released movie "Goblin Slayer" is as expected very exciting. One can even clearly see the progress of the producer. Whether it is the rhythm of the plot or the character of the protagonist, they are beginning to be more in line with the qualities that a movie should have.
In comparison, the previous "KonoSuba: God's Blessing for a Better World" seems a bit like a product that was rushed out. Although it has a lot of laughs, it doesn't look like a work of art at all.
Thinking of this, just as Chase was about to leave after feeling satisfied with watching a new movie, he suddenly saw a long line forming at the bar opposite the Northrick Cinema.
Many of the people there were members of a theater troupe that Chase was familiar with. Apparently, like Chase, they were unwilling to leave the South and could not forget the art of film, so they all came here today to watch the latest movie.
But what are these people doing lining up here
With a puzzled look on his face, Chase went up to ask someone and found out that the mysterious film director Durin Edward was actually publicly recruiting actors for his new movie. And from the look of things, it was obvious that troupe members with acting talent would be given priority!
This was an unprecedented opportunity for Chase, who had long planned to participate in this emerging industry. After learning about the situation, he went to the counter without thinking and found someone he knew to leave the name of the Snow Flower Theater and his contact information with Viscount Banier, who was busy applying for a visa.
Chapter 72: The Confused Headless Knight
Chapter 72