The Fireball Gazette

Arriving in Goldenbank, the crew chose a discreet harbour on the outskirts, wary of the attention their Allison & Son's vessel might attract. They hired a mechanic crew to repair the ship and remove its distinctive figurehead. However, they were taken aback to find that Wilma and Cecilie had secretly left the ship, leaving behind only a few coins, the Liquid Flux, and the magic ruby.

Near the harbour, the crew encountered Cordelia "The Lioness," a pirate with a history with Mad Matt. Cordelia warned them of Mad Matt's perilous past but harboured no ill will. She directed them to the university, sharing tales of Devil Whales and Tritons that claimed many of Mad Matt's former crewmates. On their way to the university, Tiyana visited a blacksmith who fused the magic ruby with a shortsword, creating a fiery blade.

The University Visit
At the university, the crew met Lady Levine. Somewhat disappointed that they didn't cause the Port Elgin attack, she shared details about the increasing presence of Flux on Kenver's shores, often accompanied by zombified Husks. Tasked with researching the potential of the liquid, Lady Levine pressured the crew into joining the university as lecturers to facilitate easier information exchange. Despite Mad Matt's objections, Tiyana saw the opportunity to elevate her societal standing and agreed. Mad Matt then sought out Professor Kafhiri for help translating the book he found back at the shipwreck. First mistaking him for a student due to his halfling stature, Kafhiri quickly forgot this slight against his people and was thrilled to assist. Using a dictionary provided by Professor Hisashi of Yufune, Matt could understand some of the Ancient Deep Speech it was written in. It seems to detail the physiology and society of the Marid, a species of Dangerous Deep Sea Creatures that live between Kenver and Midai.

Becoming Lecturers
With Lady Levine's recommendation, the crew registered as lecturers for the adventuring course. However, to access the University Communication Network, they have to complete one adventure with a student. They were assigned Ava, a young half-elf eager for adventure but struggling with basic magic. Given the choice between a seven-day trek to Kestle Mill or exploring crab-infested caves on the beach, the crew opted for the latter. Promising to teach Ava the basics of real-world combat and keep her safe, they prepared for their next adventure in the caves near Goldenbank.

Classroom Confidential: Goldenbank Students’ Anonymous Opinions on their Professors

Collected by the Fireball Gazette Investigative Gossip Department

“I had Lady Levine for two semesters, and while her classes were the most challenging I've ever taken, they were also the most rewarding. She has an incredible understanding of monsters and their interactions with elemental properties. Her strictness pushed me to my limits, but I came out with a deep appreciation for the subject and a solid foundation for my future studies.”

“Taking a class with Professor Kafhiri is like being on a rollercoaster. You never know what tangent he’ll go off on next! One minute we're discussing Elvish poetry, and the next, he's explaining Dwarvish mining chants. His lectures are unpredictable, but it also means he’s incredibly passionate about his subjects. If you can keep up with him, you’ll learn more than you ever imagined about linguistics. Plus, his enthusiasm is infectious!“

"Lady Levine's classes are notorious for their difficulty, but the knowledge gained is unparalleled. Her expertise in the elemental properties of monsters is fascinating. She's tough, no doubt, and her sadistic streak can be daunting, but I respect her immensely. Her passion for the subject is enchanting and has inspired me to delve deeper into my studies."

"I never thought I’d have a crush on a professor, but Lady Levine changed that. Her intelligence and beauty are a powerful combination. Her lectures on the elemental properties of monsters are fascinating, but it's her striking beauty and commanding presence that captivate me. Do you think she’d step on me if I asked her?"

"I’m really struggling in Professor Kafhiri's class. His energy is amazing, but his fast-paced lectures leave me scrambling to keep up. He moves from one topic to another so quickly that I often miss key points. I need more time to process the information, but he’s already onto the next language nuance. It’s frustrating because I want to learn, but his fast-paced style makes it difficult."

"Classes in the adventuring course have been great, but I’m so ready for the practical seminars!!! We’ve learned a ton about strategy, weaponry, and wilderness survival, but it’s all theory right now. I’m really looking forward to working with real adventurers and seeing how everything plays out in real situations. The thought of applying what we’ve learned in a hands-on environment is thrilling. I know it’s going to be tough, but I’m eager to face those challenges and gain some real-world experience!!!"

"I’ve always been focused on my studies, but Lady Levine has me questioning everything. Her intelligence and beauty are undeniable, and I can't help but feel drawn to her in a way I’ve never experienced before. It's confusing but also exhilarating. Every lecture leaves me with more questions about myself..."

"Lady Levine is such an enigma. She's brilliant, gorgeous, and somewhat intimidating, but no one seems to even know her first name. It’s strange, really. You’d think someone as renowned as her would have that detail floating around. I’ve asked a few classmates, but no one has a clue. It’s like she’s this mysterious figure with a shroud of secrets. I’m beginning to wonder if it’s intentional, adding to her mystique and the aura of authority she carries."