Chapter 127: Meanwhile in the School

December 17th, 2025.

Michael was in his university, a brief respite from his position as the CEO of SolaraTech. Today is an important day for him as this is the final examination for the third year second semester.

Walking alongside him was Psylemon, who was still reading his notes through his phone, a bead of sweat trailing down his forehead.

"Michael...what do I do? I think I'm going to fail our combustion course," Psylemon said.

Michael wasn't worried that he was going to fail the final exam, after all, he knew very much everything there was to know about the subject even without the help of the system. However, he too can't help but feel tense when his friend is.

"I don't know what to say, bro, it's not like I can magically impart my knowledge to you and make you understand everything instantly," Michael replied, trying to inject a bit of humor to lighten the mood. "But what I can do is give you a quick rundown of the key concepts. Focus on those, and you should be able to navigate most of the questions."

Psylemon looked slightly relieved but still apprehensive. "I guess that's better than going in completely blind," he admitted.

They found a quiet corner in the university's library, a place that had become somewhat of a sanctuary for Michael amidst his hectic life as a CEO. For the next hour, Michael went over the combustion course's fundamental principles, emphasizing real-world applications and simplifying complex theories. Psylemon listened intently, asking questions, and gradually, his understanding deepened.

As the clock neared the exam time, Michael closed his notebook. "Okay good luck, only two semesters left and we are going to graduate soon," he encouraged Psylemon, packing up his things. "Just stay calm and do your best. You know more than you think."

But instead of getting encouraged by the motivation, Psylemon remained silent, as if on thought.

"What's the problem?"

"Michael...will I have a future in this program?" Psylemon said, referring to their program, Mechanical Engineering. "I looked up the job market and people said that it was oversaturated and the salary is low, even if you have an experience of five to six years. Like...it's making me feel discouraged."

Michael considered Psylemon's concerns thoughtfully. In the fast-paced world of technology and innovation, concerns about job saturation and compensation were valid.

"Determine the stoichiometric air-fuel ratio for the complete combustion of octane (C8H18) assuming air consists of 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen by volume. Use the reaction formula for the combustion of octane with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water."

Michael didn't hesitate. He quickly jotted down the balanced chemical equation for the combustion of octane, calculating the moles of oxygen needed for complete combustion and then the volume of air required, considering its composition. His pen moved confidently across the paper, his calculations meticulous and swift.

He glanced around the room, noticing the varied expressions of concentration and occasional frustration on his classmates' faces. Well, the next questions were becoming harder, so it's valid.

But for him, it was easy, like doing basic arithmetic. Michael continued through the exam, each question seemed to flow seamlessly from one to the next. His thorough preparation and deep understanding of the material were evident in the speed and accuracy with which he worked.

The topics ranged from theoretical concepts of thermodynamics to practical applications in engine design and fuel efficiency optimization.

By the time he reached the final question, Michael was confident he had performed well. This last problem required designing a basic combustion engine system, specifying materials, and calculating energy outputs. It was a comprehensive question that tested not just theoretical knowledge but also practical engineering skills and creativity.

Michael laid out his design, considering efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. He drew upon his experiences at SolaraTech, where innovative thinking and problem-solving were daily necessities. He finished his answer, reviewed his work for any possible mistakes, and satisfied, he closed his booklet.

He looked at his wristwatch and saw there were still thirty minutes for the exam to finish.

He rose to his feet and everyone inside the examination room was stunned. Some students were still in number one or two questions, yet he was already finished.

"Quiet! Focus on your papers," the professor in charge announced, noticing the sudden shift in attention toward Michael. He walked towards the front of the room, handing in his paper.

"You may leave now...Mr. Reyes," said the professor.

With that, Michael glanced at Psylemon, who was busy solving the exam. He gave him a nod, even though Psylemon couldn't see it.

"Good luck boy," Michael said and exited the room.