Felix Othini was born in the bustling river city of Brighton, a place renowned for its vibrant markets and lively atmosphere. From a young age, Felix displayed an insatiable curiosity, often rummaging through the market stalls, eagerly absorbing knowledge, and documenting observations in a worn-out notebook. His parents, who ran a humble apothecary, recognized his sharp intellect and encouraged his pursuit of education, although they often worried his dreaminess would lead him astray.
As he grew, Felix excelled in his studies at the local academy, where he quickly became known as a prodigy in alchemy and natural philosophy. However, his peers found him somewhat mousy and overly focused on his books rather than socializing, making him an easy target for mockery. Despite this, Felix formed a close bond with a few like-minded individuals who shared his passion for knowledge, and together they explored the mysteries of the natural world.
After achieving a notable reputation among scholars with his groundbreaking research on potion synthesis and the manipulation of elemental properties, Felix caught the attention of Lord Roberts. Impressed by his work, Lord Roberts appointed him Chief Scientist of Brighton’s Department of Alchemy and Science. This prestigious position, while a dream come true for Felix, soon began to inflate his ego. He reveled in the title and the power it brought him, often looking down on those he once considered peers.
“This is Professor Othini,” Phillip said. “He chairs my Department of Alchemy and Science and is my consultant on all things scientific. Of late, he has been involved in a very special project. But he and his researchers have hit upon a snag. I wonder if you, Aaron, can help get them over it.”
Aaron opened his mouth to answer, but Professor Othini beat him to it.
“Your Grace, I mean no disrespect, but the boy has described himself as nothing more than an apprentice—an assistant, really, in my assessment—with no one to vouch for even those credentials. Already, the keenest minds in the city strive to resolve this matter. I do not see—”
“Aaron,” Phillip said, “what did Elsanar have you working on? Tell us in layman’s terms, please.”
- THE NULLIFICATION ENGINE
As he delved deeper into his work, Felix became increasingly obsessed with his experiments, pushing the boundaries of ethics in pursuit of success and recognition. He sought the favor of Lord Roberts, often bragging about his achievements and discoveries, which earned him both admiration and envy among his colleagues. Yet, amidst his pursuit of greatness, Felix’s isolation grew, and he became estranged from the friendships he once cherished.
Now, as Professor Felix Othini navigates the corridors of power within the Earl’s court, he faces the challenge of balancing his newfound authority with the humility he once possessed. The very intellect that elevated him has also become a source of conflict as he grapples with the consequences of his ambition and the quest for validation in a world where recognition often comes at a steep price.
FIRST APPEARANCE
Felix first appears in The Nullification Engine (The Alchemancer Book Two).
