A Wild Man Has Entered the Academy

Chapter 138:

Magic (4)

***

What is most important for wizards? It’s judgment.

While quick and accurate spellcasting and writing are crucial, the type of magic used is even more important.

For example, suppose someone fires a water cannon at me.

In such a case, defending with fire or earth magic would suffice. This is basic.

Buh the water and electrocute me.

Therefore, you must raise a wall, and mixing such trivial spells makes it very complicated.

Moreover, as you rise in ranks, you must use both hands freely or activate multiple spells simultaneously.

“ainst everything individually.”

Godin explained it well. Wizards prepare strong defensive spells rather than considering all possibilities.

Only two wizards consider all possibilities, and they wield ‘purple’ mana.

So, most wizards defend inefficiently.

Even in the Soul World, except for the mad ones, no one memorized all counter-spells.

To clarify, they weren’t veterans but madmen. Even I didn’t memorize all the counter-spells.

“Bu else can. That’s the idea behind my research.”

“Even the idea itself comes from a person. Is it really possible?”

Grace presented a somewhat negative opinion. Despite her words, her face was full of interest.

Her reaction was entirely normal. He’s trying to invent a magic akin to a computer in an era without them.

Early computers were massive, yet Godin isn’t even making such machines.

“Who knows? We’ll only find out by trying. As I said, it’s just a hobby research. There’s no need to focus too much. Plus, it’s riddled with flaws.”

“But if it truly becomes a reality… it would provide a solid shield for every wizard.”

“Yes. Wizards mostly lack in defense, so it compensates for that.”

Moreover, due to the era’s limitations, it’s specialized for defense. It’s not like Jarvis that considers everything.

Nonetheless, it remains incredible. It’s like giving wings to a tiger.

Though the mana used for defense is the user’s concern, it doesn’t matter due to efficiency.

“Can it defend against a warrior’s attacks too?”

“Yes. It analyzes the strength and mana in the attack and activates the appropriate defense mechanism.”

“Wow… That’s amazing. Can it block a meteor falling from the sky?”

“Well… it could, but it’s better to just run away.”

Grace, initially negative, became interested and asked various questions.

Godin excitedly explained, but to me, it felt like preaching to a cow.

I glossed over it as artificial intelligence, but the reality is a magic packed with all sorts of modes.

‘Someone once said it’s like building an apartment with LEGO bricks.’

It’s an apt analogy. It also shows that magic has no limits.

Although it will take a long time to complete, it doesn’t matter. He can teach me later.

That’s why I’m getting closer to Godin. His knowledge is a great help, not just his magic.

“Anyway, that’s enough about my research. Let’s discuss red mana now. There isn’t much documentation, so I can’t explain much. Please understand.”

“Okay.”

“First, shall I explain the origin of mana?”

“No.”

That’s too far back. I’ve read enough books to know the origin of mana.

Godin seemed taken aback by my firm response but soon laughed awkwardly.

“Seems like you’re already aware. To put it briefly, mana is divided by evolution and creation theories. Some say mana emerged for human survival, while others believe it was a gift from gods.”

Had this been Earth, evolution theory would have been favored. But here, gods’ existence is confirmed.

Even magic was said to be given by gods, weighing heavily towards creationism. There are even fanatics.

Rize mentioned earlier that without Chaos’ help, evolution wouldn’t have even sprouted.

“Red mana is the same. It’s known as the first mana used by humanity. But some say it was the first mana used by creatures, not humans.”

“Hmm…”

“For some reason, humanity was imbued with the first mana, red mana, which evolved over time. That’s what I’ve gathered.”

Listening to Godin’s explanation, a thought struck me. But I couldn’t recall the term.

After much pondering, I resorted to gesturing as I spoke.

“What was it? You know, that thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Artificial? No, human touch?”

“Are you trying to say it’s artificial?”

“Yes!”

As Grace accurately put it, I answered energetically. The frustration vanished.

Grace, pleased, wore a smug expression.

“Hmph. Reading each other’s minds is essential for a good married life…”

“Eh?”

“Nothing.”

She definitely said something more, but it didn’t seem important.

Godin also nodded, seemingly agreeing with my artificial assessment.

After stroking his chin briefly, he spoke in a dubious tone.

“As Sivar said, ift. So most people just consider it a divine gift.”

To me, from Earth, it’s full of contradictions. But here, just calling it a divine gift seems to suffice.

However, humanity is a curious species. Questioning led to the emergence of evolution theory.

Of course, both theories have many artificial and contradictory aspects. That’s why there’s conflict.

“So, what exactly is Sivar’s red mana?”

“Well, it fits creationism more, but… it’s not like your intelligence is lacking. Same goes for evolution theory. Visiting Byzantium might be good.”

“I will.”

Rod also mentioned this. My existence is so mysterious that I should visit Byzantium.

It might happen this vacation. With Rize, it’s more than sufficient.

“Sorry I couldn’t be of more help. For some reason, there are hardly any records left.”

“It’s fine.”

That’s how the gods here are. They messed up by bringing me here.

[Faith decr…]

Of course, except for Chaos.

The message stopped mid-display as I had that thought.

Then it disappeared entirely. How absurd.

“Well, that’s all for today. Do you have any other questions?”

“I do. But it’s not a question.”

“What is it?”

“Just a moment.”

An idea came to me after seeing Godin’s formula. I got up and headed to the door.

Godin and Grace watched me with puzzled expressions.

“Are you going to the bathroom?”

“No.”

I opened the door and answered briefly.

“I’ll bring someone.”

Click—

******

Who could he possibly be bringing? Godin wondered.

Sivar often does the obvious yet bizarre things, like now.

He left saying he’d bring someone, leaving us hanging. A normal person would be speechless.

“Hmm… When will Sivar be back?”

“…”

“Grace?”

“Yes, yes?”

Grace flinched at Godin’s question, reacting more sensitively than usual.

Her shoulders drooped, and her eyes trembled with unease.

She had her confident demeanor, but now she seemed completely different.

“…Are you okay?”

“Th… yes… I’m, I’m okay…”

She didn’t seem okay at all. Godin thought as he observed Grace’s reaction.

Grace was always like this. As an assistant, she acted as if something was chasing her.

She even glanced resentfully at times, like a fragile glass ornament.

‘Her condition seems similar to separation anxiety…’

Being nearly violated by Delphoi, it’s natural she’d be wary of men.

Grace could function thanks to her resilience. A regular person wouldn’t have recovered.

‘Does Sivar’s presence change things?’

Maybe. Sivar saved Grace from danger.

Having her savior nearby would naturally calm her. The problem arises if it goes too far.

If it does, Sivar would distance himself, worsening her condition.

Though observing for now, Godin planned to sternly advise if signs appeared.

‘It’s a pity she got involved with such a rogue…’

Godin regretted while checking the time. It had been almost 20 minutes since Sivar left.

Grace’s anxiety grew worse. Initially shaking her leg, she now bit her nails nervously.

Godin wanted to intervene but feared startling her. His efforts were futile anyway.

‘He should come soon… Who is he bringing?’

Knock, knock—

In the tense, awkward atmosphere, someone knocked. Godin and Grace looked at the door.

[I’ll come in.]

Click—

The door opened with a familiar voice, and Sivar appeared.

Grace’s face brightened briefly, then froze upon seeing who he brought.

“This is a lab, isn’t it? Why did you bring me here?”

“To show you.”

“Show me what?”

Amazingly, Sivar brought Jane. She was in work clothes, likely from the workshop.

Sweat clung to her blue hair, yet it didn’t hide her beauty.

“…Sivar? Who is she? She seems like a student.”

While Grace scrutinized Jane, Godin asked curiously.

He wondered who Sivar would bring, only to see a presumed student.

From her appearance, she seemed more like a blacksmith than a wizard.

“Genius.”

“Genius…?”

“Yes. She works for me.”

“Hello! I’m Jane Brennon from the Engineering Department, a second-year student!”

Amid the confusing situation, Jane greeted energetically.

Unsure of what was happening, she decided to introduce herself.

“Another girl… Why only girls…”

“…”

Godin ignored Grace’s muttering and focused on Jane.

The Engineering Department meant she was non-combat. Godin had extensive knowledge in various subjects for his theoretical research.

From physics to mathematics, engineering, and more. He studied anything related to magic and made it his own.

“Godin, give me that.”

“Yes?”

“Your research. Give it to Jane.”

Sivar suddenly asked for the magic formula. Godin was hesitant but nodded.

His research wasn’t complete, and it was beyond a mere student’s understanding. It was only partially theorized.

Godin handed the formula to Jane. She adjusted her glasses and examined it closely.

“Hmm…”

“…”

Can she understand it? Jane was into machines, and Godin was into magic.

They could combine thanks to Santia, but they were separate fields. Godin wasn’t too hopeful.

‘But if Sivar brought her, there must be something.’

Despite his antics, Sivar didn’t do pointless things. That was Godin’s assessment.

As he waited quietly, Jane’s eyes widened and she exclaimed in amazement.

“Wow, this formula calculates numerous scenarios automatically…!”

“Hmm?”

Godin’s eyes slightly widened. She seemed to grasp the principle from the formula alone.

Naturally, this piqued his interest. Godin cautiously asked,

“Did you understand the principle?”

“Of course! But it seems unfinished… it consumes too much mana and might overheat.”

That much was expected. It would be strange if he didn’t calculate that.

Godin, genuinely intrigued, smiled and extended his hand to Jane.

“Explain more.”

“Yes! If mana is infused here, the resistance will be too high…”

While the two geniuses engaged in a deep conversation, Sivar sat beside Grace.

As he sat, Grace subtly leaned closer.

“Um… Sivar?”

“Yes.”

“Who is she? Is she…”

Grace asked in a suspicious tone. Was she a new competitor?

Sivar looked at the two engrossed in their discussion. They were in their own world.

“Genius.”

“Genius?”

“Yes. And a fool.”

“…?”

Grace blinked, confused by the contradictory description.

But there was no better way to describe Jane. She was a genius but often fooled.

“Jane, right? Can you visit my lab occasionally? I can help with any knowledge you need.”

“Really? Thank you so much!”

“Oh, it’s nothing.”

Godin continued, maintaining his squinty-eyed smile.

“I’m the one who should be thankful.”

his appearance.

End of Chapter