“Indeed, there is some truth to what Eliza says. For now, let’s begin today’s lecture. I’ll consider the format for future lessons later.”
“Thank you.”
With that, Eliza finished her statement and sat down.
Mock battles in defensive magic come with some inherent risks, and forcing unwilling participants could lead to accidents. Eliza’s points were valid as well. I’ll have to think about the structure of the next lesson later.
“That concludes today’s class. You’re dismissed.”
The lecture ended without any major issues.
Some students, including Eliza, paid attention to the lecture, while Gariel and most others either slept or busied themselves with unrelated activities. Still, considering they didn’t disrupt the attentive students, this class was better than most.
At the very least, Eliza, the Third Princess, never used her royal status to try and compel me as her teacher. Her arguments were reasonable, and she carried herself with charisma and integrity.
That said, I do hope she learns defensive magic as a means of self-protection. I’ll consult Anon about this later.
“Thank you for taking the time to meet me.”
“Of course. As I mentioned earlier, my time is generally free until 5 p.m.”
“Understood.”
After the day’s classes, I moved to the classroom where I’d agreed to meet Cyril.
A few students were still there but left upon seeing me enter. Even the notorious trio of brats exited with a click of their tongues as they passed me.
“…Looks like Melia’s not here.”
“Yes, she left immediately after the last class ended today.”
“I see.”
She seemed like she had something to ask, though.
“So, you mentioned you had some questions. What are they about?”
“I’m not sure if they’re appropriate to ask you as the defensive magic instructor, but they’re about magical tools. You mentioned in class that their study intersects with alchemy and magical pharmacology.”
“Magical tools, huh? That’s perfectly fine. An excellent topic, really.”
“…Isn’t it unusual for a noblewoman like me to ask about magical tools?”
“Hmm? Not at all. While it’s true most magical tool artisans are men, there are women in the field too. And the desire for knowledge transcends gender and status.”
In this world, magical tools are objects that incorporate magic formulas. When imbued with magic power, they produce various effects.
“…I’m glad to hear you say that. My opinion of you just went up by five points.”
“What points are you talking about…?”
“That’s a secret. My questions are fairly technical, though. May I ask?”
“Of course. Ask anything you like.”
“And that’s how this mechanism allows for precise inscription of the formula. It also enhances resistance to rain and dirt, making it highly practical. Oh, looks like it’s already 5 p.m. Shall we wrap it up for today?”
“………………”
“Cyril? Is something wrong?”
Uh-oh, did I go overboard with my explanation?
Cyril ended up asking over ten questions about magical tools, many of which were quite advanced. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and I couldn’t help but get carried away answering until the very last minute.
Although my main field is magical research, I dabble in magical tool crafting as a hobby. Researchers are often passionate when it comes to their favorite subjects.
“Who are you, Professor Geek?”
“Who am I? I’m just the substitute teacher for defensive magic at this academy.”
“…No, that doesn’t add up. Your knowledge far exceeds that of a typical substitute. Plus, in yesterday’s mock battle, none of us could land a single attack on you, even with three of us working together!”
“Be that as it may, I am still a substitute teacher. But I’m glad my answers were satisfactory.”
“…If you say so, I’ll leave it at that for now. Thank you so much for today. I’d love to learn more about magical tools from you again.”
“Of course, feel free to ask any time.”
“One more question, if I may. Is it true that even the authority of a marquis house can’t sway you?”
“Hmm. That’s correct. I’m not influenced by titles or power, so filing a complaint against me would be futile.”
“Hehe, I wouldn’t dream of that. …May I ask one favor, then?”
“As I’ve said before, it depends on the request. If it’s within reason, I’ll consider it.”
What is she on about now?
Cyril, having made sure no one else was nearby, dropped her cheerful expression and adopted a serious demeanor.
“Of course, it’s within the scope of your duties as a teacher. Also, please promise that no matter what, you won’t reveal that this came from me.”
“I swear to uphold student confidentiality.”
“…Understood. I’ll trust you, Professor Geek. Hehe, I never thought I’d be confiding in a substitute teacher on their second day. Could you meet me tomorrow after class, around 4 p.m., in the storage room at the far end of the third floor?”
“That storage room is currently unused, isn’t it?”
“Yes, that one. Please, I’m counting on you.”
“…Very well. I promise to be there.”
With that, Cyril, the eldest daughter of a viscount, bowed deeply before leaving the classroom.
