“…Professor Geek, could this be?”
“This is a magical tool that renders its wearer unable to use magic. I created it based on a request I received earlier. Considering that both the Third Princess Eliza and Sophia might be targeted by unsavory individuals, it would be wise to learn how to remove such tools for self-defense.”
Although the claim that I was consulted is fabricated, this device was recently used in a real situation. Thinking of self-defense, I created a training version of the magic-sealing ring that is easier to remove.
This one is simpler to take off than the previous version. Once they’ve mastered removing it, I’ll give them a slightly more challenging version. Ultimately, they should be able to easily remove the magic-sealing ring used the other day.
Of course, I don’t intend to let anyone remove the ones I create with my full effort.
“…Professor Geek went out of his way to make this for us. Thank you so much!”
“Thank you, Professor Geek!”
It seems my intentions have been conveyed to the two of them. Let me be clear: these are not shackles for some kind of fetishistic play!
“Special treatment for Eliza and Sophia? Suspicious… minus five points.”
“I made another one for everyone else. It’s not just for self-defense but also for training in removing such magical restraints. However, since it could be misused and requires periodic mana infusions, it’s only to be tested in this lab.”
Of course, I don’t plan to show favoritism. I’ve treated Cyril, Melia, and Bern fairly and equally so far. If any of them need a magical tool, I’ll make one for them as well.
Removing this tool is both a lesson in magical tool creation and knightly training. Moreover, such puzzles are like educational games—great for relaxing while learning.
By the way, I wish someone would question Cyril’s mystery points soon…
“Oh, so such magical tools exist? This is my first time seeing one.”
“It seems to be cutting-edge technology being researched elsewhere, so keep it a secret from others.”
Apparently, it’s part of a project at the National Academy of Magic in the Kingdom of Baunce.
“Of course. Professor Geek, may I try it out immediately?”
“Of course. When you pass both arms through the ring, the effect will activate. Cyril, try the other one.”
“Understood.”
I handed one to Eliza and the other to Cyril.
Sophia looked eager to try it, but we’ll go in order.
“…I really can’t use magic now. This is an amazing invention, isn’t it?”
“Perhaps. It’s excellent for restraining prisoners but could easily be misused, which is problematic.”
In reality, it has already been misused by criminals. The sad truth is that advanced technology depends on how people use it.
“The mechanism behind disabling magic is that it disrupts the structure of magic cast by or targeting the wearer. Therefore, if one can construct magic that bypasses this disruption, it’s possible to remove the ring via magic, whether worn or from the outside. It takes skill, but try removing it on your own first. If you succeed, I’ll prepare a more challenging version.”
Simply put, it’s like an advanced puzzle ring.
“…This is difficult. On closer inspection, I can see how the structure of the magic is disrupted.”
“You’re amazing, Eliza… I can’t sense that at all yet.”
Eliza has encountered this twice now, so she might have already devised countermeasures for the magic-sealing ring in her mind.
“If you can’t remove it in a few days, I’ll give you a hint. Take your time experimenting. Since others might want to try, let’s do 15-minute rotations. Keep it as a light diversion.”
The magic-sealing ring probably won’t see frequent use, but it can serve as a refreshing change of pace during magic studies.
“Hmm, the weather is perfect today.”
Above, a clear blue sky stretches without a single cloud. Studying magic indoors is great, but outdoor exercises like this are refreshing.
For the past two-day break, I finally had time to immerse myself in research. While teaching is important, so is my own relaxation.
“Now, we’ll begin practical training in defensive magic outside the academy.”
I led the students to a forest near the city. Starting today, they’ll engage in real-world defensive magic exercises outside the academy.
