第１０９５堀：魔術の学び舎 (Part2)
"Ah, that’s the topic. To put it simply, it’s about categorization. Rather than just lumping everything under the umbrella of 'Magic,' I’ve tried dividing it into categories like Offensive Magic, Daily Life Magic, and Civil Engineering Magic. Until now, it’s mostly just been categorized by elemental affinity, hasn't it?"
"That is certainly true. Determining magical aptitude usually involves checking one's affinity, and from there, most people simply focus on mastering what they are naturally good at. Well, that’s assuming they have any aptitude at all, since the majority of people can’t even manifest an element."
"Exactly. Those are the people labeled as 'unable to use magic,' but according to the reports..."
"We have discovered, to a certain extent, that even those who cannot use offensive magic often possess the aptitude for magic that supports daily life."
"Oh? That’s remarkable. So, that’s the empirical research being conducted at the orphanage here."
"Correct. Incidentally, the same is being done in Weed and Rogari. The aggregated data from those places is what Comet was looking at. After all, even Taizo-san might be able to use magic this way."
"Ah, I see."
Taizo-san is capable of many things, but magic is the one thing he cannot use.
In its place, he possesses a terrifying skill that nullifies magical power.
It’s a level of power that not only renders skilled mages and magic-based monsters helpless, but even the gods themselves would struggle to contend with it.
When he activated it, I felt as though my own magical essence was being drained, nearly causing my physical form to collapse, and even Hifi nearly vanished into nothingness.
That said, there are situations where simple nullification isn't enough.
I know he hopes that by learning to use magic, he can handle those difficult scenarios.
This is one of the means to that end.
And above all, it’s clear he truly wants to be a source of strength for the children.
It’s just so like Taizo-san.
While I was lost in these thoughts, we reached our destination. We stopped in front of a room within the academy, with Popuri and Lara standing side-by-side, looking toward us.
"This is?"
"This is the Master’s research lab within the Magic Academy. Well, in practice, it’s a room provided to Weed. It used to be just a research space, but due to various circumstances, this entire section has been turned over to Weed, so there is even a lounge."
"Ho, so this is my research lab, then."
"Yeah, well. Though, since we’ll be using it too, try not to make too much of a mess."
"Mm. ...I’ll try."
But honestly, it always ends up messy before I even realize it, so that’s a lost cause.
"It seems you are still causing trouble for Hifi-sama."
"Ahaha. Hifi’s antics are just her hobby, so it’s fine. Anyway, is the tour over here?"
"Yes. Unfortunately, it seems there was nothing in our Magic Academy to pique the Master’s interest."
"Ahaha, it was interesting as a place of learning, but in terms of magical power, it’s not directly related. Well, I’ll take a stroll around when I have time to broaden my horizons. Actually, why didn't I see any students at all?"
"The students were in the middle of their classes. It would be best to wait for another opportunity to speak with them."
I see. That explains why we didn't cross paths.
That being the case, the only thing left to do is get a grasp of this research lab.
"Oh, you’ve got a full set of research equipment and computers, I see."
"Of course. The Great Forest is a vital sector, after all. We’ve installed proper equipment. And security, too."
"Yes. We’ve instructed the students that they are not to approach this sector. It’s in the school regulations, and there are strict penalties, so please let us know immediately if any students wander near."
"Got it."
I said that while immediately booting up the monitor to display a map of the surrounding area.
"So, this is where we are."
"Huh. I wonder if it was really okay to take such a prime spot in this academy, Principal Popuri?"
"It’s fine. The entire academy is well aware of Weed’s capabilities. There was a proposal to have you stay in the dorms to deepen exchanges, but considering the confidentiality, I thought it would be easier to gather everyone here."
"It’s easier for us to handle things if we’re all here, too."
"If we were to move into the dorms, we would be separated from Yuki-sama, so this is certainly better. Now, let me check the kitchen."
It seems Kagura and the others will be living here as well.
Well, this should be the perfect spot to gather information on the students.
Hm? Come to think of it, does this mean I’ll be spending time at school for the first time in a while?
I mean, I did make a brief appearance at a school in Weed as a special lecturer, but that wasn't exactly a specialized magic academy.
A nostalgic magic academy, huh...
I wonder if I’ll start remembering things from when I was in school?
Well, I suppose I might remember if I actually attend, but since Yuki-sama is unlikely to visit a school, I don't think I’ll be able to recall those memories very clearly.
And now, I look forward to seeing how Comet will move from here on out.