Magic Maker - How to make magic in another world - - Chapter 99

Magic Maker – How to make magic in another world –

Chapter 99   This is magic

Guided by Egon, I waited in the room designated as the education director’s office. It was an unremarkable room—just a sofa, a desk, and a bookshelf. I felt uneasy, reminiscent of the sensation when I entered the principal’s office back in my school days. I took a seat on the sofa. Winona and Egon stood against the wall in silence. The tension was palpable because I was nervous. As the class drew near, a sudden surge of tension overwhelmed me. I felt like throwing up. My heart pounded. It was dangerous. It had been a while since I felt like this. You know, that feeling you get when you’re given a significant role in a school event like the sports or cultural festival, just before delivering a speech in front of the entire student body. I wished the actual performance would come sooner, and yet I also wished it would never come—an contradictory emotion. It was torturous. Restless, I sat on the sofa, stood up, paced around the room, checked the textbook as if remembering, confirmed my belongings, and then sat down again. I repeated these actions, making Winona more anxious than usual.

“Um, Shion-sama, are you okay?”

“I-I-I’m fine!”

“Is that so?”

Clearly, I wasn’t fine. But I couldn’t escape even if I wasn’t okay. Oh, it would have been so much easier if someone could witness a treatment scene and explain casually. It’s difficult with a large group, and even if it were possible, theoretical learning would still be necessary. Speaking in front of everyone was an unavoidable situation. It was inevitable to be under the gaze of so many people. I didn’t want to think about it, but I really didn’t want to do it! I didn’t want to! I wanted to escape! I wanted to go home! Even if I thought like that, I couldn’t escape. It’s in my nature not to run away. As I was panicking, Winona also seemed uneasy. Watching us, Egon approached calmly.

“Shion-sama.”

“W-What is it?”

“I heard that Shion-sama once punched a noble.”

Seeing Egon saying something absurd with a serious face, I was deeply shaken.

“Huh? What? Well, yes… I did.”

“I see. I assume everyone attending the class is well aware that they are nobles?”

“Yes, well. I’ve heard that many times before.”

Egon nodded nonchalantly.

“In that case, if there’s anything, you can just go ahead and punch them.”

He said it with a serious expression, and I couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

“What?! Haha, h-he? No, no way!”

“It’s not allowed, but Shion-sama has done it before. So, if it happens two or three more times, it should be fine.”

“Such a reckless statement!”

“It’s a reckless statement. However, wouldn’t it be nice to have that kind of spirit? You won’t die. Even if you fail, you’ll manage somehow. Probably, most likely.”

I don’t think that’s the case, though. Egon’s words strangely resonated with me. He looked straight at me without changing his expression. His words were strange, but his demeanor was like that of a butler. I somehow understood what he wanted to convey. Worrying and being anxious beforehand won’t change anything. I’ve already done everything I can, and I have a track record. So, whether I succeed or not depends on me. I pressured myself with that thought, but it was meaningless. I have to do it, so instead of thinking about failure, I should focus on success—how I can succeed. At least, being wishy-washy here doesn’t meet the conditions for success. With that in mind, I calmed down a bit. How much adversity have I overcome until now? This is not that big of a deal.

“You seem to have calmed down considerably. Truly admirable.”

“No, no. Thank you for your trouble.”

“No need for thanks. This is all I can do.”

After expressing my gratitude, Egon returned to the wall again.

Was it an act?

His words were in the most easily acceptable tone for me.

Was it because of my attitude towards the maids earlier?

If so, it showcased remarkable observational skills and adaptability.

As the trusted butler of the queen, perhaps this is to be expected.

I’m quite simple-minded.

But I might not have been told something like this before.

Somehow, it made me a little happy.

When I looked at Winona, she seemed to have a slightly complicated expression.

When our eyes met, she quickly averted her gaze.

Our relationship has changed a bit, but there’s still some distance between us, so it’s unavoidable.

As I was pondering on this, there was a knock on the door.

Egon opened the door, and it seemed like a maid had come to fetch us.

A maid with a tense expression and strangely well-kept features stood before the door.

“Um, all the participants have gathered, so, um, I came to fetch you.”

“Thank you. Well then, shall we go?”

I said, and Winona and Egon gracefully nodded.

Now, let’s see how it goes.

There’s still some anxiety.

But unlike earlier, the tension has lessened.

The preparations have been made.

It’s going to be okay.

For sure.

Now, let’s go.

I stepped out of the education room.

My steps were a bit lighter than in the morning.

○●○

Auditorium.

It’s the largest room on the campus, equipped with facilities suitable for lectures.

I stood in front of the room.

Behind me, Winona and Egon were watching my movements.

Other maids were standing by in front of the door at the back of the auditorium.

Of course, not everyone is here. It would be too crowded with that many people.

At most, about 20 people.

Each student seems to have an attendant, but including everyone would be too disruptive, so I declined.

They’ll wait outside during the class.

There’s a separate room prepared, so there shouldn’t be any issues, although there might be some dissatisfaction.

As I entered, they also entered from the back of the room.

The auditorium can accommodate 200 people.

Like a university, the ground is inclined, ensuring a clear view of the front even from the back.

The trainees should already be inside the auditorium.

I could hear voices from inside.

It reminded me of my school days.

Back then, I was a student, but today I’m in the role of a teacher.

The simulation upon entering is perfect.

First, head straight to the lectern and start speaking.

Just walking initially. It’s a simple task.

I turned to Winona and Egon, and they nodded.

Returning the nod, I opened the door promptly.

The sliding door creaked open, and a rattling sound echoed through the room.

The conversations inside the room abruptly ceased.

It’s awkward.

But I can’t afford to be concerned about that.

The lectern is visible in front.

Alright, here we go.

Don’t look to the left. There are students there!

Awkwardly, I walked to the lectern and surveyed the classroom.

120 people.

Breakdown: 119 nobles and just one commoner.

The common boy sat at the edge of the classroom, away from everyone else.

There was even an elderly person with white hair.

He had no magical power.

He didn’t have any, but for some reason, he was here.

Huh? Wait, huh? Why is he here?

I didn’t ask for this?

I openly showed my inner turmoil on my face and quickly composed myself.

I don’t know the reason, but the first impression is crucial.

Let’s think about why he’s here later.

After a brief pause, I moved my gaze from right to left, cleared my throat, and began speaking slowly.

“Um, um! Well, nice to meet you. I’m Shion Ornstein.

Starting today, I’ll be conducting a training on the treatment of lazy syndrome for all of you.

The three-month duration may seem a bit long, but let’s do our best.”

Oh, what a situation.

Eyes piercing into me.

If that was all, it would be fine.

But there are people giving me an intense glare.

Some look at me suspiciously.

There are those who seem to ridicule me, and there are others who seem to have already lost interest.

Some are sleeping, some are speaking in hushed voices.

Is this what it feels like to be a new teacher?

This could break one’s spirit. I might not want to come to work from tomorrow.

No, I actually felt a bit relieved.

Because it seems like nobody has any interest in me at all.

Getting nervous when everyone has high expectations is stressful, but if there’s no interest, my mind is at ease.

It feels like my usual self is coming back.

As I was thinking this, a few faces caught my eye.

One person was staring at me intently. However, she didn’t seem to be hostile towards me. It was because of her serious expression. She watched my every move and listened to my words attentively.

There were other students who caught my attention as well. For instance, there was a girl who seemed to be smiling for some reason, and the common boy from earlier. However, the most conspicuous one was the elderly man in the back. He stared at me, seemingly appraising me. Perhaps he was acting as a supervisor. I started feeling nervous again. Regardless, I decided to proceed with the discussion.

“Since it’s already evening today, I’ll briefly talk about the schedule and content from tomorrow onwards. I believe you’ve already received the schedule along with the textbooks, so please refer to them.”

The textbook contained descriptions of lazy syndrome treatment transcribed from magical books, so I skipped that part. The schedule was outlined roughly, with many details yet to be determined. It was the first attempt, and the content might change significantly depending on progress.

“For the first week, we’ll start with lessons on magical power release, necessary for treating lazy syndrome. Magical power is the name of the force that significantly affects the life force and mental power circulating within the body. It’s not something everyone possesses; it’s a power that people with aptitude have. Only those with no magical power won’t contract lazy syndrome, and treating lazy syndrome patients can also only be done by individuals with magical power. Most of you here already have magical power, as you might have heard. This power is essential for both prevention and treatment of lazy syndrome.”

I used words that they probably weren’t familiar with. Therefore, I spoke slowly. However, the reaction was still muted. Although the selected trainees had received an explanation about magical power beforehand, and it was mentioned in the textbook schedule, it wasn’t easy for them to accept it immediately. That was why I expected more of a reaction.

But there was no response. Anyway, I had to continue with the discussion.

“Afterward, while monitoring the condition, you’ll practice controlling magical power, learn knowledge about treatment, and actually proceed with treatments. The three months is the maximum duration, and if it becomes possible to treat early on, I think we’ll grant permission for graduation.”

Here, I fell silent. Honestly, I wanted to say that I didn’t know whether they would be able to treat patients. However, saying that would be an excuse in case of failure, and it would give the impression that it didn’t matter anyway. Saying something like, “We might fail, but let’s do our best for now,” would only dampen the mood. Besides, if we failed, our position would be in jeopardy. In any case, it was better to silently execute the plan.

“The class content will include both lectures and practical exercises like today. For the graduation exam, you’ll perform practical training and treat patients, so please keep that in mind. Does anyone have any questions about the explanations so far?”

When I said this, everyone looked at each other. Even among the nobles, the reactions were the same. It reminded me of how students used to behave in my school days—checking their surroundings first.

“Alright, any questions?”

“Yes, go ahead.”

A typical-looking blond and blue-eyed boy nonchalantly spoke. Of course, he remained seated. The manners I knew didn’t apply in this world. Well, I didn’t intend to point that out or educate them anyway. The boy exchanged glances with the surrounding students and started grinning for some reason.

What’s going on? What does he want to say, this guy?

“How old are you?”

His gaze and tone were condescending, but I anticipated such remarks. After all, I’ve been told similar things dozens or hundreds of times. Without a hint of disturbance, I calmly responded, “I’m thirteen.”

“Hahaha! Thirteen? A kid of thirteen is going to teach us? Seriously? Spare me, please.”

From my perspective, you’re the kid here. Well, I expected this level of reaction. It was a bit cruder than I thought, though. It seems being a noble doesn’t necessarily mean valuing courtesy.

“Age shouldn’t matter, I believe.”

“Huh? Doesn’t matter? Well, I guess not. I mean, you’re the only one who can treat laziness syndrome, right? Age doesn’t matter. Yeah. So, teach, please. We want you to get to the point.”

“The point?”

I tilted my head in confusion, not understanding what he was trying to convey. Suddenly, the room started buzzing with noise. What’s going on? I could only form question marks in my head, waiting for the boy’s explanation.

“Even though you understand. The farce is over. We want you to teach us the real method of treating laziness syndrome. That’s why we gathered here, right?”

I didn’t understand what he was saying. However, everyone, except his entourage, seemed to be looking at me, eager to hear something. The reactions from others were similar to his.

“Enough with the deception. There’s no need to lie anymore, right? Or do you claim that this is the truth?”

While slapping the textbook, the boy sneered. I simply observed his movements.

“Sure, no one really believes such a ridiculous thing seriously. But, you know, it’s a significant privilege of Lystia, a small nation, to be the only one able to treat laziness syndrome, which is prevalent worldwide. That’s why no one wants to easily give it up. They don’t want to leak information to other countries. They want to use it as a negotiation tool. Everyone knows that. So, we came all the way here for this. However, after letting us go this far, you won’t conduct training based on those false claims, right? If, in the end, it’s impossible and you say, ‘Only you can do it,’ then… No country will just stay silent, right?”

Ah, I see. I understand what he’s saying. He thinks the information we’ve disclosed so far must be a lie. Of course, there is a track record of treating laziness syndrome. If we were to tell such a lie, it would become an international issue. Even if a country tried to disguise it, there are limits, and no wise ruler would be foolish enough to do such a thing. If they were that foolish, the country would collapse immediately. However, Queen Milhya is a wise person, and the kings of other countries should also know that. So, they likely believe in the ability to treat laziness syndrome. But they don’t believe in the method itself. Looking at it again, it makes sense. After all, it’s unimaginable to believe in the existence of mana. Therefore, they concluded that it’s a lie, only guessing, ‘The treatment for laziness syndrome is possible, but mana is a lie.’ Even then, they refrained from pointing it out for the sake of appearances. From their perspective, it was merely a way to maintain decorum. For me, it’s a technique, a magic I discovered and developed on my own, so it seemed obvious. Yet, for others, it’s an unbelievably absurd notion, bordering on madness.

“There were merits. That’s why they gathered. But now, the demerits outweigh the benefits. You get it, Teacher? This is the limit.”

Resting his cheek on his hand, the boy said with an air of boredom and exasperation.

If his words were true, I see. I’ll need to provide accurate information to the students, or my position could be jeopardized. However, mana does exist, and its presence is essential for treating laziness syndrome.

“Enough of this charade. How about teaching us now? The method for treating laziness syndrome. We’re fed up with this. We’ve come all the way here, exhausted, and some folks are getting irritated. I don’t know what the queen said to you, but even a child can understand what to do. Right?”

I pondered.

His choice of words was somewhat harsh and rough, but it had a logical flow, and he was keeping emotions to a minimum. Not a pleasant approach, but the content was understandable.

“I see, it’s a valid point.”

“Right? So, will you teach us? The real method. Well, an explanation will do. It’s already late today.”

“Yes, that’s true. But before that, let’s close the curtains a bit. Maids, please.”

As I said that, the maids who were standing at the back of the classroom hurriedly began to close the curtains. The room became dim, not completely dark, but clearly, the light was being obstructed.

“Hey! What do you think you’re doing!? Are you planning to silence us or something?”

“I won’t do anything like that. It would become an international issue.”

“T-Then what?”

“So, I’m planning to show you the method for treating laziness syndrome. Please watch.”

“Show us… even though there are no patients here?”

Although he sounded dissatisfied, the boy fell silent. Despite his bad attitude and language, he might be an intelligent young man. He had a certain level of understanding. It might be the kind of situation where it’s not too late to think after seeing it. Well, his thoughts would probably change with the next words.

“Now then, everyone, I will show you mana.”

“What!? Mana!? You’re still talking about that—”

I held up the palm of my right hand. A faint light appeared from my hand.

“…Is that…?”

The boy and the other students showed expressions of astonishment, directing their gaze towards the light of mana. Mana’s light, unlike regular light, had the characteristic of not reflecting in the surroundings. However, the mana’s light that emerged in the darkness asserted its existence more strongly than usual.

The light left my palm and slowly moved along the central aisle of the room. Everyone stared at the light, and when it approached, they reflexively distanced themselves. The light stopped in the middle of the room and suddenly ascended into the air. Everyone looked up. The light burst near the ceiling, and particles of light scattered in the room. Despite the presence of a ceiling, stars were shining brightly in the sky.

Twinkling, disappearing, reappearing, flickering. The students’ gazes were fixated on the ceiling.

“Beautiful…”

Someone said.

“Hmm,” a sigh echoed.

A celestial display lasting only a few seconds.

It gradually came to an end.

The stars began to fall to the ground, swaying as if lured by gravity.

Like dancing snowflakes, they descended slowly.

Surprised by the sudden appearance of light, the students, who had distanced themselves, instinctively reached out for the falling snow of mana.

Staring at the mana in their palms, someone murmured, “It’s warm.”

Receiving the words spoken by someone, one by one, students picked up the mana.

Warm. And there was a tactile sensation.

They came to know it firsthand.

The mana gradually faded away.

And eventually, all the light disappeared.

Everyone was left speechless.

In the midst of that, I slowly began to speak.

“This is mana.”

With just those words, there was no doubt that shock ran through the students.

They held their breath.

The emotion was understandable.

When I first saw mana, felt it, created it for the first time, I thought the same thing.

Is there really something so marvelous in existence?

Mana itself doesn’t possess great power, but people are captivated by it.

Stimulated by the mysterious power of mana itself, curiosity is aroused.

It’s about possibilities.

Curiosity about the unknown.

And fundamentally, the existence of a power beyond human boundaries.

That’s why it’s attractive.

I felt that way.

What about the students?

There was such anxiety.

However, it seemed to be needless worry.

“Mana… it really exists?”

“That? Mana…?”

“N-No way. I thought that was false information.”

“I can’t believe it… b-but that light…”

“…It was really beautiful.”

Yearning expressions.

The reasons for being drawn in are likely different for each person.

But as the fate of those with mana, they naturally develop an interest in it.

Because they are special.

Their existence is special.

So, it’s only natural to be interested.

At least, that’s what I think.

I signaled the maids to open the curtains with a glance.

The room became brightly lit all at once.

Now, everyone’s expressions became clearer.

They looked like children in front of a new toy.

However, that expression lasted only a moment, and most people quickly snapped back to reality.

“Mana exists, and mana is the most crucial element in treating patients with lazy syndrome.

As I mentioned earlier, each of you will first learn to handle mana.”

“Wait, we can do something similar?”

“Yes, you can. Achieving exactly the same level will require considerable training, though.

But creating mana itself should be possible without spending too much time on it.”

The boy’s eyes sparkled.

However, perhaps he realized he was attracting the attention of those around him, as his face turned red, and he hastily put on a poker face.

What a cute kid. Age-wise, he’s probably older, though.

“For now, it seems you’ve all understood. That concludes today’s explanation.

Any questions—”

Almost simultaneously, the students stood up and rushed towards me.

What’s this? It’s scary.

The momentum and their faces are scary.

“Uh, what does it feel like when you release mana!?”

“Huh? W-well, it’s like a warm sensation, and it feels like power is being released.”

“Can mana be released in various forms!?”

“Well, yes. However, it requires training for more complex forms because you need to have a clear image.”

“Release more! Release more mana! Show us!”

“N-no, we’re done for today.”

“Oh, by the way, teacher, you have quite a bit of muscle. Your body is small, though.”

“S-small!? Are you saying I’m small!?”

“Do you have some kind of device somewhere? Maybe under your clothes?”

“N-no! There isn’t! So, please don’t put your hands inside my clothes!”

It’s chaos.

Almost half of the students bombard me with various questions, probing my body.

Ah, s-stop!

If this continues, it’s going to be troublesome.

There are many women, but there are also a lot of men.

In other words, it’s not pleasant.

“Aaaah! Just stop!”

I weave through the students and instantly move.

I inadvertently used a slight boost, but there’s no helping it.

“A-a-anyway, that’s it for today! See you tomorrow!

Goodbye!”

I escape from the auditorium.

For some reason, Winona and Egon also run, passing through the corridor.

“It seems to have gone well.”

“It went too well!”

“A-Are you alright, Shion-sama?! Your clothes are a mess!”

Whether it was pulled or not, my clothes are all over the place.

Really, those people are like children.

Well, they are children, though.

“Shion-sama, you seem really happy.”

“Huh? Me?”

Winona points it out, and I realize I’m smiling.

Oh, I see, I was happy.

Admittedly, I might have gotten a bit too excited.

But I can understand the feeling, and I was happy, too.

They showed interest in magic, said it was beautiful.

It felt like being praised.

It felt like they came to like the magic I like.

Well, I can’t teach them actual magic, only about magic power.

But I managed to start better than I thought.

I can’t be too optimistic yet, but…

The anticipation for the class had grown bigger than before it started.

I believe the students feel the same.

Let’s look forward to tomorrow’s class.