Chapter 22

Even though the duel between Luna and Kara was set to take place, the class continued.

The first lesson was the basics of combat theory taught by Malboro, and the second class was Godin’s magic theory.

Since the magic theory class was literally just theory, there wouldn’t be any practical exercises. I think they do that separately in the afternoon.

“Just remember this about magic: it starts with ‘letters’ and ends with ‘words.’ The rod is merely a tool for condensing magic power; our language is the essence of magic itself.”

Godin explained it in a way even someone like me, who knew nothing about magic, could easily understand.

Actual magic doesn’t stray from the framework he described. It’s not complicated like the magic seen in various media.

If you can write the correct letters and pronounce them accurately, you can use magic easily.

“To put it simply, letters are like firewood, and words are the flint. If either one is lacking, it’s tough to use magic.”

“Professor, there’s a common language, but since each country has a different language, doesn’t that matter?”

A student raised their hand and asked. It was quite a sharp question.

In this world, there is a common language, but each country has its own distinct language.

They only use the common language for convenience, and its roots are the United Academy.

“That’s a great question. To get straight to the point, it doesn’t matter. Even if the letters and languages are different, the roots are the same. While the power and forms may vary, the essence is still the same. Calling fire by a different language still means fire, right?”

“I understand. So, does that mean illiterates can’t use magic?”

“Um…”

Godin made a peculiar sound as he closed his mouth. Then he subtly glanced at me.

It was hard to gauge his gaze since his eyes were half-closed, but he definitely shot a sidelong glance in my direction.

I can’t read or write, so that would make me an excellent example in many ways.

‘Is he poking fun at me or what?’

In this world, being illiterate isn’t treated well. The reason magic and language are related is thanks to the convenience of the gods.

They integrated the ‘language,’ the alpha and omega of civilization, into magic to respond more easily to demons.

So, the illiterate have to struggle to fix their condition, and the mute are especially looked down upon.

It’s so bad that people openly say to stay away from mutes because they are cursed by the gods.

Sometimes, even priests impose ‘silence’ as a punishment.

‘If that’s the case, it could be the reason I lost my language.’

I might have insulted the gods so much that it ended up like this. Of course, I’m not sure.

Living each day on edge, I’ve been following my instincts.

“… It’s okay if there’s a problem with one of the two. There are ways to support it.”

In the meantime, Godin, who had been keeping quiet, cleared his throat and quietly explained.

As he said, with the advancement of technology, even if you’re illiterate, as long as you can speak, you can use magic.

“But if there’s a problem with both, it’s practically impossible. Especially if you can write letters but can’t speak, that’s a severe issue.”

That’s the problem. Even if everything is fine, if you can’t speak, there’s no solution.

That’s why I’m trying desperately to gain language skills.

I need to learn the defensive magic that Godin will invent someday, and being illiterate means no chance at that.

“As you can see, human language has infinite potential. It has been a significant part of civilization from its inception to now.”

Being a somewhat sensitive topic, Godin hurriedly changed the subject.

The magic in this world, as mentioned earlier, is quite unique. Magic manifests from a combination of letters and words.

However, it can’t just be used haphazardly. Apart from the most essential things, the mage must create.

‘There’s a satisfying process of learning one by one.’

For example, let’s say you want to manifest fire with magic.

Fire itself can be manifested with foundational magic.

To change its form or attack a target, you need certain combinations.

‘What was the hellfire combination again? I can’t remember.’

To explain it simply, it’s like that AI art that was really popular some time ago.

You add various modifiers to get a decent result, and then you name it.

You have to work hard until that modifier gets learned, and later, just by using language, magic can manifest.

There are diverse languages in the world, and the way each person uses them is both infinite and complex.

‘A mage needed a microphone.’

There were many users with voice recognition features using microphones.

But if you panicked and stuttered, or made even the slightest mistake, that’d be the end of the game.

If you didn’t have a microphone, casting speed would drop drastically, so it was practically forced upon you.

“Professor, then using a different country’s language is inefficient, right?”

“Of course. Speaking of which, there’s something I want to tell you. One of the misconceptions you have is thinking you can use your mother tongue freely. Are there any westerners here?”

When Godin asked, about half the students raised their hands. Luna next to me did the same.

Kara just sat still, waiting for the right moment. Tartars being a new nation lack clear distinction between east and west.

“I’ll ask those who raised their hands. Can you tell me a word that has the same or a similar meaning as ‘to see’?”

“To gaze?”

“Yes. Something like that. Next person?”

At first, there was a pause, but soon everyone began to chime in. Luna mentioned the word ‘to witness.’

And so, words that had the same or similar meanings as ‘to see’ flowed one after another, with Godin writing them all on the board.

Nobles also chimed in occasionally, so more words than expected came up.

“Is that it?”

“… …”

“Looks like that’s it. I’m truly satisfied. As you can see, there are so many words with the same or similar meaning. But is that really all?”

After raising the question, Godin started writing words on the board.

Even though the students said various languages, he wrote down seamlessly.

To gaze. To flip through. To glare. To look up. To disdain, and so on.

Even the Easterners were interpreted and written in the common language for better understanding. Amazing that he could remember all that.

“What do you think? Quite a lot, right? Not even knowing your mother tongue is part of the complexity of language.”

“Oh… …”

“The important thing is that while each has different meanings and implications, they still revolve around the ‘to see’ framework. The same goes for magic. Centering around the essence, it’s about adding flesh and bones. This is the beginning and end of magic.”

That explanation is very important in the context of magic in this world. No matter what kind of magic it is, it doesn’t stray from that framework.

Many mages often fail when trying to use large-scale magic.

Most of the time, that’s because they’ve strayed from the framework. They become bigger than their context.

“It’s about time for class to end. That will be it for today. Are there any questions?”

Swish—

As soon as the Q&A session started, Luna raised her hand.

Godin’s face lit up as he immediately reached out when he saw Luna’s hand.

“Luna student. What’s your question?”

“From what you said, it sounds like anyone can use magic.”

“Of course. Magic can be used by anyone.”

“Then would it be good for a warrior to learn at least basic magic?”

“Um…”

Godin showed signs of contemplation upon hearing Luna’s question. It was a tricky part to answer.

It was a hot topic of discussion among users.

Shouldn’t non-mages learn magic, or is it better to focus solely on one path?

There wasn’t a concrete conclusion, just the idea that it should depend on one’s inclinations.

They always say that focusing on one thing leads to great success, but that’s only when digging deeply.

The Soul World is a game where you clear it regardless of the playstyle.

Mastering a skill is important, but utilizing that skill appropriately is even more vital.

“I can’t give a definite answer there. However, I think it would be good to build at least a basic knowledge.”

“Thank you.”

“Alright. Anyone else?”

Swish—

This time, Kara, sitting next to Luna, raised her hand.

Godin looked at Kara, then showed a strange expression before pointing at her and speaking.

“The student next to you? What are you curious about?”

“I want to ask if magic can defy the laws set by the heavens.”

“The heavens… …?”

Upon Kara’s remark, Godin frowned slightly. At the same time, the atmosphere in the classroom quickly darkened.

It’s no wonder since the topic she brought up could be somewhat sensitive.

“What did that girl just say? Defying the heavens?”

“Isn’t the Tartar tribe supposed to believe in Gulrak?”

“What kind of thought led to that question?”

As expected, the students began to whisper among themselves. The classroom filled with murmurings.

Defying the heavens, or ‘rebellion’, carries various meanings.

At the very least, it includes patricide and rebellion against one’s country.

Applying it to nature could mean flipping gravity or, even more drastically, resurrecting the dead.

Although it can be used in various contexts, the underlying meaning is that it’s a dangerous statement because it goes against the ‘gods.’

“Hmm. Hmm.”

Godin quickly cleared his throat, trying to lighten the mood.

Then with a smile, he responded.

“I don’t know the intention behind your question, but it’s impossible with ‘human’ magic. Only one, the ‘demon’ that has lost its color can do so.”

“Demon?”

“Yes. Demons are devoid of color; their very existence is askew. Thus, they can easily disregard the laws established by the heavens.”

“Hmm… …”

Kara frowned as if she didn’t quite like the answer.

However, Godin wasn’t finished; he regained his smile and continued.

“Of course, this is only the case in relation to magic. Occasionally, among us humans, there appear those who defy the laws set by the heavens.”

“Who are they?”

“The Sword Saint, Rod Sherman. You all know who that is, right?”

The very familiar name was mentioned by Godin.

Kara blinked when the name of the Chancellor came up.

Her previously displeased expression disappeared without a trace.

“The Chancellor’s swordsmanship is said to be so precise it can slice through space. And it is indeed true.”

It was when I scaled the monument.

I had clearly reached the top, yet Rod’s hand reached out from above and pulled me up.

When I came to my senses, I was below the monument. He connected space with his sword.

“Figures like this aren’t ones whose existence defies the heavens. They fully comprehend the laws set by the heavens and govern them with their inherent will.”

“Could the Chancellor explain that?”

Kara asked with a slightly excited voice while Luna gave her a strange look.

However, contrary to Kara’s expectations, Godin shook his head and replied negatively.

“No, I asked, but he said he didn’t know. He just mentioned it was a ‘feeling.'”

“Tsk… …”

Kara clicked her tongue in disappointment.

Being a warrior herself, she must know how complex that ‘feeling’ can be.

“You need to understand that even the Chancellor isn’t someone who defies the heavens. He merely realized the logic behind it. Please be careful about acts that defy the heavens.”

Godin said that before moving on to the next question. Various questions came up, but none held any significance.

Meanwhile, Kara had a thoughtful expression, resting her chin on her hand. I could roughly guess what she was thinking.

‘She’s probably thinking about her biological father.’

Her father would be watching during the duel that would take place soon.

If I remember correctly, their father-daughter relationship is quite complicated and tangled.

A love expressed in a peculiar way from a father who can’t show affection, and a child who takes that at face value.

“You mentioned that you need to say the name to manifest magic. Wouldn’t that allow the opponent to prepare in advance?”

“According to those who’ve experienced the real deal, they said it doesn’t carry much significance. Even if they know the name, they can’t predict what magic will come their way. Plus, most mages are rear support, making it easier to distract.”

There’s also a fake effect. You could shout out a magic name and do nothing at all.

In the first place, there are very few mages who step forward. When they do, it’s usually a self-destructive attack.

“That’s all for today’s class. Have a wonderful lunch, everyone.”

As the class concluded, Godin bowed respectfully.

The students responded to his exceptional lecture with thunderous applause.

Kara, who had been suddenly lost in thought, looked slightly bewildered as the applause erupted.

She clapped mechanically, still seeming a bit dazed. There’s something oddly cute about that side of her.

“Where are we going for lunch?”

As Godin headed out, Elvin from the back asked us. It was time for lunch.

Luna glanced at me, then back to Elvin.

“We’re going to the buffet restaurant. The Chancellor said that Sivar’s appetite is substantial.”

“A buffet restaurant… …”

Elvin gave me a strange look. That’s where I first met him.

Although it was only a week ago, who would have guessed it would turn out like this? It’s a strange kind of bond.

“That should be fitting. If it’s a transition period, they’ll treat you as a student. But did the Chancellor teach you table manners?”

“… … Probably?”

He did teach us something.

Just not to pick up food from the ground or eat with your hands.

Oh, and also that if you eat quickly, you might choke, so it’s better to eat slowly.

Given that he’s a wildling himself, his table manners are far from graceful.

‘After all, we’ll only be eating at the buffet.’

To cover my monstrous appetite, a buffet is the only solution.

I can clear a bear in one meal. I hardly save any leftovers.

“Are we going to eat?”

“Yes.”

“Can I go with you?”

“Sure.”

Kara decided to join us for the meal, so it seems she will be hanging out with Luna and me moving forward.

“What are you planning to do, Elvin?”

“Sorry, I have other things to do. I need to discuss something with the professor.”

I don’t think so. It just seems awkward for him to hang out with Kara and me.

I’m doing my best to keep a neutral expression, but it’s pretty clear he’s glancing at us.

People don’t change easily; apparently, one duel isn’t enough to completely alter his feelings.

‘Things should improve eventually.’

Thus, as Elvin leaves, only the three of us were left behind.

The top student, a barbarian, and a wildling. Quite a disastrous combination in many ways.

I don’t know why, but this combination seems likely to continue steadily.

“Kara, do you usually prefer buffet meals too?”

“Usually, yes.”

“Do you have a preference? I’m not very familiar with Tartar’s food culture.”

“You can think of it as similar to Easterners.”

Tartar is a desert nation, more or less akin to ancient Egypt.

Therefore, I believe they prefer lighter flavors rather than greasy ones.

‘But I think they like sweet foods as well.’

As far as I remember, that’s true. They really liked sweets like candy.

While I was lost in thought, Kara looked at me. Our eyes met, hers shining emerald green.

After a moment of staring, she turned her gaze and asked Luna.

“Do you know what he likes? Will he eat anything?”

“According to the Chancellor, he eats well without picky habits.”

“Then would he get angry if I snatch his food?”

“… …”

Luna turned to Kara with a cold stare at her silly question.

Apparently, since I’ve said I get irked when people poke at me in that way, that’s likely why. But that’s an immature notion in itself.

“Um… … could you just pretend you didn’t hear that? It’s embarrassing.”

Kara must have felt foolish as she scratched her head, looking sheepish. Her perceptiveness is rather cute.

Luna let out a sigh full of meaning, as if resigned, then quietly spoke up.

“… … Just try it and see. I’m curious about what will happen. By the way, there’s a saying that you shouldn’t touch food when eating.”

“I won’t touch a dog, so I won’t touch that.”

“Then you really shouldn’t. Sivar can bite.”

“That’s a bit scary.”

Come on now. What do you think of me, doing something like that?

‘I’m only going to poke it with a fork, not bite it… …’

I feel a bit hurt.

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