Aqua Taught Me About a Magician’s Pride!
At Rivana Library, any citizen can enter freely.
Borrowing books is free, and they even have a proper reservation system.
I wasn’t exactly surprised since similar systems existed in my old world, but this was the first time I’d seen such an organized place in this world.
No doubt, it was partly thanks to Tia.
As tourists, we were allowed inside but couldn’t borrow any books, which made Aqua visibly slump.
I felt a little bad, but it was also the first time I’d seen her so dejected—it was a bit amusing.
The books here weren’t like novels or scholarly texts; they were filled with illustrations.
Apparently, literacy rates weren’t very high.
From the atmosphere, I could tell the library was geared more towards children than adults.
Kids were running around, parents in tow, flipping through books.
I was relieved there was no guidebook-like resource here, but unfortunately, we didn’t find any information related to the ancient dungeon.
“I thought it was a good idea, but I guess it wasn’t so easy after all.”
“True. But this is fun too. Looking at the pictures gives a glimpse into Rivana’s history.”
Aqua was looking at a book filled with illustrations of Rivana.
There was a royal castle in the center, surrounded by various buildings.
It looked a bit dated, like an old map.
Naturally, there was no mention of the ancient dungeon.
Still, I was happy to see Aqua enjoying herself.
She closed one book and began flipping through another, joining the kids in their reading, occasionally stroking her chin thoughtfully.
Just seeing that made me glad we came.
Later, she called me over after finding a book.
The cover said “Magic.”
Inside, there were illustrations of the four elements: fire, water, wind, and earth.
“This is a textbook on magic, the kind you wanted to know about, Tabito. These illustrations represent the elemental affinities people are born with. It’s similar to natural talent—something that doesn’t change later in life.”
“Really? Milfi said she couldn’t use magic—there’s no chance she could learn it later?”
“I don’t think so. At least, I’ve never heard of it happening. But people like Milfi, the beastkin, often have high physical abilities and can perform feats comparable to magic, especially in battle.”
That made sense. She had crazy jumping ability and sharp senses.
“By the way, the Guide Map doesn’t fall under any elemental category, so it can’t be classified. As for how magic books are made—it’s actually quite simple.”
“Oh? Teach me, Professor Aqua.”
It felt like a magic class, and it was surprisingly fun since I didn’t know any of this.
Aqua seemed slightly confused by my joke but continued unfazed.
“Magic books may look like normal paper, but they’re actually created by magic. To put it simply, there’s magic for turning magic into magic books.”
“And?”
“That’s it. You use the magic you’ve learned to create a magic book. Learning the spell to create magic books isn’t very difficult either.”
“Huh, easier than I thought… but couldn’t you just mass-produce magic books and get rich?”
Aqua quietly shook her head.
“The moment you make a magic book, you completely forget the magic you recorded. To relearn it, you’d have to ‘understand’ it again, which takes time, even for simple spells. Plus, most magic users are nobles and don’t need money, so few make them for profit. Civilian spells, like the ones we saw today, are exceptions.”
That explained it. I remembered the court magician back in the capital, who had tried to train me rigorously.
If I’d agreed, I’d probably have attended school with the nobles.
Tabito, School Edition. That could’ve been interesting too.
“So, people who make combat magic books are likely nobles struggling for money?”
“Maybe. But generally, they want to pass their skills down to future generations. Magic represents a magician’s life itself. When they face death, they entrust their unique spells to others. I intend to do the same.”
Aqua spoke quietly, her hand resting on the book.
Magic representing one’s life… I could relate.
My Guide Map likely didn’t exist in this world, so when I die, it’ll vanish too.
Thinking that way, I understood the desire to pass it on.
If possible, I’d want it to end up with a fellow traveler—someone who’d appreciate it.
We didn’t find any info on the ancient dungeon, but I learned about Aqua’s pride as a magician.
“Elmirah must’ve felt the same way—passing down her magic.”
“Most likely. I’m really curious how we get those stamp rally spells. They could be unique to you, Tabito.”
“… That’s starting to feel like a heavy responsibility.”
“I’ll help, so don’t worry.”
“Thanks, Aqua.”
I really have the best companions.
“It’s almost closing time. Let’s go, Aqua.”
“Yes.”
Just then, a familiar name blinked on my Guide Map.
… Same name? No… it only shows names of people I’ve talked to and learned the names of.
“Aqua, come with me for a bit.”
The library had two floors.
The first floor was entirely for children, full of Rivana-themed toys.
In one section, a woman was holding a teddy bear.
Brown hair, piercing red eyes, tall and cool—a big-sister type.
“Haah… haah… so cute… Rivana Bear… I want it… but where do they sell these… this city’s a maze… asking someone would be… too embarrassing…”
S-rank adventurer, Bridget, was clutching a bear while groaning in agony.
“Oh, it’s Bridgette. I’ll go say hello—”
“Wait, Aqua, let’s just watch for a little longer.”
“Eh?”
What do you think about this chapter?
