At the Royal Academy, the curriculum was divided into compulsory and elective subjects tailored to each department.
For the Magic Department, the core curriculum consisted of six mandatory subjects: General Magic Theory, Magic Acquisition, Herbology, History of Magic, Monsterology, and Practical Magic.
Beyond those, students could choose from various electives such as Alchemy, Magical Medicine, Barrier Arts, Astronomy, Magical Biology, Divination, and Ancient Languages. There was even the option to take classes from other departments, including subjects like Dance, Lady’s Education, and Etiquette—refinements considered essential for the nobility.
The first class Rest and his group attended was General Magic Theory, a cornerstone of their magical education.
"I'll introduce myself once more. I am Nephirie Carder, the homeroom teacher for Class A. I am also in charge of General Magic Theory and Practical Magic. You may call me Ms. Carder, or simply 'Mom'!"
The woman standing before Class A was indeed their homeroom teacher. As they had seen during the orientation on the day of the entrance ceremony, Ms. Carder was a formidable-looking educator with flaxen hair pulled back in a sharp tie.
"Since I’ve been assigned as your homeroom teacher, expect me to be rigorous. Any student who fails to meet my standards can expect to be demoted to Class B even before the final exams!"
While class assignments were generally determined by entrance and final exam scores, instructors held the authority to promote or demote students at their discretion. It was clear that Ms. Carder was not the type to go easy on them.
"Now, let’s begin. Luid Gistal, stand up!"
"Huh? M-me!?"
Ms. Carder pointed her pointer toward a male student who had been trying to stifle a yawn. He scrambled to his feet in a panic.
"We are starting with the fundamentals of General Magic Theory. List the Five Great Magics as defined in modern magical studies!"
"Uh, well... let's see..."
The sudden spotlight clearly rattled him. Despite it being a basic question that had appeared on the entrance exam, he could only stammer, unable to find the words.
"One point deduction. You’re one step closer to Class B."
"N-no way..."
"Next... Primula Rosemary! Answer the question!"
"Yes, ma'am."
Primula, who was sitting next to Rest, rose with practiced grace. Without a hint of fluster, she took a steadying breath and gave her answer.
"They are Elemental Magic, Biological Magic, Matter Magic, Summoning Magic, and Faith Magic."
"Correct," Ms. Carder said with a nod.
"Elemental Magic utilizes attributes like fire and water. Biological Magic focuses on physical enhancement and healing. Matter Magic manipulates inanimate objects like rock and metal. Summoning Magic employs magical creatures called forth from other realms. Finally, Faith Magic involves offering mana to an object of worship—such as a god, angel, or spirit—to produce miracles in exchange. These are the Five Great Magics that form the foundation of modern magic. Additionally, you must familiarize yourselves with fields like Alchemy for creating medicines and magic tools, as well as Barrier Arts for spatial manipulation."
Ms. Carder scanned the room with a piercing gaze before settling on another student.
"Jewel Easel. Tell me which of the Five Great Magics are actually taught here in the Academy's Magic Department."
"Yes... that would be Elemental Magic, Biological Magic, and Matter Magic," a timid girl with glasses answered in a trembling voice.
"Hmph. And do you know why the other two are omitted from our curriculum?"
"Um... because Faith Magic is handled by the Priest Department. As for Summoning Magic, failures can result in the appearance of dangerous entities, so its use is restricted to those with special permits... I believe?"
"Precisely. Now then, regarding the disasters caused by failures in Summoning Magic... Rest, you answer."
(Here it comes...!)
Rest caught his breath and stood up. It was a challenging topic, but one he had covered thoroughly during his exam studies.
"Fifteen hundred years ago, the Ancient Diamond Dynasty attempted to summon a demon for their war against a neighboring country. According to the records, the resulting army of demons destroyed the capital in a single night. More recently, about twenty years ago, a research facility within the Geisel Empire was destroyed by a fire of unknown origin. Every researcher was burned to death. While the Empire hasn't released the details, local residents reported seeing a flame giant, leading many to believe the disaster was caused by a failed summoning."
"Well said. That is exactly right."
The answer seemed to satisfy her, and the corners of Ms. Carder’s mouth curled into a faint, approving smile. Rest sat down, letting out a quiet sigh of relief.
"It isn't just Summoning Magic; it's quite common for casters to injure themselves when any spell fails. To prevent such accidents, you must hammer the core principles of magic into your minds. Some people dismiss General Magic Theory because it covers the basics, but never forget: it is vital precisely because it is the foundation."
Ms. Carder tapped the blackboard with her pointer and signaled for them to open their books.
"We shall continue. Open your textbooks to page ten."
The introductory remarks were finally over. Ms. Carder began the lecture in earnest, and the students focused on copying her notes.
Though she was clearly a strict teacher, Ms. Carder’s explanations were clear and engaging. Despite the lingering tension, Rest and his companions successfully navigated their very first class at the Royal Academy.