Chapter 10

After returning to my room, I lay down on the bed.

My mind was filled with the dual incantation magic I had just tried.

"I see, I see. When you activate magic with two different incantations, it doesn't simply become 1+1=2, but rather something entirely different..."

Neither 'Blazing Fireball' nor 'Cascading Waterball' had any elements that would cause such a flash explosion.

It was probably due to the spells overlapping, creating a new phenomenon.

I had read about such things in the castle's books. It was a dual incantation used by two people, though.

Still, I wonder what kind of reactions other spells would produce. I'd like to try various combinations.

"Hey, Grimo, can we create a room in another dimension using spatial distortion magic?"

"No way! I've never even heard of such a thing!"

It's probably too difficult.

Spatial magic is difficult for me too, and I can only use one or two spells.

Controlling a large enough space for magical experiments is beyond my capabilities.

"Hmm, I really need a place to experiment..."

I can't use the shooting range, and the rooftop has been heavily guarded since the recent incident.

"Why don't you do it outside the castle?"

"Outside the castle... Indeed, there's a vast land outside the castle, perfect for test shots. But if I'm caught sneaking out, I'll be in big trouble."

I am, after all, a prince, even if only the seventh.

I am given some freedom, but such reckless actions are not allowed.

"Hehehe, just sneak out quietly. No one will know."

"While sneaking out might be possible, it's unlikely I can avoid being caught for such a long time."

The biggest problem is Silfa, my guard and caretaker.

She invites me to play sword fighting every day, but no matter where I hide to read, she always finds me.

...No, wait. Now that I think about it, I have Grimo, and with that, I might be able to fool her for a short time.

"...I have something I want to try. Will you help me, Grimo?"

"Of course!"

What I want to try is a magical substitute.

I spread my hands and, looking at myself in the mirror, gathered magic in front of me.

A small seed appeared at the center, sprouted, and quickly grew roots in the air.

The roots gradually began to form a human shape.

"Whoa... What is that...?"

"It's a Tree System magic, 'Wooden Substitute.'"

'Substitute' is a spell that uses magic to shape wood or stone into various forms.

Particularly, the 'Substitute' created by Tree System magic is made by growing trees, making it elastic and hard, and allowing for intricate shapes.

In no time, a figure identical to me was completed.

"I've never seen such a detailed 'Substitute.' It's truly amazing. It looks just like you, Lloyd."

"That's because I made it that way."

The resemblance isn't just in appearance.

By adding Earth System magic, I made the bones out of stone, the flesh out of mud, the skin out of resin, and the nerves out of roots, with magic flowing like blood to provide power. It can move, of course.

It's quite fragile because it's made of earth and wood, but with enough magic, it can be active for a few days.

"Visually, it's fine, but controlling it is quite a hassle..."

Controlling a created object to move like a human requires a lot of concentration.

It's impossible to control a substitute while going out and experimenting with magic.

"Controlling two bodies at once is beyond human capability."

"Right, so I want Grimo to control this."

Grimo, who looked shocked, continued to listen.

"Grimo has a structure between a physical and a spiritual body. So, can you leave the physical part in my right hand and have your spirit inhabit this figure?"

"Well, that shouldn't be a problem..."

"I'll handle the conversation. Grimo, just move the body as needed."

Grimo seemed nervous about my request.

"Um, but is that okay? I might not be able to act as you wish..."

"Since I'm asking you, it should be fine. Go ahead and enter it."

"Okay... then..."

Encouraged by me, Grimo hesitantly entered the figure's body.

The figure's eyes opened, and Grimo moved its limbs to check the movements.

It seemed to be working fine.

Grimo stood up, rotated its neck, and then turned to me with a sly smile.

"Hehe, unbelievable. I never thought I'd have such freedom... Must be because you trust me a lot. If I use the people around me while this thing is out... "

"Grimo"

"Y-Yes!"

Grimo jumped and shuddered when I called out.

Turning to me cautiously, I smiled at him.

"I'm counting on you."

Grimo stared at me with a dazed look.

"? Is something wrong?"

"N-No, nothing! It's fine!"

He waved his hands and looked away from me.

"...That look, is he planning something...? Ah! I see, he's testing me! He's pretending to give me freedom, but if I show any signs of betrayal, he'll kill me! Haha, good thing I noticed. His magic is unpredictable. It wouldn't be surprising if he had such a spell prepared...! So, it's not wise to move recklessly now. I should focus on gaining his trust..."

He started muttering to himself again.

What's going on with him?

"Grimo, are you okay?"

"N-No, no, I'm fine! I'll do my best for Lloyd-sama, no matter what! Hehe, hehehe..."

Seeing Grimo's awkward smile, I tilted my head.

He seems to be talking to himself a lot.

Maybe he's mentally exhausted from living in the human world.