Chapter 22 of 100
Chapter 22
3 min read719 words
"Parallel construction, you say?"
The lecture for Sophia is still ongoing. Now, it's time to teach her about 'parallel construction,' a technique that is almost essential for A-rank magicians.
"Yes. As the name suggests, it refers to the technique of constructing two or more magical formulas simultaneously."
"Two or more at the same time... Can that really be done? It sounds very difficult..."
Indeed, parallel construction is difficult. It's often cited as one of the points where magicians tend to give up.
Fundamentally, constructing a magical formula involves performing a vast amount of calculations in the brain. To handle multiple calculations simultaneously, one needs to get used to it.
"With practice, you can manage two. There are even those who can construct dozens of formulas at once."
"Dozens... That seems impossible for me... However, why is parallel construction considered an essential technique? I mean, if you can use top-tier magic, wouldn't that be enough?"
Attack magic is divided into four levels: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and top-tier. The higher the level, the greater the power and the wider the range, but naturally, the difficulty of constructing the formula also increases, taking more time.
"When it comes to lower-level monsters, even top-tier magic isn't always enough to finish them off in one hit. You know that the time between casting one spell and the next is called the interval, right? Most magicians are powerless during the interval. That's where parallel construction comes in handy. The basic application is to start constructing another spell when you're halfway through constructing one. This way, the interval time is halved in simple terms."
"I see. Shortening the time when I can't do anything is indeed attractive. And lower-level monsters are strong enough that even top-tier magic can't always defeat them..."
"It's not just about repeatedly casting high-powered magic. Even A-rank magicians often use intermediate magic. Hardly anyone uses beginner-level magic anymore. It all depends on how you use it. Top-tier magic is indeed powerful and has a wide range, but it can also affect your allies in the front line. The standard approach for A-rank magicians is to start with a top-tier spell and then use intermediate or advanced magic to coordinate with their allies."
"That's very enlightening! I thought I needed to be able to use top-tier magic as soon as possible. But being able to use only top-tier magic isn't enough for a magician. I'll work hard to master parallel construction!"
"Good, keep at it. Sophia, you already have the skills to fight in the middle layers. So, it's a good idea to practice parallel construction now to be able to fight in the lower layers. Fortunately, the Silver Hare of the Night Sky has many seniors. You can learn from them. Selma, for example, would be happy to teach you."
Given how much Selma dotes on Sophia at the restaurant, that's no doubt true.
"Understood! B-but, if I have to learn from someone, I'd prefer Orun, not Selma, ..."
Sophia, blushing and looking down, whispers in a tiny voice. It was almost inaudible.
"From me?"
"Y-yes, would that be okay...?"
Sophia looks up at me with teary eyes. Honestly, she's very cute. I-I'm sure she's not doing it on purpose, right?
Still, she wants to learn from me. I can teach her, but as an outsider, is it appropriate for me to do so? The Silver Hare of the Night Sky must have its own teaching methods. Should I check with Selma?
...No, this seems like it's going to be a complicated situation. Still, I want to respect the courage this girl has shown in asking me...
Fine, it's going to be complicated, but if Selma gives her permission, I'll help.
"Selma has to say it's okay. I can't teach you without permission as an outsider."
"Really!? Selma is very lenient with me, so it'll be fine! Thank you!"
Selma, it seems your sister thinks you're very lenient...
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