28: Naturals

Naturals

2

For the upcoming competition, you don't need to be a magic engineer capable of producing original mana artifact or magic structure.

It doesn't require you to have experience in that field as long as you're foundation in forging was broad. As long as you have a wide range of mana artifact and magic structure in the list that you can make, it would be enough.

Of course, if you're capable of creating your own, it would be a surprise factor that could add some chances in winning. But a proven and tested mana artifacts was considered to be a better choice whenever participating in such competition.

In fact, Tracy and Mark have not yet published any original mana artifact as well as the twins, Kenneth and Katherine. But even though that was the case, with the skills of both Tracy and Mark in creating various pre-designed artifacts and structure, they claimed top spots in overall rankings in the 2nd year class. Added with their talent and available resources, it was no wonder that they could get top ranks.

Tracy doesn't feel threatened about Wallace's appearance and in fact, she was glad to see another good competitor. She believes that a good challenge will allow her to better herself.

"I have some time... so let's talk later."

Wallace did not ignore Tracy this time and answered her as he noticed that their subject instructor has arrived.

Tracy nodded at this and went back to her seat while grinning.

The instructor who just arrived was their Sir Riba who teaches Mana Praxis and Assiduity. It revolves around the utilization of naturally mana infused materials.

Yes, some materials already possess mana within because of their long exposure in mana filled environment or because their structure is just susceptible to mana.

This study allows the students to familiarize themselves with the abundant numbers of materials, plants and even creatures that possess mana.

Materials like mana stone, Jax stone, star burr are samples of naturally mana infused materials. They were indispensable components in some mana artifacts.

Of course, materials that were artificially infused by mana using a forging box with array and formation were more popular since acquiring these naturals was easier said than done.

Just like humans, not all plants and materials has mana affinity. Most of the sources of these materials were even being controlled by large companies, governments, and other private organizations.

There was also these interesting creatures that have an affinity in mana that can be found in mana filled environment. They normally possess a strong body, some level of intelligence and could control mana with a thought.

Although their numbers were low, every creature that was naturally nurtured by mana has the strength to be reckoned with.

Wallace is very interested in this subject as the location where his spaceship landed seems to be an environment filled with mana and rich with plants infused with it.

He was able to recognize those plants because of this subject. This class lasted for 2 hours and being taught 3x a week allowing them to learn a lot over this subject.

After the class, Tracy joined instead with Wallace and Gilbert's group on their lunch at the cafeteria. Tracy did not really start a conversation about what she has in mind when she asked Wallace about the class.

It was only until Wallace planned to go visit the student council office that Tracy asked to come along with him. Both of them were on the way to the office.

"I heard that you were the Traceless Hands?"

"Hmm? That fast? It seems there's a lot of holes in the NMTI's security."

Wallace knows that it will be leaked but he's not expecting to be that quick.

"Haha, at least only the upper classes are the ones who were aware of it. It can be a form of protection for you as well. So they know who not to mess with."

Tracy seemed to be happier after confirming his identity as it cleared all her doubts.

Wallace only used Traceless Hands as another identity because the magic jammer canceller will not be likened by some people. It was to protect himself as well. Of course, it is with the intention of making his own brand for the future too.

"I hope so." Wallace answered Tracy as they near the student council office. She doesn't have the intention of joining Wallace in the office and just liked to talk to him.

"Well... Have you seen our classmate's original mana artifact?"

Tracy stopped walking as she asked Wallace once more

"Yes, it's a good artifact. He'll be an amazing magic engineer someday."

Wallace complimented Ross as if it doesn't affect him in any way.

"Haha... Is that so? Do you plan to get a slot on the TMAC? That artifact could allow him to gain better chances with the slot though."

"Yes, Don't worry. I'll have one."

"Cool, it seems you're really confident, huh? Good luck then."

Tracy waved goodbye as Wallace entered the student council office to report.

***

That night Wallace was busy with his workshop. as he plans to finish his mana artifact to gain leverage. With Ross earning prestige with his new mana artifact, him being selected as a participant was more likely to happen if Wallace did not do something.

"Controls are good, transitioning was quick, power is sufficient and operation time was longer than expected. This should work."

Wallace was about to complete his finishing touches when he suddenly remembered his Silver sphere. There were still 3 available slots on it. The first one already contains Jax stone which a magic jammer canceller structure was infused into it.

He has plans for this 3 slot but hadn't had time to work on it.

"Hmm..."

He was planning to work on it as it may only take him for a few days. After all, this new mana artifact that he created may be too much when thinking about it. 

"Let's finish this first." Wallace said after he contemplated his future plans.

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