Chapter 271: Observations of Magic Essence
It had been about a week since the observation of the Magic Essence density around The Tree had begun. The location was the usual lounge. Now that sufficient data had been gathered for analysis, Ringo had called everyone together to explain the findings.
“I will now report on the Magic Essence density surrounding The Tree.”
Displayed before them was a 3D mesh representing the fluctuations in Magic Essence density. It radiated outward from The Tree like ripples on water.
“Upon detailed detection of the surrounding Magic Essence density, we confirmed that it spreads in a distribution remarkably similar to ripples.”
The ripples extended approximately 120 kilometers in radius, with the maximum density reaching an astonishing 3,004%. This information was nearly identical to what had been gathered during the preliminary investigation on the first day, merely indicating that a more detailed density map had been created.
“Furthermore, we have confirmed that this Magic Essence density is also moving over time. The ripple-like distribution is gradually shifting outward.”
Under the annotation of simulation results, the ripples began to move. Dates spun around, demonstrating how the ripples expanded outward over several months.
“Ringo, does this mean that these ripples were indeed generated when The Tree appeared in this world?” Akane inquired.
Ringo nodded in response. “That is the hypothesis. Much like the ripples created by a stone dropped into water, it is undeniable that the Magic Essence density began to change almost simultaneously with the emergence of The Tree.”
Ringo partially affirmed the statement. “However, we currently have no materials to speculate whether this fluctuation occurred due to The Tree’s appearance or if The Tree manifested because of this fluctuation.”
“Oh, that makes sense. We really don’t know anything yet,” Akane replied, acknowledging the uncertainty.
The source of the phenomenon remained unknown, and given the inability to observe it, that was to be expected.
“Moreover, this Magic Essence, which we are hypothesizing as a substance, cannot be detected by conventional observation methods. It does not register within the frequency of electromagnetic waves we typically handle, nor does it interfere with other substances. However, we have found that it can be affected by high-energy electromagnetic waves such as X-rays or gamma rays.”
This referred to the band of electromagnetic waves known as radiation. The wavelength of visible light ranges from approximately 380 to 780 nm, while X-rays range from 0.01 to 1 nm, with frequencies spanning from 10^17 to 10^22 Hertz.
“Therefore, we can hypothesize that Magic Essence is some form of elementary particle. At least, it has not been discovered with the scientific technology we currently understand.”
“…So, you’re saying that one can use magic by sensing unknown elementary particles? This suddenly sounds like pseudoscience,” Eve remarked.
“Ma’am, but based on our observations so far, that doesn’t seem incorrect, does it? It’s more about feeling than thinking,” Asahi chimed in.
Though Asahi’s words were somewhat casual, she was the one who had observed the phenomenon that magic is a manifestation of imagination. Eve had no choice but to concede that point. However, taken out of context, it did sound like the words of a dubious charlatan.
“Well, that’s fine. Just the fact that we’ve identified a means of observation is a significant advancement,” Eve concluded.
“Yes, Commander. Additionally, the slow movement of the Magic Essence density suggests that the Magic Essence particles may influence each other. However, we have yet to observe any interactions with electrons, gravity, or other forces. The only reaction noted so far is from cognitive activity by sentient beings.”
According to Ringo, humans, monsters, and even AIs like Asahi were all influenced by the act of thinking. A slight fluctuation had been observed accompanying cognitive activity.
“Assuming it has the property of not being affected by other force fields, we were able to observe slight fluctuations in density near living beings compared to areas without them. However, due to the low precision of the Magic Essence Meter, we cannot rule out the possibility of error or noise.”
“It seems that the strength of one’s will may influence the activation of magic! We confirmed fluctuations in Magic Essence both during and outside of magic usage! Additionally, preliminary tests indicate that the surrounding Magic Essence density decreases after magic is used!” Asahi added, excitedly.
It appeared that Asahi had been conducting repeated experiments on the continent. She was using X-rays to capture images of subjects (Magic Warriors) while they cast spells and was also working on improving the Magic Essence Meter.
“Is that so? X-rays are dangerous, aren’t they? Make sure they receive proper diagnostics,” Eve advised.
“Yes, absolutely! I send them to the medical pod once a month, so there are no issues!” Asahi replied confidently.
With the medical pod standardly used by The Tree, even cancerous cells could be effectively removed. If any cells had damaged DNA, the nanomachines would repair them adequately. If the subjects could receive this treatment regularly, they might enjoy an unprecedented longevity.
“Hmm, is it a punishment or a reward…?”
“It’s definitely a reward!” Asahi declared with unwavering confidence.
Eve smiled wryly at Asahi’s certainty and turned her gaze back to Ringo.
“It seems they do feel a sense of improved health. So far, no aversions have been identified.”
“That’s good. Well, I suppose that’s fine…” Eve mused.
After feeling a twinge of sympathy for the subjects, who were likely being led around by the nose, Eve decided to set that thought aside. Surely, there was nothing she could do about it. It was useful, after all.
“Given the situation, we can confidently say we’ve grasped a foothold, correct?”
“Yes, Commander. We are currently constructing a simulation model based on the assumption of a new type of elementary particle. It’s akin to foundational research, so results won’t come immediately, but with time, I believe we can provide good reports.”
“If we can analyze the behavior of this Magic Essence, we may be able to systematically utilize magic! How exciting!” Eve exclaimed.
The android, a child of science, using magic was indeed a bold endeavor.
However, since they could observe and quantify the phenomenon, it had already entered the realm of science. With Ringo’s processing capabilities, it wouldn’t be long before some theory would be constructed. The establishment of the provisional Asahi Magic Research Lab was merely a matter of time.
The ground transport craft came to a halt with a rumble. As the side hatch opened, a swarm of spider-like combat machines crawled out. These were the monkey models of the standard-equipped multi-legged tank MLT-E series, specifically the QT-EM01.
With four legs reduced to a quadrupedal design, armed only with a railgun and a laser gun, the QT-EM01 had also removed its high-speed wheels and omitted its internal power source. Instead, the reduction in weight had improved its mobility.
This mass-consumption weapon was set to clash with the military forces of the Prava Divine Nation.
The quadrupedal tanks were designed with disposability in mind, developed solely to overwhelm the enemy with sheer numbers. Their utility was still uncertain, hence the operational testing.
In any case, these quadrupedal tanks were being sent in droves to establish a frontline.
Massive ground transport crafts continued to appear, dispersing a multitude of smaller spider machines. Despite their name, these “spiderlings” measured 6 meters in length and width, with a maximum height of 5 meters.
Moreover, once the railway construction was completed, even more supplies would be transported.
Paraiso had begun to earnestly allocate resources for the conquest of the Holy Capital of the Prava Divine Nation.
In addition to the vast ground forces, aerial escort ships from the Titan series hovered above, while land battleships from the Jotun series stood ready to provide support. The strategy this time was to crush the military strength of the Prava Divine Nation through overwhelming numbers.
This is bad. Ringo has started to get serious. However, this is the first time I’ve experienced analyzing an unknown phenomenon. Until now, I’ve just been reading from the library.