Episode 271: Observation Results of Maso
About a week has passed since the observation of Maso density around ＜The Tree＞ began.
The location is the usual lounge. Since data at a level usable for analysis had been collected, ＜Ringo＞ had gathered everyone for an explanation.
“I will now report on the Maso density around ＜The Tree＞.”
What was displayed was a 3D mesh representing Maso density in terms of high and low.
It spread out from ＜The Tree＞ as the center, like ripples.
“As a result of detailed detection of the surrounding Maso density, it has been confirmed that it spreads in a distribution closely resembling ripples.”
The ripples had a radius of approximately 120km. The maximum value of the Maso density was 3,004%.
Up to this point, the content was almost the same as when the initial simple survey was conducted. It only showed that a more detailed density map had been created.
“And, this temporal movement of Maso density has also been confirmed. This ripple-like density distribution is gradually moving outward over time.”
Under the annotation of “simulation results,” the ripples began to move. The dates spun around, and it could be confirmed that the ripples gradually spread outward over many months.
“＜Ringo＞. Does this mean that these ripples were generated when ＜The Tree＞ appeared in this world?”
To Akane’s question, ＜Ringo＞ nodded.
“That is the likely inference. Just like the ripples created by a stone dropped on the water surface, it is certain that the Maso density began to change almost simultaneously with the appearance of ＜The Tree＞.”
＜Ringo＞ partially affirmed.
“However, whether this fluctuation occurred with the appearance of ＜The Tree＞, or whether ＜The Tree＞ appeared because this occurred, there is no material for any speculation at this time.”
“Ah, I guess so. We don’t know anything, do we?”
The source is unknown. Since it cannot be observed, it cannot be helped.
“And, this hypothetical substance called Maso cannot be detected by ordinary observation methods. It is not detected by the frequencies of electromagnetic waves that we usually handle, and there is no interference with other substances. However, it has been found that it is affected by high-energy electromagnetic waves such as X-rays or γ-rays.”
These are electromagnetic waves in the so-called radiation band. The wavelength of visible light is approximately 380-780nm. On the other hand, X-rays are 0.01-1nm. The frequency is 10 to the 17th power to 10 to the 22nd power Hertz.
“Therefore, Maso is hypothesized to be some kind of elementary particle. At least, it has not been discovered by the scientific technology we currently understand.”
“…Magic becomes usable by sensing unknown elementary particles? It’s suddenly turned into pseudo-science.”
“Onee-sama, but according to the observation results so far, that’s not wrong, is it? It’s like, don’t think, feel, you know?”
Asahi’s words were casual, but she was the one who observed the phenomenon that magic is the embodiment of imagination. Eve would have to admit that.
However, hearing only that, it sounded like the words of a dubious con man.
“Well, whatever. It’s a big step forward just to have identified the means of observation.”
“Yes, Ma’am. And, from the fact that the Maso density is moving slowly, we can also estimate that Maso particles seem to affect each other. However, the influence of electrons, gravity, and other forces cannot be observed at this time. The only thing that shows a reaction is the thinking activity of Sentient Entities.”
According to ＜Ringo＞, it seems that humans, Monsters, or even AI like Asahi, are affected by anything that thinks. Slight fluctuations are observed with thinking activity.
“Assuming that it has the property of not being affected by other force fields, we were able to observe slight fluctuations in density near living things and in places where they are not. However, since the accuracy of the Maso Meter is low, the possibility of error or noise cannot be denied.”
“The strength of will seems to influence the activation of magic! Fluctuations in Maso were also confirmed when magic was used and when it was not! Also, we are still conducting follow-up tests, but there are also observation results that the surrounding Maso density is thinning after magic is used!”
Asahi also seems to be repeating experiments on the continent. She was experimenting by photographing subjects (Magic Warriors) with X-rays while they used magic, and by improving the Maso Meter.
“I see. X-rays are dangerous, right? Make sure they get a proper diagnosis.”
“Yes, it’s perfect! I throw them into the medical pod once a month, so there’s no problem!”
If it is a medical pod that ＜The Tree＞ uses as standard, it can cleanly remove even cancerous cells. Even if there are cells with damaged genes, Nanomachines will repair them nicely.
If they can receive this treatment regularly, the subjects may have a rare longevity.
“Hmm, is it a punishment or a reward…”
“It’s definitely a reward!”
Eve smiled wryly at Asahi, who declared with confidence, and turned her gaze to ＜Ringo＞.
“They seem to feel that they are becoming healthier. No objects of avoidance have been confirmed so far.”
“I see. Well, it’s fine, but…”
After sympathizing with the subjects, thinking that they were probably being manipulated, Eve decided to forget about it. Surely, she can’t help them. It’s useful, though.
“Is it correct to recognize the situation as having gained a foothold?”
“Yes, Ma’am. We are constructing a simulation model assuming a new type of elementary particle. It’s like basic research, so results won’t come out immediately, but we believe we can make a good report if we take our time.”
“If we can analyze the behavior of this Maso, we may be able to use magic systematically! Oh, this is fun!”
A Humanoid Machine (Android), a child of science, using magic. It was quite a challenging endeavor.
However, since it can be observed and quantified (informatized), it is already in the realm of science. With ＜Ringo＞’s processing power, some kind of theory will be constructed before long.
It was only a matter of time before the provisional Asahi Magic Research Laboratory was officially launched.
◇◇◇◇
The ground transport plane stopped with a rumble. As soon as the side hatch opened, spider-shaped combat machines crawled out.
These were QT-EM01s, the monkey model of the Multi-legged Tank MLT-E series with standard equipment.
The Legs have been reduced to four, and the armament is only a Railgun and a laser gun. The wheels for high-speed movement have also been removed, and the built-in power supply has been omitted. Instead, the exercise performance itself was improved due to weight reduction.
These disposable weapons will clash with the Prawa Theocracy’s forces.
The Quadruped Tanks were developed on the premise of being disposable, simply to throw in a large amount of material. Since the usefulness cannot be fully understood, it also serves as an operational test.
In any case, these Quadruped Tanks were being sent in one after another to build the front line.
Huge Land Transport Planes appeared one after another, scattering a large number of spiderlings. However, the size of the spiderlings was huge, with a total length and width of 6m and a total height of 5m at maximum.
Moreover, once the railway construction is completed, even more supplies will be transported.
＜Paraiso＞ had seriously begun to invest resources in the capture of the Holy Capital of the Prawa Theocracy.
In addition to a large number of ground forces, the Aerial Escort Ship Titan series was in the sky, and the Land Battleship Jötunn series was in support.
The tactic this time was to grind down the Prawa Theocracy’s forces with a large amount of material.
This is bad. Ringo-chan has started to get serious.
However, this is the first time I’ve ever experienced analyzing an unknown phenomenon. Until now, I’ve only been reading the library.