Return Of The Strongest Player

"It's been a while since we've had a mana arts class," commented Jake, walking alongside Arthur as they approached Mr. Mason's classroom. Usually, the mana arts class was held in their homeroom, but for unknown reasons, Mr. Slovenio's class was occupied.

Also, the mana arts class had been discontinued for a while due to Mr. Mason's absence, but since he'd returned, the class resumed. Mana arts was a subject everyone pursued, as it focused on the basic aspects of combat and theory.

It involved dealing with mana, whether it be in a pursuance of violence or knowledge.

The class usually revolved around basic activities made possible through the use of mana, like heating or strengthening objects. Also, the process of creating and inheriting skills was also taught.

The lessons taught in class were quite broad, and Mr. Mason often encouraged students to conduct experiments on their own.

Approaching the entrance, Jake and Arthur quickly entered the classroom, only to be greeted by Mr. Mason. He had a chiseled jawline and kind, upturned eyes. With his caramel-colored hair brushed to the side, some could refer to him as handsome.

He wore a formal suit and held a ballpoint pen in his hand.

"Mr. Solace, Mr. Garcia," he acknowledged their presence with a slight nod. "You guys are quite early. Am I to assume you're excited for my class after my absence? Have you guys missed me that much?"

"Yes, Mr. Mason," Arthur replied with innocent eyes. "We spent all day longing for your presence. We're so excited for your class."

Jake's muffled laughter echoed across the classroom, and Mr. Mason's expression stiffened at that disrespectful remark. "I sense a lot of sarcasm, Mr. Solace. What has Mr. Slovenio been teaching you?"

"Some basic theory stuff," replied the crimson-eyed man, taking a seat beside Jake. "You wouldn't understand, Mr. Mason."

Mr. Mason's eyebrow twitched. "I see, Mr. Solace. I forgot you're quite well-versed–perhaps abnormally so–in mana theory. Although, you should try to work on your manners, as you may make a lot of enemies."

"You forgot? Mr. Mason, did you take such a long break due to short-term memory loss? I have a family recipe that can–"

"Shut up," Mr. Mason quickly shut the thought down, turning around. He quickly jotted the plan for today's class onto the board using chalk.

A few minutes passed, and students began flooding in. Many were truly excited about the class, as learning to use mana efficiently would only be beneficial in the future. It was something that everyone needed.

It was also why Mr. Mason was well-liked. Well, partially, considering he was also liked due to his appearance.

"Welcome, class," said Mr. Mason, welcoming the students of Class A. "I apologize for being absent for such an extended period of time. But now that I'm back, we can pick up from where we left off."

Silence. Everyone was focused on what Mr. Mason would teach.

"First, I'd like to explain the theory of what we'll be doing today," announced Mr. Mason. "For this class, we will be learning how to infuse mana into objects. Not coat, but infuse. It's quite dangerous, so do not use too much mana."

"When one's body–which is a pretty useful conductor of mana once you unlock your mana circuits–comes into contact with an object, the keratinocyte cells in the top layer of skin communicate with the sensory neurons inside the skin through the release of ATP. That activates P2X4 receptors on sensory nerve terminals that signal touch perception to the brain."

Many were confused by the explanation, but calmly waited for the professor to continue.

"Mana is sent to investigate that object by instinct, although the minuscule amount that does enter the object doesn't trigger any reactions. However, one can adjust the quantity of mana that enters a certain object by willing your energy."

"Since that's the case, mana can also be infused with a certain object through the same process to cause a reaction called, well, 'Mana Infusion'. It's quite an unoriginal name, but it sums up the concept quite perfectly. You are infusing your mana within an object to increase its durability and strengthen your connection with it."

"Many, while studying sword, recommend treating your blade as an extension of your body. Well, using Mana Infusion, one can truly achieve such a feeling. It feels ethereal, if you ask me."

Mr. Mason took a gulp of air, recovering after such an extended explanation. Yet, many clapped, having understood it perfectly. His analogy with the sword was quite profound, and caught the interest of the swordsmen present in the class.

Also, Mana Infusion could also help scientists, as he mentioned that mana entered an object to 'investigate' its properties.

That's why everyone loved mana arts. It explained and demonstrated concepts that could assist everyone.

"So, pick an object of your choice, preferably a weapon, and simply try feeling the mana that enters the object," said Mr. Mason, sitting on his chair. "Do not attempt Mana Infusion yet."

Nodding, the students began the process.

Arthur placed his palm on the table in front of him, allowing the perception of touch to rush to his brain. Then, he closed his eyes, focusing on the touch using the entirety of his concentration. He attempted to sense the mana.

Just like Mr. Mason explained, several strands of mana emerged from his hand, investigating the object he was touching. It seemed mana assisted in the process called touch, increasing one's perception when someone unlocked mana circuits.

The strands were on an atomic level, yet Arthur could sense them, since the mana belonged to him. It was only extending due to his palm, which was connected with the table. In truth, the mana was still connected with the rest of his reserve.

Since he wasn't willing it to exit his body, the mana wasn't really being released. It was simply extending, like rubber.

It was an interesting sensation, but nothing new for Arthur. Although, Mr. Mason's explanation was quite vivid.

While he was observing the sensation, an explosion suddenly rang in his ears.

Boom!

Someone's object had imploded.