Jace had to pause to listen to what the man had to say, immediately picking up the thought that he'd somehow annoyed him. As far as he know, he only offered his opinion, and not exactly brand him as corrupt. As much as he wanted to argue about this, Jace forced himself to keep his mouth shut for his own good. He reminded himself that he was there to learn, and not challenge someone to a debate given that someone is an experienced wizard.

Jace somehow felt deflated, and didn't bother to listen to the rest of the man's words because he'd already read about those stuff too. Different words, same meaning. Nothing was new to him, but, he did keep his attention up front in case something would pique his interest.

So far there was none...and even the question didn't excite him at all. Focus, Will...Control of emotions...they all seem to make sense to him so he nodded along as he went back to mold the hakama of his samurai.

Mash...roll...mash...roll...shape...shape...shape. ..trim...trim...trim.

His thoughts brought him back to his practise sessions in their dojo in Japan and imagined himself to be in a duel. If he were to cast his deadly blow onto his opponent, he has to have the heart to do so. No ifs or buts...no thinking even. As soon as he sees an opening, he should go for the strike no matter what. As he joined the torso and leg of his samurai, Jace went on to raise his hand to offer his answer, "How about, determination sir?" If you're that determined to cast one...there was a small chance it would backfire, right?

But yes, whatever. It seems the clay was more interesting than all of the theory stuff so Jace immediately went back to his work and trimmed away the excess clay on his creation.