The fortnight spent sparring against Veronica, one of the greatest magicians of the present day, was definitely worth it. She was a ferocious attacker and impenetrable defender who kept pushing Theo to his limit with sheer speed and power.

She’s coming. 

Theo had started to instinctively react to the warning of his senses. He took two steps to the right as a thunderbolt lashed the ground where he had just been standing. His body was moving with a fluidity that wasn’t present a fortnight ago. He could also read the movement of mana in the air much quicker, which allowed him to cast spells a step ahead of his thoughts.

A barrage of fire arrows started to rain down on him.

- Arrow Protection.

Theo took one step forward and triggered the water spell. He already had Battle Song active as he smoothly slipped through the rain of arrows while blocking a few with his fist. His movements seemed slightly unnatural, like clothes borrowed from someone else.

Battle Song. Rhapsody of Power. Mezzo Forte.

Theodore’s fist glowed with magic power as he punched a fireball.

Peeeong!

Some of the embers from the scattered fireballs hit his face, but Theo didn’t blink...