Cid - Senses shifts in magical energy

“Lesson two.”

I make my move as he readies his sword again. I don’t use magic, letting his movements stay quicker than mine. But he can’t attack and move at the same time—no matter his speed.

Which is why I can get closer and take one tiny step.

It’s a distance that’s too long for me and too short for him.

There’s a moment of silence that follows.

I see him looking uncertain of his next move, but he ultimately chooses to back away.

I knew he was going to do that, based on the shift of magical energy inside him, and I close the distance before he has a chance to back up.

This time, my sword scrapes against his leg, cutting a little deeper than the last laceration.

***

Volume 1, Chapter 1