He predicted that this time, Oswell would rush towards him, which he was ready for as he waved his staff around, summoning rings of fire around him that howled in a beautiful blaze.
"--!" Oswell looked forward in surprise.
It was launched just as the man got close: a fire-born spell that shaped itself like a mighty lance–being thrust forward as if wielded by an unseen knight before crashing against Oswell's blade.
"Ghhh…!" Oswell struggled.
It wasn't just that the boy's magical arsenal had grown in size and strength, but his mindset, tactical abilities, and physical senses have all improved as well–he was able to contend with the Champion-class swordsman.
This realization was a massive boost of confidence to the amethyst-eyed boy.
As he gripped his staff, aiming the flame lance forward, he strengthened its march as it finally broke through Oswell's guard, slamming into the man and releasing into a volatile explosion of flames.