How to train your sorceress

Three days had passed since they departed from the inn, and today, if fortune favored them, they would at last arrive in Shaerrawedd. Winter's grasp was loosening, and with it, the monsters' slumber neared its end. Soon, these otherworldly horrors would emerge from their sanctuaries, prowling the land in a relentless quest for sustenance, be it human or beast. Villagers would vanish without a trace, swallowed by the shadows of the night. Farmlands will become their breeding grounds, and livestock their nourishment.

However, this period will also mark the start of the hunt. The few remaining mutant warriors, known as witchers, will leave their winter fortress and hideouts to track down and eliminate these monstrous creatures—for a price, of course.

Such two individuals were leading their mares forward at a calm and steady pace, their eyes scanning the dense forest for any signs of danger. They carried themselves with certainty, confident in their abilities as seasoned monster slayers.

The sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm glow over the trees and painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. The air still had an icy crispness to it, and snow was laying in thin patches on the ground. The only disruption to the serene silence was the occasional snap of twigs underfoot, punctuated by the panting and grunting of their newest companion.

"Elsa, how many times must I tell you? In through your nose and out through your mouth. You'll conserve your energy that way," Atram barked. "Your hands must run parallel to your body, not flail around like a fish out of water. Yes! Good! Keep your back straight and your head up. Remember, focus on your breathing and let the movements flow naturally. You're getting the hang of it now. Keep up the pace, and don't let your mind wander. This is about discipline and control. Every movement counts, and every breath matters. If your body begins to 'fail you', notify me." He added in rapid succession, his voice echoing through the forest.

Elsa nodded, her posture improving by the minute. She had only been training with the witchers for three days, but the results were already noticeable. Her stamina had increased, her mind was becoming sharper, and her body more responsive than ever. Of course, the experience itself was hellish.

Growing up in an orphanage and later working as an apothecary's assistant hadn't prepared her for the grueling physical demands of the 'demonic duo'. In fact, nobody should have to push themselves to the brink of collapse and beyond. Yet here she was, running alongside the horses on the dirt road, her legs burning with each step and her breath coming in short gasps.

Even then, her torment would not cease. At noon, Atram would guide her through body-strengthening exercises, at the end of which he would place his hand in the middle of her back and energize her body. In that instant, a surge of power, unlike anything she had ever experienced, would course through her, banishing all pains and aches, leaving her revitalized and prepared for another marathon.

In the evening, it was Geralt's turn to train her. The white-haired witcher would design a challenging course that encompassed jumping, weaving, and navigating through the dense forest. This regimen aimed to enhance her sense of balance, agility, and overall bodily control.

When night came, Atram would cast a couple of 'menial spells', as he liked to call them, that cleaned her and her clothes and warmed her body. Finally, he'd repeat the motion with his hand on her back, which provided similar, if not stronger, stimulation.

"This seems a good spot to rest," Geralt commented, pointing at a clearing near the main road.

"I agree. Take care of my horse while I gather some firewood," Atram said as he dismounted and passed the reins to his friend.

Geralt led the horses to a nearby tree and securely tied them before returning to the clearing. He observed as Atram vanished into the woods, his footsteps fading with each passing moment. Settling onto a nearby log, Geralt absorbed the sights and sounds of the forest: the rustle of leaves, the birdsong, and the occasional snap of a twig, all contributing to the tranquil atmosphere. Retrieving a flask of water from his bag, he took a sip before placing it beside him.

Elsa approached, her forehead glistening with sweat and her breath labored. "Give it to me straight. How am I doing?" she asked, leaning on her knees.

Geralt paused, deliberating his response. "Thanks to your stubborness and Atram's 'magic,' you've made remarkable progress. This kind of transformation would typically take weeks, but you've achieved it in just a few days. Your form is improving, and your stamina has significantly increased," he replied, offering an honest smile.

She nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. "By the way, I haven't asked since the beginning, but why do I have to do all that running and body training?" Elsa wondered. "As a sorceress, shouldn't I focus on honing my magical abilities instead?"

"We considered it, but neither I nor Atram are particularly skilled with magic. What we do have is experience fighting mages." He began, "As such, we thought about how we could rectify the mistakes many of their ilk make. Most neglect their physical training, thinking that their magic will be enough to protect them. But in reality, endurance and agility are just as crucial. After all, what good is a powerful spell if you can't dodge an enemy's attack or run away from danger?"

"That makes sense," Elsa answered thoughtfully.

"In addition, physical training can also enhance your mental focus and discipline. Your constant running and course workouts will not only improve your overall motor skills but also help you develop a strong mind-body connection. This connection is crucial in combat situations, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between life and death." Geralt added.

"I see..."

With Geralt's explanation coming to an end, they fell into a comfortable silence. Elsa pondered her mentor's words, and Geralt assumed a meditative stance, as he usually did when they stopped to rest.

After some time, Atram emerged, bearing a bundle of sturdy branches. He cast a nod of approval toward Geralt, assessing his posture with a keen eye.

Bastard's too diligent! He thought to himself and smirked.

Setting the bundle aside, Atram began to dig a hole in the ground, igniting a small fire. His attention shifted to Elsa, who observed Geralt's practice with quiet curiosity, attempting to discern the source of his almost imperceptible humming. Yet, her efforts proved futile, as only those attuned to ki could perceive the glowing aura; for others, it remained unseen but felt.

"Would the young lady care to join me by the fire?" Atram requested in a courteous manner.

Elsa raised her gaze from Geralt and replied in a regal tone. "She may." Taking a few pompous steps towards Atram, flashing him a grin.

Atram executed an elegant bow, a graceful gesture that contrasted with his imposing frame, inviting Elsa to take a seat opposite him.

Elsa fought the urge to roll her eyes, surprised by his demeanor. "Is there anything you can't do?" she inquired, attempting to conceal her admiration.

Atram chuckled softly. "I'm afraid anything requiring delicate work is beyond me with these brutish hands of mine," he admitted, flexing his thick fingers.

Elsa giggled at her mentor's self-deprecating humor. "Alright, alright, enough. Should we begin our regular training?"

"Not today," Atram stated firmly. "We'll continue your training, albeit with adjustments. You still need to build enough muscle to enhance your motor skills. However, we must be cautious not to overdo it. Excessive muscle mass in women can influence your hormones and disrupt your menstrual cycle, leading to a host of health problems."

Elsa whistled in astonishment at his insight. "You've truly considered everything, haven't you?" she praised. "If not, then what will I be doing? I can't imagine you'd have me do nothing."

Atram gasped dramatically, his hand flying to cover his mouth. "My, my, what do you think of your instructors?" he teased.

"I can practically see the horns sprouting from their foreheads," Elsa replied with a chuckle.

"You haven't seen anything yet," Atram muttered under his breath, casting her a predatory grin.

Elsa tilted her head in perplexity as his words went unheard. "What?"

"Nothing, nothing," he started, "In terms of what you'll be doing, today marks the beginning of your magical training. You will also learn how to tap into your natural mana pool and channel it into spells. And...judging by your expression, I'll have to start from the beginning." Atram said, noticing Elsa's confusion.

With that, Atram settled down cross-legged by the fire, and Elsa joined him. Finding a comfy spot, they dove into the basics of spellcasting.

"To put it into simple terms: Magic is the intentional and willed manipulation of the metaphysical energy known as ether or mana. Mana is all around us, and wizards can tap into it and shape it with gestures, incantations, and the use of materials. It requires focus, concentration, and proper visualization to successfully cast a spell, and the potency depends on the amount of mana used."

Elsa nodded. "Got it; mana is fuel for magic. But where does it come from?"

"Even if I told you right now, you wouldn't believe me. You'll have to accept that it is a natural energy source that simply exists," Atram explained, a small smile gracing his lips.

Elsa raised an eyebrow but decided not to press the matter further. "At the inn, you told me that I had the potential to become a sorceress. What did you mean by that?" she asked instead.

Atram leaned back, supporting himself with his hands. "A sorcerer or sorceress is an individual who not only possesses an extraordinary affinity for magic but also carries mana within their body. For example: To cast a firebolt, a Tier 0 spell, an ordinary wizard must make the gesture and recite the incantation, all for the sake of channeling mana into their creation."

He paused and nudged his head towards her. "Whereas, a sorceress can create a firebolt with just a flick of their wrist, without any incantation or gesture needed. Why?"

Elsa stoked the fire with a stick, contemplating his question until realization dawned on her, causing her eyes to widen. "Because they carry mana within them, eliminating the need for both," she replied excitedly.

Atram snapped his fingers. "Exactly! Sorcerers are the greatsword to a wizard's rapier. While wizards rely on their academic knowledge, intricate gestures, and incantations, sorcerers channel their magic through their own bodies, using simple, almost primal movements, instinct, and pure willpower."

Elsa nodded in agreement, fascinated by Atram's explanation. She couldn't believe she'd had such potential all along, and if the witchers hadn't stopped at the inn, she might never have discovered it.

Atram, happy with her reaction, continued, "Now for the negatives of being a sorceress."

"First of all, you will never be as versatile as a wizard. They have access to a wider range of spells from different schools of magic. Instead, you will be a maestro of a specific type of magic, honing your skills in that area until you are unmatched in your abilities. Secondly, you must always be mindful of your emotions. Beware; I didn't say suppress them, but rather understand how they can affect your magic. Anger, for instance, is more likely to intensify your spells, but keep in mind that it can also cloud your judgment and lead to disastrous consequences. Thirdly, never underestimate the power of intention. Your thoughts and desires can greatly impact the outcome of your magic. Make sure you are clear and focused on what you want to achieve."

Elsa paid attention intently, taking in every word with a sense of reverence.

Atram exhaled through his mouth, his eyes closed, trying to recall his mother's lessons. Right there's that last bit.

"Finally, it's important to note that magic is not inherently good or evil; it's the intentions and actions of the caster that determine its morality.

He moved closer and settled beside her, his gaze locked with hers, his rubies meeting her sapphires. "Many hold the belief that magic is blasphemous. Others view it as chaos and disorder, a force demanding suppression and control. Yet, magic defies such categorizations. It is a tool brimming with power and potential, capable of shaping reality through one's will and imagination. Thus, magic holds no allegiance; it pledges neither destruction nor salvation."

He gently placed her hands in his and smiled warmly. "These hands will determine whether your spells bring forth light or darkness. You, who possess the gift of the arcane, have the power to create and destroy, to heal and harm," Atram stated, his voice carrying gravitas.

Elsa looked at him with a flushed expression, her lips parted in awe, and her mind racing with all the possibilities. Seeing that she could not find the words to convey her feelings, she simply hummed in acknowledgement.

Atram clasped his hands together. "Now then, shall we see if you can cast the simplest of spells?"

Elsa gestured for him to continue, excitement evident in her eyes.

"For the time being, you will focus on your affinity, which is water-ice based, as you have imagined." Atram placed his hand on her shoulder. "Don't be dismayed by what happened in the past. You didn't have control over it."

Elsa took a deep breath and swallowed her nerves. It is as Atram says. I can't change what happened before, but I can control what happens next. Dwelling in the past will only hold me back.

"I am ready!" she exclaimed with renewed determination.

Let's hope this shortcut of mine works. He thought and gathered ki in his hands.

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Hey there! This was a very info-heavy chapter, I know. But... magic!

Of course if you have any questions that won't lead to spoilers, I'm more than happy to answer them.

Anyways, comments and all the good stuff are always appreciated. Have fun!