Arthur's Point of View

Pendragon Estate

A few things happened before Christmas even arrived. First, Lucia’s training began. I worked her in with Ty and Alwin. Her ‘training’ wasn’t anywhere near as physical as theirs, but it was demanding. She used her magic to the point of exhaustion. Over and over again.

“We’ve been doing this over and over again for the last month!” Lucia huffed in exhaustion. “Why is this all I’m doing?”

“The more you use your magic, the more you become accustomed to doing so while exhausted. Your mental state reflects your magic capabilities. When one is distracted, you become unable to focus. Alwin finished his training of hunting for the flags through the forest. This is how we help you.” I explained.

“This doesn’t seem nearly as useful.” She groaned.

“That’s because in terms of capabilities, you’re below Alwin. Why give you the same training when you’re not at the same level as him?” Lucia was annoyed at that. “You have lived a sheltered life. You may have as much magic as Elincia or Arceana, but you clearly don’t know how to use it. Especially not when you’re tired, or under pressure.”

Ty decided to pitch in from the other side of the courtyard. “You can do it, Lucia! We believe in you!” My student was trying his best to get close to Alwin.

The two squared off against each other. Typhon was clearly more than capable of handling himself against the Elven General. That in itself unnerved Alwin. He did everything he could to keep Ty at a distance as he was quick, and powerful. With enough focused magic, Ty was even capable of breaking through any barriers Alwin might put up. The Elf learned that the hard way. Then again, Dragons always were resistant to magic. This was good for both of them.

Lucia, who glanced over at the two, spoke. “Why is Alwin struggling against Typhon?” She asked me. “He’s grown a lot, especially in height, but he’s still a child.”

“Because Typhon’s stronger than him.” I told her plainly. “The only reason Alwin continues to win is because his experience. His ingenuity is impressive, but it will soon run out. Ty will win once every so often, and then he will win the majority of their spars. It is only a matter of time.”

Scrapping some of the snow away with her boot she tried to catch her breath. “That doesn’t seem possible. He’s barely been training over a year.”

“And yet, he could probably give Kheri a run for her money. After seeing him against Breeze and Marina, I dare say he’s closer to their level than he is Alwin’s or Kheri’s.” My gaze shifted over at the Dragon who continued to jump around to avoid the multitude of spells being cast. “That boy is so talented that it’s eerie.” My eyes shifted back to Lucia. “You’re low on magic. Are you ready?”

Closing her eyes, Lucia groaned. “Can I have a minute?”

“You’ve had several. Now. Up.” I told her and she huffed before standing up. “Focus.” Placing my hand on her back, I transferred my energy into her.

Her eyes widened at that. “I’ll never get used to that.”

I chuckled. “Nor should you. This is to help you cast spells while being exhausted. Begin.”

Following my orders, Lucia began casting spell after spell. She was exhausted. Her shoulders were slumped, and her arms were clearly heavy. It was apparent she struggled to even keep her arms up at this point. Magic burns covered her hands from excessive spells. Ayda only informed me about it after the first week or so. This was also good for her focus.

“Arthur…” She huffed out as one of her eyes closed as sweat poured down her face. “I don’t feel so good.”

“Nausea isn’t that odd given how much you’ve been doing. This is no different than running until you feel like puking. Try to keep it at bay. Deep breaths.”

Lucia’s arms shook as they fell back to her side. “This feels different.”

I quirked a brow at that. “Are you lightheaded? Ayda said that was also normal when trying to cast spells in this state. I’ve refilled your magic continuously throughout the last several weeks, but this is by far the most you’ve done.”

“Not that. I’ve gotten used to that… This feels…” Slouching forward, Lucia began puking profusely.

A frown came to my lips at that as I patted her back softly. Lucia fell onto all fours as she continued to puke over and over again. I started worry when nothing, but bile was coming up, but she still wasn’t stopping. Crouching down next to her, I rubbed her back gently. Alwin and Ty saw what was happening and came over.

“Is she alright?” Alwin asked, worriedly.

“She should be but get Marina just in case.” I told him.

“BLAGH!” Lucia let out horribly as a torrent of blue liquid came from her lips.

It looked just like my energy and my eyes widened in horror. “Go get Marina! Now!” I yelled at the two as I picked up Lucia carefully. She panted and whimpered as she shook in my arms. “You’re okay!” I told her. “You’re gonna be fine. We just over did it.”

“Arthur?” She let out weakly before she collapsed in my arms.

The second thing that happened, Lucia passed out.