The inn was quiet, the faint glow of moonlight slipping through the small windows and casting gentle shadows along the hallways. While the town was still, Mio prepared to take a calculated step to elevate her companions’ capabilities. She waited until the inn was silent, listening to the faint sounds of her allies’ breathing through the walls. When she was certain they were fast asleep, she slipped out of her bed, moving with silent intent.

Mio activated Shadow Step, her form blending seamlessly with the shadows as she glided through the darkened corridor. Her first stop was Reina’s room. She slipped inside, and the door closed with a barely audible click. In the faint light, she could make out Reina’s peaceful form, her head resting on her arm, a book splayed open beside her, its pages slightly crinkled from being left out.

Mio moved closer, her gaze softening as she watched her friend sleep. Reina was undeniably gifted in magic, her abilities already evident in the recent battles. But Mio knew that Reina’s current limits could be pushed further—far beyond what ordinary training could achieve. Tonight, she would give her that edge.

Channeling mana carefully, Mio extended a hand over Reina, casting Chimera, a high-level spell from the Creation school. The energy settled over Reina, creating a faint, ethereal glow that Mio controlled with precision, guiding it to enhance and amplify Reina’s abilities. She started by doubling Reina’s mana capacity, feeling the magic pulse as it opened up reservoirs within Reina’s essence, allowing her to sustain spells longer and cast more powerful magic without tiring.

Next, Mio directed the energy to refine the pathways through which mana flowed in Reina’s body, a delicate process that would make her magic not only stronger but also more efficient. These refined channels would allow Reina to cast with greater ease, maintaining spells without depleting her energy so quickly.

Finally, Mio took a deep breath as she prepared for the last and most delicate enhancement. She focused on Reina’s growth potential, using Chimera to accelerate the rate at which Reina could absorb and master new magical knowledge. This was no simple task—it required precision, ensuring that Reina’s progression would feel natural and gradual rather than overwhelming her. Satisfied, Mio prepared the final touch.

She channeled mana to implant knowledge within Reina, layering memories and understandings of the first five tiers of Air, Earth, Fire, and Water magic. It was an intricate process, like weaving threads into a complex tapestry, embedding elemental knowledge that would come to Reina instinctively. Each spell would expand her offensive and defensive options, making her versatile in nearly any situation.

When the enhancements were complete, Mio withdrew her magic, watching as the glow faded from Reina’s form. She noticed the faint flicker of a smile on Reina’s sleeping face, as though the power now nestled within her had sparked a pleasant dream. Mio felt a surge of satisfaction, knowing that her friend would awaken with newfound strength and potential.

Slipping back into the shadows, Mio exited Reina’s room as quietly as she had entered. Her work here was done, but one more task remained. She made her way to Aron’s room, her steps light as she paused at his door. Aron had always been proud of his independence, hesitant to accept direct magical help. But after watching his dedication and witnessing his training firsthand, Mio knew that a subtle boost could make a significant difference for him as well.

Stepping into Aron’s room, she found him sprawled across the bed, his arm hanging over the edge, his sword resting within arm’s reach on the floor. His breathing was steady, deep in slumber after the day’s exertions. Mio couldn’t help but smile—his dedication was unwavering, his resolve strong. Tonight, she would honor that strength in her own way.

Moving close, Mio activated Chimera once more, feeling the familiar energy surge as she focused it over Aron. First, she directed the spell toward his mana channels, carefully opening them up to allow mana to flow more freely. This adjustment would improve his ability to activate Body Reinforcement quickly and more effectively, giving him an edge in the heat of battle.

With that done, Mio moved to enhance his natural healing ability. She channeled the energy into his cells, strengthening their resilience and improving their regenerative rate. This enhancement would make his body heal faster, enabling him to recover more swiftly from injuries, an advantage that could prove crucial in future confrontations.

Finally, she turned her focus to Aron’s growth potential. She tripled his rate of physical improvement, ensuring that his training would yield faster, more noticeable results. This enhancement would allow him to grow stronger at a pace that would let him match Reina’s progress, though through his own path.

As she finished, Mio stepped back, observing Aron’s relaxed form. The enhancements were subtle, woven carefully into his being so that he would feel the difference but wouldn’t detect the magic itself. It would simply feel like a natural increase in his own capabilities, allowing him to maintain his sense of independence.

Satisfied, Mio cast Shadow Step again, slipping out of his room and back into her own. She took a moment to let the quiet stillness settle over her, her mind calm and pleased with the night’s work. Before finally resting, she cast Infinite Bag on her satchel, enchanting it to hold an endless array of items without increasing in weight—a useful addition she knew would serve her well in the future.

With her companions empowered and her preparations complete, Mio let herself drift into sleep, a faint smile lingering on her lips.

The next morning, the trio met outside the inn, their spirits high and a shared sense of purpose in the air. Aron and Reina seemed different—not just refreshed but invigorated, as though some unseen energy had lifted their spirits and sharpened their focus.

Reina, in particular, looked energized, a slight glint in her eyes as she clutched her staff. “I don’t know why, but I feel... incredible today. Like I can cast anything.”

Mio merely smiled, keeping her secret close. “Good. Let’s put that to the test in the forest.”

They set off, their steps quick as they made their way through the town and into the woods beyond. The forest was alive with birdsong, the fresh scent of pine filling the air as they walked along the path. Before long, they stumbled upon a pack of goblins lurking in a small clearing, their snarls and grunts echoing through the trees.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Reina’s face lit up with excitement, her grip on her staff tightening. She stepped forward, taking the lead as she readied herself for battle.

“Let me handle this one,” she said, her voice brimming with confidence.

Mio and Aron nodded, standing back to watch as Reina took charge. Her hands glowed faintly as she channeled her mana, calling forth an Earth Wall to shield herself from the goblins’ initial charge. The wall rose from the ground with ease, solid and imposing, blocking the goblins’ path as they crashed against it.

Reina took a steadying breath and prepared her next spell, her expression focused. She raised her staff, casting Fireball and sending a blazing orb hurtling toward the goblins. The spell exploded upon impact, scattering a few goblins and leaving scorch marks on the ground.

One goblin managed to dodge the flames, rushing around the wall to attack from the side. Without hesitation, Reina pivoted, summoning Ice Arrows and sending them flying toward her attacker. The goblin froze in place, its body encased in frost as it collapsed to the ground.

Mio watched, impressed by Reina’s newfound control and confidence. She could see the subtle influence of the enhancements taking effect, each spell cast with a precision and power that Reina hadn’t possessed before.

Meanwhile, Aron stepped forward, activating Body Reinforcement as he engaged the remaining goblins. His movements were faster, his strikes stronger, each swing of his sword leaving deep cuts and sending goblins sprawling. The spell had become an extension of his strength, enhancing his natural abilities and allowing him to overpower his opponents with ease.

Reina cast a final Thunder Strike, her staff crackling as she directed a bolt of lightning straight into the last goblin. The air hummed with energy as the bolt struck, sending the creature flying backward, its body twitching before it slumped to the ground, defeated. Reina took a steadying breath, her face flushed with exhilaration, her eyes gleaming as she surveyed the aftermath of her magic.

Aron grinned at her, his own energy still pulsing from the reinforcement spell. “You were amazing, Reina! Those spells were… I’ve never seen you control them like that before.”

Reina beamed, a mixture of pride and disbelief crossing her face. “It felt different today, like… everything just clicked. I could feel the energy guiding each spell, almost like I knew exactly where it should go.”

Mio watched their exchange with a quiet smile, content to let them revel in their success. The enhancements she’d woven into their abilities had clearly begun to take root, but the credit belonged to Reina and Aron’s own determination. They were tapping into reserves of strength they hadn’t realized they had, and each of them seemed to be growing more confident by the moment.

Reina’s gaze shifted to Mio, her eyes filled with gratitude. “Thank you, Mio. I know you’ve been guiding me with each spell, helping me find my control. I feel… like I’m finally beginning to understand what it means to be a real spellcaster.”

“You’re well on your way,” Mio replied gently, her voice carrying an underlying warmth. “But remember, it’s not just about power. Magic is as much about knowing your limits and keeping calm as it is about casting with strength.”

Reina nodded, taking in Mio’s words with serious focus. “Understood. I want to keep pushing forward and keep refining my skills. I’ll remember to stay grounded.”

Aron approached them, wiping the sweat from his brow as he sheathed his sword. He turned to Mio, his voice more hesitant than before. “And… thanks, Mio, for giving me a chance to figure things out my way. I may not be as quick to pick up magic, but I can feel myself getting stronger with each practice.”

Mio looked at him thoughtfully. “Your strength comes from your own path, Aron. What matters is that you’re improving with each challenge. Trust your instincts, and remember that magic or not, you’re an invaluable part of this team.”

Aron’s face softened, and he nodded, seeming reassured. “I’ll do my best.”

Just as they finished speaking, a faint rustling came from the bushes nearby. They tensed, their senses alert as another group of goblins emerged, drawn by the sounds of the previous battle. This pack was larger than the first, their twisted faces filled with aggression as they spotted the trio.

“Looks like round two,” Mio murmured, a faint smile tugging at the corner of her mouth. She gave Reina and Aron a nod. “Take the lead. I’ll cover you.”

Without hesitation, Reina raised her staff, summoning another Earth Wall to block the goblins’ advance. The wall rose up, sturdy and unyielding, as the goblins crashed into it with snarls of frustration. Reina moved with practiced ease, channeling mana as she prepared her next attack.

She held out her staff, summoning Ice Arrows and sending them flying over the wall, each arrow finding its mark with deadly precision. A few goblins fell back, clutching at the icy wounds, while others tried to maneuver around the wall. Aron stepped forward to intercept them, his Body Reinforcement still active as he swung his sword with increased speed and force.

Each strike sent goblins sprawling, his movements efficient and powerful. Aron’s confidence grew with each attack, his grip steady as he cut through the goblins, his sword an extension of his will. His enhanced speed and strength were evident in every movement, and he seemed almost invincible as he held the line.

One goblin, bolder than the others, broke through and attempted to circle behind them. Mio spotted it and stepped forward, her staff ready. She didn’t need flashy spells or overwhelming power to deal with this creature—only a swift, calculated strike. With a single swing of her staff, she struck the goblin’s side, her strength enough to send it crumpling to the ground.

Reina continued her assault, switching between elements with ease. She cast Fireball, a blazing sphere that engulfed a cluster of goblins in flames, before transitioning to Earth Spikes, sending jagged rocks shooting up from the ground to pierce their remaining foes. The goblins were quickly overwhelmed, each spell executed with a level of control that left Mio impressed.

As the last goblin fell, the clearing fell into silence once more. The air was thick with the lingering scent of smoke and earth, the remnants of Reina’s elemental magic still crackling faintly around them. Reina lowered her staff, breathing heavily but wearing a triumphant smile.

“That was… incredible,” Reina said, looking to Mio with gratitude. “I didn’t think I’d ever be able to switch between spells like that. It felt like second nature.”

Mio returned her smile. “You’ve reached a new level of control, Reina. Keep practicing, and it will only become easier.”

Aron joined them, his face flushed with exhilaration. “I can feel the difference, too. The reinforcement spell—it’s like my body’s moving faster, responding better. I don’t know what changed, but I’m grateful.”

Mio’s gaze softened as she regarded them both. “It’s your hard work paying off. You’ve both grown stronger, not just in skill but in confidence. And that’s what makes a difference.”

They stood together for a moment, reveling in their progress, the sense of unity between them stronger than ever. For Mio, this was a small victory, but a deeply meaningful one. Her quiet enhancements had given them the tools they needed, but it was their dedication and perseverance that had turned potential into reality.

As they began the walk back to town, Aron and Reina chatted animatedly, recounting their moves and planning future strategies. Mio walked a few steps behind, listening to their conversation with a quiet pride.

In that moment, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. Reina and Aron’s journey had only just begun, and she would be there to support them, to guide them—and, when the time was right, to help them unlock even greater potential. The path ahead was filled with challenges, but today had shown her that they were more than ready to face them together.