Forty-Three

One of the hardest things Meredith taught me was internal casting. It was a basic concept with a very difficult application. Just like thinking to myself, I was working on saying spells in my head.

When spells were cast out loud, the opponent had a few seconds of advanced notice to mentally prepare themselves with an effective defensive casting that could counter the attack.

When a witch said the spell in their head, it gave them the advantage as the witch they were facing wouldn't have time to think about what spells to use in return to protect themselves. It was significantly harder, but I could see the benefit in mastering that skill, especially when going into battle.

We had spent the week going back and forth with defensive practice and offensive castings, trying to master as much as I could. The longer we went without Vera making a move, the more anxious and worried I became. How long would I have to prepare before they came for me again? Would I be strong enough when they di