Vanessa stood frozen, bewildered by the situation.

Even 6th-circle mages had collapsed, unable to withstand the strain. Alfoy, who was only a 5th-circle mage, should have been out of mana and on the ground by now.

But realization quickly dawned on her.

“He didn’t fully contribute his mana…”

That was it. Alfoy had been too frightened and had subtly slipped away, conserving his energy.

They had specifically brought him to this location to prevent such behavior. Given Alfoy’s temperament, unless he was closely monitored, he would inevitably shirk his duties and avoid exerting himself.

And now, in the midst of …