Vriski's Evolution

Regardless, it mattered little who was stronger. Magical skill and knowledge were what they required, not strength. 

Still, it was a topic that would certainly make those seeking to control things from the shadows panic. If Eldrian was taking a more active stance. Alas, ever since his duel with Zaphreal in the previous tournament, he had withdrawn for the most part. 

As had been the goal. But now Zaphreal couldn't help but lament that Eldrian had been too inactive. 

"And, of course, we can't forget about those close to him," Julius said, bringing the narrative back to their original topic. "They've been improving far faster than any of the other players. I wouldn't be surprised if they can control mana at this stage."

Sadly, they weren't sure what level of mana control was required to reach Tier 6. To surpass Tier 4 and climb into Tier 5, you needed to learn to feel and guide mana. True control, however, was still too much of a hurdle.