Harry potter:Dark lord

In the secluded woods near Hogsmeade Village, Tom finally mustered the courage to challenge Robert. After more than two weeks of rigorous practice, he believed he was ready to settle old scores. In his view, his relentless dedication had surely surpassed Robert's seemingly lax approach.

However, the duel did not unfold as Tom had anticipated. Despite his daily efforts, he found himself unable to land a single spell on Robert, who effortlessly dodged each attempt. Remarkably, Robert kept one hand behind his back throughout, never once drawing his wand to counterattack. Instead, he offered critiques on Tom's technique as he evaded the spells.

"Too slow, too predictable," Robert commented, sidestepping another spell. "Your incantation isn't even complete, yet the trajectory is obvious. How do you expect to hit me? Try again."

Frustration mounted within Tom. His hard work seemed futile against Robert's effortless superiority. Feeling humiliated, he shouted, "Fight back! Stop lecturing me! Aren't you tired of this?"

"Very well," Robert replied calmly. In an instant, Tom's wand flew from his grasp, and he found himself bound and suspended from a tree branch. The speed and precision of Robert's spell left him in shock.

"How... how did you do that?" Tom stammered as Robert approached.

"I've mentioned before, the speed of casting is crucial," Robert explained, looking up at Tom. "If you chant the spell slowly, your attack poses no threat."

Tom's eyes widened in realization. "You've mastered nonverbal spells? Is that why your attacks are so swift?"

Robert shook his head. "Your surprise is misplaced, Tom. Nonverbal casting isn't the main issue. Did I utter any incantations when I disarmed you the first day we met?"

Tom paused, recalling the encounter.

Robert continued, "When you subdued those two traffickers in the alley, did you recite any spells?"

Tom frowned, deep in thought.

"Before learning formal incantations, your attacks were instinctive and pure," Robert said. "You acted with a singular focus: to incapacitate your opponent. This aligns with the essence of magic and the conditions for nonverbal casting."

He added, "Once you began studying spells, your mind became cluttered with specifics—each syllable, every wand movement. You adhered strictly to textbook instructions, which, while precise, diluted the raw power and speed of your attacks."

Tom's shoulders slumped. "So, my diligent study of spells has actually hindered me?"

"Not at all," Robert reassured. "Studying spells is essential. You should continue to delve into them deeply. Only by understanding the fundamental principles can you cast spells freely, without being constrained by formal techniques and incantations."

He emphasized, "Our earlier nonverbal attacks were unintentional uses of magic. With comprehensive knowledge, your nonverbal spells will be far more potent. You've just experienced the strength of my disarming spell firsthand."

Hanging from the tree, Tom pondered Robert's words. After a moment, he asked, "Aren't you afraid that by telling me this, I'll eventually surpass and defeat you?"

Robert smiled gently. "It was my mistake to let you harbor the illusion that you could challenge me. But rest assured, that illusion will soon be dispelled."

Tom glared at Robert, a mix of anger and determination in his eyes. He couldn't help but wonder if this infuriating confidence was an integral part of Robert's character.

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