"It is an aspect that is often overlooked", Valerion replied. "Much like abstract defense magic itself. After the end of the age of magic-dominated warfare, abstract defense magic fell into disuse, to the point of being considered a novelty with little practical use, as some of its functions had been absorbed into other, more proactive branches of magic - for example, the effect of defense from fear was incorporated into spells that would make the target braver instead. More recently, there has been a resurgence of abstract defense magic applied to threats internal to the caster - as an aid through daily life. This would be our case. Compared to other paths to the same result, abstract defense magic has the benefit of being very safe, not to mention accessible to less experienced practictioners; as such, even people who would normally not deal with magic have been drawn towards it". Valerion took a deep breath, then continued. "Now, you might hear some purists of magic criticizing such uses of abstract defense magic as a lazy surrogate for what they think should be achieved through years of rigorous magical training, but, personally... I strongly disagree with them. I believe they only speak out of elitism and spite. I firmly believe that magic that is helpful and simple is always a step forward; that it should not be locked away to please sorcerers who want to feel like they belong to a special club". There was now an astringent note to his tone, which sounded especially sharp in contrast to his more characteristic placidity. "Detractors aside - the method of abstract defense magic involves finding the thought that is most fit to protect its caster; from a philosophical standpoint, I think there is great value to be found in that. It lets you fight with what you have; with what you are. Then you will have those who will say that it is weak and cowardly to hide behind a shield rather than to take arms - but does it not take great strength to withstand an attack? Is the porcupine more cowardly than the lion? I don't know; but while we are here discussing that, the porcupine does not care - nothing dares to attack it".