I guess blocking out the pain is an ability that must be learned? Or was it something only Sayaka could do?

I'm not sure why, but after the first season of Magia Record this was the only ship I latched onto so it's nice to see a story that focuses more on their relationship even if it isn't a romantic story. This was good.

While I haven't seen the anime (yet) I do really like this ship although like Yachiyo/Iroha there's still a minor age gap. Felicia is 14, while Tsuruno is 17. Still cute nonetheless since both Felicia and Tsuruno have similar personalities/passions.

I guess blocking out the pain is an ability that must be learned?

Has to be learned. Given the state Sayaka was in when she did it, probably not easy to do and involves conceiving of yourself and your body very differently from normal.

I always love when doujins have fight scenes. I mean in works where those fights and enemies are half the story, especially in games, it seems an absolute shame when they're left out.