Playing through FF2 again, I noticed the enemies started getting faster than my party as I fought my way out of the Coliseum. Somehow, I got back to Bafsk. I noticed this the last time I played through, as well. My party kept taking a full round of blows before being able to attack (well, except Leila, who will return to the party soon). So as I head for Fynn Castle, I ask:

1. What stat improves speed?
2. How can I, if possible, improve it to the point where the monsters don't always get to attack first every round?

*Also, I'm playing the PSX Origins version.