The soft glow of afternoon sunlight filtered through the windows of the training room, casting a warm haze over Lyra and Sophie as they sat cross-legged on the floor. Lyra watched intently as Sophie closed her eyes, her small face scrunched in concentration. A faint shimmer began to form around the girl's hands, growing steadily brighter.
"That's it, Sophie," Lyra encouraged softly. "Nice and steady. Remember to breathe."
Sophie's eyes fluttered open, a look of wonder crossing her face as she gazed at the ball of light hovering between her palms. For a moment, Lyra's heart clenched. The expression of joy mixed with fear was so familiar, so reminiscent of Amara when she'd first discovered her own abilities.
"I'm doing it, Miss Lyra!" Sophie exclaimed, her excitement causing the light to
