Rhea's heart raced as she caught sight of her daughter, Ariana, standing in the center of the room, a soft glow emanating from her small hands. The air crackled with energy, and Rhea's breath caught in her throat. She had always known that Ariana possessed magical abilities, but she had hoped to delay this moment for a few more years.
"Ariana, what are you doing?" Rhea's voice trembled with a mixture of fear and concern.
Ariana's eyes widened as she saw her mother, and the glow dissipated as quickly as it had appeared. "I was just playing, my mommy. I didn't mean to do magic."
Rhea kneeled down in front of her daughter, her expression softening. "I know, sweetheart. But you have to be careful. We can't let anyone know about your abilities."
"But why, mommy? Why can't I show anyone? I w
