Amelie stared into the blazing light, unable to pierce the veil shrouding the figure's identity. Though alarm bells rang in her mind, some powerful force kept her frozen in place.
A rich, layered voice echoed from the luminance. "Do not be afraid, child. I mean you no harm."
Amelie bristled at being called a child, but held her tongue. She tried again to discern the stranger, but the light was impenetrable.
"Who are you?" she demanded, masking her unease with authority. "Reveal yourself at once!"
A low chuckle reverberated around her. "All will become clear in due time. For now, know that I am your benefactor, come to bestow a blessing upon you."
Amelie wasn't buying it. She contemplated calling for the academy guards, but found herself unable to shout or even move. It was like an invisible weight pressed down on her from all sides.
