Amara held on to Lira as the golden light from her awakening faded, leaving behind a faint shimmer around her skin. Though the power felt foreign, Lira stood taller than she had in years, her heart beating with renewed energy. Amara's voice broke through her thoughts as she was lost in thought.
"Lira, there are people you need to meet. They've waited for this moment, even if they didn't know it was you they were waiting for."
Lira hesitated, glancing around at the chaos that surrounded them. The sounds of explosions echoed from nearby streets, the cries of rebels and enforcers mingling in the air. Smoke rose into the sky, and the acrid smell of burning wood and fabric stung her nose. "Amara, is this the right time? The city is on fire."
Amara smiled faintly, her expression calm and knowing. "That fire is exactly why this is the time. Come. They need to see you."