The morning air was crisp as I stepped onto the training grounds, the coolness biting at my skin. My breath puffed out in small clouds, and I could feel the tension coiling in my chest, tightening with each passing second.
Today was another day of preparation, another day closer to the duel that could define my future. I couldn't afford to lose not to the Council, not to myself, and certainly not to Thalira's threats that lingered like a dark shadow at the back of my mind.
I pushed those thoughts aside as I closed my eyes, trying to center myself. The world around me faded, leaving only the steady thrum of magic in my veins.
I summoned the blue fire, feeling its heat blossom from within, fierce and untamed. The flames danced along my fingertips, licking at the air as they eagerly awaited my command.
"Focus," I whispered to myself, feeling the fire's energy surge in response. "Control."
