In the now-empty training room, Maria and Seraphina sat opposite each other in silence.
Maria watched Seraphina struggling with her thoughts and rose from her seat, went towards her, and perched herself atop the table, her eyes piercing Seraphina's, as if to find the hidden thoughts within.
"Tell me," Maria said quietly, but with power. "What thoughts are swirling through your mind? "Why the long face?"
"I-I am OK, really. "It's nothing," she mumbled, avoiding Maria's stare.
Maria's determination was clear in her persistent gaze, which pinned Maria's attempt at secrecy.
"I have not known you long, Seraphina, but I have a knack for reading people," Maria said, with a quiet yet incisive tone. "You don't need to hide anything from me.
"I'm fine, Maria. I promise," Seraphina insisted, her voice quivering with the effort of maintaining her composure.
"Secrets now, is it?" Maria asked, her brows rising in a challenge.
