The moon cast a pale glow over the estate, its silver light spilling through the open balcony doors into Luzia's dimly lit room. The night was still, save for the quiet rustling of the curtains in the cool breeze.
Luzia sat on the floor, legs crossed, her hands trembling slightly as she tried, once again, to stabilize her mana. Her breathing was ragged, sweat dripping down her forehead as she clenched her fists. The ache in her limbs was growing unbearable, but she refused to stop.
"I must get it done!" Luzia thought fiercely, her jaw tightening.
She focused, reaching deep within herself, searching for that elusive thread of energy. She reached for it, tried to pull it in—to make it hers. But just as she thought she had control—pain
A sharp pulse shot through her body, and the mana slipped from her grasp again. She gasped, doubling over as exhaustion clawed at her.
