A strange scream echoed from the training grounds and pulled Nora running.
She reached the field fast, heart in her throat. "Mia? Jake? What happened?"
Mia stood ten years old and tall for her age. She brushed dirt off her knees. "Mom, I made the light too big. It knocked Jake down."
Jake grinned from the ground. "I am fine. But wow, sis. That was strong."
Nora knelt beside them quick. Years of peace had let the empire grow into new lands. But watching her kids train their special gifts brought both pride and sharp worry.
Blake jogged over from the wall repairs. "Heard the noise. Everyone okay?"
Drew followed close behind, maps still in his hand. "Training looks intense today. Talk to us, Nora."
Nora helped Jake up. "They push hard. I feel proud but scared too. Their powers grow fas
