The construct lunged at Emily. Emily reacted on instinct. Heat surged through her veins, racing to her palms before she could think.
She thrust her hands forward and a wave of blazing energy erupted outward, striking the construct square in the chest.
The impact hurled it back several feet. Cracks splintered across its torso.
Emily’s breathing grew uneven. “I didn’t mean to push that hard.”
“Then do not mean it,” Eleanor said firmly. “Decide it. You were the one that said your powers began submitting, make good use of it.”
The construct charged again, faster this time. Emily sidestepped, releasing another burst of fire. The chamber flared with light as the magic collided with the runes protecting the walls.
The construct staggered but did not fall.
“Focus,” Eleanor called. “Do not
