The next day, River was back in the training room, along Alia.
River stood in the center, her palms slightly trembling at her sides, her breath caught halfway in her chest.
Queen Alia faced her, arms crossed, gaze sharp but patient.
“Today,” Alia said, her voice clear and unwavering, “you will learn not just to feel emotions—but to influence them.”
River’s brows furrowed. “Isn’t that… dangerous?”
Alia tilted her head. “Only if used with ill intent. But if controlled, it can be your greatest tool. You are an empath, River—not just a mirror, but a conduit. Your gift isn’t meant only to absorb. It is meant to shape.”
River swallowed hard. “And if I hurt someone? Or lose control?”
“Then you try again,” Alia said firmly. “This is why we train.”
Before River could protest, the door opene
