Eleyn's fingers curled tightly around her wand, trying to steady her trembling hand. The pendant at her throat pulsed with a faint, golden hue, casting dancing reflections on her cloak and illuminating the growing tension in her eyes.
Her eyes were not focused on anything in particular — just a single meter in front of her. A hush had settled around her, the kind that makes you hold your breath without realizing it.
Slowly, deliberately, she raised her wand. The tip began to glow with a soft, golden light, not unlike a candle flame, warm and fluid. She moved her hand in careful arcs and spirals, and the air responded. The light trailed behind like ink in water — thick, luminous strokes suspended in the air.
