A blinding pink glow erupted, filling the chamber like a newborn star, raw and searing.
The air crackled with power, ozone sharp in Silvia's nostrils, the lattice vibrating against her back as the force rippled through the room.
Lira stepped forward, placing herself between the soldiers and her daughter like a shield forged of will and blood.
Her face was resolute, etched with a fierce beauty, even as tears carved glistening tracks down her cheeks.
Power radiated from her in waves, pink light bursting from her body like flame given form, tendrils of it lashing out to fill every corner, scorching tapestries and making candles gutter wildly.
The soldiers reeled back, staggering against the onslaught, their shields buckling under the invisible force.
The High Mage shielded his face with a snarl, his cloak whipping in the sudden wind of her magic.
"A witch!" he spat, his voice laced with vindictive glee.
