"Fantastic," I muttered sarcastically, collapsing wearily onto the mirrored surface, pulse still pounding fiercely, body aching from exertion. But despite my exhaustion, pride flickered quietly within my chest, hope kindling alongside it.
I'd done it. I'd beaten my own twisted reflection at least for now. My breathing gradually steadied, the wild fluttering of my heart slowing to a gentle rhythm. The endless silvery expanse around me seemed less oppressive, the mist cooler, softer, brushing against my overheated skin in soothing whispers.
[Training Progress Updated.][Magic Control: Increased from 20% → 35%.]
I stared at the notification, relief washing through me alongside a thin trickle of apprehension. Thirty-five percent was better, certainly—but it was still barely more than a third of the terrifying power that lurked inside me. At least I was slightly less likely to accidentally implode the school, or worse, one of my siblings.
