Page 147 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

“As you know, my power lets me read people’s emotions. When you say ‘okay,’ I can feel that you’re confused by the question. A little scared. But underneath that… you’re peaceful. Happy. The night sky makes you happy.”

“Yes,” she said simply. “It does. And I do feel those things.”

“I asked because understanding how you feel helps you understand what you need to stay in control. Since you’ve been here, you haven’t felt frightened or anxious, right?”

She shook her head.

“When you do feel those things, your fire grows. And you struggle to stop it. I can relate to that, it happens to me too, but with emotions and energy, not fire.”

Scarlet lowered her gaze.

“I don’t think you can get as bad as me,” she whispered.

Rain reached out and took her hands gently.

“You’d be surprised,” he said softly. “I’ve been responsible for many bad things. That’s why I needed techniques to regulate. I know how hard it is to recognise when you’re about to lose control.”

Her eyes lifted, wide and searching.

“I think the teachers at the Order of Aurora will help you with that,” he continued. “Just like they helped me. Earlier today… I lost control too.”

He winced, realising his friends had likely felt every ounce of his heartbreak.

“Those around me felt my emotions. But nothing worse happened. I hope.”

Scarlet’s voice trembled.

“When I learn… I will still lose control like you did today? I won’t be cured?”

“No, Scarlet.”

He squeezed her hands, grounding her.

“You have nothing to be cured of. Your power is like…”

He lifted her right arm and wiggled it playfully.

“Your arm.”

She giggled.

“It’s part of you. It doesn’t need to be taken away.”

He leaned in.

“Does a baby come out of the womb walking on two legs?”

“I don’t think so… does it?” she asked, scrunching her face.

“No,” he laughed. “A baby learns slowly, with a lot of practice. They mistakes and it takes time. Our powers are the same.”

Her eyes widened as understanding dawned.

“Now,” he continued, “let’s talk about breathing.”

He placed his palms upward, and she rested her hands on his.

“The breath is one of the best tools we have. Close your eyes. I’ll guide you.”