The feeling started quietly, like a whisper.

It wasn’t magic, It wasn’t danger , It wasn't sharp, an electric warning Lyra knew so well when her fire stirred under her skin. This was different. Softer. Sneakier. A pressure between her shoulders, a quiet voice telling her she wasn’t alone even though the corridors were empty.

At first, she ignored it.

Being a leader came with eyes on her all the time. People watching, people paying attention, always judging. She told herself that this ...