EMBRACING THE HEALING LIGHT

**Alivia POV**

The next day, as I wake up and glance around the room, a mixture of anticipation and apprehension fills my chest. Mia had returned to Agatha's room after our heartfelt conversation, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I can't help but notice that Jess didn't come back during the night. A small smirk tugs at the corner of my lips as I realize she must have stayed with Adrienne, their bond hopefully repaired after their disagreement.

Shaking off the lingering thoughts, I rise from the bed, determined to prepare myself for the training session with Seraphine. As I go through my morning routine, a flurry of emotions dances within me, like conflicting currents colliding beneath the surface. The memory of the almost kiss with Dr. Volkov remains fresh in my mind, its lingering impact casting a shadow over the upcoming training.

Part of me yearns for the familiarity and comfort of Dr. Volkov's presence, to be enveloped in his strong arms and reassured by his unwavering support. But another part, fuelled by doubts and insecurities, questions whether crossing that boundary would only lead to heartache and complications.

As I slip into my dress, the fabric hugging my body, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror. My reflection stares back at me, a mix of determination and uncertainty etched across my face. The image before me is a constant reminder of the choices I must make, the paths I must navigate.

The thought of seeing Dr. Volkov at the training session, particularly in the presence of Seraphine, adds a layer of complexity to my already conflicted emotions. I wonder if he will exhibit any signs of the internal struggle, I suspect he's facing.

Inhaling deeply, I try to steady my racing heartbeat, reminding myself of the boundaries we must uphold. The professional dynamics between us, the unspoken rules we abide by as doctor and patient, alpha and pack member. These roles have shaped our interactions, forcing us to deny the pull of our mutual attraction.

But beneath the surface, the lingering desire remains an undeniable force that threatens to unravel the delicate balance we've carefully maintained. I know that seeing Dr. Volkov today, amidst the charged atmosphere of the training session, will test my resolve, pushing me to confront the depths of my feelings.

With a final glance in the mirror, I gather my strength, summoning a mask of composure to face the challenges ahead. Whatever unfolds in the training session, I must navigate the complexities with grace and self-restraint. The weight of my decisions hangs heavy in the air, and I steel myself for the internal conflict that awaits as I step out the door, ready to meet Seraphine and Dr. Volkov in the training arena.

I make my way to the training room, the anticipation building with each step. The air crackles with energy, and the faint sound of footsteps echoes through the corridor, heightening my curiosity. As I push open the door, expecting to find both Seraphine and Dr. Volkov, my eyes widen in surprise. Seraphine stands alone, her vibrant expression replaced by a veil of melancholy. It's as if a storm cloud has settled over her, casting a shadow on the room.

A whirlwind of questions swirls through my mind, threatening to consume my thoughts. Where is Dr. Volkov? Why is he not here? And, most importantly, does his absence have anything to do with the charged moment we shared during our almost kiss? The memory lingers, mingling with the uncertainty of the present.

My concern for Seraphine tugs at my heart, prompting me to approach her with gentle curiosity. I watch her for a moment, studying her face for any signs of distress. When our eyes meet, even if only briefly, I detect a flicker of vulnerability before she looks away, summoning a small smile to her lips. The strength it takes for her to mask her emotions piques my concern even further.

"Seraphine, is everything alright?" I inquire, my voice infused with genuine concern. I step closer, hoping to offer a comforting presence in her moment of apparent turmoil.
She nods, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yes, thank you for asking," she responds softly. "Shall we begin your training?"

Her words, though filled with a fragile determination, do little to assuage my curiosity. The surprise lingers in my eyes as I dare to ask, "Is Dr. Volkov not attending today?"
Seraphine shakes her head, her gaze momentarily dropping to the floor. "No, he had to go to Agatha's infirmary to check on some patients," she explains, her tone laced with a hint of disappointment.

Relief washes over me, mingling with a tinge of sadness. I find solace in the fact that I won't have to face the complex emotions that linger between Dr. Volkov and me just yet. Yet, the absence of his presence, which has become both a source of comfort and a catalyst for inner conflict, leaves me yearning for answers.

But Seraphine's expression tugs at my intuition, stirring a whirlwind of thoughts within me. Is her sadness solely because Dr. Volkov is not attending? A part of me resents the undeniable connection they seem to share. It stirs a mixture of emotions within me, fear, insecurity, and a sense of inadequacy. I find myself comparing their rapport to the fleeting moments I've had with Dr. Volkov, the stolen glances and the almost-kiss that still haunts my thoughts.

Is there a depth of understanding between them that surpasses what I have with him? Does Seraphine hold a special place in his heart, one that I can never hope to claim?
The creases on her brow and the faint tremor in her voice hinted at a hidden turmoil, begging to be unraveled. My instincts push me to probe further, yet a sliver of caution whispers in the back of my mind, reminding me of the delicate balance we tread upon. It's not my place to pry or force her to reveal what she may not be ready to share. Respecting her boundaries becomes paramount, as much as my curiosity yearns for answers. So, with a measure of restraint, I choose not to push further.

I take a deep breath, exhaling the tendrils of jealousy that threaten to consume me. At this moment, I choose to focus on my growth, my path toward self-discovery. The training session with Seraphine becomes an opportunity to strengthen my abilities and forge a connection independent of any comparisons or doubts.
Suppressing my lingering questions, I muster a warm smile and reply, "Yes, let's begin the training."

Seraphine nods, before gesturing for me to take a seat in front of her. I settle into the designated spot, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity bubbling within me. There's an air of serenity surrounding Seraphine, a sense that this moment holds significance beyond the surface level of our training.

"Today, Alivia, we will delve into the art of summoning healing magic," Seraphine explains, her voice carrying a gentle authority. "Breath control and visualization are crucial elements in channeling the energy needed for effective healing."

I nod attentively, absorbing her words as her voice washes over me, like a calming melody in the midst of chaos. There's a certain aura about her, a serenity that permeates her being and resonates in every word she utters.

"First, let us focus on your breath," Seraphine continues, her voice guiding me through the process. "Close your eyes and take a deep breath in, allowing the air to fill your lungs. Feel the expansion of your chest, the life-giving force flowing into you."

I follow her instructions, letting my lungs fill with air, my body responding to the deliberate rhythm of my breath. As I exhale, I sense the release of tension, as if a weight is being lifted from my shoulders.

"Now, visualize a radiant light, a healing energy," Seraphine's voice encourages me. "See it glowing within you, growing brighter with each breath."

I picture the light she describes, a warm and luminous glow that emanates from the depths of my being. With each inhale, I imagine the light intensifying, filling me with a sense of vitality and purpose.

"Feel the energy flowing through your body," Seraphine prompts, her voice guiding me deeper into the visualization. "Direct it to the areas in need of healing. See it soothing and repairing, bringing balance and restoration."

I visualize the healing energy coursing through my veins, guided by my intention. I imagine it weaving its way through every cell, mending and revitalizing. The image brings a profound sense of connection and purpose as if I am tapping into a wellspring of ancient wisdom.

"Remember, Alivia, healing magic is not merely a physical mending, but an addressing of emotional wounds as well," Seraphine reminds me, her voice carrying empathy and understanding. "Allow the energy to penetrate your emotional blockages, releasing what no longer serves you."

I pause for a moment, reflecting on her words. It's a reminder that healing is a holistic process, encompassing not just the physical body but the emotional and spiritual realms as well. With renewed determination, I open myself to the possibility of addressing those emotional blockages that have impeded my progress.

Together, Seraphine and I continue to explore the intricacies of breath control and visualization, working harmoniously to cultivate my ability to summon healing magic. Her guidance and wisdom provide the foundation upon which I build my newfound skills, nurturing the spark of potential within me.

As the training progresses, I feel a sense of empowerment growing within, fuelled by Seraphine's teachings and my dedication. The connection between breath, visualization, and healing magic becomes more tangible, and I am filled with gratitude for this opportunity to unlock the depths of my abilities. In this sacred space of learning and growth, guided by Seraphine's serene presence, I become more convinced that the magic within me has the potential to create profound transformations in the world around me.