[Wilhelm isn't sure why he holds his breath as she closes her eyes and repeats the incantation. As if the smallest sound might knock her concentration askew and throw off the whole spell. When she opens her eyes, it's clear from her expression that nothing has happened. Disappointment sinks in his stomach — not in her, but in his incipient attempt at teaching.]

Maybe, um...it's just because your connection to the Singularity is new.

[He offers a plausible explanation so that she doesn't give up, but he's kind of pulling it out of his ass.]

It's important that you actually believe you can do it too. Otherwise...

[Doubt or wobbling concentration can sabotage spells.]