The grand hall felt overwhelming as I stepped forward, my footsteps echoing on the marble floor. The man with silver hair and deep blue eyes regarded me with a penetrating gaze, as if he could see right through to my soul.
My father placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder before stepping back, allowing me to approach the platform alone.
"Isolde Blackwell," the man repeated, his voice steady. "I am Master Callan, and I will be conducting your magic test today."
I nodded, my heart pounding in my chest. Master Callan gestured for me to stand in the center of a large, ornate circle engraved into the floor. Intricate symbols and runes decorated the circumference, glowing faintly as I stepped inside.
"Relax, and focus on your breathing," Master Callan instructed. "This test will reveal your innate magic, the power that resides within you."
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing thoughts. The air around me seemed to hum with energy, and I felt a tingling sensation spread through my body. Master Callan began to chant softly, the runes and symbols on the floor glowing brighter in response.
"Close your eyes and concentrate on the center of your being," he continued. "Feel for the spark of magic within you, and let it rise to the surface."
I closed my eyes, focusing inward as he instructed. At first, there was nothing, just the sound of my breathing and the distant murmur of energy. But slowly, I began to feel a warmth deep within me, a pulsing ember that seemed to grow with each breath.
"Good, Isolde," Master Callan's voice broke through the haze. "Now, let that magic flow freely. Do not resist it."
The warmth intensified, spreading through my veins like wildfire. I felt a surge of power, a force that was both exhilarating and terrifying. Suddenly, a brilliant white light erupted from within me, enveloping me in its glow. I gasped, opening my eyes to see white flames dancing around my hands, their heat palpable but not burning me.
Master Callan stepped back, his eyes wide with awe. "White flames… extraordinary. This is a magic not seen in a hundred years."
My father gasped, his face a mix of pride and astonishment. "Isolde… you possess the White Flame."
I stared at the flames, mesmerized by their purity and power. They flickered and danced, responding to my emotions. Master Callan approached cautiously, his expression one of deep respect.
"The White Flame is a rare and powerful magic," he explained. "It symbolizes purity, strength, and leadership. It is said to be the most suitable magic for a ruler, a queen."
His words echoed in my mind, and I felt a heavy weight settle on my shoulders. The implications of having such a rare magic were not lost on me. I glanced at my father, who was beaming with pride, and felt a pang of dread.
"Isolde," Master Callan continued, "your magic signifies that you are destined for greatness. The White Flame is a beacon of hope and strength for our kingdom. It is your duty to harness this power and use it for the good of your people."
I felt tears prick at the corners of my eyes. This was exactly what I had feared. My rare magic would only reinforce the expectation that I should become queen. I didn't want this responsibility, but how could I refuse when my very magic seemed to dictate my fate?
Master Callan nodded, sensing my turmoil. "It is a great burden, but also a great honor. You will be guided and trained to control and master your magic. You are not alone in this."
I took a deep breath, the white flames slowly fading as I calmed my emotions. The warmth receded, leaving a lingering sense of power within me. I looked at my father, his eyes shining with pride and hope.
"I'm so proud of you, Isolde," he said, stepping forward to embrace me. "You have a remarkable gift."
I managed a weak smile, feeling the weight of my destiny pressing down on me. Master Callan motioned for me to step out of the circle, and I followed him to the edge of the platform.
"Your training will begin immediately," he said, his tone firm but kind. "You have a great journey ahead of you, Isolde."
I nodded, feeling a mix of fear and determination. I glanced around the grand hall, the reality of my situation sinking in. This was my life now, a life of duty and responsibility. But deep down, a part of me still longed for the freedom I once had.
As we exited the hall, my father walking beside me, I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that clung to me. The carriage ride back to the castle was silent, my father's attempts at conversation falling flat. I stared out the window, lost in thought, the weight of my future heavy on my mind.
When we arrived back at the castle, I excused myself and made my way to my room. I needed time to think, to process everything that had happened. As I passed the guards stationed outside my room, I hesitated for a moment.
"Princess Isolde, are you alright?" one of them asked, concern evident in his voice.
"I'm fine," I replied, forcing a smile. "I just need some time alone."
The guards nodded, stepping aside to let me enter. I closed the door behind me, leaning against it as the reality of my situation crashed down on me. My room, once a sanctuary, now felt like a prison. The lavish furniture and decorations seemed to mock my predicament, reminding me of the expectations placed upon me.
"I shouldn't be like this," I muttered to myself, feeling a surge of frustration. "I don't want to become queen."
The walls seemed to close in on me, the pressure unbearable. I needed to escape, to find some semblance of freedom. Without thinking, I turned and slipped past the guards, moving quickly through the corridors. My heart pounded in my chest as I made my way to a hidden exit I had discovered years ago, a small door that led out to the gardens.
As I stepped outside, the cool evening air hit me, and I took a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief. I moved quickly, slipping through the shadows, my mind racing. The thought of leaving everything behind, of escaping my fate, seemed more appealing than ever.
"I should run away," I whispered to myself, the idea taking root in my mind.