Chapter 21: Chapter 21: Burden of Tradition
In the dimly lit chambers of the palace, the Royal Family gathered to discuss the mounting challenges posed by the darkened ones. A heavy air of concern hung over the room as the king's words echoed through the space. Isabella and Seraphina exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the gravity of the situation.
"We find ourselves in a difficult predicament," the king began, his voice tinged with frustration. "The fact that both of you are girls poses a significant obstacle. It would be a blow to our family's honor and reputation if I were to lead the battle against the darkened ones, instead of a male heir."
Seraphina's brow furrowed, her mind racing with the weight of the king's words. Isabella, ever defiant, clenched her fists as a flicker of anger danced in her eyes. They understood the weight of tradition and societal expectations, but it didn't ease the sting of their limitations.
As the conversation continued, the topic shifted to the Blackwood family, known for their influence and power " Their might demand that since their son would lead the battle against the darkened ones ma dun return a marriage alliance would be formed".
The king's expression grew grave, his voice laced annoyance, normally nothing is wrong with an arranged marry to the future heir of a dukedom. But since their no male heirs it means that... that"
" It means that His Son would become the king, and we'd basically be handing over our power on a Golden platter if anything" The queen said playing with her fingers.
It's not like we have a choice at this point.
Seraphina thought while glancing to Isabella. She had been more tolerable over the weeks possibly because they were in the same friend group. But she still made Terrible comments from time to time. She no felt the need for Isabella to give her the elderly love she craved afterall Isabella hates her because she was her rival to throne. If Another person is certain to get the throne at least they can completely tolerate each other.
Isabella can tolerate my supposed mediocre brown hair and eyes which gives off peasantry while I can tolerate her narcissistic behavior. Seraphina thought
"Should it come to that, we may have to consider the Blackwood family's demands. Since a male figure has to lead as according to tradition."
A heavy silence settled in the room as the implications of such a decision sank in. Isabella and Seraphina exchanged glances, a mix of worry and defiance evident in their eyes. They understood the political intricacies that governed their lives, but their spirits yearned for something more than a mere pawn in a game of power.
Amidst the gloom, there was a glimmer of hope. The topic turned to Seraphina's growing powers, the manifestation of her light magic. The elves had requested her presence in the upcoming raid, recognizing the potential she held in combating the darkness. The queen's voice held a touch of concern as she addressed her daughters.
"Seraphina, my dear, your powers are growing stronger by the day. The elves see great potential in you. They have requested your aid in the upcoming raid. It is a chance to prove your worth and protect our realm."
Seraphina's eyes widened with a mix of trepidation and determination. The weight of responsibility settled upon her shoulders, but she knew that this might be her opportunity to make a difference and make everyone see that she could be a good ruler.
Beside her, Isabella's expression shifted, a mix of annoyance and concern crossing her features. Alas she knew if Seraphina was to return victorious. It would completely shift the power dynamic between the two and they would be seen as equals. Although She had to admit in power scale they could be equals. But Seraphina still has the blood of a peasant running in her veins she just doesn't know it yet . Isabella thought to herself.
"But what about Isabella?" Seraphina voiced her worry, her gaze turning to her sister. "If I go, would she Also go."
The queen's gaze softened as she placed a comforting hand on Seraphina's shoulder, mistaking her concern to finally grow her power for worry for her sister. "Isabella would stay behind, she has much more higher chances of becoming a Darkened one. Besides there is a higher chance of darkness empowering the darkened ones than repressing them."
Isabella knew she had just learned a trumph card which she would display In the next meeting she could may as well become the Arcane heiress
Isabella's eyes bore a flicker of defiance, her mind racing with thoughts of her own path forward. Seraphina felt the weight of her growing powers, aware of the responsibility that awaited her. As the Royal Family grappled with the shifting tides of power and the looming darkness, their paths diverged, each facing their own trials and destinies.
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