Chapter 32: The Mentor
The morning sun shone over the castle, but Elara felt no time to rest. The rebellion had been quelled, but she knew the kingdom still had challenges ahead. Power was not only about magic—it was about wisdom, strategy, and skill.
Araion appeared at the balcony where she stood, the crown resting lightly on her head. His expression was serious.
"Today, we begin a new kind of training," he said. "You have the crown's power, but ruling a kingdom requires more than magic."
Elara nodded. "I'm ready."
He led her into the training yard, where soldiers practiced combat and nobles studied maps. Araion removed his cloak, revealing light armor beneath, and picked up a training sword.
"Combat first," he said. "A queen must be able to defend herself, not just her kingdom."
Elara felt nervous. She had trained a little, but never with a master like Araion. Still, she stepped forward, lifting a wooden practice sword.
He smiled faintly. "Good. Don't worry about strength. Focus on speed, focus on awareness. Anticipate the enemy, not just fight them."
They sparred slowly at first. Araion moved with precision, his centuries of experience evident in every motion. Elara blocked and parried, her movements guided by the crown's faint pulse. She could feel her body reacting faster than before, her reflexes sharper.
"Better," Araion said after a few rounds. "But your focus wanders. Combat is as much mental as it is physical. A queen who panics loses everything."
Elara nodded, wiping sweat from her forehead. "I understand."
They trained for hours. Each strike, each block, each step was a lesson—not just in combat, but in discipline and strategy. Araion corrected her stance, taught her when to attack and when to defend, and explained the importance of reading opponents.
After combat, they moved to the council room. Araion spread out maps of the kingdom, pointing to villages, trade routes, and strategic points.
"Politics is another battlefield," he said. "Nobles will test you. Some will respect you. Others will try to trick you. You must see through lies and act wisely."
Elara leaned in, studying the maps. "How do I know who to trust?"
"Observe actions, not words," Araion advised. "Listen carefully, watch closely, and use your judgment. And when necessary, act decisively."
He gave her scenarios: a village threatening to rebel, a noble plotting secretly, a neighboring kingdom testing alliances. Elara had to make decisions quickly. The crown pulsed, helping her sense the land and people.
At first, she hesitated, unsure if her choices were correct. Araion watched, ready to guide but letting her think independently. After each decision, he discussed with her what worked and what could be improved.
Hours turned into evening. Elara was tired, but she felt stronger—body, mind, and spirit. The crown pulsed softly, as if approving her efforts.
Araion finally lowered his sword. "You have learned much today. But remember, training never ends. The world is unpredictable, and power is only useful when paired with wisdom."
Elara smiled, a little exhausted but proud. "Thank you. I will continue learning."
He placed a hand on her shoulder, the gesture gentle but full of support. "And I will guide you, every step. Together, we will ensure the kingdom is safe, and that you become the leader it needs."
She looked up at him. "I am ready to learn… everything."
He nodded. "Then let us begin tomorrow."
That night, as she rested, Elara thought about the day. Combat had tested her body, politics had tested her mind, and the crown had tested her heart. She realized that being a queen was not only about ruling—it was about growing, learning, and becoming someone people could trust completely.
Araion had not just taught her skills. He had shown her patience, guidance, and how to balance strength with wisdom. And for the first time, she truly understood that leadership was not just a title—it was responsibility, strategy, and courage.
The crown pulsed faintly, as if acknowledging her growth. Elara placed her hand on it, smiling. Tomorrow, the lessons would continue, and she would continue to rise—not only as the Chosen Queen but as a leader who could face any challenge.