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The scene transfixes me as he clings to the dragon’s scaly neck, his face set with grim determination.

“Look at them!” Rose cheers with awe. “Isn’t it amazing?”

“Yes. Amazing.”

And terrifying.

The scene shifts to reveal Leesa using the sword imbued with my magic to chop away sinister plants writhing toward them.

Crafting a weapon infused with both my phoenix fire and regular fire element was Bastian’s idea. Thanks to his forethought, the bladesmith—along with a little assistance from me—began the finicky process of fashioning the magical sword a few months ago.

My heart races at the sight of my sister working by Sterling’s side.

That’s when I realize what’s happening in the scrying pool isn’t current. The magic’s showing me events that have already transpired.

The scene shifts again, this time revealing Agnar holding a rockslide at bay, his imposing figure steady as he channels earth magic to keep his companions safe. The juxtaposition of their strength fuels my pride, yet a gnawing dread unfurls in my gut.

Up next is Sterling again. He kneels at the edge of a high cliff while trailing his hand through a waterfall that flows upward. Sparkling droplets hang in the air. His face is intense with focus, brows knitted. I can practically feel the wonder radiating off him.

Rose claps her hands in delight. “He’s really good!”

Though my chest still tightens with anxiety, I can’t help but admire the way he moves. His bravery.

“He’s certainly taking plenty of risks.” I frown on the last word as my chest twinges with both trepidation and longing.

Rose hops down from her chair. “Look, he’s about to do something wild again! It’s because he hangs out with Uncle Agnar so much. That’s what my Mama says. Uncle Agnar is always doing big things. Watch!”

The flames flicker, and my eyes are glued to the scrying pool as Sterling leaps into action once more, nearly putting himself in danger for the fourth time within the short span of our viewing.

“Be careful!” Rose squeals, nearly jumping with glee as he effortlessly dodges another threat. My heart thunders in my ears, torn between pride and an overwhelming sense of dread. “Do you think he’ll be okay?”

I want to reassure her, but the answer sticks in my throat like bitter ash. “He’d better be, or he’s going to be in so much trouble.”

Rose giggles and squirms. “You can get the dragons to pick him upside down and use his head as a mop!”

Despite my apprehension, that visual elicits a snicker. “Now there’s an idea.”

We watch as he navigates through the forests and heads toward the cloud-covered mountain peaks. Rose views his adventures with bright eyes and the innocent, unyielding belief that everything will work out. I wish I could embody even a fraction of her faith.

Hesitating, I nod to the flame. As Kin flickers back, I gently remind myself to cherish this. Such magic was unheard of before. Whether this is something new, or something old and reborn again, it fills me with dual fascination and hesitation.

What would the other kingdoms think if they knew we weren’t merely retaining our powers while theirs falter, but utilizing a new ability to peek in on them at any time, past or present?

What would happen to Rose?

My stomach twists. I don’t intend to find out.

The next evening, the air is crisp and clear, providing a welcome reprieve from the tangled web of palace duties as I land in the middle of the training fields.

This is the only time I allow myself to detach from the demands of the throne. Especially since no one is watching. Of course, the guards are around, but they know better than to get too close and reveal their presence while I unwind for the day. No cheers. No calls from soldiers. No attendants hurrying me along.

This is where I shed the layers of royal expectation and become something else. Where I can be myself, where the fire within me truly burns.

I step through the gate of one of the rings.

The soft glow of the moon bathes the arena in silver light and dances along my short sword when I free the weapon from its sheath.

I begin to move, fluid and fierce, testing out the techniques I’ve practiced both alone and with a partner. A silent choreography of stepping and turning. Advancing, retreating.