Princess Willowyn's Arc

Chapter 2 of 70

Willowyn sat on the low step below the throne. Her green fox curled in her lap, vines shifting through its fur. The Queen had sent her servants away to rest. Now only mother and daughter remained in the wide stone room. Willowyn stroked the fox and waited for the tales she already knew. The Queen began them anyway. She spoke of the child born under a full moon, the one who would carry water magic and heal the broken lands. She had told this story to Willowyn a hundred times. Her mother's voice never changed. Neither did the ending. "Yes, Mother, I understand," Willowyn said. "I am the one. I am meant to rule the people and heal the lands." She looked up. "But what if I want other things?" The fox lifted its head. The Queen went still. For a moment Willowyn hoped the question had landed somewhere new. The Queen rose from the throne. Her white gown pooled on the steps. She crossed to her daughter and laid one hand on Willowyn's shoulder. The touch was gentle, but it pinned her in place. "Your duty lies here," the Queen said. "The prophecy foretold a child with healing powers and water magic. That child would bring us salvation. You are that child, Willowyn. There is nothing else for you to want." Willowyn held the fox tighter against her chest. Its heart beat fast under her hands. She wanted to say that she deserved to adventure in the enchanted forest beyond the castle walls, that she deserved to learn the world on her own, but she sat silent never allowing the words to leave her mouth. The Queen's hand tightened once, then lifted away. "That is enough for tonight go on and practice your magic." Her mother turned toward the tall doors. "Go to your chambers. Rest." Willowyn stood. The fox dropped to the floor and pressed against her leg. She had always obeyed that voice.