As I removed my sweatshirt, the cool air brushed against my bare skin, heightening my awareness of the lingering injury on my shoulder. I turned my attention to the fading bruise—a splotch of purple and yellow that marred the otherwise smooth expanse of my skin. The raised bump was still tender to the touch, a reminder of the recent clash or impact that had caused it.

Gently, I placed my fingers against the swollen area, feeling the uneven texture of the bruise. I closed my eyes for a moment, focusing on the warmth that began to gather in my hands and used the spell healing touch. I concentrated on the area, willing the soothing power to flow from my fingertips.

The healing touch was a familiar and comforting sensation, like a gentle, warm embrace that sought to mend and restore. I could feel the magic working as a subtle glow began to emanate from my hands. Gradually, the swelling started to subside, and the vibrant colors of the bruise began to fade, shifting from deep purples to lighter hues.

I sighed, at least I was able to figure out what enchantment/spell to dispel. I muttered through the bond.

I am proud of you for that Maria. Why not get some rest. And I’ll heal the wound the rest of the way?

Théoden sounded concerned. He was right, I needed rest but I felt pretty much alright. Despite minor discomfort.

I think I have it pretty much healed.

Yes, but remember-

I know to try not to use my magic. The dispel was heavier than the healing I used.

I know. You have used enough magic today. We don’t need to alert Marcel, remember?

I sighed, realizing Théoden was right. The situation had forced me to confront the limits of my abilities. When I had first attempted to use the dispel, I had applied it at a lower level, hoping it would suffice. However, the spell’s resistance had been stronger than anticipated, and my initial attempt had failed. So, that forced me to cast the spell at a higher level.

Stolen novel; please report.

I could feel the drainage of the essence that I used but it didn’t matter to me. I was just glad that Caroline was not harmed in the alteration.

Rest Maria. Théoden muttered through the bond as he was trying to to get me to relax.

I rolled my eyes. Rest did seem like a good idea however, I had only twenty four hours to write a speech and so far the morning had proved hectic.

Now you want to write your speech?

Théoden sounded amused. It wasn’t I wanting to write my speech, it was more or less I needed to write my speech. The speech that would determine my future.

I sat down at my desk, pulled out some parchment, a quill and some ink. I felt a pull in my shoulder where the scissors had gone in and was yanked out.

I sighed once more, the pain in my shoulder, I knew I needed to forget about if I was to ever write this speech.

So I began to write.

To my kingdom….

I winced as I wrote. The pain in my shoulder was horrible. However, I noticed that the pain didn’t last long as Théoden siphoned bits away at time.

Théoden…I grumbled. I didn’t mind him taking the pain away from time to time, however this was mundane. Despite it being an annoyance. I needed to learn to be able to handle my own pain. Not just rely on Théoden to take the pain away.

I felt the siphon of the pain stop. Thank you dear. I told Théoden.

Mhm.

I finished the final details of my speech as I began to write the final lines.

And with that I promise to uphold the foundations that started this kingdom. Righteous values, selfless acts, and bravery, I will put my kingdom first. I will protect, serve, and honor my kingdom no matter the cost.

Yeah…that sounds good. Then again I may just improvise, at least it is a foundation.

The speech will be wonderful. Théoden told me.

I hope so.

I couldn’t help but be nervous. I knew I felt more and more ready for tomorrow night. I just hoped it would go without issue.

Rest Maria. We still need to train tonight in our dream.

I sighed and listened to him this time. I got up from my chair and walked over to my bed, slipped off my pants and curled under the covers. It had been a pretty intense morning, I just hoped the afternoon would be simple.

As I rested, I heard the faint sound of footsteps echo outside my door. Stop and a firm knock followed. “Maria?” A voice called out.