Chapter 4: The Quiet Test

The next morning, the lower district clinic was crowded with impoverished commoners—orphans, elderly laborers, and injured sailors who could not afford the astronomical fees of high-rank Guild mages.

Despite knowing that House Vance was coming for her, Aria spent the morning treating sick children without asking for a single coin. She channeled her modest light magic, infusing warm energy into a feverish child’s chest until the boy’s breathing stabilized and a smile returned to his face.

In the corner of the crowded clinic sat Thomas and Mary, dressed in their simple travel cloaks. They watched every movement Aria made—her endless patience, her gentle smile, her unyielding dedication to saving lives.

“She has not changed, Eleanor,” Thomas whispered in a low voice that no one else could hear.

“She is pure gold, Arthur,” Mary—Queen Eleanor of Eldoria—replied quietly, a tear glistening in her eye. “Fifteen years ago, when the rebel traitors attacked the summer palace and separated us from our infant Aurelia, we prayed she would survive. To see her grow into a woman of such virtue… it warms my soul.”

King Arthur adjusted his rough tunic. “The test is complete. She chose her humble parents over aristocratic vanity. She treated the weak with royal mercy when she herself had nothing.”

Suddenly, a guard from the Healers’ Guild burst through the clinic doors, holding a golden summons scroll.

“Aria!” the guard bellowed. “By order of Guildmaster Malakor and Lord Julian Vance, you are summoned to the High Guildhall immediately to face trial for magical disgrace! If you fail to appear, you will be arrested!”

The poor patients gasped in fear.

Aria stood up calmly, smoothing her apron. “I am ready.”

Thomas stood up beside her, his posture straightening with regal authority that made the guard involuntarily take half a step back. “We will go with you, daughter.”