Chapter 2: Separation

At the time of the incident, the girls were thirteen years of age. They bore the weight of pain, despair, and trauma at such tender ages, both for each other and themselves. In that moment, they became some of the most significant figures in the Kingdom, despite their youth. It was all so overwhelming for them.

The bloodline of the great seers all resided in the palace, sheltered from anything that could threaten their lineage. This proximity allowed the girls to grow closer and delve into the study of magic together. Among nobles, it was customary to possess great prowess in the art of magic, a skill in which both girls were lacking.

They would convene daily in the garden, attempting to teach themselves magic. This clandestine activity continued for a few weeks until the King discovered their secret. He was furious at the number of times they had eluded their professional tutors, mandatory for all young palace residents. His rage knew no bounds, and he forbade both of them from ever seeing each other again.

"Father, please, it will never happen again! Please, Father! Please!!!" Young Aurora's wails echoed through the corridors as tears streamed down her cheeks uncontrollably.

And so, the young girls were separated, devastated by the decree. Celeste had no other relatives, leaving her alone in the palace with her court mage. Their already fragile grasp on magic began to deteriorate further, much to the chagrin of the mage. Months passed in this manner, and with each passing day apart, their powers dwindled until, after about three months, their magic vanished entirely, as though it had never existed.

This unexpected turn alarmed the royal sorcerer, Eldritch, who sensed something amiss in the unfortunate events that befell the young girls. He promptly informed the King of the dire situation, gaining access to the King's chamber where he awaited an audience.

"Long live the King," he bowed respectfully.

"Arise, and what brings you here?" inquired the King.

"Oh, Your Highness, the girls' magic has vanished completely. If we do not act swiftly, it could spell future catastrophe. The destroyer of the Kingdom may already be lurking among us. Therefore, I suggest we act promptly, Your Highness."

"You speak the truth," mused the King. "What do you propose we do?"

"I would suggest reuniting the two young ladies and rescinding the forbiddance," Eldritch proposed.