Chapter 33: The Winds of Change

The third trial was the Trial of Air. A powerful wind whipped through the chamber, howling like a storm. Floating platforms suspended in mid-air led the way to the third key, but the wind made it impossible to cross without being thrown off balance.

"We need to control the air," Elara said, studying the platforms.

This time, Isolde stepped forward. "Let me try. I've always had an affinity for air magic."

As Isolde worked to calm the wind, it resisted her, pushing back harder with each attempt. Like the other trials, it seemed to defy anyone but Elara. When Elara finally took a deep breath and reached out with her own magic, the wind obeyed her, stilling just enough for them to cross safely.

Marcus's frustration finally boiled over. "Why does this keep happening?" he demanded. "Why are you the only one the temple responds to?"

Elara turned to him, surprised by his outburst. "I don't know, Marcus. It's not something I'm doing intentionally."

"Isn't it?" he snapped. "You're the princess, the chosen one, the one with all the power. The rest of us are just following you around, failing while you succeed. Maybe you don't even need us anymore."

His words hung in the air like a storm cloud. The group fell into a tense silence. Garrick stepped forward, his voice calm but firm. "Marcus, this isn't about who's the strongest. We're a team, and we've always needed each other."

But Marcus wasn't convinced. His insecurities had taken root, and the jealousy he felt toward Elara only deepened.