The weeks passed in a rhythmic pattern, each day structured by Ophelia's lessons and quiet time with Maerys and Colin. The initial discomfort of having only two people in her house had worn off. Maerys had mastered both sewing and hairdressing under Ophelia's patient instruction, and Colin had settled into a permanent fixture, ever present but never overbearing.

  Ophelia's studies had become more intense in preparation for her temple visit. Though she still had a year before the ceremony, the lessons were intended to train her to sit among noble society, magic or not.

  The primary and most significant lessons were about the Qeorene Empire itself—its history, how it was ruled, and the role of noble bloodlines in maintaining society from chaos.

  Seated in the large study of the keep, Ophelia changed positions as her tutor, Master Elwood, shuffled through a plump book. The room smelled of old ink and parchment, and the large windows let in a warm sunlit afternoon light.

  "'The Qeorene Empire,' Master Elwood began in his usual measured voice, "was founded some four hundred years ago, after the warring kingdoms were united under King Harrod the First. You would already be familiar with this from your first lessons."

  Ophelia nodded. "Yes, and to prevent future wars of succession, he established the Child Fine, which forced nobles to recognize their illegitimate offspring or face stiff fines."

  Master Elwood gave a tiny, approving nod. "Yes. And his son, Harrod the Second, expanded upon this by legalizing polygamy for gentlemen and codifying concubinage. This led to the architectural innovations we have today—bigger keeps, towers for wives, concubines, and their kids, apart.".

  Ophelia's gaze swept over to the historical books that lay on the table before her. She already knew everything except for some minor points from the recollection of her previous existence, but she could see it all in detail and understand how deeply these laws shaped the society she lived in.

  Now, to government," continued Master Elwood. "The emperor rules over the Qeorene Empire, but the empire is divided into great noble houses. Your father, Lord Higburgh, is one of the greater lords, lord of a region that gives grain and beasts of burden. The noble family with each domain maintains order, taxes, and offers a good life on its land in exchange for swearing loyalty to the emperor.".

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  Ophelia heard carefully, paying close attention to each crumb of information. As a noble, she was expected to understand the power politics, though she was not interested in politics at all.

  "Magic," Master Elwood went on, "is the nobles' sacred right, granted by the gods to maintain authority over the empire. The awakening ceremony marks the pinnacle of a young noble's life. The temple priests will not merely determine if you possess magic, but what sort of magic. All noble households possess affinities strong within their veins—your household, for example, is renowned for Earth and Fire affinities."

  Ophelia leaned forward. "And what of those that are born without magic?"

  Master Elwood's eyes darkened. "They are still noble, but they are compromised in position. They must serve in other capacities—through marriage, scholarship, or as soldiers."

  As Colin, Ophelia thought. He had no magic, but he had discovered a way to be of use through sword fighting.

  The lesson continued, talking about the rituals of the magic ceremony. It would take place in the great temple, where she would meet the priests and the court. If she had magic, it would manifest in the holy flames, and her affinity would be discovered. If not. well, she would have to find another path.

  Her lesson were taken alongside all the illegitimate children, so she had no worry about actually engaging in class. Between all of them they had an understanding.

  After the lesson, Ophelia left the study drained.

  At her tower, she found Maerys with a tray of tea and biscuits. "My lady," Maerys said, her face full of awe. "How was your lesson today?"

  Ophelia exhaled a deep breath, sinking into a cushioned chair. "Informative, but tiring. There's so much to learn before the ceremony."

  Maerys hesitated before setting down the tea. "Do you… desire magic?

  Ophelia paused, staring into the golden depths of her mug. "I don't know," she admitted. "With magic comes responsibilities. If I do have magic, my father might try to use me as a political pawn. If I don't, I'll be less. Either way, my life won't belong to me."

  Maerys frowned. "But if you do have magic, you have more freedom."

  “Perhaps,” Ophelia mused.

  The conversation lingered in her mind long after Maerys left. As she lay in bed that night, she thought of Colin’s simple dream—peace. Could she ever truly have that, regardless of whether magic chose her or not?

  She closed her eyes, pushing the thought away. Time would reveal her fate soon enough.