CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

It’s difficult for me to handle my pride like that. Even though it wasn’t easy to accept that I’m powerful and that I might have a higher calling, I’ve grown used to the idea. I was fully committed to this journey and excited to see what it would bring.

Realizing this path was always meant for Shelby is a blow. It’s like watching my adventure slip away from me. And I want to steal it back.

Still, I know I should never fight for a title like that. I can’t attack someone who was meant for the sword. Though I’m still angry at Shelby, I just can’t do it.

As I accept my fate though, Shelby surprises me by kneeling in front of me.

“What’s going on?” I ask, completely baffled.

“This sword is yours,” Shelby says. “You deserve it. You’ve earned it.”

“What do you mean?” I counter. “You were the one who was able to lift the sword out of the rock, not me. Clearly, the sword belongs to you.”

At that though, Shelby disappears. The sword clatters on the stone. I pick it up.

“It’s a test,” I