Chapter 7: The Trial of the Queen

Dear Diary,

I did it. I passed the trial — barely.

I stepped through the door in the tree and entered a vast, underground chamber. It was dark, but the walls shimmered with a faint, otherworldly light. In the center of the room stood a stone pedestal, holding a glowing orb.

Malik stood behind me, his voice steady but serious. "This is the Heart of the Kingdom. If you can awaken its power, you'll know the truth of your reign."

I reached out, my hand trembling as I touched the orb. The moment I made contact, the orb pulsed with energy, and the room was filled with a deafening roar. A vision flashed before my eyes — a brutal war, the kingdom falling to ruins, and a figure cloaked in darkness, wielding power beyond comprehension.

A chill ran through me, and I pulled my hand away, heart racing. "What was that? Who is that?"

"That," Malik said grimly, "is your enemy. The one who destroyed your kingdom. The one you will have to defeat."

The room seemed to close in on me. The weight of the vision, the responsibility of the crown, and the threat of the enemy pressed down on me. I wasn't ready. How could I be?

Malik's gaze softened. "You're stronger than you think, Zariah. You'll find your way."

Love,Zariah