Unexpected - The Enigma.

Chapter-19

As I gazed at the golden flame-like radiance emanating from my palm, a shiver ran down my spine. Was I really transforming into a witch? The question swirled in my mind, leaving me both fascinated and unsettled.

My thoughts were interrupted by my mother's gentle voice calling out from outside . "Anaya?"

"Yes, Ma," I replied, hastily applying lotion to my skin and wrapping myself in a plush purple bathrobe. Since I hadn't brought any clothes into the bathroom, I headed straight to my walk-in closet to change into a pair of high-waisted jeans and a cream-colored woolen sweater.

As I slipped into my boots, my mother entered the room, her eyes filled with concern. "Anaya, sweetie, are you okay?" she asked hesitantly, noticing something in my demeanor that seemed off.

I stood in front of the mirror, my gaze drifting over my reflection. My hair was already dry, styled in its natural waves, and I didn't feel like doing anything more to it. I met my mother's gaze in the mirror, my expression neutral.

As I gazed at my reflection, I realized my mother had been expecting tears, anger, or despair. But instead, I felt a sudden surge of confidence and strength. The weakness that had threatened to consume me seemed to dissipate, replaced by a newfound sense of self-assurance. I decided then and there that I wouldn't let the recent events define me; I was okay, and everything would be alright.

But despite this newfound resolve, I still had questions, doubts that lingered in my mind. I turned to my mother, wrapping my arms around her in a tight hug. She stiffened for a moment, taken aback by the sudden gesture, but then slowly relaxed into the embrace.

As I pulled back, I looked straight into her eyes, my voice firm. "I am okay. But for now, I just want to focus on my magic." My mother's expression transformed, a proud smile spreading across her face.

"I am proud of you, my Queen. This is the girl I know," she said, her voice filled with warmth. She squeezed my hands reassuringly, and I felt a surge of strength and determination. The pride in her eyes was all the motivation I needed.

"Come on, now," she said, her smile still radiant. "Everyone is waiting for you. Let's have breakfast first." I nodded, feeling a sense of normalcy wash over me, and together we headed towards the warmth and bustle of the breakfast gathering.

As I descended the stairs, I saw everyone gathered in the dining area, and my eyes landed on a new face. I wondered who she was - a woman with black, curly hair, probably in her mid-twenties, dressed in jeans and a black high-neck top with a jacket. She exuded confidence as she conversed with the King and Queen.

My gaze wandered around the living room, searching for a particular face, but he was nowhere to be seen. 'Where is he?' I found myself wondering as I approached the table.

"Anaya," Mother said, noticing my arrival. "How are you feeling now, dear? Are you okay?" She asked, guiding me to my seat.

"Yes, Mother. I'm feeling good now," I replied.

"Very well. Now, let me introduce you to someone," she said, gesturing towards the woman with black curly hair.

"This is Gemma," Mother said, "She is going to be your teacher and trainer. She is also our royal sorceress."

Gemma's smile lit up her face as she greeted me. "Hello, Anaya." I couldn't help but notice her beauty.

Just then, Marco chimed in, wrapping his arm around Gemma's shoulders in a casual gesture. "And my soon-to-be wife, too." It was clear that these two were mates.