Echoes of Magic & Blood

Chapter 16: Bound by Love and Duty

The weeks passed with a mix of preparation and anticipation. The tension was palpable as everyone at the Mikaelson compound readied themselves for the final battle against their enemies. The sense of an impending storm was in the air, and everyone could feel it.

One morning, news arrived that the final confrontation was near. A messenger, a young witch named Kira, had brought word from the Order and other allied forces. They had pinpointed the location of the Death Eaters' last stronghold and were preparing for a coordinated attack.

Anna's heart raced with a mix of fear and excitement. She had been training tirelessly, honing her magical skills and preparing for this moment. She knew how crucial this battle was, not just for their survival but for the future of the magical world.

As Kira delivered the news, Anna felt a surge of determination. "I need to be there," she said firmly. "I want to fight alongside everyone."

Elijah, standing nearby, looked at her with a mix of concern and sympathy. "Anna, your bravery is commendable, but there's something you need to know."

Anna frowned, sensing the gravity of his words. "What is it?"

Elijah took a deep breath. "Your parents have contacted us. They agreed with the Mikaelson family that you should not be involved in the final battle."

Anna's eyes widened in shock and anger. "What? No! They can't do this! I've trained, I've prepared. I need to be there!"

Klaus, who had been listening from a distance, approached with a serious expression. "Your parents are worried about your safety, Anna. They believe it's too dangerous for you."

Anna's frustration boiled over. "This is my fight too! I won't just sit here while everyone else risks their lives."

Draco, who had been silent until now, stepped forward and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Anna, they just want to keep you safe. We all do."

Anna shook her head, her eyes blazing with determination. "I can help. I can make a difference. Please, you have to let me go."

Elijah exchanged a glance with Klaus, and then nodded to Davina, who was standing by with a regretful expression. "We can't risk it, Anna. I'm sorry."

Before Anna could react, Davina raised her hands and began to chant softly. Anna felt a tingling sensation spread through her body, followed by a sudden heaviness. She tried to move, but found herself unable to leave the courtyard.

"What did you do?" Anna demanded, panic rising in her voice.

Davina lowered her hands, looking apologetic. "It's a binding spell. You won't be able to leave the compound until the battle is over."

Anna's heart sank. She felt trapped, betrayed by those she trusted. "You can't do this! Let me go!"

Draco's face was etched with sorrow. "It's for your own good, Anna. We can't lose you."

Anna's anger flared. "I thought you understood, Draco. I thought you believed in me."

Draco's eyes filled with pain. "I do, Anna. But I also can't bear the thought of something happening to you."

Anna turned away, her heart heavy with frustration and sadness. She felt like a prisoner in her own home, bound by the love and fear of those who wanted to protect her. She spent the rest of the day in a haze of anger and despair, unable to focus on anything but her burning desire to be part of the fight.

As night fell, Anna sat in her room, staring out the window at the moonlit courtyard. She felt a presence behind her and turned to see Theo standing in the doorway.