The Magician Princess

    By Gloria

    The Magician Princess cover image

    09 Aug, 2023

    In the heart of the ancient kingdom of Constantinople resided Princess Odina, a vivacious young sorceress famed for her magical prowess. However, she bore a grave fear of combat, which jeopardized her role as the kingdom's guardian.

    News reached the royal court of an impending invasion from the mighty Ottoman Empire. Fear and panic spread among the citizens. The king, Odina's father, concealed his own apprehension and tried to instill courage into his people.

    Princess Odina, despite her fears, knew she had to stand not just for her kingdom but for her people, her family, and herself. She took a deep breath, muttering a silent prayer before reaching out for her magic staff.

    Odina had trained with this staff from childhood, mastering complex spells and hexes. However, to contend with the invading forces, she knew she needed more. She remembered a profound spell, capable of immense destruction but never mastered due to her fear.

    The spell called Starfire, could summon a meteor shower that would decimate any approaching enemies. However, controlling such raw, elemental forces required a calm and fearless mind. Odina had to confront her fear of combat to wield it.

    In the royal gardens, Odina began her training. She spent days and nights, conjuring the Starfire, with each attempt bringing her slightly closer to success, and frightening her greatly.

    One day, she almost succeeded, but her fear overwhelmed her, causing a backlash of magic that sent her flying. Amidst the pain and the discouragement, she debated whether she should try again or surrender to fear.

    During a defining conversation with her father, she confessed her fears. Instead of rebuking her, the king shared stories of his own past fears and how facing them had made him a stronger ruler.

    Inspired by her father's words, Odina decided to face her fear, bolstered by the thoughts of her kingdom and its people. She went back to her practice with newfound determination, slowly but surely gaining control over the Starfire spell.

    Days turned into weeks, and the Ottoman forces were nearing Constantinople. The city's soldiers were ready, but against the Ottoman might, their chances were slim. All hopes rested on Odina's small yet spirited shoulders.

    As the Ottoman forces approached, Odina ascended to the city walls, her staff gripped tightly in her hands. Her heart pounded fiercely as the far-off enemy forces became visible on the horizon.

    Remembering her father's words and the faces of her people, she stood strong. Her staff high above her, she began the chant, feeling the energy rush through her, more powerful than ever before.

    A spectacular celestial spectacle unfolded. From the calm indigo sky, fiery stars began to descend, lighting up the battlefield. Each was guided towards the Ottoman forces, leaving trails of destruction.

    At first, the Ottomans tried to continue their charge, but the meteor shower was relentless. Soldiers scattered, horses bolted, and their frontlines collapsed. Their rigorous formations were crumbling before the might of Odina's Starfire.

    Fear paralyzed the Ottomans, watching the heavenly fires drown their forces. Their shouts of war turned into cries of desperation. The once formidable invaders fell back, their morale shattered by the magical bombardment.

    Gradually, the meteors ceased, and silence fell over the battlefield. Princess Odina struggled to stay standing, her body drained from channeling such great power. But her heart swelled with victory and pride.

    Constantinople had been saved, her people rejoiced, and the Ottomans retreated. Her father rushed to her, tears in his eyes, not just of joy but also of immense pride for his brave daughter.

    The city of Constantinople celebrated its victory. Odina, the young sorceress, was hailed as their savior. Her fear of combat faded away amidst the cheers of her people, replaced by honor and newfound confidence.

    Princess Odina's tale became legendary, a reminder of courage and determination. She had not only saved her kingdom but had also faced and conquered her deepest fear. Her magic wasn’t just for tricks and festivities; it was a formidable weapon in capable hands.

    The Ottomans, on the other hand, learnt a valuable lesson that day. The might of an army doesn't only lie in its number or weapons. Sometimes, the greatest power resides in the bravest of hearts.

    The kingdom of Constantinople lived on, bound by a newfound respect and admiration for their princess. Odina, once the shy sorceress, was now their symbol of courage and their beacon in times of peril.