Lord Aldrich exhaled, adjusting his monocle as he regarded Raven closely.
"Your Highness," he began, his hands clasped behind his back, "please be reasonable. Laymen do not possess magic. It is a rare gift—one that your bloodline does not carry. The last mage in your family was your grandmother, and even she was considered an anomaly."
His gaze softened slightly. "You hold a duty to your kingdom. Your parents have already arranged your betrothal to Prince Cedric. The alliance is crucial in these times of war. You cannot simply abandon your responsibilities for a fantasy."
Raven's jaw tightened, her fingers trembling at her sides. It was clear that part of her wanted to believe his words… but a stronger part of her refused to.
Pandra, who had been silent until now, stepped forward.
"Chancellor," she said respectfully, "Are there rules in this academy that prohibit laymen from studying magic?"
