"When can I use the wing?"

Sam looked down at Shazi from their ladder in the library. Autumn's library wasn't huge or extravagant- nothing like you'd expect in Ventralli or Yakim- but it did have multiple rows of books, from history to records.

"I thought this was your free time, Princess Shazi," Sam said as they grabbed the book- a large and worn down copy of The Traditions of Autumn by Sara Raasch. "I was expecting you to be outside. You should go out and enjoy the nice breeze, it looks like it may rain soon."

Shazi took a step back as her tutor hopped down from the ladder.

"I want to know when I can use the wing," Shazi said, pointing to her hand. "Mom said I won't be able to use it even though I'll get it soon."

Sam nodded, walking over to the long, low table that stretched in front of the rows of books. They took a seat on a maroon pillow and set their book down. Shazi followed, sitting on an orange cushion next to Sam.

"Well, Princess Shazi, what all do you already know about Autumn's conduit?" Sam asked. Shazi knew about the conduit and that it possessed magic, but it was difficult to get a four-year-old to understand the conduits.

"I know it's a wing, and that it has magic, and that Dad can't use it," Shazi added. "But I don't know why he can't."

Sam nodded and paused for a moment. How to explain this in terms the little princess could understand?

"You're right, our conduit is a ring. And it will allow you to use magic, when you're older and more capable. And as far as King Caspar being unable to use the conduit, Autumn's conduit is female-blooded," Sam explained. "So even though your father is the king, because he is male, the magic won't work for him."

Shazi wrinkled her nose.

"That's silly!"

Sam chuckled. The princess commonly spoke her mind, and her naivety and honesty always amused him.

"I suppose it is," Sam agreed. "It's difficult, coping with the rules of magic. Autumn has been without its conduit for years, and it will be a while until magic will return to us."

Sam winced- would Shazi take that the wrong way? Had they sounded bitter?

But Shazi just smiled.

"But now you have me!" she exclaimed. Sam nodded, relieved.

"Yes, now we have you."

"Why won't I be able to use magic until I'm older though?" Shazi asked. "I'm weady now!"

Sam couldn't help but smile at the princess's determination.

"Well, Princess, using magic is complicated. It takes a lot of willpower- which, I admit, you have- but it requires a conscious choice. A ruler must consciously choose to use the magic for their kingdom," Sam said. "It also takes control. A ruler must know when magic is necessary and how much is needed."

Shazi's face fell.

"That's a lot," she said quietly.

Sam bit their lip- they'd have to be more careful with explanations to magic.

"I have no doubt in my body that you will be a magnificent ruler who works incredibly with magic, Princess Shazi," Sam said, meaning every word. "You are very talented and smart. You just need a little more experience."

Shazi smiled and nodded. Sam sighed, relieved that they had fixed their mistake.

"So why am I getting the wing now if I can't use it?" Shazi asked.

"Well, it's time for you to start gaining the experience you need," Sam answered. "Carrying the ring and learning more about it are the first steps. And the people of Autumn are very excited that they have a female heir. The ball is am excellent way to both celebrate your birthday and boost the morale of the people."

Sam nodded toward the book they had retrieved from the shelf.

"I'm looking at Autumnian traditions to see what we can plan for the small ceremony we'll be having," Sam said. "Why don't you go play outside for a few minutes before you eat dinner?"

Shazi nodded enthusiastically, hopping up from her pillow.

"Okay!" she paused as she dashed toward the door, turning back to look at Sam. "I can't wait until I use magic!"

Sam smiled fondly at her excitement.

"I can't wait either. One day the conduit will help you to become strong."

~~~~~~~~

Shazi dashed around in the small orchard behind the castle. She waved her flowing maroon dress around in extravagant flourishes, holding out her hand, which carried an imaginary ring. The two guards at the entrance couldn't keep straight faces as their princess fought off invisible foes, using the magic of her conduit.

Shazi stopped her playing, panting slightly. She put a hand on her hip and looked around at the pile of fallen leaves she had so greatly disturbed, looking pleased.

"One day, I'll have magic, then I'll be stwong!"