The Princess and the Witch’s Trial

Follow Princess Isolde as she faces a witch’s trials to save her kingdom, discovering bravery and the strength of her heart along the way.

Age Recommendation

5 - 13 years

Characters of The Princess and the Witch’s Trial

Characters:

• Princess Isolde (a kind yet determined princess who treasures her kingdom)
• King Halric (Isolde’s father, a wise and steady ruler)
• Witch Selvarra (a cunning witch who tests the worth of leaders with challenges)
• Bran (a loyal raven who aids Isolde in her quest)
• The Lumina Gem (a magical jewel tied to the kingdom’s prosperity)

Story of The Princess and the Witch’s Trial

In the radiant Kingdom of Altheon, Princess Isolde was cherished not just for her beauty, but for her thoughtful heart. She spent her days among the people, listening to their stories and helping with their troubles. But her kingdom’s joy dimmed when one morning, the great Lumina Gem, the source of Altheon’s prosperity, cracked, leaving its light flickering faintly. The crops began to wilt, and the rivers flowed slower.

“Only Witch Selvarra can repair the Lumina Gem,” said King Halric gravely. “But she is known to test the heart and bravery of those who seek her help.” Isolde stepped forward without hesitation. “I will go,” she said. “This is my home, and I will not let it fall to ruin.”

Armed with a satchel of provisions and a heart full of resolve, Isolde set off into the Misty Woods, where Selvarra’s lair was said to be. Along the way, she heard a croaky voice calling, “Help! Someone, please!” Turning, she found a raven with its wing caught in brambles. Gently freeing it, Isolde asked, “Are you hurt?” The raven flapped its wings experimentally and said, “You have a kind heart. I am Bran, and I will help guide you.”

They journeyed deep into the woods until they reached Selvarra’s towering stone fortress. The air grew colder as the doors creaked open by themselves. Inside, the witch waited, her emerald eyes glowing. “Princess Isolde,” Selvarra said, her voice like a hiss of wind. “Do you seek to restore the Lumina Gem? You must prove your worth in three trials. Should you fail, your kingdom’s light will fade forever.”

“I accept,” Isolde replied firmly.

Trial One: The Puzzle of Compassion

Selvarra led Isolde to a room filled with broken trinkets and shattered mirrors. “Repair this,” she commanded, “but you have only one drop of magic.” Isolde studied the room and saw a mirror reflecting a weeping child. Rather than wasting her magic on the broken objects, she used it on the mirror, soothing the child’s sorrowful reflection. The room glowed with light as Selvarra smirked. “Your compassion has served you well.”

Trial Two: The Path of Shadows

In the next trial, Isolde stood at the entrance of a twisting maze, shrouded in darkness. “Find your way through,” Selvarra instructed. “But beware—the shadows will try to consume your light.” Bran perched on her shoulder, whispering, “Do not fear, Princess. Stay steady.” As the shadows whispered doubts and fears, Isolde clung to Bran’s encouragement, her heart glowing with courage. Her light guided her safely out.

Trial Three: The Test of Truth

The final trial brought Isolde to a chamber with a pedestal holding the flickering Lumina Gem. “You may take it,” Selvarra said, “but only if you confess your deepest fear.” Isolde hesitated, then spoke. “I fear that I am not strong enough to lead my people. But I also know that love and hope are stronger than fear.” The gem blazed with light, its crack sealing itself.

Selvarra’s cold expression softened. “You have shown courage, compassion, and truth. Your kingdom’s light is restored because of your heart.” With a wave of her hand, the gem floated to Isolde, glowing brighter than ever.

Isolde returned to Altheon, the Lumina Gem restored. The crops flourished, and the rivers sparkled once more. Her people rejoiced, but it was Isolde who felt the most grateful. She had faced her fears and learned that true strength comes from the heart.

The end.

Moral of the Story

Bravery isn’t the absence of fear, but the ability to face it with love, compassion, and truth. Princess Isolde’s trials remind us that courage comes from within, and true leadership requires kindness and honesty.

Questions to Think About

• Why did Isolde’s compassion help her pass the first trial?
• How did Bran’s support help her in the maze?
• What do you think made Selvarra change her view of Isolde?
• What does the Lumina Gem symbolize in this story?

Do You Know

• Ravens are often seen as symbols of intelligence and mystery in myths and stories.
• Mazes have been used in legends to represent challenges or journeys of self-discovery.

Word Explorer

• Compassion: Caring for others and wanting to help them.
• Resolve: Firm determination to do something.
• Truth: Being honest, even when it’s difficult.

Emotions in the Story

• Courage: When Isolde accepted Selvarra’s trials to save her kingdom.
• Determination: As she found her way through the shadowy maze.
• Relief and joy: When the Lumina Gem was restored and her people were saved.

Color Your Scene

Imagine Princess Isolde standing with the glowing Lumina Gem in her hands, Bran perched on her shoulder, and the room filled with light. What colors would you use for the gem’s glow, Selvarra’s mysterious lair, and Isolde’s hopeful expression? Draw the scene of Isolde’s triumph!

Parents' Corner

Talk with your child about how Princess Isolde used her compassion and honesty to succeed. Encourage them to think about their own challenges and how bravery and kindness can help them overcome obstacles.