Chosen

"Sally, hurry up, it's time for school," my mom yelled for the dozenth time.

"I'm coming," I yelled back. Today was an important day, and everything had to be just right. Being my last year in school, today marked the beginning of a series of tests. They told us that these tests dictated our entire future - where we lived, what job we had, had much money we made. That all seemed true, but there was also something more. These tests only started about 7 years ago, when rumors of a prophecy started. The rumors spoke of a power that would destroy the king's control of the land. They were looking for that power.

I ran down the stairs, with my bag ready for the day. I had studied hard and practiced my magic until late last night, and I was ready. My walk to school made today feel like any other day. It wasn't until we were all seating in the auditorium that we knew something was wrong. 

"What's going on? What about the tests? I'm already so nervous, I don't think I can take any more delays," my friend Ivy rambled.  

"I don't know. But something is definitely wrong. Look at the dean. I've never seen him so nervous before," I replied as I contemplated what was going on. As ready as I was to finish the tests and get on with my life, I was curious about what was happening. All the teachers looked on edge, and as much as the dean tried to mask his fear, he looked terrified. 

"Can I have your attention?" The dean said and waited for the noise to die down, "We have just been informed that there has been a change in the test requirements." All the students broke out in whispered protests, more nervous than they first came in. I was on the edge of my seat. Requirements didn't change at the last minute for no reason. What was going on?

Once the noise mostly died down, the dean continued, "The capital has requested fighters. There is a real possibility that war is coming. You will all be demonstrating your fighting and magical abilities to the generals that have come here. Those of you that prove to be worthy candidates will begin training to be in the king's army. It is a great honor to serve your king in this way, so all of you, do your best and show them what you are capable of." 

My head was spinning with a million questions and thoughts. I didn't want to be in the king's army. I know it was considered a great honor, but I was supposed to become a healer. Not risking my life to fight for the king that seemed to be losing his mind. What war was coming? And did they know? Did it have to do with the rumors of the prophecy? Was the king scared? I could hear Ivy besides me voicing many of the questions currently going through my head, but they didn't register. I was lost in my own thoughts.

As we were led outside, all I could think about was how valuable the generals would see me. I was the best healer in my class, really the best one our town has seen in years. I know that sounds arrogant, but it was true. And as much as didn't want to believe it, healers were invaluable on the battlefield. I knew I would be chosen.