Chapter 11: The Test
Ian and Sam arrived in New Zealand, where they were greeted by SpecLady and ShadowGirl. SpecLady copied Ian's physical appearance, while ShadowGirl hid in one of her invisible suits.
"Greetings, my friends," Karen said, her voice friendly but firm. "You're about to enter a test simulation to confirm your abilities."
Ian raised an eyebrow. "What test? We're just here to clarify something with the Queen."
ShadowGirl's voice came from the shadows. "Before you meet the Queen, you have to pass this test simulation. It's for your own safety."
Sam clung to Ian's arm, her eyes wide with concern. "I don't like this. What if something goes wrong?"
Ian smiled reassuringly and wrapped his arm around her waist. "Don't worry, Sam. I've got you."
SpecLady activated the simulation machine, and a portal dragged them to a scorching desert world. Ian shielded Sam from the intense heat and solar flares. A magma monster emerged, hurling fireballs at them.
"No way!" Ian shouted, deflecting the flames with an invisible barrier. ShadowGirl appeared, using her hyper-jump mode to dodge the attacks.
"Just focus and absorb the heat with your right hand, then release the energy to the monster!" SpecLady instructed.
Ian nodded, his eyes locked on Sam's frightened face. "I've got this, Sam. Stay close."
As Ian absorbed the heat, Sam watched in awe, her heart racing with fear. She felt helpless, but Ian's presence reassured her. When the energy built up, Ian released it in a blast of light, shattering the magma monster.
The simulation ended, and they returned to reality. Ian's body shone with a radiant glow, leaving the girls speechless.
SpecLady approached Ian, a smile on her face. "You're truly a wizard, Sir Ian Whitlock."
Ian's eyes met Sam's, and he smiled, his face still aglow. "I think I passed the test."
Sam's cheeks flushed as Ian wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "You're amazing, Ian," she whispered.
SpecLady chuckled. "Welcome, Ian. I'm Karen Fernandez, or SpecLady. This is Stephanie Baynes, the ShadowGirl."
As they introduced themselves, Ian's arm remained around Sam's shoulders, a gentle squeeze reassuring her.
"Let's go to the Queen now," SpecLady said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "She's waiting for you, Ian. Especially you."
Ian smiled, his eyes locked on Sam's. "I'm ready, as long as Sam's with me."