““There’s always a choice, even if it’s only the choice to give up.””
— Lyra often struggles with difficult decisions and feels trapped, but this quote reminds her of her agency.
Archivist's Choice
Candidate
Rachel E. Carter (2015)
Genre
Fantasy / Young Adult / Romance
Reading Time
326 min
Key Themes
See below
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A determined black mage fights for the coveted robe of leadership against a rival prince, only to discover a deeper political darkness threatening her kingdom and forcing an alliance with her greatest competitor.
Synopsis
Ryiah, a twenty-year-old black mage, arrives at the Candidacy aiming to become the legendary Black Mage. She faces intense initial trials and forms shifting alliances, especially with Prince Alexus, her long-standing rival she has never defeated. As the Candidacy progresses, a betrayal forces Ryiah into rigorous training, leading to the final tournament rounds where she must confront Alexus. Ryiah defeats Alexus and is robed as the new Black Mage, but her victory is short-lived as a dark threat emerges within the kingdom. Rival nations close in, requiring a strategic alliance through a forced marriage for Ryiah. However, the true enemy resides within the palace. Whispers of treason lead Ryiah to investigate and confront the traitors, revealing a deep conspiracy that threatens to plunge the kingdom into war. As first skirmishes break out and personal sacrifices are made, the fragile alliance unravels. Ryiah devises a desperate plan, leading to a climactic battle for the kingdom. She emerges victorious, but the future remains uncertain, marked by the echoes of betrayal and the promise of ongoing conflict.
Reading time
326 min
Difficulty
Medium
Pacing
Fast
Mood
Action-packed, Romantic, Suspenseful, Treacherous
✓ Read this if...
You enjoy YA fantasy with magic tournaments, political intrigue, and a strong-willed female protagonist navigating romance and war.
✗ Skip this if...
You prefer fantasy with complex world-building over character-driven plots and don't enjoy 'chosen one' tropes or forced marriage subplots.
Plot Summary
The Arrival at the Candidacy
Ryiah al'Demarr and Prince Alexus, both powerful black mages, arrive at the Royal Palace for the Candidacy, the annual tournament to determine the next Black Mage of Combat. Ryiah is determined to win, having trained for this opportunity, but her long-standing rivalry with Alexus immediately resurfaces. Headmaster Darren greets them, outlining the rigorous trials ahead and emphasizing the pressure and political significance of the Candidacy. Ryiah reunites with her friends, Ella and Darren, and her brother, Blane, who is also competing. The initial atmosphere is tense, filled with anticipation and apprehension as competitors recognize the high stakes involved in becoming the kingdom's most powerful war mage.
Initial Trials and Shifting Alliances
The Candidacy begins with a series of grueling physical and magical trials designed to test the mages' endurance, skill, and strategic thinking. Ryiah excels in many, showing her combat prowess, but Alexus consistently pushes her, often outperforming her in specific areas. During these trials, Ryiah notices the subtle political undercurrents among the candidates, particularly from the more established noble families. She sees temporary alliances and rivalries form beyond just the competition. Her bond with Ella and Darren strengthens, while Blane struggles with the pressure. Ryiah remains focused on her own performance, trying to ignore distractions and the growing tension between herself and Alexus, which often shows as competitive banter and grudging respect.
The Betrayal and the Training
A significant setback occurs when Ryiah discovers that one of her trusted allies has been subtly sabotaging her progress or spreading rumors. This betrayal deeply affects her, causing her to question her judgment and trust. Despite this emotional blow, she redoubles her efforts in training. The Candidacy's trials become increasingly difficult, demanding not just magical skill but also strategic foresight and leadership. Ryiah pushes herself to her physical and magical limits, often training late into the night. Alexus, despite their rivalry, occasionally offers unexpected advice or challenges her in ways that inadvertently help her improve, creating a complex dynamic between them.
The Final Tournament Rounds
The Candidacy progresses to the final tournament rounds, where mages engage in one-on-one magical duels. Ryiah faces several formidable opponents, showing her unique combat style and adaptive strategies. Her fights are intense, often pushing her to exhaustion, but she consistently wins. During one of these duels, a rare and powerful dark magic is subtly used by an unknown competitor, causing a brief disturbance and raising concerns among the Headmasters. This incident hints at a darker threat lurking beneath the surface of the competition. Ryiah, though focused on her own battles, notices the unusual magic and begins to feel uneasy about the true nature of the Candidacy's challenges.
Ryiah vs. Alexus: The Climax
The inevitable happens: Ryiah and Alexus are the last two competitors standing, destined to face each other in the final duel for the Black Mage robe. The entire kingdom watches, aware of their long-standing rivalry and immense power. Their battle is a spectacle of raw magical force and strategic brilliance, showing years of training and their deep understanding of each other's fighting styles. Spells fly, wards are erected and shattered, and the two mages push each other to their limits. The duel is physically and magically exhausting, a testament to their equal skill and unwavering determination. The outcome remains uncertain until the very last moment, keeping spectators on the edge of their seats.
The Black Mage is Robed
After a grueling and breathtaking final duel, Alexus emerges victorious, becoming the new Black Mage of Combat. Ryiah, though defeated, accepts her loss with a mix of disappointment and respect for Alexus's skill. The robing ceremony officially recognizes Alexus's new position. However, the celebratory atmosphere is short-lived. Headmaster Darren announces that rival nations are encroaching on the kingdom's borders, signifying an imminent war. The Candidacy, originally a test of individual prowess, has now become a desperate search for strong mages to defend the realm. The newly robed Black Mage, Alexus, immediately faces the immense responsibility of leading the kingdom's magical defenses.
The Alliance and Forced Marriage
With war imminent, the kingdom's leaders scramble to form alliances. To solidify a military pact with a powerful neighboring kingdom, Ryiah is informed that she must enter into an arranged marriage with Prince Damien, a foreign prince she barely knows. This news devastates Ryiah, as it means sacrificing her personal desires and ambitions for political necessity. She feels trapped and powerless, her dreams of freedom and choosing her own path crumbling. Alexus, despite his new position and their complex relationship, is visibly affected by this development, though his duties prevent him from intervening directly. The forced marriage creates a deep emotional conflict for Ryiah, adding a layer of personal tragedy to the looming war.
Whispers of Treason
As Ryiah tries to come to terms with her impending marriage, she begins to notice subtle inconsistencies and strange occurrences within the palace. Through careful observation and overheard conversations, she uncovers whispers and fragments of evidence suggesting that a high-ranking official or even a member of the royal court is secretly aiding the encroaching enemy nations. This revelation shifts her focus from her personal despair to a new, dangerous mission. She realizes that the external threat is compounded by an internal betrayal, making the kingdom's situation far more precarious. Ryiah feels compelled to investigate further, understanding that this traitor poses an immediate and deadly threat.
The Investigation and Confrontation
Driven by her discovery, Ryiah discreetly begins her own investigation into the suspected treason. She finds an unexpected ally in Alexus, who, despite their past rivalry and his new responsibilities, senses the gravity of her concerns and offers his aid. Together, they piece together the clues, navigating the treacherous political landscape of the palace. Their investigation leads them to a shocking realization: the traitor is someone deeply entrenched within the royal family or a trusted advisor, someone beyond suspicion. This discovery places them in immense danger, as the traitor is powerful and well-connected, capable of eliminating anyone who threatens to expose them. They must act quickly and carefully.
The Traitor Revealed and the Looming War
Ryiah and Alexus successfully gather enough evidence to expose the traitor, revealing a prominent figure within the palace—Lord Victor, a seemingly loyal advisor, who has been secretly conspiring with the enemy. The confrontation is tense and dangerous, but they manage to neutralize the threat, albeit with significant effort and risk. However, the exposure of the traitor doesn't prevent the inevitable. News arrives that the enemy nations have officially declared war and have begun their invasion. The kingdom is plunged into chaos, and Alexus, as the Black Mage, must immediately prepare for battle. Ryiah, despite her personal turmoil and the recent events, knows she must also join the fight, her skills as a black mage now more vital than ever.
First Skirmishes and Personal Sacrifices
The war begins in earnest, with skirmishes breaking out along the kingdom's borders. Ryiah, despite her unresolved personal issues, takes on a leadership role, commanding a contingent of mages alongside Alexus. The battles are brutal, testing their magical abilities and strategic minds. They witness the devastating toll of war firsthand, forcing them to make difficult decisions and personal sacrifices for the greater good of the kingdom. During these initial engagements, Ryiah finds herself relying on Alexus more than ever, and their professional relationship deepens, marked by mutual respect in the face of shared danger. The weight of their responsibilities is immense, and they both struggle with the moral complexities of war.
The Unraveling Alliance
Amidst the war, the arrangements for Ryiah's marriage to Prince Damien continue, but the political alliance it was meant to secure begins to unravel due to external pressures and the escalating conflict. Ryiah, increasingly aware of her true feelings for Alexus, struggles with the prospect of marrying Damien. Her interactions with Damien highlight their fundamental incompatibility, making the sacrifice feel even more profound. Alexus, too, grapples with his feelings for Ryiah, torn between his duty as Black Mage and his personal desires. The potential collapse of the alliance adds another layer of tension to the already dire situation, forcing both Ryiah and Alexus to confront their personal emotions in the crucible of war.
A Desperate Plan
With the enemy forces proving formidable and the kingdom's resources stretched thin, Ryiah and Alexus realize they need a desperate, high-stakes plan to turn the tide of the war. They work together, combining their strategic insights and magical knowledge, to devise a risky maneuver that could either secure a decisive victory or lead to utter defeat. This plan requires immense courage, precise execution, and a willingness to take unprecedented risks. It also necessitates a deeper level of trust and coordination between them, pushing their working relationship to its limit. The fate of the kingdom hinges on the success of this audacious strategy, making the stakes higher than ever before.
The Battle for the Kingdom
The desperate plan is put into motion, leading to a massive, climactic battle that will decide the fate of the kingdom. Ryiah and Alexus lead their forces from the front lines, fighting alongside their mages with unparalleled skill and bravery. The battle is chaotic and brutal, with heavy casualties on both sides. Ryiah unleashes her full power as a black mage, showing her growth and resilience. Alexus, as the Black Mage, orchestrates their defenses and offensives, his leadership proving crucial. They face direct confrontations with powerful enemy mages and overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, fighting not just for victory, but for the very survival of their people and their way of life.
Victory and Uncertain Future
Through immense sacrifice and courageous effort, Ryiah and Alexus, along with their allies, secure a hard-won victory against the invading forces. The immediate threat is repelled, and the kingdom is saved from conquest. However, the cost of war is immense, leaving the land scarred and many lives lost. While there is a sense of relief, the future remains uncertain. The political landscape has shifted, and the implications of Ryiah's broken engagement and her growing feelings for Alexus are yet to be fully addressed. The kingdom must now rebuild, and Ryiah must navigate her personal path forward, knowing that her journey as a powerful mage and a woman of influence is far from over.
Principal Figures
Ryiah al'Demarr
The Protagonist
Ryiah transforms from a singularly focused competitor into a leader who understands the weight of responsibility and sacrifice for her kingdom, while also grappling with unexpected romantic feelings.
Prince Alexus
The Antagonist/Love Interest
Alexus transitions from Ryiah's competitive rival to her trusted partner and the kingdom's Black Mage, forced to confront his personal feelings while leading his people in war.
Ella
The Supporting
Ella remains a constant source of support for Ryiah, her friendship deepening through shared challenges.
Darren
The Supporting
Darren supports his friends through the Candidacy and the war, solidifying his loyalty and competence.
Blane al'Demarr
The Supporting
Blane grapples with the pressures of the Candidacy and his sister's success, finding his own path within the kingdom's military structure.
Headmaster Darren
The Supporting
Headmaster Darren guides the Candidacy, adapting his role to the changing needs of the kingdom as war approaches.
Prince Damien
The Mentioned
Prince Damien's role is primarily to catalyze Ryiah's internal conflict and highlight the political stakes.
Lord Victor
The Antagonist
Lord Victor is exposed as the internal antagonist, his betrayal leading to a critical internal conflict for the protagonists.
Themes & Insights
Ambition vs. Duty
The novel explores the constant tension between personal ambition and duty. Ryiah is fiercely ambitious, driven to become the Black Mage, but the looming war and her forced engagement demand she set aside her personal desires for the greater good of the kingdom. Alexus, too, must balance his individual power with the heavy responsibilities of his royal lineage and his role as the new Black Mage. This theme is evident when Ryiah is forced to consider marrying Prince Damien for a political alliance, sacrificing her autonomy for her people's safety.
““Some dreams die so that others may live.””
Rivalry and Respect
The core relationship between Ryiah and Alexus is built on intense rivalry, but beneath the surface, there is a deep, grudging respect for each other's power and skill. Their competition pushes both to excel, making them stronger. This dynamic evolves as they face external threats, forcing them to move beyond rivalry to collaboration and mutual trust. Their final duel in the Candidacy shows this perfectly, as both give their all, honoring each other's strength even in defeat.
““I hated him, but I respected him. He was the only one who could truly challenge me.””
Betrayal and Trust
The narrative explores the fragile nature of trust, both personal and political. Ryiah experiences a personal betrayal early in the Candidacy, shaking her confidence. More significantly, the discovery of a traitor within the palace walls, Lord Victor, highlights how betrayal from within can be as devastating as an external enemy. This theme forces characters like Ryiah and Alexus to scrutinize their allies and rely on their instincts, strengthening their bond as they learn to trust each other completely in the face of deceit.
““The worst enemy resides in the palace.””
The Cost of War
Beyond the magical duels and political intrigue, the novel emphasizes the brutal realities and immense sacrifices demanded by war. The kingdom faces invasion, forcing difficult decisions, arranged marriages, and the loss of life. The characters, especially Ryiah and Alexus, witness firsthand the devastation and the moral complexities of leading forces into battle. The initial focus on individual glory shifts to the collective struggle for survival, showing that victory often comes at a steep personal and societal price, leaving scars that linger long after the fighting ends.
““War demanded everything, even the dreams you thought were your own.””
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Candidacy
A high-stakes magical tournament determining the kingdom's Black Mage.
The Candidacy serves as the central plot device, driving the initial conflict and character development. It's a series of grueling physical and magical trials designed to identify the most powerful and capable war mage. This tournament not only tests individual skill but also exposes political maneuvering, personal rivalries, and character flaws. It acts as a crucible, forging the protagonists and setting the stage for the larger conflict, transitioning from an individual quest for glory to a collective fight for survival.
Arranged Marriage
A political tool used to forge alliances during wartime.
The arranged marriage between Ryiah and Prince Damien is a critical plot device that introduces significant personal conflict and raises the stakes. It forces Ryiah to confront the tension between her personal desires and the demands of duty for her kingdom's survival. This device highlights the political realities of the world, where individuals, even powerful mages, can be pawns in larger strategic games. It deepens Ryiah's character arc by forcing her to make immense sacrifices and ultimately strengthens her bond with Alexus through shared adversity.
The Traitor Within
A hidden antagonist undermining the kingdom from the inside.
The revelation of a traitor (Lord Victor) operating within the royal palace is a crucial plot device that introduces an internal conflict, complicating the external threat of war. This device creates suspense and paranoia, forcing Ryiah and Alexus to become detectives and question those around them. It serves to highlight the theme of betrayal and trust, demonstrating that danger can come from unexpected sources. Exposing the traitor is a critical step in uniting the kingdom's defenses and showcasing the protagonists' strategic acumen beyond just magical combat.
The Black Mage Robe
A symbolic object representing ultimate magical power and leadership.
The Black Mage robe is more than just an article of clothing; it's a powerful symbol of authority, immense magical power, and the ultimate leadership role for war mages in the kingdom. It is the prize of the Candidacy and represents the pinnacle of Ryiah's ambition. Winning the robe signifies not just personal achievement but also the immense responsibility of protecting the realm. Its significance elevates the stakes of the Candidacy, making the competition for it a life-altering event for the competitors.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
““Hope is a dangerous thing, but it’s the only thing that keeps us going.””
— Lyra reflects on the precarious nature of hope in a world full of betrayals and challenges.
““Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help.””
— As an independent character, Lyra learns the value of relying on others.
““The crown doesn’t make the ruler, the ruler makes the crown.””
— A wise mentor shares this insight about true leadership with Lyra.
““You can’t run from who you are, no matter how far you go.””
— Lyra grapples with her past and identity, finding that it always catches up to her.
““Love isn't about perfection; it’s about accepting flaws and choosing to stay.””
— Lyra's romantic relationships are often complicated, and this quote highlights the depth of true affection.
““Fear is a weapon, but courage is a shield.””
— Lyra faces many threats and learns to overcome her fears with bravery.
““Every scar tells a story, and every story makes you stronger.””
— Lyra reflects on her physical and emotional wounds, understanding them as marks of survival.
““Sometimes the greatest battles are fought within yourself.””
— Lyra's internal struggles are often as challenging as the external conflicts she faces.
““Loyalty is earned, not given, and it can be lost just as easily.””
— Lyra navigates complex alliances and betrayals, learning the true cost of trust.
““The path to greatness is rarely easy, but it’s always worth the journey.””
— Lyra endures numerous trials on her quest for purpose and power.
““True power isn't about what you can take, but what you can protect.””
— Lyra's understanding of leadership evolves from personal gain to selfless protection.
““Even in the darkest night, there is always a star to guide you.””
— Lyra finds moments of hope and guidance even in her most desperate situations.
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Key Questions (FAQ)
'Candidate' introduces Ryiah, a twenty-year-old black mage of Combat, who dreams of becoming the legendary Black Mage. Her primary goal is to win the upcoming Candidacy, a prestigious tournament for war mages in her kingdom, which would grant her the coveted robe and title. This ambition drives her initial training and rivalry.
