Chapter 106: Royal announcement
The air in the royal palace was crisp, the evening sky casting a soft golden hue over the sprawling gardens. Inside the grand dining hall, King Cedric and Queen Isolde walked side by side, greeting their subjects with grace and warmth. The tension that had once hung heavy in the kingdom seemed to have melted away, replaced with an aura of calm serenity. It had been a long time since the kingdom had felt at peace, and now, for the first time in years, it seemed like the future was bright.
As they made their way through the crowd, the nobles and commoners alike cheered in excitement, their eyes shining with admiration for the royal couple. They had fought hard for the throne and now ruled with a wisdom forged in battle and sacrifice. King Cedric and Queen Isolde were no longer just rulers—they were symbols of hope for the people. The people had seen them endure unimaginable hardships and come out stronger, and now, they celebrated the peace they had fought so hard to secure.
Selene and Cain walked behind them, holding hands as they followed their parents, occasionally pausing to speak with the subjects. The people adored them, just as they had adored their parents, and as Selene looked around, she couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. This was her home now. This was where her future would unfold, where she and Cain would build their own legacy. It had not been an easy road, but they had made it here, together.
After a while, the king and queen led them toward the large open courtyard where the grand feast would take place. The tables were laden with food—roast meats, fresh fruits, and pastries that seemed to glisten in the light of the lanterns. The sounds of laughter and music filled the air as the royal family settled into their seats, joined by the other key figures of the kingdom.
Cain stood to address the gathering, his voice filled with confidence and pride. "As we stand here today, we are not just a kingdom bound by blood—we are a family united by love and sacrifice," he began, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "The battles we've fought, the struggles we've overcome, have led us to this moment. And now, it's time to look toward the future."
He paused for a moment, feeling Selene's hand squeeze his gently. She stood beside him, her eyes soft and filled with warmth as she gazed out at the crowd.
"The future, my friends," Cain continued, "is about to change. I'm proud to announce that Selene and I are expecting a child."
A cheer rose up from the crowd, followed by a wave of applause. Cain looked at Selene, his heart swelling with emotion, before turning back to the people.
"We know that the road ahead will not always be easy," he said, his voice filled with determination, "but together, we will face it. This child will carry our legacy forward, and they will know the love of this kingdom."
Selene smiled, her hand resting on her growing belly. "We promise to raise them with all the love we have for each other, and for this kingdom. Thank you all for being part of this journey with us."