Chapter 111: The heir’s first cry
The palace was still, wrapped in the soft quiet of early dawn. The first light of the sun had just begun to peek over the horizon, casting a golden sheen across the marble floors. A gentle breeze fluttered through the silken curtains in Cain and Selene's chamber.
Selene stirred awake, a low groan escaping her lips. Cain, fast asleep beside her, woke instantly at the sound. His eyes snapped open, alert and worried.
"Selene?" he asked, already sitting up.
She clutched her stomach and exhaled through her teeth, her expression tensing. "It's happening," she whispered. "Cain, my water just broke."
Cain bolted upright. "Guards! Midwife! Anyone—!"
Within moments, the room burst into motion. Servants rushed in with blankets, towels, and water. The royal healer, a calm elderly woman named Mireya, stepped in, already pulling her sleeves up and directing the staff with sharp, practiced commands.
"Take a deep breath, Your Highness," Mireya said soothingly. "It's time."
Cain stayed by Selene's side, gripping her hand tightly as she squeezed with a strength that reminded him of battle. Sweat dotted her brow, and her face twisted in pain—but she didn't cry out. She was strong, powerful, beautiful.
"I'm here," Cain whispered over and over. "I'm here."
Outside the door, Eira and Eren paced restlessly. Leo and Zara sat on a nearby bench, hands clasped tightly. Queen Isolde arrived with her robes hastily thrown on, and King Azrael followed slowly, his expression unreadable.
"They've been in there an hour," Eira muttered, her tone thick with worry.