Chapter 112: Sons of the kingdom
The palace courtyard bloomed with life, adorned in gold and ivory silks, flowers strung from pillars, and petals tossed across the steps leading to the raised platform where the royal family now stood. Trumpets echoed through the air, followed by the rhythmic beat of ancestral drums. This was not just another ceremony—it was history being reborn.
Citizens from every region had come to witness the moment—the introduction of the royal heirs. It wasn't only about lineage. These two newborn boys symbolized unity, forgiveness, and the return of harmony between power and people.
Cain stood proudly with Selene beside him, her gown a flowing stream of deep sapphire threaded with silver stars. In her arms, she held Caelan, and in Cain's arms rested Azrael—their sons. The crowd quieted the moment the royal pair stepped onto the balcony overlooking the courtyard.
King Azrael stepped forward, his voice carrying across the crowd. "People of Elarion... today, you witness not just the future of the throne, but the blessing of the bloodlines—of both fire and light, shadow and storm. I present to you... Prince Caelan and Prince Azrael, sons of Cain and Selene, children of prophecy."
The crowd erupted in cheers, flags waving, families lifting children onto shoulders to catch a glimpse.
Queen Isolde lifted her hand to silence the crowd. "As tradition dictates, our high priest shall bestow upon the heirs the ancestral blessings—and bear witness to their gifts."
An elder priest stepped forward, robed in white and gold. His wrinkled hands held a glowing crystal orb, pulsing faintly. "Step forward," he said solemnly.
Selene passed Caelan gently to him. The moment the orb touched Caelan's tiny chest, a shock of golden-blue light surged from the boy's hands—lightning cracking in the sky above. The people gasped as the clouds shimmered, not with storm—but with aurora-colored magic.
"He bears the mark of the Skyborn," the priest said, voice awed. "He will control the winds and weather. He is destined to lead not just with strength, but with foresight."
Cain exchanged a stunned look with Selene.
Then came Azrael Jr. As the orb touched his skin, a low rumble shook the earth. From the child's small fingers, tendrils of living flame flickered and curled, dancing through the air but burning nothing.