Chapter 113: Laughter of legacy
The sun cast a gentle golden hue across the sprawling palace gardens, now blooming fuller and brighter than they had in decades. The once-distant sounds of war had long been replaced by birdsong and laughter, and peace was no longer a fragile dream—it was reality, nurtured by time and choice.
"Catch me, Grandpa!" a voice squealed, light and mischievous.
King Azrael turned just in time to see a blur of red and gold streak past him. Caelan. His grandson's wild curls bounced with every step, arms spread like wings, golden magic trailing faintly behind him like a comet.
Azrael laughed, deep and full. "You're too fast for an old man!"
Behind him, Azrael Jr. appeared with a cheeky grin, cloaking himself in invisibility with a snap of his tiny fingers. "Then what about me?"
"Cheater!" Caelan shouted, stopping short and spinning around. "You're not allowed to disappear mid-chase!"
"You never said that!" came the invisible voice, tauntingly close.
Azrael pretended to fumble, reaching around dramatically. "Oh no! Where did he go? My favorite grandson has vanished!"
"I'm your favorite!" Caelan pouted, puffing his cheeks.
"No, I am," Azrael Jr. declared, reappearing behind the king and jumping onto his back.
Azrael let out a mock groan. "Oh no, I'm being attacked by the crown heirs of Eldralore!"