Chapter 124: Serpent prince
Thunder rumbled across the skies as if the heavens themselves were warning the kingdom. But the royal family of flame, shadows, and cheeky comebacks stood unbothered. Mostly.
"I swear, if this 'Serpent Prince' turns out to be a dramatic peacock in shiny boots, I'm going to scream," Rina declared, twirling a dagger in one hand and a strawberry tart in the other.
Zara sighed. "Sweetheart, focus on your throwing form—not dessert."
"Multitasking is a strength, mother."
Meanwhile, Caelan and Azrael Jr. stood on the balcony overlooking the palace gates, watching the arrival with narrowed eyes. A convoy of obsidian-colored chariots, pulled by what looked like mutated elk with glowing antlers, slowly approached.
Azrael Jr. smirked. "Well, points for dramatic flair."
"Is it wrong that I want to blast them before they even speak?" Caelan asked casually.
Selene appeared behind them, arms crossed. "Boys. Peace. Until proven necessary."
Cain added, "Though I must admit... those elk are creepy."
The gates creaked open, and out stepped the alleged Serpent Prince—tall, silver-eyed, wearing robes that shimmered like oil in sunlight. His hair was braided with tiny bones, his smile sharp as a blade.
He bowed deeply. "King Cain. Queen Selene. I am Seraphis. Son of the forgotten flame. Born of shadows. Raised in exile. Heir to what you all claim."