A Royal Obligation
Chapter 278: Epilogue : The End

Chapter 278: Epilogue : The End

The halls of the Zephyros palace were alive with activity. Servants bustled about, their arms laden with vibrant silks, fragrant floral arrangements, and trays of polished silverware. Every corner seemed to hum with anticipation, a collective energy that spoke of an event of great significance.

The throne room was being transformed for the dual celebrations: Prince Kaelix’s crowning as King of Zephyros and the naming ceremony of his newborn daughter, musicians rehearsed melodies that would fill the air with majesty and joy.

But within the serenity of the baby’s chambers, the world felt quieter, softer. The room was bathed in the warm glow of the sun filtering through tall, arched windows draped with lilac curtains.

The walls were adorned with delicate murals of starry skies. A crib carved from ivory wood stood near the center, cushioned with the softest fabrics, while shelves lined with tiny trinkets and toys hinted at the little life that now filled the space.

On a plush chaise near the window, Prince Eirik sat cradling his newborn daughter. His white hair now fell in soft waves over his shoulders, glinting like moonlight, and his amethyst eyes were tender as they gazed at his daughter. She fed hungrily from his sweal nipple, a feature unique to ferres like him, the small, milk-producing gland providing nourishment for the baby.

The infant, barely a month old, was the perfect mirror of her father, with wisps of snowy white hair curling around her cherubic face and eyes that gleamed the same ethereal purple. Her tiny fingers clung to his tunic as she suckled, her presence filling Eirik’s heart with an overwhelming warmth.

He marveled at the moment, remembering how much pain had filled his heart just five years ago when he lost his first pregnancy. The grief had nearly consumed him, but now, as he held this precious child in his arms, he felt whole. Those who had been responsible for his suffering had been dealt with, and justice had been served. This life, this happiness, was his reward for enduring.

A knock on the chamber door pulled him from his thoughts. "Come in," Eirik called softly, his voice careful not to startle the baby.

The door creaked open, revealing Kaelix, tall and regal even in the simplicity of his home attire. His silver and blue robes brushed the floor as he entered. His blue eyes softened as they landed on the sight before him: his consort feeding their daughter, the scene glowing with tenderness.

"She’s still feeding?" Kaelix asked with a warm smile, stepping closer.

Eirik nodded, glancing down at their daughter, who paused for a moment to glance at the newcomer. Her tiny purple eyes blinked up at Kaelix in recognition before she returned to her meal, latching onto Eirik’s nipple with determination.

"She’s always hungry," Eirik murmured, his voice filled with fondness.

Kaelix chuckled as he sat beside them, his arm draping over Eirik’s shoulders. "She’s like you then," he teased, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to Eirik’s temple. "Insatiable when it comes to what she loves."

Eirik rolled his eyes, but the corners of his lips curved upward. "She’s perfect," he whispered, gazing at the child nestled against him.

Kaelix nodded, his gaze falling to their daughter. "She is. And when she grows, she’ll know just how much she’s loved. By us, by this kingdom. She’ll know she’s a blessing."

Eirik leaned into Kaelix’s embrace, his free hand reaching to rest atop Kaelix’s. "She’s everything, Kaelix. Everything I ever dreamed of."

Kaelix tightened his hold on his family, his voice steady with conviction. "And she will have everything, Eirik. A future filled with love, strength, and the legacy of Zephyros. She will be proud to carry our names, just as we are proud to have her."

The baby stirred slightly, her tiny hand reaching out blindly. Kaelix extended his finger, which she immediately grasped with surprising strength. He smiled, his eyes shimmering with emotion.

"She has your determination," he said, his voice a mix of awe and amusement.

"And your heart," Eirik added softly, his gaze locking with Kaelix’s.

Another knock sounded at the door, interrupting the tender moment. Kaelix sighed, his arm slipping from around Eirik as he called out, "Come in."

The door opened to reveal Queen Elena, her regal presence unmistakable. Dressed in a deep violet gown adorned with silver embroidery, her hair was swept up elegantly, her eyes softened as they landed on the family.

"She’s still feeding?" she asked with a faint smile, stepping into the room.

Kaelix chuckled. "I asked the same thing."

Queen Elena raised a brow at her son, her lips curling into a smirk. "And yet, you both seem surprised. She’s your daughter, after all. That appetite clearly runs in the family."

Eirik flushed slightly but smiled nonetheless, glancing down at the baby who had begun to slow her feeding. "She’ll stop when she had enough. She’s had a long morning."

"Well, she doesn’t have much more time to rest," Queen Elena said, her tone firm but kind. "The guests are already arriving, and very soon, your family, will be here, Eirik. The little one needs to get ready for her big debut."

Eirik looked up at her, his purple eyes soft with gratitude and love. "I’ll get her ready. But I’m sure they’ll understand if she’s a little late. She is still a baby, after all."

Queen Elena folded her arms, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Eirik, you forget, this isn’t just a baby. This is the heir to Zephyros. Trust me, the world will wait."

Before Eirik could reply, another knock came at the door. This time, Kaelix stood to answer it. A guard entered, bowing deeply before speaking. "Your Majesty, the Valeidio royals have arrived."

Queen Elena clapped her hands lightly, her voice triumphant. "See? They’re already here. I told you time is of the essence."

Eirik and Kaelix exchanged a look before bursting into laughter, their joy infectious. Even Queen Elena’s stern expression softened into a smile as she joined in.

"Alright, alright," Eirik said through his chuckles, adjusting his daughter as she finally unlatched and blinked up at him sleepily. "We’ll be ready soon, Mother. Don’t worry."

Queen Elena gave a satisfied nod and motioned for the guard to leave before turning back to her son and his consort. "Don’t take too long," she said with a knowing smile, her voice gentler now. "The world is waiting for this family, and you deserve every bit of the love and honor that’s about to come your way."

Kaelix leaned down to kiss Eirik’s temple and then pressed a gentle kiss to his daughter’s forehead. "Let’s give them something to remember," he whispered with a grin.

Eirik nodded, his heart full, as he looked at his daughter once more, then back at Kaelix. Their family had endured so much, but this moment felt like the beginning of something new and beautiful.

And as the door closed behind Queen Elena, the love and warm in the room lingered, a testament to the strength and unity they had found together.

THE END

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Author’s Note

Dear Readers,

I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who has followed this story from the very beginning. Your support, encouragement, and love for these characters have meant the world to me. Whether you voted with Power Stones, gifted Golden Tickets, left thoughtful comments, or sent gifts to show your appreciation, you’ve made this journey unforgettable.

Your engagement has been my greatest motivation, and knowing that this story touched so many of you fills me with immense gratitude. Each vote, each kind word, and each gesture of support has made this story what it is today, and I couldn’t have done it without you.

As this Chapter closes, I am beyond excited to announce my upcoming books: "From Scorned to the Most Desired Omega." And "In love with my Sugar daddy’s Son."

This new stories promises to take you on another emotional and thrilling ride with themes of love, redemption, and resilience. I can’t wait to share it with you and see how you connect with the characters and their journey.

Once again, thank you for being here, for believing in my work, and for allowing me to share these worlds and stories with you. Your support inspires me to keep writing, and I can’t wait to embark on this new adventure together.

With love and endless gratitude,

Yours Appreciative,

[Linda Wilyuhm]