Page 112 of Alien Prince

My life has become something straight out of a science fiction romance, and I wouldn’t change anything about it in all of the worlds.

Chapter Thirty

Kael

The grand hall is alive with light and sound, the towering crystalline pillars refracting the glow of Erythos’s twin moons. The entire kingdom has gathered here, their faces a sea of anticipation and celebration. The people’s cheers echo off the gilded walls and soaring ceilings. The air hums with anticipation and hope, the weight of this moment pressing down on me, but it’s a weight I bear willingly, especially with Emily by my side.

Emily stands beside me, regal and radiant in her Erythosian ceremonial attire. The fabric, a shimmering blend of blues and silvers, clings to her curves and flows like liquid starlight. The intricate Erythosian designs embroidered into her gown catch the light, shimmering like starlight, but it’s not just her beauty that captivates me. It’s her presence, her quiet strength, and the way she looks at me with unwavering confidence.

Her eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of pride and nerves, and I give her a small nod of reassurance.

The High Chancellor steps forward, holding the twin crowns aloft.

“Do you swear to serve the people of Erythos, to uphold its laws, and to protect its future with honor and strength?” the councilor asks, his voice echoing through the hall.

“I swear,” I say firmly, my voice steady.

He places my crown upon my head, the cool metal settling on my brow as the murmurs of the crowd fade to silence. “You are now King of Erythos,” he utters.

I lower my head. My father still breathes but perhaps for not much longer. His health is such that he could not even come to this ceremony, and while I am filled with great happiness, I am also saddened tremendously.

The High Chancellor turns to Emily, her crown gleaming. “Do you so swear?”

“I swear,” she says, the words soft but unwavering.

He nods and lowers her crown onto her head. “You are now Queen of Erythos,” he intones, his voice resonating through the hall.

The crowd erupts into cheers, their voices a tidal wave of approval. I reach for Emily’s hand, squeezing it gently as I feel the tension in her shoulders ease.

The hall erupts in applause, the cheers of our people filling the space like a wave.

I rise first, offering my hand to Emily. She takes it, her grip firm, and together, we turn to face the crowd. The sight of her standing beside me, her confidence shining as brightly as the jewels in her crown, fills me with a pride I can’t put into words. The people’s adoration fill g the room like sunlight. Hope feels tangible, a living, breathing thing that we hold in our hands.

This is our kingdom. Our reign. And our love will be its foundation.

Later, as the celebration winds down, I take Emily’s hand and lead her through the quieter halls of the palace. The weight of thecrown feels less oppressive now, but there’s still one task left to complete tonight.

Well, two, with the second being much more pleasurable.

“My father will want to see us,” I say softly, glancing at her.

She nods, her expression gentle but resolute. “Of course.”

We make our way to his chamber. The guards bow as we pass, their expressions solemn as they open the door for us.

Inside, my father lies in his massive bed, his silvered hair a stark contrast to the deep, rich tones of the room. His breathing is shallow, his once-vibrant eyes dim but still sharp enough to recognize us as we approach.

“Kael,” he says, his voice a rasp but still filled with warmth, “and Emily. My son and daughter.”

The words strike a chord deep within me, and I kneel by his bedside, taking his frail hand in mine. Emily follows suit, her touch light but steady as she rests her hand on his other arm.

“You’ve done well, my son,” he says, his gaze shifting between us. “Erythos is in good hands.”

“You’ve always been its heart, Father,” I reply, my voice tight with emotion.

“And now you must be,” he says, a faint smile gracing his lips. “The two of you.” His eyes linger on Emily, and his smile widens slightly. “You’ve chosen well, Kael. She’s stronger than I ever was.”

Emily’s cheeks flush, but she squeezes his arm gently. “Thank you, Your Majesty. That means more than you know.”

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