erved the crown, their faces lined with the wisdom of years in the court. But today, the room buzzed with tension, for the king's decision was being questioned-one that would alter

urrowing. "The court is divided, Father. The advisors think I'm unfit. They don't believe I can rule." "I know." Aldric sighed, his gaze drifting toward the flickering flames of the hearth. "But they are wrong, my daughter. I have watched you grow, and I have seen the fire within you. You are my heir. And that is a truth I cannot deny." Seraphina's lips parted, but she said nothing. She had always known there was something different about her. Her mother had kept her hidden from the world, but she had known since childhood that she would someday take the throne. She had never imagined it would come so soon. The king looked at her again, his eyes filled with a strange emotion. "There is something I must tell you, something that has been passed down through the royal bloodline. It is an old story, a prophecy." Seraphina tilted her head. "A prophecy?" "Of course," Aldric murmured. "You have heard of the promised prince-the child born with the blood of vampires, werewolves, and humans, the one who will unite the kingdom and end the power struggles." Seraphina felt a shiver run through her. She had heard whispers of such a tale, but she had always thought it was just that-an old legend. "My darling, I have come to realize," Aldric continued, his voice growing softer, "that you are that promised prince. The child who will unite the kingdom. You, Seraphina, are the one destined to end the bloodshed." Seraphina blinked, processing his words. "But I'm a girl, Father." Aldric smiled, his eyes filled with love. "The prophecy never specified a prince. It spoke of the heir, the one who would end the bloodshed. And I know in my heart, it is you." Seraphina felt her chest tighten as her father's words settled within her. She wasn't sure whether she was honored or overwhelmed. A heavy weight had just been placed upon her shoulders, and she wasn't sure if she was ready to bear it. "Do not be afraid," Aldric whispered, placing a hand on her shoulder. "You are my daughter, and you will rule this kingdom with strength and wisdom. Just as the prophecy foretold." Seraphina nodded, unsure of what to say. She felt the magnitude of the moment, the gravity of her father's words, and for the first time, she truly understood the responsibility that awaited her. "Now," Aldric said, his voice warm once more. "Let us speak no more of it tonight. Get some rest. We will make the public announcement soon, but tonight, you are my daughter. Sleep well, Seraphina." As she kissed him goodnight and left the room, Seraphina couldn't