The Crown's Fire - Chapter 299

Chapter 299: Asura’s Wedding
Today was a special day: the wedding of Katelina’s dear friend Asura to Master Kasper. Despite the troubling revelations they had uncovered from Floria, the ceremony proceeded as planned.

There was much to address in the days ahead, but Katelina and Ezekiel had resolved not to let those concerns overshadow the joy of this occasion. They would not postpone the event Asura and Kasper had eagerly prepared for.

Asura remained unaware of the gravity of the situation, but last night, Ezekiel had already mobilized his forces, informed her in-laws, and alerted his trusted officials… Atlas, Elijah, Cora, and Kasper himself.

The ceremony was held in the serene gardens of the Palace of Zion, a perfect backdrop of blooming flowers and gentle sunlight filtering through the trees. It was an intimate gathering, with only Katelina, Levi, Ezekiel, and Luis present, alongside the trusted officials and the few remaining relatives Asura had left.

Dressed in a flowing gown of soft lavender, Asura radiated a quiet joy as she walked down the aisle. Kasper, standing tall and calm in ceremonial robes, watched her with an unmistakable warmth in his eyes.

Ezekiel officiated the wedding with heartfelt words, weaving their vows with blessings for love, unity, and resilience.

When Ezekiel asked them to exchange their vows, Asura’s voice was steady yet full of emotion. “You’ve shown me what it means to find peace, Kasper. Your wisdom, patience, and unwavering kindness have grounded me in ways I didn’t know I needed. I vow to stand by you, through every storm and every calm, as your partner and your equal.”

Kasper’s voice, deep and measured, carried the weight of sincerity. “You’ve brought light into my life, Asura, a light I never thought I deserved. I vow to protect and cherish you, to be your anchor and your companion, no matter what the future holds.”

Katelina couldn’t help but smile as she watched Asura and Kasper exchange rings, their hands trembling slightly but their eyes locked with unwavering devotion.

After the ceremony, the guests shared a modest feast in the gardens, a spread of Asura’s favorite dishes prepared with care. Laughter and stories filled the air as the couple mingled with their loved ones, the weight of the world momentarily lifted from their shoulders.

Under the golden light of the setting sun, Asura and Kasper shared their first dance as husband and wife. In the middle of the dance, Asura suddenly stepped away from Kasper, her expression tight with discomfort. Without a word, she darted to a corner, doubling over and retching.

“Asura? What’s wrong?” Kasper’s voice was filled with alarm as he followed her, his hand resting gently on her back. Levi quickly approached, handing her a glass of water.

“I don’t know…” Asura muttered, taking small sips of the water. “I smelled something strange, and my stomach just flipped.”

Katelina, who had been nearby, stepped forward. Her healer instincts kicked in as she gently took Asura’s wrist, checking her pulse. Closing her eyes, she channeled a small surge of mana to assess Asura’s energy and discovered something extraordinary. Her lips curved into a radiant smile.

“What is it?” Kasper’s worry deepened, his gaze shifting anxiously between the two women.

Katelina’s eyes sparkled as she replied, “Congratulations, Kasper. She’s with child.”

For a moment, Kasper froze, his eyes wide with disbelief. Then, a joyous shout erupted from him, “I’m going to be a father! Yes! A father!” Overcome with happiness, he lifted Asura into his arms, spinning her around while she laughed despite her lingering nausea.

Cheers and applause erupted from the guests. Musicians, sensing the joyous atmosphere, struck up a lively tune, and soon everyone was dancing along with the elated couple.

But amidst the celebration, Katelina felt Levi’s small hand tighten around hers. She turned to see her little brother’s eyes glistening with unshed tears.

“Sis, I’m worried for Sister Asura,” Levi murmured, his voice trembling as he tried to keep his emotions in check.

Katelina knelt slightly to meet his gaze, her own expression soft and reassuring. She understood his fear… it stemmed from the vision he had shared, one of Asura drenched in blood.

Squeezing his hand gently, she said, “Levi, remember the rest of your vision. You saw her with a big, healthy bump, didn’t you? That means whatever danger lies ahead, she’ll overcome it. And you’ll be there to protect her, right?”

Levi’s eyes cleared with determination as he nodded firmly. “I’ll protect her with everything I have. I won’t let anything happen to her!”

Katelina smiled at Levi’s determination, pulling him into a quick embrace. Before she could say more, Ezekiel’s steady voice broke the moment. “We should leave soon,” he reminded her, glancing toward the festivities.

Katelina nodded, understanding the urgency. “I’ll have a quick word with Luis first, and then speak to Asura afterward,” she said, her tone resolute yet warm. Ezekiel gave her an approving nod, stepping aside to let her handle what she needed to.

Levi, however, stood his ground. “Sister, I’ll stay here with Sister Asura. I’ll be her personal guard from now on. Wherever she goes, I’ll be with her.”

Ezekiel chuckled at the boy’s fierce determination. He reached out to ruffle Levi’s hair playfully, earning a small, indignant pout from his younger brother.

“That’s admirable, Levi,” he said, his tone light yet firm. “But remember, you need to give her space, especially when she’s with Master Kasper. He knows about your vision, and trust me, he’ll do everything in his power to keep his wife safe and sound.”

Levi hesitated for a moment, then nodded, his youthful face filled with earnestness. “I understand,” he said softly, though his resolve remained unshaken.

Katelina touched Levi’s shoulder gently. “You’ll be a great guardian for her, Levi,” she said, her voice full of pride. “But listen to your brother-in-law. You and Kasper will both protect her in your own ways.”

Levi nodded, but then his eyes suddenly turned milky white, an unmistakable sign that a vision was overtaking him.

“Kate,” Ezekiel murmured, his voice edged with concern, but Katelina quickly hushed him, holding up a hand to signal for silence. She knelt down beside her brother, placing her hands gently over his trembling ones.