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The morning sun bathed Salastian Palace in gold, spilling across the high towers and the sprawling gardens below. Birds sang in the cherry trees, a melody as delicate as the whispers that rippled through the halls.

A new life had arrived. The kingdom rejoiced at the birth of Aurelia De Claire-Von Salastian, daughter of Empress Elisana Laurel De Claire and Emperor Marcus Alastair Von Salastian. From the moment she opened her eyes, the court saw a spark — a brilliance that promised not just beauty, but intelligence, courage, and magic.

Even the servants whispered, awed. “The child of two suns,” one murmured. “She will shine brighter than the stars.”

Elisana cradled her daughter, her heart swelling with love and hope. “You are the future, Aurelia,” she whispered, pressing a gentle kiss to the infant’s forehead. “But remember… the weight of legacy can be as heavy as any crown.”

Marcus stood beside her, watching with pride and quiet awe. “We will guide her, Eli,” he said softly. “But she will also teach us — teach the kingdom — what it truly means to lead.”

Yet even as joy filled the palace, shadows stirred. Across the borders, whispers of unrest and envy began to creep into the ears of those who coveted power. Not all were content to see the child of Salastian’s greatest rulers thrive unchallenged.

The kingdom celebrated, unaware that the birth of the heir would mark the beginning of both hope and danger. Aurelia’s life, though gilded with privilege, would be tested in ways that would define not only her, but the future of Salastian itself.