The Romantic Trials Of A Transmigrated Empress

Chapter 398: The unexpected crowning.

The sun rose over Eldoria with a gentle warmth that nurtured the earth. Its golden rays cast a bright light over the decorated courtyard where banners fluttered in the wind.

Soft melodies floated in the wind, mixed with voices of guests that had arrived at the royal castle as early as when the cocks started to crow. It was Crown Prince Roland Maximus’s birthday, and invited guests had gathered at the royal castle to celebrate.

The rest of the empire was celebrating too, in every city, town or village, everyone knew what a great day it was. Most of Roland’s birthdays had been mundane, rarely celebrated with such pomp but this one was different.

For one, his wife, the Crown Princess had invested a lot in it. This was because it was the first birthday Roland was celebrating in the royal castle, with his friends and family.

Two, King Raff had requested that the celebrations start early. He wanted to be alert and energetic to show his presence. Noon usually found him slumbering.

That is why before any event started, King Raff asked to give a speech--a very important speech which he insisted be televised. He now stood behind the red velvet-draped podium. He was dressed in his official uniform, and a black and gold cloak that was heavy with embroidered history.

Those that knew him well could see that signs of weight loss. The once snug uniform was now loose. His face was thinner, his eyes were tired. His hands had a tremor that ticked every once in a while.

His legs were shaking, but he was trying to appear strong so he was determined to stand. But, before his speech could begin, he started to buckle. Elarin encouraged him to sit down and he did. Royal knights adjusted the podium, bringing it to his height.

The crowd was jubilant, happy to see their King on his feet once again. They were unaware of his health issues or the urgency in the eyes of hi advisors. Nobles cheered, children waved miniature flags, trumpets were sounded. Only a few people were aware that this was not just any other birthday party, not just a simple celebration of the king’s return to the land of the living.

It was a farewell.

crowd was urged

all again. So many familiar faces that I once thought I would never see. Today, we come together to celebrate the birthday of my eldest son, Roland Maximus. But

eyes, gasps rippled through the crowd. Roland’s fingers gripped Sigrid’s.

Raff continued, "For thirty one years, I have watched my son grow--not just in stature but wisdom, strength and compassion, the true marks of a great ruler. He

ruled Eldoria for forty two years and in that time I have witnessed a lot. I have seen war, peace, famine, birth and death. It

successor and I am blessed that I will be alive to watch him do great things and lead us to greater heights. It is

the tress seemed to be

glorious return to the throne. I assure you that I do not do this lightly." His eyes moistened. "The injuries I sustained have left me weaker than I used to be. My illness is not healed and I cannot be the strong man you all knew once. But Eldoria cannot be without

highness." Someone shouted from the

from the day I took this throne until now.

Hasn’t my son proven to you

stood up and stepped forward.

were his parting words. He wanted the people to remember him as a wise ruler who put

loved me and you will follow him as you followed me." King Raff said to the crowd. "Let it be known: as

The crowd followed, inside the castle and outside. In taverns, house, hospitals, schools, wherever