This is the whole story, son.
"Mother… you mean to say I'm destined to marry a human? "Yes, my son," the Queen answered softly. "But that's not the only reason I called for you. I need you to know your coronation is next month."
"But Mother, I'm only eighteen. Don't you think it's a bit early? "No, it's not early at all. You'll be crowned King of the Vampires at twenty. This is the first step toward that destiny. You must be crowned prince quickly."
"Okay, Mother…" he said, the weight of it settling on his shoulders.
There was a moment of silence before she asked, "When will you visit your mom?"
"I don't know… I went two days ago."
"Is she better now?" Veronica asked gently.
"Yeah, she woke up from her sleep, but…" he sighed, a trace of pain flashing across his face. "She still hasn't said a word. It hurts seeing her like that. It's all because of me."
"Don't say that, Damien. You're not at fault."
"You think so, Mother? "Yes, son."
"Okay, Mother, I'll leave you to rest. I have sword training to attend."
"Alright, son."
As he turned to leave, he paused, glancing over his shoulder. "Mother, where's your demon friend? "Oh, Mara? She moved to another continent, but she still visits from time to time. Why?"
"Just asking." He smiled faintly and walked out.
Meanwhile…
"Have the tables and chairs arrived?" James, the head butler, asked.
"Yes, Sir James," the maid in charge replied. "They've just been stored in the south wing. We're also changing the curtains today. I've given instructions already."
"Good. I'll check on the caterers. Her Majesty requested fresh flowers, so make sure the florist delivers tomorrow."
"You're doing a great job, James," Damien said casually, strolling in with an apple in hand.
"Your Highness," James bowed respectfully. "We must give our best—after all, it's your coronation tomorrow. Everything must be perfect. "I understand, James. Carry on, I'm just taking a walk around."
"Of course, Your Highness."
As Damien wandered through the bustling palace halls, a familiar presence tickled his senses."Just come out already," he said aloud. "Quit hiding in the shadows. You love it when the maids drool over you."
Dishon emerged behind him with a scowl. "Yeah, yeah, whatever you say. You have a big day tomorrow. You should rest."
"Who says I need rest?" Damien scoffed. "I'm not human. I don't need rest. Really? Rest?" He laughed, biting into the apple.
"Fine. Do what you want," Dishon muttered. "Just thought you deserved a break before your big day."How odd," Damien chuckled, then paused. "But maybe a short rest wouldn't kill. I'm heading to my chamber. Goodbye, Dishon. Be early tomorrow."
Coronation Day
The palace was buzzing. The maids were dressing Damien in ceremonial robes, but he seemed distracted. Dishon, in an elegant suit, was preparing as well—he was the prince's right hand and had to look the part.Suddenly, the maids all bowed.The Queen had entered the room, radiant in a flawless green gown that shimmered like forest light. She approached Damien gently."Is something wrong?" she asked, concern in her eyes.
"Oh—Mother," Damien blinked. "I didn't see you come in. No, nothing is wrong."The Queen motioned for the maids to leave. Even Dishon stepped back and exited the room.
"You're going to be a good King," she said, placing her hands on his shoulders.
He nodded, a quiet storm brewing in his chest.She adjusted his hair, then stepped back to examine him. "Perfect. I think you're ready."
The grand throne room glistened under thousands of crystal lights. Damien walked in, graceful and commanding. Dishon followed a few steps behind. Royals, generals, politicians, and high priest all filled the room—some with awe, others with secret motives behind practiced smiles.
The priest stepped forward.
"Today, we crown Damien… Prince of Persia, heir to the Persian Throne."He placed the silver crown atop Damien's head.A hush fell, then everyone knelt.Damien approached his mother, overwhelmed by the moment, and embraced her tightly. "Thank you…" he whispered.
The Queen cupped his face, eyes misty. "Don't thank me, my son. You deserve this and so much more."