A World Between Realms

The Selected

In the tranquil aftermath of the ritual, an extraordinary display unfolded: six candidates began to glow, each surrounded by an ethereal light that pulsed with a distinct color. Above each of their heads appeared a unique symbol, each intimately linked to their roles and the secrets they harbored, marking them as divinely chosen.

Ealdred, heir to the House of Gardwyn, radiated a nurturing green light, with a symbol of a stag surrounded by a wreath of leaves hovering above him. This emblem represented his dedication to the welfare and well-being of the kingdom. Upon witnessing this divine affirmation, Lord Eldric and Lady Elowen exchanged looks of profound pride and quiet joy. Their expressions reflected a deep sense of validation, as the gods themselves had chosen Ealdred, publicly affirming his readiness and suitability to uphold the legacy of compassion and governance long associated with their lineage.

Georgina, heir to the House of Khan, shone in a vivid red light, with the symbol of a soaring falcon above her, illustrating her role in steering the kingdom's marketing and public relations strategies to enhance Navaria's economic interactions and outreach. Lord George and Lady Gina Khan, watching from a prominent position among the spectators, displayed visible pride as the red light bathed their daughter. Their faces lit up with smiles, and they nodded in approval, acknowledging not only Georgina's personal achievements but also the divine endorsement of her crucial role in the kingdom. This public recognition by the gods bolstered their confidence in her future leadership and the continued prosperity of their house.

Matthew, heir to the House of Medici, glowed in a rich silver hue, with an eagle clutching a scroll floating above him, symbolizing his house's focus on managing and safeguarding the kingdom's financial affairs. Lord Alfred Medici, observing the spectacle, felt a surge of paternal pride and professional satisfaction. His usually composed demeanor softened into a broad smile as he watched the silver light confirm Matthew's aptitude and divine selection for financial stewardship. This visual endorsement from the gods was not only a personal triumph for Matthew but also a public affirmation of the Medici family's vital role in maintaining the economic stability of the kingdom.

Celeste, whose presence always seemed to echo the essence of nature itself, emitted a soft yellow glow with a delicate owl floating above her. This symbol emphasized her nurturing role and vital connection to the life and growth of nature, positioning her as an essential figure, yet distinct from the conventional paths to power. As the gentle yellow light enveloped Celeste, a murmur spread through the crowd. Spectators exchanged speculative glances and whispered to one another, questioning, "Is she the king's bastard daughter? Maybe she is the one prophesied, a descendant of the Light King destined for the throne." The air was thick with curiosity and intrigue, as her appearance and the symbol above her seemed to connect her to deeper, perhaps royal, roots.

Argus, Lord of the House of Romazov, was enveloped in a deep royal blue light, with a symbol of a wolf crossed with a spear floating above him. This emblem underscored his critical role in military and defense strategies. Watching from the crowd, the retired Lord of House Romazov, Arthur, observed Argus with a mix of pride and contemplation. As the royal blue light bathed Argus, Arthur's face showed traces of approval and a deep understanding of the strategic importance of Argus's position. He recognized the challenges and pressures that came with overseeing the kingdom's defense, reflecting on his own time in the role with a sense of nostalgia and responsibility. Arthur's reaction was composed, acknowledging the significant responsibilities that lay ahead for Argus with a subtle nod of support.

Sophie, a realm crosser from Earth, was bathed in a vibrant purple light, with a phoenix floating above her. This ancient Navarian symbol, deeply ingrained in the kingdom's legends, marked her as a significant figure whose destiny was intertwined with the kingdom's future. Master Gatekeeper Magnus watched with a knowing, slightly amused smile as the symbol appeared. His expression, tinged with a hint of mischief, suggested he had anticipated some form of notable revelation, yet he enjoyed the astonishment it caused among the other observers. Around him, the reaction from elders and heads of the houses was a mix of shock and awe. While the general populace was unaware of the full significance of the phoenix symbol, the retired arcane masters, archivists, and other knowledgeable elders understood its profound implications. This caused a ripple of confusion and excitement among these seasoned leaders; they knew the weight of what the symbol represented and were now grappling with the unexpected reality of Sophie's marked role. The king, upon seeing the phoenix, displayed a complex reaction that blended surprise with a deeper, more reflective acknowledgment of the symbol's historical and cultural importance. This visual affirmation of Sophie's significant place within the kingdom brought about serious contemplation among the leadership about what her emergence meant for the future of Navaria.

As each candidate stood illuminated by these divine lights, the crowd watched in awe, understanding that these were not just symbols of office but profound indicators of their deeper connections and potential destinies within Navaria's celestial-guided narrative. The revelation of their roles, both known and secret, marked a significant moment, weaving them into the fabric of Navaria's storied prophecy and its unfolding future.