Origins of a God: Khan Mayrtris - The Cosmic Birth

Chapter VI: Khan's Second Birthday

The early morning light filtered through the Realm of the Gods, casting a soft glow over Aetherion and Valoria's sanctuary. The family had spent the last few days preparing for Khan's second birthday, hoping to recreate the joy of New Giving's Day and remind Khan of the love and protection that surrounded him. But there was a subtle tension in the air—one that Aetherion couldn't shake.

Khan was growing quickly, both in body and in power. His energy pulsed with a strength beyond his years, something even the seasoned gods found awe-inspiring, if not a little concerning. The boy, who once clung to his mother's side, now explored the realm with endless curiosity, his small feet carrying him toward anything that caught his eye. But Aetherion knew that as Khan's power grew, so too would the eyes of the Court be upon him.

Valoria, sensing her husband's quiet worry, laid a hand on his shoulder as they watched Khan chase after a shimmering butterfly made of stardust in the garden. "Aetherion," she murmured softly, "it's his birthday. Let's try to focus on celebrating him, on showing him the joy of life and family."

Aetherion nodded, his gaze following his son. "I know, Valoria. But the more I watch him, the more I see his potential expanding. He's already more aware than any of us were at his age. And the Court... they won't let this go unnoticed."

Valoria's gaze hardened. "Then they'll have to contend with us. Today is for Khan. No one—no one—will interfere with this celebration."

Just then, a familiar laugh echoed down the garden path. Ebony, carrying a small, wrapped gift, appeared with a grin, his eyes sparkling as he called out, "Little Khan, I've got something special for you! Think you can catch me?"

Khan's face lit up with a delighted giggle as he started running after Ebony, his tiny feet quick and surprisingly steady for his age. Aurora joined in, her own laugh ringing out as she swooped down beside Khan. "Wait for me, Khan! I want to see what Ebony brought you too!"

The family gathered in the garden, everyone's attention on Khan, whose bright eyes took in the scene with a growing curiosity. Jinko knelt down beside him, holding out a small, silver bracelet woven with protective runes. "This is for you, Khan. It's more than just a gift—it's a reminder that you're never alone. We're here to protect you, always."

Khan reached out, his small fingers grasping the bracelet as he looked up at Jinko with a trusting smile. He babbled excitedly, his gaze shifting from the bracelet to his family, as if sensing the significance of the moment.

Ivory knelt down, placing her own gift—a small, enchanted stone that glowed with a gentle light—in his hand. "This will always show you the way home, Khan. No matter where you go, it'll guide you back to us."

Khan looked at the stone with wide eyes, his face lighting up as he watched the light pulse in time with his own energy. Aurora leaned closer, her voice soft. "You see, little brother? These gifts are more than presents. They're symbols of how much we love you."

The family gathered close, everyone watching as Khan admired each gift, a soft, peaceful smile on his face. But just as the moment settled, a faint hum filled the air, and Aetherion's expression shifted instantly.

The sky above them rippled, and a figure cloaked in a veil of shimmering light appeared. It was Lysander, a high-ranking member of the Celestial Court, and his presence cast a chill over the garden. His gaze moved directly to Khan, a hint of something unreadable in his eyes before he addressed Aetherion.

"Aetherion. Valoria. The Court sends its regards... and its concerns," Lysander said, his voice a blend of calm authority and an underlying tension.

Valoria's gaze hardened as she moved protectively closer to Khan. "Lysander, you arrive uninvited, on a day meant for family. State your business and leave."