The destruction left behind by the battle with the God-Hunter took months to fully repair, yet the emotional impact lasted far longer. Across continents, people whispered Arin's name with reverence that bordered on worship. Temples were built in his honor, poets composed epics about his stand against Heaven, and children grew up dreaming of becoming like the Sovereign Emperor who had protected the world with his own life.
But inside Frostwind Palace, life was surprisingly ordinary.
Arin woke up early every morning, helped Auren practice his cultivation forms, scolded Ardyn when he accidentally burned furniture, and spent long afternoons beside Elara, listening to her complain about his overly strict protection measures. For the first time since his rise to power, he felt something close to peace.
Elara's pregnancy progressed smoothly under layers of divine protection. Her complexion glowed with health, and her temperament became gentler, though her occasional cravings still kept Arin running across realms in the middle of the night. Despite his status, he never complained. On the contrary, he seemed to enjoy every moment.
One afternoon, as soft rain fell over the palace gardens, Arin sat beside Elara beneath a jade pavilion. He peeled spirit fruits for her while she leaned comfortably against his shoulder.
"You know," she said softly, "the entire world fears you now."
He chuckled. "And you still order me to fetch snacks."
"That's because you're still my husband," she replied smugly.
He laughed and kissed her forehead.
Lyra's Place in the Family
During this peaceful period, Lyra gradually became an inseparable part of the inner palace. She helped Mira rebuild the fate-monitoring arrays, assisted in teaching Auren basic destiny sensing, and often stayed up late researching threats from higher realms.
Yet more importantly, she grew closer to Arin.
Not in a dramatic way.
Not with open declarations.
But through quiet companionship.
Late-night conversations.
Shared worries.
Mutual trust.
One evening, as they studied star charts together, Lyra suddenly said, "You know… in my clan, choosing someone to share fate with is more serious than marriage."
Arin paused. "And?"
She smiled faintly. "I think I've already chosen."
He met her eyes.
For a moment, neither spoke.
Then he nodded slowly. "I won't waste that trust."
From a distance, Elara watched them.
Instead of anger, she smiled knowingly.
Empire Expands
With Heaven weakened, countless minor worlds and realms sought Frostwind's protection. Alliances were formed, academies were established, and cultivation resources flooded in. Arin ordered the creation of the Sovereign Academy, a place where talented youths from all races could train together.
He wanted a generation that didn't grow up under fear.
Foreshadow of Birth
One night, Elara suddenly woke Arin with a gasp.
"The baby… is moving strangely."
He instantly activated every detection technique he knew.
Inside her womb, white light swirled gently, forming complex runes.
Lyra arrived and examined them.
Then she smiled.
"This isn't danger," she said softly.
"It's awakening."
[SYSTEM ALERT]
Third Heir: Advanced Development
Estimated Birth: 3 Months
Arin placed his hand on Elara's stomach.
He felt a warm response.
Like a tiny heartbeat greeting him.
His expression softened.
"…I can't wait."
Distant Realm — Unknown
Far beyond Heaven, in a realm layered above reality, an ancient eye opened.
"So… a mortal refused godhood…"
"Interesting."
"A variable worth observing."
The new era had begun.
But destiny had not finished writing its story.