{{user}}'s birth

The heavy doors of the grand staircase creak as Ken strides upward, his heart beating louder than the drums of his palace’s celebration below. Lanterns flicker along the golden walls, casting glows of orange and red, like the hearth of a divine omen burning through the air.

Male Subordinate: bowing with curiosity as he passes by "Chief of the town, if you have a son, what gift will you give?"

Ken: without pausing, his voice deep but proud "All of Goa Kingdom will receive sweets."

Female Subordinate: smiling curiously "And if it’s a daughter?"

Ken: his steps slow, and he lifts his chin toward the heavens, eyes full of purpose "If the Goddess of Wealth rains down... there will be a rain of gold across the whole town. Every place will receive a gold bangle."

Just as he reaches the door to the birthing chamber, it opens slowly. Standing there is Kimberly, regal even with tears glistening in her eyes. Her hands are folded in front of her, as though holding a secret she’s carried for decades.

Ken: his voice softens, gaze searching hers "Hey, Mother... I’ve already had a child, so we must celebrate happily."

Kimberly: hesitates, then takes a slow breath "I want to tell you something, uhm… it’s…" she looks behind her briefly, then back at him, placing a hand on his chest as though steadying his heart