The kingdom of Aeloria was vast, and its streets were always bustling. Cobblestone roads wound through the market, where people hurried in every direction. The sun shone brightly over the city, making the grand palace at the center sparkle. Everywhere, there was movement: vendors calling out their wares, children laughing as they played, and nobles riding by on horseback with their cloaks fluttering in the wind.
The air smelled of fresh bread, roasting meat, and sweet fruits. Stalls lined the streets, offering colorful fabrics, shiny trinkets, and delicious food. Musicians played lively tunes, adding to the joyful atmosphere. The sounds of people talking, bargaining, and laughing filled the air, giving the city an energetic, almost magical vibe.
The Phantom Estate, nestled within the heart of Aeloria, was a place filled with warmth and joy. It wasn't just a house; it was a home—a lively, welcoming place where laughter echoed through the halls and music was a constant companion. Surrounding it were gardens bursting with colorful flowers, the perfect setting for the bustling family inside.
In the heart of the estate was the large dining room, the center of life for the Phantom family. The long wooden table was piled high with freshly baked bread, roasted meats, and bowls of bright, juicy fruit. The children—Roy (9), Elias (8), and Serene (6)—were inseparable. Roy, the eldest, had a quick wit and loved to tease. Elias, his younger brother, was calm and thoughtful, always thinking before he spoke. Serene, the youngest, was a whirlwind of energy, always coming up with new games or adventures. Her laugh, high-pitched and contagious, could brighten any room.
Today, however, their laughter was full of excitement. The family was about to welcome a new member, and the estate buzzed with energy and anticipation. For days, the three older children had been preparing the nursery—a small, cozy room at the back of the house, filled with soft blankets, toys, and the sweet scent of lavender. Each child had contributed something special: Roy had brought a sturdy wooden rocking horse, Serene had made soft handmade dolls, and Elias had added a small wooden chest filled with storybooks.
"I can't wait to meet our new brother or sister!" Roy said, pacing back and forth in the nursery, a grin plastered on his face. "I bet they'll be great at playing games."
Elias smiled, but his voice was calm. "I just hope they're healthy. That's all that matters."
Serene beamed. "And I hope they're not too serious! We need someone who knows how to have fun!"
As the family waited for news of Lady Elira's labor, the atmosphere in the sitting room was light but filled with an undercurrent of eager excitement. There was no fear, only joy. The servants and midwives moved about quietly but quickly, knowing how important this day was.
Lord Theron, watching his children with pride, turned to them. "Your mother and I are blessed to have each of you," he said softly. "And we will be doubly blessed with the new life that will soon join our family."
Lady Elira, resting in her room nearby, smiled to herself as she listened to the voices of her children. She knew they were thrilled, and she couldn't help but feel content in this moment, surrounded by her family.
At the Phantom Estate, love was the thread that held everything together—between the family, the servants, and the people of Aeloria. They were respected by the king and adored by the common folk, known for their kindness, generosity, and deep care for others.
The estate was alive with anticipation. The children sat in the nursery, eyes fixed on the clock, watching the hands tick by. The waiting was almost unbearable.
"I bet it's going to be a brother!" Roy declared, bouncing on his feet. "I'm always right about these things."
"No way," Elias disagreed, shaking his head. "It's going to be a girl. We need someone who can help us with the estate."
Serene pouted, crossing her arms. "You're both wrong. It's going to be someone who loves to have fun—like me!"
Roy and Elias exchanged a glance and smiled at their younger sister's excitement. In the Phantom family, there was always room for fun, and Serene's energy was like a spark that kept everyone on their toes.
Meanwhile, in the heart of the house, the servants and midwives were busy, but there was no panic—only an air of excitement. Laughter and light chatter filled the hallways as preparations for the baby continued.
Lord Theron stood in his study, his hands resting on the window ledge. His eyes softened as he gazed out over the estate, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Today is a good day," he whispered to himself, as though he could already sense the new life approaching.
Lady Elira, resting comfortably in her room, smiled softly as she listened to the sounds of her children's excitement from down the hall. She felt a peaceful calm, even as the baby prepared to enter the world.
"Well, looks like today's the day!" Lady Elira said, her voice warm and reassuring.
"Definitely!" the midwife replied. "The little one is eager to meet everyone."
Just then, a strange sensation filled the room—a gentle warmth, almost as if the baby were already laughing inside. Lady Elira smiled even wider and glanced at the midwife.
"It seems like this little one is already making us laugh," she mused, her heart full.
Out in the hall, Roy, Elias, and Serene eagerly awaited any news. Every few moments, they leaned in close, hoping for a glimpse of the family's joy.
"I'm telling you, this baby's going to cry the moment it's born," Roy said, still grinning from ear to ear.
Elias chuckled. "We'll see. Maybe it'll surprise us."
Serene bounced on her toes. "I hope it loves to play! It has to be as fun as me!"
The door to Lady Elira's room opened, and a servant peeked out, her face beaming.
"It's time," she said, her voice soft but filled with excitement. "Your brother or sister is coming!"
The children leapt to their feet, racing toward their mother's room. As they neared, they heard the unmistakable sound of a baby crying.
"I told you!" Roy shouted, laughing. "It's a brother!"
Elias smiled, his eyes twinkling. "We'll see."
When they entered the room, Lord Theron was already there, standing beside Lady Elira, looking down at the newborn in her arms. His eyes were soft with pride, and when he saw his children, his face lit up with love.
"Well, what do we have here?" Lord Theron asked, his voice thick with affection.
Lady Elira laughed softly. "A healthy little boy, thanks to you, my dear," she teased, nudging him playfully.
The baby, swaddled in soft cloth, was small and perfect, his tiny face scrunched up as he cried. His little hands waved in the air, and the children couldn't help but laugh at how fragile and adorable he looked.
Roy jumped up and down. "I knew it! A baby brother!"
Serene leaned in close, her eyes wide. "He looks like you, Roy!"
Elias smiled. "Not quite. But we'll see."
Lord Theron gently cupped the baby's tiny hand in his own. "He's perfect. Our family is complete now."
After a moment, Roy grinned widely. "Let's name him Galactic. It's a strong name for a strong brother."
Elias nodded thoughtfully. "Galactic sounds perfect."
Lady Elira chuckled. "I think it suits him."
Lord Theron placed a hand on Roy's shoulder, a proud smile on his face. "Galactic," he said, nodding in agreement. "A name fit for a member of our family."
And so, Galactic was born. The Phantom Estate, already a home filled with love, grew even brighter with the arrival of their newest member. The entire family gathered together, laughing and talking about the many adventures they would share. Galactic was already a part of their world, and they couldn't wait to welcome him into their lives.