Chapter 7 – The Gathering of House Celestrius
After a much-needed hot bath, the stench of expelled toxins finally washed away, Chris felt like a human being again. Dressed in a crisp, formal tunic embroidered with silver threads—the crest of House Celestrius resting over his heart—he made his way through the grand marble corridors of the Duke's estate.
His steps were slow but purposeful, his body still adjusting. Yet with every stride, he felt stronger, more grounded. As if the weight of his former life had merged with his new one.
The doors to the grand dining hall stood tall and imposing, carved from enchanted mahogany and etched with runes that shimmered faintly in the candlelight. Two armored guards pushed them open at his approach.
Inside, laughter and light conversation filled the air, fading into a hush the moment he stepped in.
Chris von Celestrius, the once-crippled heir, now stood tall at the threshold.
"Chris, my son," came the warm voice of Duke Reinhardt von Celestrius, rising from his ornate high-back chair at the head of the table. "You're finally awake. Come—join us."
The Duchess, seated beside the Duke, smiled gracefully. Her golden hair was tied elegantly, and her striking blue eyes gleamed with both relief and curiosity. Beside her sat two other beautiful women—each commanding attention in her own right.
In the Empire of Magic, it was common for high-ranking nobles to take multiple wives. While only the first could bear the title of Duchess, the others served as recognized concubines, still noble in status, but a step lower in political standing.
Chris bowed respectfully."Father. Mother. Ladies of the house. Forgive my late arrival."
"You're excused," said the Duchess with a nod. "You've only just returned to us. Your health matters most."
The second wife, a woman with striking ocean-blue hair and sharp features, gave a soft, measured smile. The third, younger than the others, with fiery red hair and a gentle gaze, nodded quietly in greeting.
Then came the siblings.
"Big Brother Chris!" a cheerful voice rang out as a blur of golden hair leapt from her seat and rushed to his side.
It was Alicia von Celestrius, his full-blooded younger sister, around ten years old, named in honor of the Goddess herself. Her smile was so bright it could melt the frost off a mountain peak.
"You're awake! You're really, really awake!" she squealed, wrapping her arms around him.
Chris chuckled, patting her head gently. "Yes, Alicia. I'm back."
A boy with blue hair, about thirteen, remained seated near the second wife. He had a reserved expression, eyes scanning Chris with an almost calculating gaze.
"This is Elias," the Duke said, noticing. "Your younger half-brother. Son of Lady Mireille."
Elias gave a polite nod. "It's good to see you well, Brother."
Chris returned the gesture. "Likewise, Elias."
Near the third wife sat the youngest of the children—a girl, no more than eight, with vivid red hair like her mother. She peeked at Chris shyly, clutching the edge of her chair.
"And that is Lyria," the Duke continued, his voice softening. "She's still a bit shy."
Chris smiled gently at her. "It's alright, Lyria. I'm happy to meet you too."
She gave a small, timid nod before hiding behind her mother again.
Once seated at the long, gem-inlaid table, dinner commenced. Lavish platters of roast beast, glazed fruits, aromatic stews, and golden bread were served. The flavors were exquisite—but Chris found himself more focused on the dynamics at play.
The Duchess and concubines exchanged pleasant but guarded smiles.
The siblings—each unique in their personality—watched him with different eyes: Alicia's pure affection, Elias's subtle curiosity, Lyria's innocent shyness.
And Duke Reinhardt… he observed everything, as all true heads of noble houses did. But in his eyes, there was something else—hope.
They've all seen me broken before, Chris thought as he raised a silver goblet. Now, they'll see what I can become.
The age of weakness was over.
The heir of House Celestrius had returned.