Chapter 99

Helena laid her hands on the old scriptures and slowly crossed herself after putting her hand on her forehead and chest.

Eckart and Marianne slowly crossed themselves after her.

"I would like to bless you under the protection of the nine gods."

When Helena was done, two priests who knelt beside the pillar closest to the altar stood up.

The two priests, who pulled down the hood of their white robes, supported the two so they could face each other.

"God Airius said, 'I will surely shed the first light in the sky on the royal lineage.'"

Helena declared the blessing of the first god. Airius's protection was the Frey family's lineage itself. As if to prove his blessing, Eckart's golden hair shone in the sun.

"Goddess Anthea said, 'I will make sure the king's wife will reap the evidence of the abundance on earth.'"

Helena declared the blessing of the second god. This time, the priest who supported Marianne politely offered the young green barley on the altar to her.