At those words, a figure in red and gold robes stepped forward from where the clergy stood gathered.
High Priestess Isode.
Her robes, which were usually a pure white trimmed with gold—the colors of divine wisdom—were today woven in crimson and gold as she carried a ceremonial black obsidian blade in her hands while walking forward.
The hall, already silent, somehow grew even more solemn.
Stopping before the raised dais where the Emperor sat, Isode turned slightly to address the entire court.
"As per tradition," she began, her voice clear and steady, "I will ask the gods to cast their gaze upon this day and bless the newborn prince, that his path may be guided by divine will, that his spirit may remain unshaken, and that his destiny may be fulfilled."
She then turned towards the Emperor directly.
Isode held the blade by its golden handle and used it to slightly cut her right palm, causing her blood to seep to the surface, but she kept a composed expression through it.
