The Shifted Throne (Overlord)

Chapter 5: A Morning Among Royals

The faint clinking of boots and Bell's soft, measured steps filled the air as Edmund followed her down the long corridors of the palace. Though his heart beat heavily in his chest, his face remained neutral, guided by the instincts of the body he now inhabited. As they walked, he reviewed everything he'd learned about his new family, silently reciting their names as if he were preparing for an exam.

His mother, Seraphina Sylvius Veyland, had a name that resonated with elegance and authority. A noblewoman through and through, she carried herself with a poise that could command both respect and admiration. She was the backbone of the family after the king's passing, and Edmund suspected her role in the kingdom's survival was far greater than what he could glean from the diary.

His eldest sister, Elowen Sylvius Veyland, was 22 years old, a woman of grace and charm who seemed to hold the family together with her composed demeanor. Solde Sylvius Veyland, the second sister, carried a quiet strength. She was 19, and her name and demeanor hinted at a personality that likely leaned toward duty and leadership. Lastly, his youngest sister, Serena Sylvius Veyland, was the family's light. At only 14 years old, she was pampered and protected by the household staff, her youth symbolizing hope in these turbulent times.

And then there was his deceased family. Alistair Sylvius Veyland, his father, had been a king of wisdom and strength. His brothers—Darius, Leander, and Theodric—each bore names that spoke of valor, leadership, and wisdom, but their loss weighed heavily on the kingdom, leaving Edmund to shoulder their legacies.

Edmund's thoughts were interrupted as they reached a large, intricately carved double door. The guards posted on either side saluted and opened it, revealing a grand dining hall. The room was exactly as he imagined—a lavish medieval design adorned with banners, golden candelabras, and a long, finely crafted wooden table.

Seated at the table were his mother and sisters. His mother's regal posture and flowing gown of deep blue silk immediately caught his attention, while the sisters varied in their expressions—Elowen's calm smile, Solde's quiet scrutiny, and Serena's bright, carefree grin.

Taking a deep breath, Edmund decided to let the body's muscle memory guide him. Walking forward confidently, he bent slightly to kiss his mother on the cheek, then did the same with each of his sisters. It was a strangely automatic action, and as he took his seat, he internally thanked the body's instincts for saving him from any awkward missteps.

"So, little brother," Elowen began, her voice warm but teasing, "are you ready for your coronation this evening?"

"Aye, though I'm a little nervous," Edmund admitted, letting the body's instincts handle the tone and mannerisms.

"Don't worry, it's natural to feel nervous," his mother, Seraphina, said with a soft, reassuring smile. "We'll be with you every step of the way."

The family continued to chat as breakfast was served. Edmund carefully played along, his responses measured and guided by both the muscle memory and the diary's insights. His sisters teased him lightly, and his mother offered advice about the ceremony.

As the meal went on, Edmund couldn't help but feel a growing sense of responsibility. These people weren't just characters in a story—this was his family now, and the weight of their expectations pressed heavily on his shoulders. Whatever life awaited him in this dangerous, fantasy-like world, one thing was certain: he would have to live not only for himself but for the Sylvius Veyland name.

And tonight, the crown would cement his place in this world.

End of chap.