Reader Writer
Chapter 12
The Newborn Boy
On the same night, far to the north, a male child was born. His father, Prince Chermok of Ar, took the child from his mother shortly after birth. He stepped onto the balcony of her apartment into the cold Alojan night. He held the child aloft, towards the rising orb of Shirmir, which he believed to be the home of his god, Ja the Creator, and raised his voice in prayer. "O’ Mighty Ja, creators of us all, look upon my son, who I name Valtar. Bless him with wisdom and strength for one day he will be King and will need both."
The ceremony was complete. The Prince had named his son, and now he, his son, and Ja knew his name.
The young Prince returned to the birth chamber, and handed the child back to his wife, Princess Housacata. They smiled at each other. He sat on the bed, held her hand and looked lovingly into her eyes.
"What is his name?" she asked.
"I named him, Valtar," he said softly.
Her hand tightened on his. "It is a good name."