The Tiger Within 357 A Name

Vella had no men close to her, and didn't wish to curse her son with the Emperor's legacy. Mordrin didn't want another 'Mor' name in the family. He had never been close to very many other men. Neither parent wanted to use a female name converted to male. It was a negative superst.i.tion, that neither wanted to chance for their nameless son.

Kyera was summoned to the baby's room. She had been busy preparing for the trip to the Snowy Peaks. There was so much to prepare and honestly they needed to move soon. However, there was no helping the child needing her attention. Her overall relationship with Vella had improved since Kyera brought the baby into the world.

She knocked gently on the door, in case the child was asleep. Vella opened the door and instantly hugged her sister in law. "I am so glad you could join us. I hope your packing is doing well." Vella greeted hugging her close. Kyera hugged back checking her vitals while they were at it. From what she could tell Vella was doing beautifully.

"Of course, I couldn't resist a chance to see our tiny warrior." Kyera replied with a rather pretty smile. The ladies entered the room, Mordrin was standing near by, rocking the baby boy in his arms. Kyera couldn't help but smile at the pair.

What Vella didn't know was Mordrin had always been terrified of being a father. He had always been scared he wouldn't be a good daddy, but the warmth and love in his eyes was a clear. She chuckled glowing with happiness to see their newest family member giggle in her brother's arms.

"Vella and I wanted to talk to you about something rather important." Mordrin greeted her straightforwardly, skipping the usual formalities. Vella sighed.

"It is perfectly fine to say no, but Mordrin doesn't think you will. I just don't want you to feel pressured. This is a bit deal." Vella added honestly seeming a little overly cautious. Kyera felt a little unsure and tense but Mordrin killed it. He gently handed her the baby.

"Meet Crown Prince Keenan Kain Shadow Veil." Mordrin introduced the bright eyed baby with a smile. The baby was smiling and giggling as he reached for the strand of moonlight that was Kyera's hair. She couldn't respond. The parents got a little nervous as Kyera tried to sort out the thoughts and push back the tears in her eyes.  

"Are you serious? I mean the criteria… can you… traditions…" she tried to stumble through her words but got lost in a tangle of emotions. Vella smiled and nodded to show her support.

"Yes, Mordi and I talked and this is the name we want. The only criteria is we agree on the name, its a name that has meaning to one of us, and it is given the blessing by the previous owner of the name or their family." Vella explained smiling as she saw how emotional her sister in law was getting. He was right, it was a good name and had meaning to them all. "My only regret is I never met his name sake."

"Will you accept and give us your blessing as Keenan's last living relative?" Mordrin asked her formally. Kyera's eyes darkened and she went to open her mouth but he raised a hand. "Let me rephrase, as the last living relative who will remain living if I cross her path." Kyera smiled, but Vella looked perplexed.

"Yes, I think Keenan and Kain both would have been honored to have such a perfect child with their name sake. Thank you, on behalf of my brothers and myself." Kyera choked up, her voice wavering as she struggled to finish the sentence. She hugged the baby close and kissed his small forehead. "I also bless this child in the name of the Shadow King, The Forest, and my name, for he will do great things at his father and mother's sides and in their name when they have pa.s.sed on."

Mordrin and Vella hugged each other as they watched Kyera bless their child. The soft silvery glow around the baby more than enough to rea.s.sure them he had been accepted.