Chapter 32: A King's Resolution

The silence was thick after the echo of conflict faded away. People-thousands of them-just stared at Umbra in amazement. Minutes ago, they had witnessed his past flashing before their eyes: the wars he fought, the sacrifices he had made, and the pain he had carried for all of them. The memories seared into their minds, revealing what the One True King truly was.

Tears had streamed down their faces now, for there was no denial left. Umbra was not a man of mammoth power but one who had been playing the role of their protector, carrying crosses on his back in case nobody else wanted to. Slowly, one after another, the people fell on their knees before him. This was no gesture of fear but one of respect, reverence, and above all, acceptance.