The Kingmaker System

The weather had cleared completely, as if the heavens themselves rejoiced in the newfound peace. The sky stretched above in an endless canvas of blue, unmarred by the storm that had loomed so ominously before. Sunlight streamed down in golden ribbons, casting a warm glow over the city below. The air smelled of freshly cut flowers and spiced treats, blending with the excited murmurs of the gathered crowd.

The market and the town center had transformed overnight. Banners of royal colors fluttered in the breeze, draped across stalls that overflowed with goods—fruit vendors boasting their ripest picks, merchants displaying embroidered fabrics shimmering under the sunlight, and bakers handing out fresh pastries to eager children. It almost seemed like a grand festival rather than a royal procession.

Excitement crackled in the air as the distant sound of drums and trumpets echoed through the streets, signaling the arrival of the royal chariots. The people, already pressed tightly together, leaned forward in anticipation. I stood among them, blending into the crowd, though my height made it easy to see past the heads of those in front of me.

The first chariot rolled in, gleaming under the sunlight, drawn by powerful white stallions adorned with golden tassels. Upon it stood King Augustine and Crown Prince Arian, both regal in their bearing. Augustine waved at his people with a composed smile, while Arian, though slightly less accustomed to public adoration, held himself with the dignity expected of a future king. The crowd erupted into cheers, showering them with fresh petals that rained down like a blessing.

Following closely behind was the second chariot, carrying the three Sestian Princes. Eric and Rune, both clad in their finest royal attire, returned the people’s enthusiasm with warm smiles and waves. They seemed at ease, basking in the acceptance of a kingdom that had once been their enemy. Davian, however, was a stark contrast. His sharp gaze swept over the crowd, unreadable, his posture rigid. He neither waved nor smiled—simply watched.

I frowned slightly, murmuring under my breath, "Just what happened to the sweet boy?"

As if hearing me despite the roaring crowd, Davian’s eyes suddenly locked onto mine. Even amidst the sea of people, he had found me. A slow, knowing smile stretched across his lips before he finally raised a hand and waved.

I let out a small sigh but raised my hand in return. This guy... even through all this chaos, he still manages to sense me.

Unlike him, Rune and Eric were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Rune’s delight was easy to understand—his marriage to his beloved hadn’t been canceled, after all. His dream was still intact, and the happiness radiating from him was unmistakable. Even Eric, who usually kept his emotions more contained, seemed relaxed, caught up in the moment.

A playful idea took root in my mind, and I decided to add to the celebration in my own way.

Flicking my wrist, I summoned the magic within me. A deep ripple pulsed through the air, and from the empty sky above, a massive dragon of water materialized. Its translucent body shimmered with light, its wings spread wide as it soared high over the procession.