Chapter 182: Trouble again? (1)
The golden motes of the Herald faded into the air. A collective, shuddering breath passed through the thousands of citizens kneeling in the plaza. The divine pressure was gone, but the cold dread of the warning remained.
Panic began to set in. A woman sobbed openly. A man shouted a prayer. The crowd started to surge, their fear turning into a chaotic murmur.
"SILENCE!"
King Harius’s voice boomed across the plaza. He stood tall on the dais, his face a mask of regal authority. He would not allow his city to fall into chaos.
"You have heard the words of the Herald," the King declared, his voice firm and steady. "A warning has been issued. A storm may be coming."
He looked out at the sea of frightened faces. "But we are not a kingdom of cowards! We have faced down the Crimson Creep! We have rooted out corruption from our most sacred halls! We are strong!"
His voice rose with every word. "The Light protects us! The Crown protects you! Trust in your kingdom! Trust in your King! Now go to your homes. Be with your families. We will face whatever comes, together!"
His words, filled with conviction, had their intended effect. The panic subsided. The crowd, reassured by their king’s strength, began to disperse in an orderly, if somber, fashion.
Once the plaza was clear, the tension on the dais returned.
"A primal being," Lord Arnold murmured, his face grim. "What does it mean?"
"And the Dark Empire stirs," Seraphina added, her gaze distant. "This is grave news."