Chapter 25 - The Spark of a Kingdom
Three days had passed since the end of the Tide War, and Greystone Barony stirred with new life. The scars of the battle were still fresh—walls repaired, graves marked with respect, and the faint smell of ash lingering in the air. But it was not sorrow that filled the barony—it was purpose.
Lucas stood atop the reconstructed watchtower, overlooking the hills beyond. A long caravan stretched into the horizon—people.
Families, warriors, merchants, beastkin, elves, and outcast humans from fallen towns had begun arriving. Some walked barefoot, others carried wounded on makeshift carts, their faces weary but filled with awe and hope.
Reynard approached from below, his armor newly repaired but eyes alert.
"One thousand," Reynard said. "That's the number we've counted so far. They come from Eastmere, Darin's Hollow, even from the outlands beyond Valeria's reach. Word of your victory against the Tide has spread."
Lucas took a deep breath, his eyes scanning the sea of refugees. "Not refugees anymore," he said. "They're citizens now."
...
Later that evening, Lucas addressed the gathering outside the gates. A hastily constructed platform stood before the walls. Umbra lay at its base like a vigilant shadow, Zephyra perched on the spire behind Lucas, her wings folding elegantly.
Kaela and Elira flanked him. The former crossed her arms, chin high with pride; the latter stood like a sentinel, bow on her back, a calm resolve in her eyes.
"You came seeking safety," Lucas said, his voice amplified by Zephyra's wind manipulation. "But what you seek is more than a wall. You want a future."
The crowd murmured in agreement.