Chapter 373: Rulers Of The South
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting elongated shadows across the grand square of the southern capital. The air was thick with tension, and the people gathered there—humans, elves, and other creatures—eyed the imposing figure on the podium.
Ivan had organized a small ceremony, which he had used to lure the inhabitants of the southern borders out of their hiding places. They were well aware that their Queen was no more, since the vampire still stood tall and mighty before the podium that had been carefully made by his own men.
Samantha was astonished by how many people came forth. The southerners were instantly offered shelter, good clothes, and some healthy food to eat. She assisted Madeline and Lucy in serving the hungry folks dwelling in this part of the borders, and Brian’s people also assisted them in handing out the supplies that Ivan had ordered his men to bring.
This was his way of showing to the people that he wasn’t here to apprehend anyone as slaves, and Samantha couldn’t be more proud as she watched from a distance with Madeline, how her husband addressed the people from where he stood. She carried the clingy little Ali in her arms, and there was instant silence as Ivan began his speech.
"Citizens of the South." Ivan began, his tone commanding, "I stand before you not as a conqueror, but a harbinger of change. Your lands now belong to the vampires of the North, and as the rules of every conquered dominion goes, I am your new ruler."
Murmurs and gasps began to sweep through the crowd, but Ivan raised a hand, silencing them. "My purpose here is different, and believe me when I say, I am not here to bring harm to either of you, or drain your life forces, as we’ve been constantly portrayed. I may own this land, but there will be someone who gets to rule it in my stead. Brian."
He called, and all eyes shifted to the steps where the silver-haired elf emerged from. Brian stepped into the podium with Ivan, his gaze steady, and he could see the surprise in everyone’s faces. A lot of them looked genuinely content with their new leader, while some appeared repulsed, which is completely normal, cause he knew it wasn’t likely to gain the support of every single individual in this part.
"Brian," Ivan continued, his voice softening, "he knows the weight of leadership, and the sacrifices required for survival. Taking that into thorough note, I leave this land in his capable hands. I believe he will govern with wisdom, compassion, and fairness."
Turning to face Brian, Ivan placed a trusting hand on his shoulder, "the humans, the elves, and all who call this place home—they shall look to you. I’m giving you this position cause I trust your abilities, but I need you to promise me that you won’t make me regret tasking you with this responsibility."