In the training ground,
All the mages and knights gathered, forming a vast sea of disciplined individuals standing in neat rows. The soft murmur of their voices faded as Arthur stepped onto the raised platform at the center, his regal presence commanding immediate silence. Clad in royal attire tempered with practicality, Arthur's gaze swept across the crowd, his expression solemn yet resolute.
The air grew thick with anticipation as the young king began to speak, his voice steady and sincere. "Knights and mages of Keldoria, I stand before you not just as your king, but as someone who has reflected on his failures and is determined to earn your trust. Also as someone who will shares your burden, your hopes, and your desire for a brighter future."
Arthur paused, letting his words sink in. His gaze softened as he continued, "I know I am not the person who should be saying these words when I have not walked in your boots or borne the weight of your burdens. I am fully aware of my past arrogance, my failures, and my selfishness. I was blind to the sacrifices you make, thinking of you as mere pawns in a game, treating you with neither respect nor gratitude."
The crowd remained silent, their faces betraying hints of surprise at his candid confession.
"But that changes today," Arthur declared, his voice filled with conviction. "From this moment onward, I vow to become a king worthy of your loyalty and sacrifice. A king who values your courage, your dedication, and your lives—not as expendable tools, but as the true strength of this kingdom."
Arthur took a step forward, his gaze sweeping across the assembled knights and mages. "The strength of Keldoria does not lie in its walls or weapons, but in the bravery of its defenders and the unity of its people. Your courage is our shield, your loyalty is our sword, and together, we will forge a future where Keldoria is not just a kingdom but a beacon of hope and resilience."
His voice carried an edge of determination as he continued, "In the coming days, you will see changes. Changes that will demand more of us all, but will also reward your hard work and dedication. I am introducing Project Stabilization later this week, a plan that will lay the foundation for a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Keldoria. This includes better training, improved equipment, and a commitment to your well-being."
The crowd murmured, their interest piqued. Arthur raised a hand, silencing them.
"And as a symbol of my gratitude and respect for all that you do, I am announcing a 15% increase in your salaries, effective immediately. This is not just a gesture—it is a promise that your sacrifices will never go unnoticed or unrewarded."
A ripple of astonishment spread through the crowd, quickly replaced by cheers and applause. Some knights raised their swords in salute, while mages lit up their staffs in celebration.
Arthur stood tall, his voice cutting through the jubilant noise. "This is only the beginning. Together, we will rebuild this kingdom, stronger than ever before. Together, we will show the world that Keldoria is a force to be reckoned with. Together, we will rise!"
The training ground erupted into a thunderous roar of approval, the echoes of their unified voices carrying far beyond the palace walls.
Arthur stepped back, a faint but genuine smile gracing his lips. As the cheers began to settle, Arthur descended from the platform, the expressions of his knights and mages brimming with a renewed sense of purpose. Klein approached him, his face reflecting admiration and pride.
"That was a powerful speech, Your Majesty," Klein said with a slight bow. "You've given them hope—and more importantly, a reason to believe in you."
Arthur nodded, his face still serious. "Hope alone isn't enough, Klein. Promises must be followed by actions. The project starts now, and I'll need every capable hand to ensure it succeeds."
Arthur's gaze shifted back to the training ground as the knights and mages dispersed, their conversations lively with energy. He could sense the undercurrent of trust building in the air, but he knew it was only the first step.
After delivering his speech and making the long-awaited announcement, Arthur retreated to the library with Klein. As they entered, Arthur turned to Klein, his expression resolute.
"Klein," Arthur began, his voice calm but firm, "I want you to assemble some of our most skilled men—trusted ones who are good with words and know how to blend among the people."
Klein raised an eyebrow, curious. "May I ask what you have in mind, Your Majesty?"
Arthur gave a faint smile, a glint of strategy in his eyes. "I want rumors spread about me—not just idle talk, but calculated whispers that find their way to every corner of Keldoria. Stories of the changes I've made, the reforms I'm enacting, and the efforts I'm making to help the people."
Klein's confusion gave way to understanding. "A form of propaganda, Your Majesty?"
"Exactly," Arthur replied, pacing slowly as he elaborated. "Talk about how I've turned over a new leaf and planning to improve the kingdom little by little. Let them hear small details of the reforms we're implementing and the salaries we've raised for our knights and mages. But more importantly, spread stories about how I'm working to improve the lives of struggling citizens."
Klein tilted his head, intrigued. "What kind of stories should we tell?"
Arthur leaned against a bookshelf, his voice growing more contemplative. "Speak of how I've directed funds toward helping the poorest regions, how I've personally ensured the kingdom's resources are being allocated fairly. Tell them I've reduced the royal court's luxuries to divert more wealth to the people."
"But, Your Majesty," Klein interjected, "Wouldn't it be better to announce these changes yourself? A direct declaration from you would surely be more impactful than rumors."
Arthur smiled knowingly, a glint of strategy in his eyes. "True, Klein, but rumors have their own power. If people hear whispers and see subtle evidence, they start to believe or sometime doubt about it even before it's officially declared. When I do announce it, the anticipation and confirmation will make the message far more impactful. Trust isn't just built on actions—it's also built on expectation."
Klein nodded, visibly impressed by the king's foresight. "I understand, Your Majesty. I'll ensure the message is spread subtly and strategically."
Arthur placed a reassuring hand on Klein's shoulder. "Good. And remember, we're not deceiving anyone. Everything we spread is rooted in truth, even if the results are still unfolding. Let them see the king I aspire to be, and they will help me become him."
Klein bowed deeply. "As you command, Your Majesty."
After Klein left, Arthur stood alone in the library, the quiet hum of the room's ambiance enveloping him. Just as he was about to leave, a sharp knock interrupted his solitude.
The valet entered, bowing slightly. "Your Highness, a letter from Duke Richard Luke." He handed the sealed parchment to Arthur and stepped back.
Arthur took the letter, breaking the wax seal with a deliberate motion. "Thank you. You may leave now."
The valet bowed again and exited, leaving Arthur alone with the letter. He unfolded the parchment, his eyes scanning the elegant yet hurried handwriting. As he read, a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
The letter read:
To His Majesty, King Arthur,
I am pleased to inform you that the forces of Elysia have been successfully repelled. Their retreat marks a significant victory for our defenses. The battle was fierce, but with the strength and valor of our men, we prevailed.
I will be visiting the royal palace within the week to report further details and discuss the next steps in fortifying our borders. Please prepare for my arrival.
With respect and loyalty,
Duke Richard Luke
Arthur exhaled deeply, relief and satisfaction mingling in his expression. A subtle smile played on his lips as he folded the letter. His thoughts turned inward, reflecting on the news.
So, it was a success, he mused. I anticipated it might take longer, but this outcome surpasses my expectations. It's perfect—this will smooth the path for my plans.
His eyes darkened momentarily, Now is the time to act against the family that assigned Odette to assassinate me. They thought I'd remain the fool I once was. It's time they see the consequences of underestimating their king.
---
Not part if the story,
I couldn't upload or write a chapter yesterday because my laptop crashed, all thanks to that stupid Windows 11! 😅 I had to fix it, but now I've deleted Window and installed Arch Linux, just like on my old laptop. Sorry for the delay! 😊