The world awaited his speech. Sylvaris stood tall atop the raised platform, surrounded by women, the king, and the royal daughters. Below, the people of the capital filled the square, their gazes a mix of awe and unease.
On one hand, they loved him. Respected him. They awaited his march against the Demon Continent with bated breath.
But on the other... they remembered the Awakening Ceremony.
He had stripped them all bare — every man, woman, and child — exposing their bodies with that terrifying pulse of energy. It was never officially confirmed that he was behind it. But the people had put two and two together.
Those twisted, godless beams that had manifested behind him during the ceremony — one black as a demon, one crimson as blood and lust — still haunted their dreams.
They sent shivers down spines. And yet… who among them had the guts to speak out? Not the common folk. Not even the divine families. Everyone kept their mouths shut. Except his fanatics.
