CHAPTER 27 : Weight of the Crown
The king waited until the doors were sealed. Only then did he speak. “I will lead them.” The words cut through the council chamber, sharp and final. Xander stiffened. “Your Majesty—” “I know the risks,” the king said calmly. “But I will not rule from a distance while my people die for me.” May felt the resolve in his voice. This wasn’t pride. It was responsibility. Kaelthorn’s name loomed unspoken between them. “The realm is afraid,” the king continued. “Not just of the Monster King—but of what this war is becoming. I will stand where they can see me.” K frowned slightly. “If something happens to you—” “There is always a next king,” he replied quietly. “There may not be another realm.” Silence followed. Then the king straightened. “There is more. And this… changes everything.”
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