Her gaze softened, almost maternal, as she stepped closer, the silk of her gown rustling softly. "I am truly grateful, not just as the Queen, but as a mother," she said, voice trembling slightly. "Thank you… for saving my children… my family… and this city."
Nolan bowed slightly, calm and modest, though his aura still radiated quiet power. "There's no need for that. I just did what I was supposed to do," he said, his tone even yet carrying the weight of all he had endured. The faint lines of exhaustion around his eyes told a story of battles fought and dangers faced, but he didn't linger on them.
The Queen turned to the King, curiosity flickering across her face like sunlight through a cloud. "Darling… did you accept the offer?"
"No," the King replied calmly, his voice steady, betraying nothing. "He declined."
