Chapter 162: People
The Hollow was alive with activity, the air thick with anticipation and curiosity. Flags and banners were being sewn and raised, representing not only the Hollow but also the kingdom that Kael had recently met. Villagers bustled through the streets, some whispering with skepticism, others with excitement. It was clear the introduction of an outside kingdom into their lives—albeit symbolically—had captured everyone's attention.
Kael moved through the crowds with Lyria at his side, overseeing preparations. The blacksmiths worked on polishing the ceremonial armor for the guards, while the artisans painted intricate murals and symbols on the main hall's walls to mark the occasion. Even the farmers and miners were drawn in, helping to clear the plaza and set up platforms for speeches.
"People are uneasy," Lyria said softly, keeping pace with Kael as he walked. "They've survived countless attacks, seen outsiders bring nothing but death. Asking them to honor a king… even symbolically… is going to stir fear and anger."
Kael nodded, his eyes scanning the activity. "I know. But it's necessary. This isn't just about appearances—it's about showing the Hollow can stand alongside others without losing itself. We're building alliances without sacrificing who we are. That has to start somewhere."
They approached the main hall, where the council had gathered with a mix of soldiers and key villagers. Rogan and Varik were stationed at the gates, quietly keeping watch over the preparations. Thalos and Fenrik oversaw training drills nearby, using the ceremony as a chance to maintain order and ensure readiness in case of trouble.
Kael raised a hand, drawing the attention of the council and the villagers. "Everyone," he said, his voice calm but commanding, "I understand there is hesitation. I understand there is fear. But this ceremony is not about surrender. It is about showing that the Hollow can survive, thrive, and interact with others without compromise. Nothing we do today diminishes our strength or independence."
Whispers spread through the crowd, some nodding, some frowning. A few villagers muttered complaints about trusting outsiders, while others seemed intrigued by the chance for trade and knowledge. Kael let them speak, understanding that the murmurs were part of the process—resistance was natural.
One of the elder miners stepped forward, his voice quivering slightly. "And if this king expects us to bow, to pledge loyalty, Kael? What then?"
Kael met his gaze, unwavering. "Then we explain that no loyalty is owed beyond respect. This ceremony does not bind us. It simply acknowledges our presence and our ability to choose. We show we are willing to communicate without giving up what makes us the Hollow."
The murmurs quieted slightly, though not all doubt vanished. Lyria squeezed Kael's arm. "You handle this well," she murmured, her eyes filled with warmth. "You always find a way to make them feel safe."
Kael allowed himself a small smile. "They don't need to fully trust me. Just enough to see that our way works."
By mid-morning, the platforms were set, the banners raised, and the Hollow's population assembled in the plaza. Children peeked curiously between their parents' legs, soldiers stood at attention, and council members watched quietly from the edges. The magical sphere from the king floated at the center, shimmering softly, a constant reminder of the alliance and the watchful eyes beyond their borders.
Lyria leaned close to Kael. "They're watching you," she said, nodding toward the crowd. "Not just the people, the council, everyone. They'll follow your lead."
Kael's gaze swept over the Hollow, noting the tension, the whispered doubts, the mix of curiosity and skepticism. "Then we give them reason to follow," he said, his voice low but firm.
The ceremony began as Kael stepped onto the central platform. He raised his hand, signaling for silence. The Hollow fell quiet, the chatter fading to nothing. From the shadows at the far edge of the plaza, the magical sphere pulsed once more, projecting the king's voice across the assembly:
"People of the Hollow," the voice rang clear, respectful, yet authoritative. "I am Thalren, king of the Kingdom of Arendar. I extend greetings and acknowledgment to your leader, Kael, and to the brave souls who call this Hollow home. Today is a moment of understanding, not obligation. You may observe, question, and decide for yourselves the place my kingdom will hold in your lives."
A hush fell over the crowd. Many looked to Kael, some in disbelief, others in cautious curiosity. Kael stepped forward. "The king has made it clear. There is no forced loyalty, no oath demanded. This is a moment to show that we can coexist, that we can communicate, and that we can choose for ourselves. That is all."
Varik whispered to Rogan, "Even with his words, some still won't trust this. And some will never forgive an outside kingdom's presence."
Rogan nodded. "True, but if anyone can keep them from turning it into chaos, it's Kael."
Kael's eyes scanned the crowd again, finally settling on the expressions of his people—curious, skeptical, and cautious, but listening. He knew that full trust would not come quickly. Some would remain wary for years, others would embrace the possibilities. That was natural. What mattered was that they saw a clear path forward, guided by leadership and the freedom to choose.
As the day progressed, the Hollow's people gradually began interacting with the king's magical sphere, asking questions about trade, culture, and knowledge. Children whispered about magic they had never seen, farmers considered new techniques for crops and livestock, and even some of the younger soldiers marveled at new tactics described in the king's projected instructions. The energy was tentative but alive, a mixture of hope and the natural wariness of a people who had fought for their home for generations.
Lyria leaned against Kael as the crowd continued their observations. "Look at them," she said softly. "They're starting to believe again. Not just in you, but in what this Hollow can be."
Kael's hand brushed hers gently. "It's not just me. It's everyone. The Hollow has always been strong, even in doubt. Today, they just see it in a new light."
By evening, the ceremony wound down, with the council quietly reconvening to discuss the outcomes. While most agreed that the Hollow had weathered the event without incident, there was still wariness. Kael noted every hesitation, every half-smile of approval, understanding that this was only the beginning of building trust with the outside kingdom.
Thalos, Fenrik, Rogan, and Varik approached Kael as the crowd dispersed. "You handled it well," Fenrik said gruffly, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "Few could have done this without causing panic or rebellion."
Rogan clapped Kael on the shoulder. "I'll admit, I wasn't sure today would end well. But you made them listen."
Kael exhaled, finally allowing himself a moment of relief. "It's far from over, but it's a start. Tomorrow, we begin the real work—showing our people that alliances don't have to come at the cost of their freedom."
Lyria intertwined her fingers with his. "And you'll show them together, just like always."
Kael nodded, letting her hand rest in his. For the first time in weeks, he allowed himself to relax slightly, knowing the Hollow had taken a step toward prosperity, peace, and cautious optimism. But he remained vigilant; trust, like strength, was earned, not given.