The hall was quiet.
King Albrecht stood with one hand raised.
"...and that is why," he said. "Eldoria will loosen its borders and offer greater authority to adventurers, regardless of origin. All allied kingdoms will now have open access to our dungeons and missions, and our trading system will be modified to improve our exchanges. The time for divided strength is over."
Crest, sitting straight in the middle rows, felt his heart race. He couldn't believe it.
To open the borders? To empower adventurers?
This wasn't just political talk. It was a revolution.
A chance.
He looked around the amphitheater, recognizing faces from across the continent.
Warriors, mages, guild leaders, all here. He was part of something real.
Then, the King lowered his hand.
"If there are questions," he said. "You may raise them now."
For a moment, nothing.
Just whispers. Hesitation.
Then a hand rose. Large, clawed.
